Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Japan's 1,000 Kilometer Type 25 Missile Still Needs Magazines
Japan deployed the Type 25 Surface-to-Ship Missile and Type 25 Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile to Camp Kengun and Camp Fuji in late March 2023. The Type 25 SSM has a range of about 1,000 kilometers, enhancing Japan's sea denial capabilities against Chinese naval forces. However, Japan's effectiveness will depend on its missile inventory and reloading capabilities during a conflict.
Marcus ChenTue Jul 07 2026Loading...
‘You Could Hear Them From Pearl Harbor’: China’s Once-Noisy Submarines Just Silenced Decades of Mockery
China conducted a submarine-launched ballistic missile test in the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2023, believed to involve the JL-3 missile. This test, which was unannounced and carried a dummy warhead, has been condemned by several Western nations as provocative. The event underscores significant advancements in the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Navy, marking a shift from their historically noisy submarines to a more sophisticated deterrent force.
The U.S. Air Force Is Retiring the B-52’s Replacements First. The 1950s Bomber Will Outlive Both of Them
The U.S. Air Force is modernizing its B-52 fleet, upgrading all 76 aircraft with new Rolls-Royce F130 engines and AESA radar, while retiring the B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers. This modernization effort, estimated at $48.6 billion, aims to extend the B-52's service life into the 2050s, showcasing the Air Force's strategy of upgrading proven designs instead of developing new aircraft.
China Built the J-10 as Its Own Fighter — Then Flew It on Russian Engines for Twenty Years Before Its Homegrown Engine Was Ready
China has developed and deployed over 600 J-10 fighter aircraft, transitioning from Russian AL-31FN engines to its own WS-10B engines. The J-10 first flew on March 23, 1998, and achieved operational status by December 29, 2006. In January 2025, China officially confirmed combat outcomes for the J-10CE, marking a significant milestone in its military aviation history.
Taiwan Can Be Defended Against China. The Price Is the Real Problem
Taiwan's defense against a potential Chinese invasion is increasingly complex and costly due to modern warfare technologies. The U.S. Navy, alongside Taiwanese and Japanese forces, may be able to repel an invasion, but significant losses are expected. Geography complicates U.S. military operations, and China may employ strategies like blockades to exert pressure on Taiwan. The report emphasizes the need for a serious strategy to ensure Taiwan's survival and maintain regional stability.
Ministry of Defense Spokesperson Chen Xi Answers Questions from Reporters on China's Navy Organizing Submarine-Launched Strategic Missile Test Launch
The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of a submarine-launched strategic missile in China, achieving its intended goals as part of routine military training. This action was communicated to relevant countries in advance, reflecting China's commitment to transparency. The Chinese government emphasizes its defensive nuclear policy and aims to maintain its nuclear capabilities at a minimum level for national security.
China's 2026 Pacific SLBM Test Exposes the Submarine Gap Washington Cannot Ignore
The People's Liberation Army Navy launched a JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the South Pacific on July 6, 2026, during routine training. This event highlights China's growing sea-based nuclear capabilities and raises concerns among regional governments about military transparency and security. The missile reportedly landed in a designated area, and the launch was conducted with minimal prior notification to neighboring countries.
Marcus ChenTue Jul 07 2026Loading...Video: Full Analysis of the Participating Vessels in the China-Russia "Maritime Joint-2026" Joint Exercise
China and Russia commenced the 'Maritime Joint-2026' naval exercise on July 6, 2026, involving more than ten advanced naval vessels from both nations. The exercise showcases the capabilities of the participating naval forces.
China-Russia "Maritime Joint-2026" Joint Exercise: A Comprehensive Analysis of Participating Vessels
On July 5, the Chinese Navy and Russian Navy completed the assembly of their forces for the joint naval exercise 'Maritime Cooperation-2026'. This exercise involves over ten warships from both nations, showcasing their naval capabilities.
"Type 05 Amphibious Armored Vehicle Live Fire Exercise Exposed, PLA's Taiwan Strait Landing Firepower Chain Gains More Attention"
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted live-fire exercises with Type 05 amphibious armored vehicles in the Taiwan Strait on June 25, 2023. The exercises focused on live-fire capabilities while in motion on water, highlighting the PLA's emphasis on integrating firepower and logistics for amphibious assaults. Western nations have expressed concerns regarding Chinese naval activities in the region, indicating heightened military scrutiny.
Li MinghuiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Type 25 Missile Deployment Moves the 1000-Kilometer Denial Network
The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed Type 25 anti-ship guided missiles and HVGPs at Kengun and Fuji bases on March 31. This deployment enhances Japan's military capabilities with a missile range extended to approximately 1000 kilometers, reflecting a shift in defense strategy. The Type 25 system is designed for modern naval warfare, indicating a significant evolution in Japan's deterrence posture.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...
Ten Chinese Navy Type 055 Destroyers Pass Through Three Waterways Around Japan, Intensifying Surveillance of the First Island Chain
Ten Chinese Navy vessels, including Type 055 destroyers, passed through the Miyako Strait, Osumi Strait, and between Amami Oshima and Yokoto Island from June 26 to July 1, 2023. This movement increased surveillance pressure on Japan's first island chain. The vessels included various classes, indicating a coordinated naval operation. Chinese experts described the passage as a routine training exercise.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...
China Wants 9 Aircraft Carriers. The Hard Part Is What Comes Next
China is expanding its navy and aims to have nine aircraft carriers by the mid-2030s. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) faces challenges in developing operational capacity, including training pilots and establishing logistics. While China has significant shipbuilding capabilities, achieving effective carrier operations comparable to the U.S. Navy will require extensive institutional knowledge and experience.
The participation of elite equipment showcases high strategic mutual trust: Experts interpret the highlights of the China-Russia "Maritime Joint" exercise.
The Chinese and Russian navies commenced the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint exercise on October 6, 2026, in Qingdao, Shandong. This exercise features numerous naval vessels, including the Varyag missile cruiser and Ufa submarine, focusing on tactical coordination and joint operational capabilities. The event underscores the strategic trust and military cooperation between China and Russia, with activities including joint reconnaissance and air defense drills.
Chinese Navy ships visit Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam again after 9 years
The Chinese Navy's 83rd fleet arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on May 5, 2023, for a four-day friendly visit, marking the first visit in nine years. The fleet includes the training ship Qi Jiguang and the dock landing ship Kunlunshan, and activities include ship tours and cultural exchanges with the Vietnamese Navy. This visit aims to strengthen ties and promote understanding between the two nations' navies.
China's 2026 SLBM Test Moves Nuclear Deterrence Into the Pacific
On July 6, 2026, the People's Liberation Army Navy launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile from a Type 094 Jin-class submarine into the Pacific Ocean during routine training. The missile, which carried a simulated warhead, landed in a designated impact area. This test has raised concerns among Australia, Japan, and New Zealand regarding regional stability and China's expanding nuclear capabilities.
Marcus ChenMon Jul 06 2026Loading...
U.S. personnel spotted at Taiwan special forces base
U.S. personnel have been observed regularly at Wuhan Camp in Longtan, Taoyuan, integrating into Taiwanese military life and conducting training activities. Approximately 500 U.S. Army Special Forces are reportedly involved, with activities resembling U.S. Army routines. This ongoing presence has been noted since at least 2023, reflecting a growing military relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan.
China fires submarine nuclear missile into Pacific
A Chinese Navy submarine launched a nuclear-capable ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2024, as part of a routine military training exercise. The missile, identified as either a JL-2 or JL-3, was fired from the Bohai Sea and impacted near the Solomon Islands. Japan received limited warning before the launch and expressed concerns, but no evidence indicated the missile crossed into its airspace.
The Decisive Theater: North Korea and the Problem of Simultaneous War
North Korea is enhancing its military capabilities, maintaining 1.2 to 1.3 million active-duty personnel and deploying artillery and missile systems near the Demilitarized Zone. The country aims to inflict maximum casualties on US forces quickly and is integrating tactical nuclear weapons into its strategy. The Korean Peninsula is a critical area for US military strategy, potentially becoming a decisive theater in a multi-theater conflict involving simultaneous crises.
Federal Law Requires the U.S. Navy to Keep 11 Aircraft Carriers. To Obey It, the Navy Is Counting a Ship That May Never Sail Again
The U.S. Navy maintains 292 battle force ships, with only 80 currently underway and 101 deployed. Federal law mandates 11 operational aircraft carriers, leading to the extension of USS Nimitz's service until March 2027, despite its potential inability to deploy again. The Navy faces significant challenges in maintaining readiness, with 75% of maintenance periods finishing late, impacting operational capacity.
