Analysis & Reports

Taiwan's first domestically built submarine, the Hai Kun-Class, successfully completed its maiden underwater sea trial off Kaohsiung on January 30, 2024. This milestone is part of Taiwan's initiative to develop an eight-sub fleet to modernize the Republic of China Navy, which currently operates an aging fleet. The submarine is expected to be equipped with advanced combat systems and torpedoes, enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities amid ongoing threats from mainland China.

China is testing the J-20A Mighty Dragon fighter, which features advanced capabilities including the ability to command unmanned aircraft. Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group aims to have 1,000 operational airframes by 2030, posing a challenge to U.S. aerial dominance. The new WS-15 engine enhances the fighter's performance, and recent tests confirmed its operational capabilities in both manned and unmanned scenarios.

Japan's Ministry of Defense deployed F-35B fighter aircraft at Nyutabaru Air Base on February 7. The ceremony marked the introduction of this short takeoff and vertical landing variant, enhancing Japan's air defense capabilities. Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Yoshida attended the event, which signifies a strategic expansion of Japan's F-35 fleet and operational options.

China has introduced the Attack-11, its first publicly disclosed stealth unmanned combat aircraft, designed for precision strikes and electronic suppression in high-risk airspace. The drone features a unique flying wing design that enhances radar stealth, allowing it to penetrate enemy air defense networks effectively. This development marks a significant advancement in China's military capabilities.

Electro Optic Systems (EOS) opened a new facility in Singapore on 6 February 2026, aimed at manufacturing high energy laser systems for regional and international customers. This facility will support various international contracts, including a 100 kW-class laser weapon system for the Netherlands and another for South Korea. EOS intends to enhance supply chain resilience and localize production in response to customer demands.

China's aviation industry showcased 26 types of advanced military aircraft and equipment at the Singapore Airshow, including the J-35A stealth fighter, which attracted significant attention. The exhibition highlighted capabilities in air superiority, rapid support, and emergency rescue operations, with over 30% of the items being presented for the first time.

Japan's Ministry of Defense contracted Mitsubishi Electric for a 123.5 billion yen satellite communication system, set to operate by March 2030, to enhance communication for the Self-Defense Forces in the southwestern islands. The current reliance on a single satellite poses vulnerabilities, especially against potential Chinese attacks. The report advocates for exploring integration with U.S. military communication systems to mitigate risks.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

China has unveiled the J-35A stealth fighter, which is designed to have significant advantages in detection and strike capabilities, potentially rivaling the U.S. F-35. The J-35A features a twin-engine layout and is reported to possess advanced sensing and targeting systems. This development raises concerns regarding its operational effectiveness against U.S. stealth fighters.

Electro Optic Systems (EOS) opened a new manufacturing and integration facility in Singapore on February 6, 2026, to produce high-energy laser weapon systems for customers in Asia and Europe. This facility will serve as EOS' primary regional center for directed-energy capabilities, supporting contracts with the Netherlands and South Korea. The hub aims to enhance supply chain resilience and provide localized support for air defense systems.

China's submarine force is expanding and modernizing, posing a significant challenge to U.S. naval dominance. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operates a diverse fleet of submarines, including SSBNs and SSNs, with advancements in domestic designs. However, U.S. industrial delays and strategic assessments indicate potential vulnerabilities in maintaining undersea primacy. Additionally, China's ambitions in the Arctic raise further concerns regarding its military capabilities.

China showcased the Luan Niao mothership concept, designed to deploy 88 Xuan Nu autonomous fighter drones and hyper-ballistic missiles. This mothership is proposed to operate at the edge of space, with dimensions significantly larger than any existing aircraft. Analysts regard this concept as aspirational, primarily serving as a recruitment and messaging tool rather than an immediate military capability.

Shield AI integrated its AI-enabled software into Singaporean military applications to enhance drone swarm coordination. On February 5, 2025, Shield AI and ST Engineering signed a memorandum of understanding at the Singapore Airshow. The Singapore Armed Forces utilized over 100 drones during Exercise Wallaby, marking a significant operational milestone.

Hyundai Rotem is developing the K3 main battle tank in South Korea, featuring hydrogen power and stealth technology. The tank will include a 130mm smoothbore main gun, an AI-enabled fire-control system, and advanced defensive measures. Production is anticipated to start by 2040, aiming to enhance the Republic of Korea Army's capabilities against potential threats.

The Singapore Airshow is currently ongoing at the Changi Exhibition Centre from February 3 to February 8, 2026, featuring over 1,000 defense and aviation organizations. The event showcases various military aircraft, including the US Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper and the Royal Australian Air Force's F-35A Lightning II. Additionally, the Chinese military is represented with a mockup of the Shenyang J-35A fighter.

Singapore is set to receive its first four F-35B fighters by the end of 2026, becoming the fourth Asia-Pacific nation to operate the fifth-generation aircraft. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has a total of 20 F-35s on order, including additional F-35As expected by 2030. This acquisition enhances Singapore's air combat capabilities, positioning it as a leading military power in Southeast Asia.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has rapidly developed a comprehensive unmanned combat network, conducting frequent drone patrols around Taiwan. This network includes advanced UAVs like the Attack-11 and WZ-8, enhancing the PLA's operational capabilities across multiple domains. The shift towards unmanned systems is reshaping military strategies and the balance of power in the Western Pacific.

Li MinghuiFri Feb 06 2026Loading...

Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group announced the mass production and test flights of J-20A fighter jets in early 2026. China aims to produce approximately 1000 J-20 aircraft by 2030, significantly increasing its production capacity. The J-20's production cycle has been reduced to 12-15 months, enhancing its manufacturing efficiency. This expansion is critical for China's air superiority and strategic balance in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in light of the current geopolitical landscape.

Li MinghuiFri Feb 06 2026Loading...

South Korea is upgrading its air early warning capabilities by introducing the AERIS-X system, which will enhance detection of North Korean missile threats. The Republic of Korea Air Force plans to acquire four AERIS-X aircraft by February 2026, with two already delivered for modification. This system will improve real-time data sharing among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, contributing to a more integrated regional defense network.

Tanaka TakashiFri Feb 06 2026Loading...

L3Harris has begun converting two Bombardier Global Express 6500 business jets into Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft for the Republic of Korea Air Force. The project, which includes the integration of an Active Electronically Scanned Array radar system, is part of a larger order for four jets awarded in September 2025. This initiative demonstrates L3Harris's capability in military aircraft modifications and has garnered international interest.

Singapore's military is enhancing its drone capabilities by operationalizing Israeli-made Orbiter 4 and Hermes 900 UAVs. The Royal Singapore Air Force is implementing new doctrines to counter drone swarms and has established a new unit, DROID, for drone operations. Training for reservists will commence in mid-2026, focusing on urban drone operations and counter-drone technologies.