Analysis & Reports

China has developed and begun sea trials of the Type 076 drone aircraft carrier, which features an electromagnetic catapult and can deploy drone swarms and amphibious landers. This new class of warship is designed to enhance China's military capabilities near Taiwan and Japan, allowing for increased sortie rates and the potential to deplete enemy air defenses. The Type 076 can transport a reinforced marine battalion and is expected to be the first of many such vessels.

Ukrainian forces conducted strikes on energy infrastructure in Crimea on June 25, 2026, leading to significant disruptions in power supply and transportation. The Russian military is reportedly redeploying air defense systems to Moscow and the Kerch Bridge in response to these attacks. The situation has resulted in long queues of vehicles at the Kerch Bridge and a reduction in train services to Crimea, highlighting the increasing vulnerability of the region.

Dmitri VolkovThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected 198 vessels off the eastern coast of Taiwan on June 24-25, 2026, as part of a blockade practice. This operation involved correcting violations on three ships and conducting hydrographic surveys. The patrol is seen as a test of China's authority over civilian maritime traffic, potentially altering the operational landscape for Taiwan.

Marcus ChenThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

On June 25, 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army conducted live-fire exercises with the HQ-16F air defense missile system. Concurrently, the U.S. and Japan engaged in joint military exercises involving the deployment of the Intermediate-Range Missile System in Japan, which China condemned as a threat to regional security. The Chinese defense ministry emphasized the need for the U.S. and Japan to respect regional security concerns and avoid introducing offensive weapons.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted long-range realistic combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, facing provocations from Japanese naval vessels and aircraft. The Chinese Ministry of Defense condemned these actions, asserting that Japan's behavior is a deliberate provocation. The spokesperson urged Japan to cease its interference with China's normal training activities.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian conducted routine training in the Taiwan Strait on June 25, while Taiwan's military closely monitored the situation during their five-day readiness exercise. Taiwan's defense minister confirmed they have a full grasp of the developments and will release important updates as necessary.

On June 25, Taiwan's defense department reported that mainland military aircraft entered its southwestern airspace and the western Pacific for long-range operations. The People's Liberation Army released high-definition images of a drone circling Taiwan, asserting that they are closely monitoring the situation. Taiwan's defense spokesperson criticized these actions as self-deception by pro-independence forces.

On June 25, Taiwan's defense department reported that mainland military aircraft entered its southwestern airspace and the western Pacific for long-range operations. The People's Liberation Army conducted these activities, and Taiwan released high-definition images of a drone circling the island. The defense ministry characterized the actions as a form of intimidation by pro-independence forces in Taiwan.

Southern Theater Command Air Force conducted aerial refueling training with multiple aircraft. Pilots executed both daytime and nighttime operations, successfully completing the refueling maneuvers. This training enhances operational readiness and capabilities.

On June 18, the Southern Theater Navy Rescue Team successfully completed a 300-meter saturation diving training exercise in the South China Sea. The operation involved four divers who endured extreme conditions, including high pressure and low temperatures. A welcoming ceremony was held to celebrate their return, highlighting the challenges faced during the training.

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected 198 vessels in Eastern Taiwan waters, asserting jurisdiction and prompting warnings from the U.S., U.K., France, and Germany about threats to regional stability. Taiwan reported that vessels were questioned about their routes, indicating a strategic move by China to establish control over maritime traffic. This situation raises concerns for Japan regarding the security of its sea lines of communication (SLOC).

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted high-intensity combat training in the South China Sea, focusing on multi-layered defense against unidentified aerial targets. Vessels engaged in real-time drills, enhancing tactical coordination without pre-set plans. The exercise aimed to improve the unit's operational capabilities and maintain a high state of combat readiness.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted low-intensity patrols in the Taiwan Strait from June 19 to 23, 2023, with 165 aircraft and 256 vessels detected. On June 22, 20 of 23 aircraft crossed the median line, while the presence of coast guard ships alongside military vessels indicates a strategy of sustained pressure on Taiwan's defense capabilities. This ongoing activity tests Taiwan's response systems and military readiness.

Li MinghuiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Naval Aviation University conducted live-fire strike assessments on ground targets, evaluating pilots on tactical planning and precision. The exercise incorporated various attack parameters, including attack angles and exit timing, with real-time data transmitted via drones. This initiative aims to enhance the tactical skills of high-quality pilots in complex battlefield environments.

JS Maya and JS Kirishima participated in the FST-J 26-71 joint missile defense training exercise with USS Shoup in March 2026. The exercise focused on command control and decision-making in response to missile threats, emphasizing the integration of capabilities between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Navy. It highlighted the need for rapid information sharing and effective decision-making in the context of evolving threats from North Korea and China.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Qinhuangdao Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into certain areas of the Bohai Sea due to military activities scheduled from June 26 at 00:00 to June 28 at 24:00.

South Korea developed and rolled out the KF-21 fighter jet, which is now combat-ready after overcoming technology transfer refusals from the United States. The program, initiated in 2010, aimed to replace aging aircraft and reduce reliance on foreign technology. The KF-21 features domestically developed systems, including an AESA radar, and is set for operational service in the second half of 2026.

The Chinese Coast Guard conducted patrols off the east coast of Taiwan in June 2023, inspecting 198 vessels and reportedly harassing commercial ships. This operation was framed by China as a response to Japan and the Philippines' maritime discussions. The U.S., UK, France, and Germany condemned these actions, stating they threaten regional stability and freedom of navigation.

The Northern Theater Command Navy conducted realistic combat training in a specific sea area, engaging in joint strike and anti-terrorism operations. Naval vessels fired main guns to destroy simulated enemy ships and utilized sonar to detect underwater threats. They successfully neutralized approaching unmanned aerial vehicles using electromagnetic interference devices.

In 2026, Chinese military academies plan to recruit around 17,500 high school graduates nationwide. The recruitment focuses on cultivating political officers and specialized medical personnel, with candidates required to meet specific age, marital, and physical fitness criteria. The process includes political assessments, interviews, and physical examinations.