Analysis & Reports

Six U.S. Marine Corps F-35B stealth fighters flew without radar during a joint service flyover in the Philippine Sea on February 26, 2026. The aircraft, part of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, were equipped with ballast instead of radar due to delays in the new AN/APG-85 radar system. This situation highlights ongoing challenges within the F-35 program, including low readiness rates and significant modernization delays.

The People's Liberation Army Navy will host public tours of the Nanning destroyer and Hengyang frigate in Hong Kong from July 2 to July 6, 2023. A total of 14,000 tickets will be available for Hong Kong residents, allowing them to visit the ships and an exhibition center. The tours aim to promote cultural exchange and military transparency.

Smart Shooter secured a $3.4 million contract from the US Marine Corps, reflecting the growing demand for troop-level counter-drone solutions across the US military. The company has also received contracts from the US Navy and Army, indicating widespread interest in its SMASH 2000LE system. This technology aims to enhance accuracy against small, fast-moving drones and has been in use by US special forces since 2020. Additionally, Smart Shooter is exploring international contracts, including agreements with Israel and Australia.

Valiant Shield 26 and RIMPAC 2026 involved 30,000 personnel and over 206 aircraft across the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Japan, and Hawaii from June 22 to July 31, 2026. The exercises emphasized multinational cooperation and operational readiness, while raising concerns about the sustainability of military operations under potential threats. The integration of Japan's Self-Defense Forces marked a significant evolution in coalition capabilities.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

Japan's Self-Defense Forces recruited 11,177 personnel in Fiscal Year 2025, marking a significant recovery from previous years' declines. This increase is attributed to new compensation measures implemented by Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. Despite the improvement, the SDF's actual strength remains below authorized levels, highlighting ongoing challenges in meeting strategic military goals. Japan's defense budget also reached a record high, supporting its ambitious military transformation efforts.

The Fujian Coast Guard conducted routine law enforcement patrols near Kinmen on June 29. These patrols are part of ongoing efforts to enhance control in the area, ensuring the safety and rights of fishermen and maintaining order in maritime operations.

South Korea successfully tested the Cheonryong missile on June 25, 2026, confirming its ability to separate from an FA-50 aircraft and achieve a stable flight trajectory. This missile, designed to penetrate hardened underground targets, is set to complete development by 2028 and enter mass production in 2029. Its advanced features include enhanced guidance systems and compatibility with various aircraft, significantly improving South Korea's military capabilities against North Korea's fortified positions.

On June 27, 2026, South Korean Air Force fighters scrambled as approximately 10 Chinese and Russian military aircraft entered and exited the Korea Air Defense Identification Zone (KADIZ). This prompted Seoul to lodge a formal diplomatic protest with both Beijing and Moscow. The incident marks the 11th joint strategic aerial patrol by China and Russia, which was characterized by China as a demonstration of their resolve to safeguard regional peace and stability.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea on June 29, 2023, involving one 054A frigate and three coast guard ships. This action coincided with the U.S. and Philippines completing their fifth joint maritime activity, indicating a strategic response to increased naval cooperation between the two nations. The patrol reflects China's ongoing military presence in the region amid rising tensions.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force, established on July 1, 1966, has evolved significantly, focusing on enhancing its strategic deterrence capabilities. Under Xi Jinping's leadership, the force has modernized its missile systems and conducted successful tests, showcasing its readiness and commitment to national defense. The report emphasizes the historical significance and ongoing development of China's strategic missile capabilities.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed a Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile launch device and a medium reconnaissance drone to Minami-Torishima on June 28, 2023. This marks the first deployment of such military equipment to the easternmost island, aimed at preparing for a shooting range. The missile bodies were not included in this deployment, and live-fire training is scheduled to commence in 2027.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) commissioned the Mogami-class destroyer 'Nagara' (FFM-10) on June 29, 2026, in Nagasaki. This event marks a significant transition for the JMSDF as it moves from experimental vessels to operational capabilities. The 'Nagara' is equipped with advanced systems and will play a crucial role in enhancing maritime security in the southwestern region of Japan.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted routine naval and air patrols in the South China Sea from June 27 to 28. This operation was in response to joint patrols by external nations organized by the Philippines, which China views as a disruption to regional peace and stability. The command reaffirmed its commitment to defending national sovereignty and maritime rights.

The 12th Marine Regiment of the U.S. Marine Corps received NMESIS and MADIS systems in June 2026, enhancing coastal defense capabilities in Okinawa. This deployment marks a shift from traditional landing forces to a focus on maritime interdiction. The systems will be used to project firepower from islands into maritime areas, complicating Chinese naval operations. Coordination with Japan's Self-Defense Forces is essential for effective operational integration.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

The Chinese Air Force showcased the capabilities of the Y-20 transport aircraft through various training exercises, including air refueling with the J-20 fighter. Since its commissioning in 2016, the Y-20 has participated in extensive operations across diverse terrains in China. The report features an 8K visual presentation of these military exercises, emphasizing the aircraft's role in enhancing China's aerial capabilities.

On October 27, 2023, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted their 11th joint aerial strategic patrol over the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation lasted approximately 6 hours, with both nations' aircraft adhering to international law. In response, Japan's Self-Defense Forces scrambled aircraft, expressing diplomatic concerns regarding the patrol.

New Zealand's Defence Force reported persistent Chinese naval forays and ballistic missile tests in the Pacific, highlighting a surveillance gap. The report indicates that New Zealand's current military capabilities are insufficient to monitor and respond to these activities effectively. It calls for closer integration with allies to enhance regional security and address the growing Chinese military presence.

Marcus ChenSun Jun 28 2026Loading...

The Tangshan Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for live ammunition shooting activities in the Bohai Sea from June 29, 00:00 to June 30, 24:00, prohibiting vessels from entering the area.

Japan is researching and planning to deploy unmanned submarines with anti-ship capabilities to enhance its defense in the Pacific. This development, revealed on June 27, 2023, is viewed as a move towards offensive military capabilities rather than mere defense. The submarines are intended for reconnaissance and potential attacks, raising concerns about regional military balance and stability.

U.S. Army soldiers tested the Apollo R, a solar-powered fixed-wing aircraft, attached to a high-altitude balloon at Orote Airfield, Naval Station Guam, on June 24, 2026. This demonstration is part of Valiant Shield 2026, aimed at enhancing persistent surveillance and communications capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The testing involved the Extended Range Sensing and Effects Company, which is evaluating this technology as an alternative to traditional ISR methods.