Analysis & Reports

On July 5, Russian naval vessels arrived at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong, to participate in the 'Maritime Joint-2026' exercise with the People's Liberation Army Navy. The exercise aims to enhance cooperation in addressing maritime security threats and includes various phases such as assembly, planning, and maritime drills. Both nations conducted a welcome ceremony for the Russian fleet, showcasing their commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.

China and Russia conducted a joint military exercise named 'Maritime Joint-2026' in Qingdao on July 5, 2026. The exercise involved multiple naval vessels from both nations, including the Russian Varyag cruiser and the Chinese Kaifeng destroyer. Activities included joint planning, maritime drills, and reconnaissance operations, aimed at addressing maritime security threats. Following the exercise, some forces will conduct joint patrols in the Pacific.

Chinese naval vessels Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on the morning of the 5th at the invitation of the Vietnamese Navy. This visit reflects the deepening cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies in areas such as naval visits and joint patrols, aimed at enhancing mutual trust and maintaining regional stability.

The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted its first live naval training exercise in Fujian Province, involving multiple vessels and aircraft including J-35 and KJ-600. The exercises focused on carrier operations, aircraft launches, and joint search and rescue missions, marking a significant step in the operational readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy. This event highlights the transition of the Fujian from a test platform to a combat-ready naval asset.

Li MinghuiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy and Russian Navy will conduct a joint military exercise named 'Maritime Joint-2026' near Qingdao in July 2026. Following the exercise, some forces will participate in a maritime joint patrol in the Pacific. This event is part of the annual cooperation plan between the two nations' militaries, aimed at addressing security challenges and maintaining regional peace and stability.

Feng Yufang, a prominent missile technology expert in China, has significantly advanced missile capabilities since 1987, focusing on penetration technology for the Dongfeng series missiles. His contributions have been crucial for China's nuclear deterrent and military strength. Despite health challenges, he continued to lead research and development efforts, leaving a lasting impact on the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army.

Japan participated in the RIMPAC 2026 exercise, deploying over 25,000 personnel and 40 vessels, while also conducting joint exercises with the U.S. in the Pacific. The Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed Osprey aircraft and coastal defense missiles to strategic locations, indicating a shift towards enhanced military capabilities and offensive postures. These actions are part of a broader trend of Japan accelerating its military readiness and capabilities in response to regional security challenges.

The People's Liberation Army Navy hosted an open day for the missile destroyer Nanning and missile frigate Hengyang in Hong Kong on July 4. Numerous visitors, including veterans and local youth, engaged in military experience activities and training displays. The event aimed to foster community relations and showcase the capabilities of the Chinese navy.

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon missile system to Kagoshima for joint training with Japan Self-Defense Forces as part of the multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026, which began in late June 2023. This deployment highlights a strategic shift towards land-based missile capabilities in the region, enhancing deterrence against potential threats. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, signifies a new phase in U.S.-Japan military cooperation.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

In 1980, the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army launched the Dongfeng-5 intercontinental missile, marking a significant advancement in China's military capabilities. This event reflects a transition from a cumbersome manpower structure to a more efficient operational model. Over 44 years, the missile program has evolved, enhancing China's strategic deterrence and military readiness.

North Korea conducted a performance evaluation test of the 'Kang Kyun' destroyer's combat system on July 3, observed by Kim Jong-un. The test involved strategic cruise missile launches and trials of naval guns and electronic warfare systems. Kim emphasized the need to enhance military capabilities and ordered the destroyer to be commissioned into the navy within two months after the tests.

The U.S. Senate passed a defense bill encouraging Taiwan's participation in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise while authorizing $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative. This initiative aims to enhance Taiwan's military capabilities and interoperability with allied forces. The invitation to RIMPAC is seen as crucial for Taiwan's defense strategy, as it would allow for real operational integration with U.S. and allied forces. China is likely to perceive this invitation as a provocation.

Marcus ChenSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

China is building dozens of diesel-electric submarines capable of defeating U.S. aircraft carriers, with projections of 65 submarines by 2025 and 80 by 2035. The U.S. Navy has recognized this vulnerability since 2005, following successful war games against its carriers. The Yuan class submarines, equipped with advanced AIP technology, pose a significant threat to U.S. naval operations in the Indo-Pacific region.

On September 6, 1976, Soviet lieutenant Viktor Belenko defected to Japan with a MiG-25 aircraft, revealing its true capabilities and embarrassing U.S. intelligence. This event forced a redesign of Soviet aircraft and reshaped American air-superiority strategies, highlighting the significant intelligence failures of the Cold War. The MiG-25's defection had lasting implications for both U.S. and Soviet military assessments.

Chinese naval vessels Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan are set to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in early July at the invitation of the Vietnamese Navy. This visit reflects the deepening cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies in areas such as vessel exchanges and joint patrols, aimed at enhancing mutual trust and maintaining regional stability.

The PLA demonstrated a modular electromagnetic catapult system for launching drones using three connected 8-wheeled vehicles in Beijing on July 3. This system allows for transportable and camouflaged drone launch facilities, aiming to produce 2000 units annually. It enhances the operational capabilities of fixed-wing drones, reducing reliance on traditional runways, though challenges in power supply and maintenance remain.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

On June 27, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted a joint aerial strategic cruise in the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation featured H-6K bombers, advanced fighter jets, and electronic warfare support, demonstrating their commitment to regional stability and military cooperation. This exercise highlighted the capabilities of both air forces in a potential future conflict scenario.

The Chinese Coast Guard has commenced patrols in the eastern waters of Taiwan as of July 2026, exerting new pressure on Japan and the Philippines. This activity is viewed as an attempt to assert control over maritime routes and is not limited to law enforcement, indicating a shift in regional maritime dynamics. The situation complicates security for both Japan and the Philippines, as they must navigate the implications of these patrols on their own maritime operations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force showcased the F-15EX and MQ-28 during Valiant Shield 2026 at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, on July 1, 2026. This event highlighted the future of human-machine teaming in military operations. The procurement of F-15EX aircraft has been increased significantly, indicating a strategic shift in air defense capabilities. The MQ-28's involvement in joint operations demonstrates its potential role in enhancing combat effectiveness alongside traditional manned aircraft.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The People's Armed Police Force conducted live-fire training exercises in Qinghai, focusing on shooting and grenade throwing. Troops utilized various weapons, including automatic rifles and flamethrowers, to enhance their combat skills. The training aimed to improve the psychological resilience and tactical proficiency of the personnel in a high-altitude environment.