Analysis & Reports

RAND's 2026 exercise assessed the repair capabilities of DDG-51 destroyers, revealing vulnerabilities in the U.S.-Japan alliance. The report emphasizes that political decisions could impede the use of Japanese ports during a crisis, affecting naval readiness. It recommends multinational pre-positioning of repair teams to enhance operational capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...

U.S. Marines in Okinawa received the first Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) and Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) this month. These systems enhance the Marines' capabilities for sea denial and air defense operations. The NMESIS is a ground-based missile system, while the MADIS provides short-range air defense against drones and aircraft. Recent exercises demonstrated their effectiveness in operational scenarios across the Indo-Pacific region.

Philippine forces are verifying a 6x6 meter structure in Scarborough Shoal, which may signify a change in control dynamics in the area. China has maintained a continuous presence since 2012, with 26 Chinese vessels recently monitored in the West Philippine Sea. The U.S. and Philippine forces conducted joint maritime activities nearby, highlighting the ongoing strategic competition in the region.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army tested autonomous boats during the Salaknib 2026 exercise in the Philippines, where unmanned surface vessels (USVs) escorted a Logistics Support Vessel to Port Casiguran. The USVs provided reconnaissance and threat identification, enhancing situational awareness for commanders. This operation demonstrates the U.S. military's commitment to integrating unmanned systems into maritime operations.

The 12th Marine Littoral Regiment received advanced unmanned ship-killer missiles and air defense systems in June 2026 at Camp Courtney, Okinawa. This acquisition enhances their capability to contest Chinese naval power in the region. The new systems include the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System and the Marine Air Defense Integrated System, marking a significant shift in the Marine Corps' operational strategy in the Pacific.

U.S. warships faced significant challenges in being quickly repaired and returned to combat during a hypothetical war with China, as maintenance facilities would be overwhelmed and spare parts would be insufficient. The study highlighted the need for improved coordination with Pacific allies and the expansion of mobile repair capabilities. Additionally, the complexity of repairs in a hostile environment poses risks to U.S. maritime dominance.

China's People’s Liberation Army is developing the PL-16 air-to-air missile, which experts believe could rival the U.S. AIM-260 missile. The PL-16 is designed for long-range engagements, with a flight range of 200 to 300 kilometers, and aims to target critical U.S. military assets. This development is part of a broader competition between China and the U.S. in advanced missile technology.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group responded to multiple provocations from Japanese vessels and aircraft during training exercises. Military experts noted that Japan's detection of the Chinese group was delayed, indicating improved stealth and operational security on China's part. The Chinese forces treated the situation as a combat scenario, reflecting enhanced training in counter-surveillance and anti-harassment tactics.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted extensive military training exercises in the South China Sea and Western Pacific over a period of 40 days. The exercises included air defense, maritime strikes, and comprehensive rescue operations, involving multiple naval vessels and aircraft. This training is aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group and Anhui amphibious assault ship group conducted joint training exercises in the South China Sea. This mixed fleet aims to enhance their operational capabilities for various combat tasks, despite the complexities of coordination required. The exercises indicate a development in the navy's ability to control islands and land points in different maritime areas.

On June 22, the Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed long-range combat training and returned to its home port in Qingdao. During the training, Japanese vessels and aircraft conducted multiple close-range surveillance and provocations, which the Liaoning group addressed with a high state of readiness and by launching carrier-based aircraft.

The Liaoning Carrier Group completed long-range combat training and returned safely to Qingdao on June 22. The training, which lasted over 40 days, involved operations in the South China Sea and the Western Pacific, enhancing the carrier group's operational capabilities.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed long-range combat training and returned to its home port in Qingdao on June 22. The training, which lasted over 40 days, involved operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, aimed at enhancing the group's mission capabilities.

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force publicly displayed and launched multiple Dongfeng-17 missiles on June 21, showcasing their operational capabilities. This event marks a significant moment as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Rocket Force. The Dongfeng-17, with a range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers, is designed for complex attack trajectories against high-value targets, enhancing China's military deterrence in the region.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed long-range combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, returning safely to Qingdao on June 22 after over 40 days of exercises. The training involved joint operations with an amphibious assault ship group and focused on real combat scenarios to enhance operational readiness.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed over 40 days of long-range combat training and returned to Qingdao on June 22. During the training, the group maintained high readiness against provocations from Japanese vessels and aircraft, conducting combat flight operations and adapting formations as necessary.

Prime Minister Takishi Sanae indicated that Japan is considering the deployment of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, focusing on mine clearance operations. The Strait is crucial for global oil transport, with 21% of the world's oil passing through it. The report highlights the need for careful political decision-making regarding military involvement, referencing Japan's previous deployment in the Persian Gulf after the Gulf War.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

PLA anti-tank missile units conducted a training exercise in the Gobi Desert in late June 2026, focusing on target acquisition and engagement under challenging conditions. The exercise emphasized the integration of drones and command vehicles for real-time updates, showcasing the unit's adaptation to modern warfare requirements. This training reflects the PLA's ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities in complex environments.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Japan Self-Defense Forces will conduct a joint training exercise from June 29 to July 3, 2026, focusing on island and amphibious operations in Kagoshima Prefecture. This exercise involves multiple units and aims to enhance operational readiness in response to regional threats, particularly from Chinese maritime activities. Key components include logistics and command control, emphasizing the importance of rapid response capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Rocket Force conducted a training exercise in China featuring multiple new missile systems, including the DF-17. The exercise focused on simultaneous missile launches, showcasing advanced coordination and rapid deployment capabilities. Experts noted the operational advantages of such exercises in real combat scenarios.