Analysis & Reports

China is modernizing its PLAAF, projecting to have 1,000 J-20 Mighty Dragon Fighters and 900 J-16s by 2030. The focus is on increasing the number of fifth-generation fighters, despite challenges in engine performance and reliability compared to U.S. standards. The production rate of J-20s is expected to reach 120 annually, significantly outpacing U.S. production.

The Eurofighter Typhoon fleet surpassed one million flight hours as of January 29, 2026, marking a significant milestone in its operational history. This achievement reflects the performance and reliability of the aircraft, which is crucial for the air missions of Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Currently, over 600 Eurofighters are operational globally, with significant orders from various nations, including Spain and Italy.

The Indonesian Air Force received its first three Dassault Rafale F4-standard fighters at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base on 23 January 2026. These aircraft will be operated by the TNI-AU’s 12th Air Squadron, enhancing the air force's combat capabilities. Indonesia has a total of 42 Rafales on order, with the first batch of three now delivered.

China has built over 300 J-20 stealth fighters, integrating them into the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) by late October 2025. The J-20 is designed for air superiority and to target high-value assets, with plans to produce over 1,000 units by 2030. This rapid production is reshaping military aviation capabilities globally.

Indonesia received three Rafale fighter jets from France on January 23, 2023, marking the first delivery under a multi-billion dollar defense agreement. The aircraft are now stationed at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Pekanbaru, Sumatra. Indonesia has ordered a total of 42 Rafale jets and plans to increase its defense spending under President Prabowo Subianto.

Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre claimed to have identified aerodynamic and stability limitations in the U.S. Air Force's B-21 Raider using the PADJ-X software. The study, published in 2023, suggests a 15% increase in lift-to-drag ratio but is based on theoretical models rather than classified data. The B-21 Raider is currently undergoing flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base.

North Korea conducted a test firing of a new large-caliber rocket artillery system on January 27, with Kim Jong-un observing the event. Four rockets successfully struck a target located 358.5 km from the launch site. Kim expressed satisfaction with the results, indicating that the upcoming 9th Congress of the Workers' Party will outline plans to enhance the country's nuclear deterrent capabilities.

South Korea is commencing mass production of the KF-21 fighter jet in 2023, aiming to produce at least 40 units by 2028 and 140 by 2032. The KF-21, priced significantly lower than competitors like the F-35 and Eurofighter Typhoon, is attracting international interest, particularly from NATO countries. Korean Aerospace Industries is positioning the KF-21 as a viable low-cost alternative in the global defense market.

China critiques the U.S. F-47 fighter jet, claiming it is already obsolete due to design flaws, particularly its canards which may compromise stealth. The Chinese J-36 and J-50 prototypes are reportedly already flying, with initial operational capability expected by the mid-2030s. The F-47, linked to Trump's presidency, faces significant technical and budget challenges, aiming for a combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles, which would surpass existing U.S. 5th-generation aircraft.

The U.S. Navy has ordered 24 Arleigh Burke Flight III destroyers, enhancing naval capabilities with advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and Aegis Baseline 10 combat systems. These destroyers, known for their multi-mission flexibility, are crucial for modern naval warfare and are currently under construction. The integration of these systems significantly improves ballistic missile defense and operational effectiveness in various maritime environments.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by Singapore's Ministry of Defence in December 2025 for the production of next-generation infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) based on the Terrex s5. The delivery of these vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2028, featuring advanced capabilities such as enhanced situational awareness and cyber security. ST Engineering will work with MINDEF to integrate additional capabilities into the new IFVs.

The first MC-55A Peregrine surveillance and electronic warfare jet arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Australia, late last week. This aircraft, modified from the Gulfstream G550, is part of a four-aircraft acquisition aimed at enhancing Australia's surveillance capabilities. It will be operated by the RAAF's 10 Squadron and is expected to improve the country's ability to monitor its strategic interests and integrate with allied systems.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in December 2025 for the production and supply of next generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) in Singapore. The IFVs, based on the Terrex s5 platform, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. This contract highlights ST Engineering's capabilities in advanced defense solutions.

Taiwan conducted its first dive tests of the domestically built Hai Kun submarine in January 2026 at Kaohsiung. This marks a significant step in Taiwan's indigenous submarine program, aimed at strengthening undersea deterrence. The full testing program is expected to conclude by mid-2026, with the submarine's handover to the navy targeted for June 2026, following previous technical setbacks.

The U.S. is preparing to deploy 48 F-35A stealth fighters to Misawa Air Base in Japan as part of a modernization plan for tactical aircraft. This deployment will replace 36 older F-16 aircraft, enhancing the U.S. military's deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Preparations for the deployment began in December 2023, with personnel from the 35th Fighter Wing receiving support equipment.

The U.S. Air Force developed the D-21 reconnaissance drone in the 1960s to conduct high-speed, high-altitude missions over denied territory. Operational attempts targeting China's Lop Nor nuclear test site occurred between 1969 and 1971 but failed to yield usable intelligence. The program was ultimately canceled in 1971 as satellite technology improved, rendering the D-21 obsolete.

The Y-20 transport aircraft, developed by China, successfully completed its maiden flight 13 years ago. It has since been integrated into the People's Liberation Army Air Force, showcasing capabilities in long-range flights and complex weather operations. The aircraft has played roles in disaster relief and the repatriation of remains, symbolizing its importance in military logistics.

The United States delivered the first MC-55A Peregrine aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force on January 24, 2026. This aircraft enhances Australia's capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare, supporting multi-domain operations. The delivery is part of a U.S. foreign military sales arrangement, with the aircraft designed to operate at long range and high altitude across the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. Air Force is enhancing the B-1B Lancer bomber with external pylons to increase its missile carriage capacity and versatility. This upgrade, part of a $50 million funding request for FY 2026, aims to improve the aircraft's performance until the B-21 Raider becomes operational. The enhancements include the ability to carry advanced munitions such as the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile and AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon. The B-1B Lancer continues to serve as a key component of U.S. air power.

Two 054B frigates were commissioned into the People's Liberation Army Navy in early 2025. These new-generation frigates feature advanced stealth designs, a displacement of 5000 tons, and are equipped with a 100mm main gun and dual-sided phased array radar, marking a significant upgrade in China's naval capabilities.