Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) task force, consisting of the guided missile destroyer Nanning and the guided missile frigate Hengyang, arrived in Hong Kong on July 2. This visit coincides with the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China and includes a series of open visits and cultural exchange activities over five days. A welcome ceremony was held at the Anguilla military camp, attended by local officials and citizens.

An F-15EX Eagle II from the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron landed at Kadena Air Base on June 29, 2023, for a short-term training visit. This aircraft is part of a future deployment to replace older F-15C/D models, with the first operational F-15EXs expected to arrive by 2027. The 67th Fighter Squadron will be the first to operate the F-15EX at Kadena, enhancing U.S. airpower in the Pacific.

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted maritime and aerial patrols around Huangyan Island on July 2, 2026, showcasing a coordinated operation involving H-6K bombers, J-16 fighters, KJ-500 early warning aircraft, and various frigates. This operation emphasizes the integration of anti-submarine capabilities and data link systems, indicating a shift towards regular military readiness in the South China Sea.

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On June 27, 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force sank the retired USS Juneau using a torpedo during the Valiant Shield 26 military exercise off the Mariana Islands. This exercise involved coordinated attacks from air, surface, and underwater assets, highlighting the operational capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance. The event marked a significant demonstration of Japan's underwater strike capabilities in a multilateral context.

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The People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island in the South China Sea, involving multiple aircraft and naval vessels. This operation is part of routine military readiness and training exercises aimed at responding to potential provocations and maintaining regional stability. The deployment of advanced military equipment highlights the PLA's operational capabilities in the area.

Rocket debris fell in the South China Sea on July 4, prompting the China Maritime Safety Administration to issue a navigation warning prohibiting entry into the affected areas between 16:30 and 18:30.

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy resumed joint search and rescue training after a 9-year hiatus, emphasizing operational continuity amid North Korean threats. The defense ministers of both nations met to discuss ongoing cooperation and technological advancements, highlighting the importance of maintaining readiness in the face of regional security challenges.

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China fields the largest active-duty military in the world, numbering approximately 2 million personnel. The United States ranks third with about 1.32 million active-duty troops, while India holds second place with 1.43-1.48 million. North Korea's active-duty force is around 1.28-1.3 million, despite its smaller population. Russia's active-duty numbers are influenced by its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, with approximately 1.5 million authorized personnel but actual numbers affected by losses.

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force has completed preparations for a missile test range on Minami-Torishima, deploying 12 Type 12 anti-ship missile launchers. The range is set to become operational in the 2027 fiscal year, aimed at enhancing Japan's long-range strike capabilities and monitoring in the Western Pacific. This marks a significant step in Japan's military capabilities, allowing for the testing of advanced weaponry without reliance on foreign facilities.

An F-15EX Eagle II landed at Kadena Air Base on June 29, accompanied by two F-15E Strike Eagles, for integration and testing purposes. The U.S. Air Force plans to establish a force of 36 F-15EX aircraft at Kadena, but faces challenges from China's military capabilities. The introduction of the F-15EX is seen as a necessary upgrade, though it does not fully address vulnerabilities in U.S. airpower in the region.

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The 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment demonstrated its operational capabilities during Exercise Balikatan in May 2023 in the Philippines, serving as mission commander for joint maritime strike operations. The exercise involved coordination among U.S. military branches and allied forces from the Philippines, Japan, and Canada, showcasing the regiment's growth and ability to integrate various military assets. Col. Gabe Diana noted that this exercise marked significant progress in operational readiness.

The second Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) exchange event concluded in Shanghai on July 1, involving young military officers and defense officials from 16 countries. The event, which lasted from June 25 to July 1, focused on defense cooperation and included visits to military and technological sites, showcasing China's innovations. Participants discussed regional security and the importance of continued collaboration among SCO member states.

USS Kitty Hawk served as a conventional aircraft carrier from 1961 to 2009, participating in significant military operations including the Vietnam War and Operation Enduring Freedom. The carrier was forward-deployed in Yokosuka, Japan, enhancing U.S. military presence in the Western Pacific. Kitty Hawk represented the last generation of conventional supercarriers before the transition to nuclear-powered vessels.

China Coast Guard inspected 198 ships east of Taiwan, conducting jurisdiction drills that harassed three merchant vessels. This operation is linked to ongoing maritime negotiations between Japan and the Philippines, raising concerns about regional stability. The U.S. and allied nations issued warnings about the implications of these actions for international shipping and security.

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The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted cross-sea training in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, accompanied by two destroyers. This training involved multiple aircraft types, including J-15T and J-35, performing electromagnetic launches and landings. The exercises aim to test the carrier's systems under diverse maritime conditions as part of routine military operations.

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The People's Liberation Army Navy deployed a naval fleet, including the missile destroyer Nanning and missile frigate Hengyang, to Hong Kong from July 2 to 6 for cultural exchange activities. The fleet departed from a military port in Zhanjiang, Guangdong on July 1.

The Chinese Navy's 052D destroyer, accompanied by a supply ship, passed through the Miyako Strait in late June 2026, indicating ongoing naval operations and surveillance pressure on Japan. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces monitored the passage with escort ships and P-3C aircraft. This activity coincided with the U.S.-led multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026, highlighting the strategic significance of the region.

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The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force publicly showcased the first footage of the Dongfeng-17 hypersonic missile launch during a live-fire exercise on July 1. This event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the strategic missile forces and highlighted the missile's operational capabilities, including its range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers. The exercise demonstrated mobile launch capabilities and training under complex conditions, emphasizing the missile's role in targeting critical military infrastructure.

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Chinese Coast Guard vessels Dong'an and Nanxun are currently conducting routine law enforcement tasks in the South China Sea near Xianbin Reef. They held a themed party day event to celebrate the anniversary of the Communist Party, showcasing their ongoing presence and activities in the region.

The U.S. Marine Corps deployed NMESIS and MADIS systems to Okinawa in June 2026 to enhance island defense capabilities. MADIS arrived at Kadena Air Base on June 10, followed by NMESIS conducting operational training at Camp Hansen on June 16. This deployment is part of the Resolute Dragon 26 joint exercise, focusing on improving defense against aerial threats and enhancing operational readiness.

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