Analysis & Reports

The Chinese Navy Hospital Ship "Peace Ark" arrived in Dakar, Senegal on September 25, 2023, as part of the "Harmonious Mission-2026" to provide medical services. Concurrently, Chinese medical teams concluded humanitarian exercises in Laos, treating over 6,275 patients. Following a landslide in Nepal, the Chinese military delivered emergency supplies and personnel to assist in disaster relief efforts. These operations highlight China's commitment to humanitarian assistance in various regions.

The People's Liberation Army established a military airbase in Ban Khen, Laos, on September 29, 2023, featuring a 6562-foot runway for air force training and military cooperation. This facility marks the PLA's third overseas base and enhances its operational capabilities in Southeast Asia. The base is strategically positioned to support air operations and logistics, reflecting China's growing military presence in the region.

Li MinghuiSat Oct 03 2026Loading...

Russia conducted strategic exercises Center-2026 in Chelyabinsk in October 2026, involving approximately 700 units of equipment, over 600 drones, and more than 60 ground robotic complexes. The Chinese military actively participated, gaining insights into the integration of drones and robotic systems in warfare. This collaboration marks a shift in military cooperation, with Russia focusing on sharing combat experience rather than traditional weaponry.

Dmitri VolkovSat Oct 03 2026Loading...

The Chinese Air Force introduced the J-35A fighter jet, officially named 'Yunlong', on September 19. This new generation medium stealth multi-role fighter is designed for both air and naval operations, showcasing advanced stealth capabilities and operational advantages in combat scenarios. The J-35A enhances China's air power with its unique features that allow it to perform various combat tasks effectively.

China and Russia conducted joint military exercises in Qingdao, Shandong, from July 6 to 13, 2026, involving 8 surface vessels and 2 submarines. Following the exercises, they carried out joint maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean, which concluded on July 29. The rare sighting of both nations' submarines together suggests an increase in mutual trust between the two militaries.

Leonardo is testing its Hystrix 40 ADS, a land-based counter-drone gun derived from the Marlin 40 naval turret, in Italy. The system is designed to engage low-flying threats and is part of a broader air defense architecture. The prototype is expected to be operational before the end of 2026, with plans for programmable ammunition to enhance its capabilities.

Epirus demonstrated its Leonidas high-power microwave drone killer integrated into a U.S. Army command-and-control network during Operation Jailbreak Falcon Fury. The event showcased how Leonidas can link sensors and weapons to counter drone threats effectively. A new mobile version, Leonidas GV, is set to be presented at the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C., on October 12-14, 2023. The U.S. Army has been testing Leonidas for over three years, focusing on its integration into air defense systems.

U.S. Southern Command deployed unmanned systems to Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to support the new Autonomous Warfare Command. This command, established on April 21, aims to integrate autonomous systems into military operations against threats in Latin America and the Caribbean. The systems are currently supporting Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere's counter-cartel missions, with a drone launch occurring on September 16 for surveillance purposes.

A Russian T-90M tank successfully intercepted attacking drones using its Arena-M active protection system during the Tsentr-2026 strategic exercise at the Chebarkul training range from September 28 to October 3, 2026. The exercise involved over 47,000 troops and demonstrated the tank's capabilities against drone threats. The Arena-M system has been previously used in combat in Ukraine, where it proved effective against FPV drones.

Saudi Arabia and Yemen are preparing for a large-scale military operation against Houthi forces to regain control of Bab al-Mandab, with plans to commence within days. The operation involves over 100,000 troops, although this figure remains unverified. U.S. officials confirmed that the U.S. will not directly participate, focusing instead on intelligence support. Houthi missile attacks on Saudi territory persist, indicating ongoing conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Oct 03 2026Loading...

Russia conducted combat drills on October 2, 2026, utilizing uncrewed tanks from the Shturm heavy robotic assault system at the Chebarkul training range. The robotic tanks provided fire support to assault units during the Tsentr-2026 strategic exercise, which involved over 47,000 troops. The Shturm system features T-72-based vehicles with uncrewed fighting compartments, controlled remotely by operators using advanced technology.

Russia fired a guided missile from a new truck-mounted launcher, Izdeliye 347, during the Tsentr-2026 military exercise at the Chebarkul training range on October 2, 2023. The launcher, which carries a modified LMUR missile, can strike targets up to 20 km away and was used against mock artillery positions identified by aerial reconnaissance. This development enhances Russia's long-range strike capabilities without risking helicopter assets.

The 49th Escort Task Force of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted escort missions in Aden Bay during the National Day holiday, emphasizing their commitment to maritime security. Personnel participated in a flag-raising ceremony and engaged in anti-terrorism and anti-piracy training. The task force remains vigilant, ensuring the safety of commercial vessels passing through the region.

Russia demonstrated the upgraded Pantsir-S1M air defense system mounted on a Belarus-built MZKT-7930-312 chassis during the Tsentr-2026 strategic exercise from September 28 to October 3, 2026, at the Chebarkul training range in Chelyabinsk. Over 47,000 troops and more than 2,000 pieces of equipment participated in the exercise, which was observed by President Vladimir Putin.

Taiwan received its first two F-16 Block 70 aircraft at Taitung Air Force Base on October 2, 2023, as part of a plan to acquire 66 units. This delivery marks a significant step in Taiwan's air defense modernization, integrating advanced systems like the AN/APG-83 AESA radar. The arrival of these aircraft is expected to improve Taiwan's operational capabilities in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSat Oct 03 2026Loading...

The 'Central-2026' strategic exercise concluded in Chelyabinsk, Russia, on October 2, 2023, involving over 47,000 troops from eight countries, including China and Russia. Russian President Putin observed the final phase, emphasizing the exercise's role in addressing external security threats. Following the exercise, Chinese forces completed their tasks and began their withdrawal, utilizing air and rail transport to return home.

The UK and US navies conducted a naval exercise on September 29, 2023, off the coast of Scotland, sinking the decommissioned HMS Clarklin using the Naval Strike Missile (NSM). This exercise tested the missile's capabilities and assessed the operational readiness of both navies amid escalating tensions with Russia. Underwater drones were utilized to gather data on the damage inflicted during the exercise, contributing to future naval equipment development.

Russian Armed Forces have moved from field camps to underground fortifications during the Central-2026 strategic exercise, where they are camping and on standby in narrow underground spaces.

Saudi Arabia and Yemeni government forces plan to launch a large-scale offensive against Houthi forces in Yemen in the coming days, according to two U.S. officials.

Troops from 8 countries, including Russia, China, and Belarus, participated in the 'Central-2026' strategic exercise. The Chinese forces were represented by the Central Theater Command and the 82nd Group Army. This exercise showcases military collaboration among the participating nations.