Analysis & Reports

Hanwha Aerospace and General Atomics demonstrated the Mojave drone's capabilities at the 2026 Defense Drone Technology Exhibition in Pocheon, South Korea. The drone successfully took off and landed on a tank maneuver route, showcasing its ability to operate from short, unimproved sites. Hanwha plans to establish production facilities in South Korea, with the first flight of the production version expected in early 2027.

Japan plans to acquire approximately 52,000 unmanned systems, including 10,000 attack drones and 1,300 anti-ship drones, from 2027 to 2031. The defense budget is projected to nearly double, exceeding 9 trillion yen, to enhance its offensive capabilities with long-range missiles. This marks a significant shift in Japan's military posture towards more aggressive defense strategies.

China is expanding its naval capabilities, particularly in submarines and aircraft carriers, as a challenge to the U.S. in the South China Sea. By 2025, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has 787 ships and 384,000 active personnel. The Bohai shipyard is undergoing expansion to support increased submarine production, with significant investments in nuclear submarine programs. China aims to field nine aircraft carriers by 2035, with the Type-003 Fujian already commissioned.

HMS Astute is undergoing its first midlife refit at Devonport, rendering it out of action indefinitely. This refit is part of the Royal Navy's efforts to maintain its submarine fleet capabilities amid ongoing defense commitments. The Royal Navy currently operates five Astute-class submarines, with plans for future replacements under the SSN-AUKUS program.

The U.S. Air Force operates 183 F-22 Raptors and over 800 F-35s, while China has around 500 J-20s and 60 J-35s, with production rates of 120 J-20s annually. The J-20's combat range of 1,200 miles exceeds that of the F-22, which has a range of 530 miles. The report highlights the growing challenge posed by China's mass production capabilities to U.S. air dominance.

The U.S. think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies proposed that the U.S. Navy should target Chinese aircraft carriers, viewing them as a strategic vulnerability. The report outlines tactics involving submarines and land-based missiles to counter China's growing naval capabilities. It highlights the need for the U.S. to adapt its naval strategy and increase its submarine fleet to effectively challenge the People's Liberation Army Navy.

The U.S. Defense Department and Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement to expand production of the AIM-260 missile at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. This agreement lays the groundwork for a future multiyear buy of the missile, which is designed to enhance air dominance capabilities. Australia has committed to purchasing the AIM-260 for its Royal Australian Air Force, marking its first export customer.

Japan plans to introduce approximately 52,000 drones for long-range strikes and intelligence gathering between 2027 and 2031 as part of its defense strategy. The government aims to counter threats from China, Russia, and North Korea, with a defense budget projected to reach 70-80 trillion yen. This military expansion has sparked public criticism regarding the allocation of resources and potential impacts on civilian sectors.

PT Pindad successfully completed the first pre-delivery acceptance tests for KAPLAN AP vehicles intended for the Indonesian Army. This development follows a contract signed with the Indonesian Ministry of Defense to fulfill the army's requirements for new military vehicles.

Saudi Arabian aircraft conducted 40 airstrikes in Yemen's Taiz, Marib, and Hajjah provinces within the last 24 hours. Houthi forces reported shooting down a Saudi reconnaissance drone and using surface-to-air missiles to intercept F-15 fighter jets. The Houthi military spokesperson stated that the group has intensified its offensive against government forces and has taken control of significant territory in western Yemen.

GA-ASI Mojave successfully validated its short takeoff and landing capabilities during battlefield operations in Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea on 16 September 2026. This marks the first completion of such operations by a UAS.

Japan lost one RQ-4B Block 30i Global Hawk drone in the Sea of Japan on September 15, 2026, during an operational mission. This incident exposes a significant gap in Japan's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, as the loss removes approximately 33% of its fleet. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force confirmed the crash, which raises concerns about the country's ability to monitor regional threats effectively.

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A Japanese Global Hawk drone crashed into the Sea of Japan on September 15, 2023, after losing contact with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The drone was part of a fleet of three, and its loss reduces Japan's capabilities in monitoring North Korean missile activities. Debris was located by a Japan Coast Guard helicopter shortly after the incident, but the cause of the crash remains unknown.

Japan is developing UAVs equipped with quantum magnetic sensors for anti-submarine warfare by 2031, transitioning from traditional naval methods to extensive UAV deployment for maritime surveillance. The Miyako Strait is highlighted as a key area for monitoring Chinese submarine activity, with the U.S. predicting a significant increase in China's submarine fleet. The program's success hinges on technological advancements and effective collaboration with U.S. forces.

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Taiwan's Air Force conducted the first test flight of two MQ-9B drones at Hualien on September 14. The drones, part of a four-unit order, are designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions against PLA activities. Their operational success will depend on stable satellite communications and data processing capabilities.

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The M551 Sheridan light tank, retired in 1997, was notable for its ability to be deployed by parachute alongside airborne forces and its potent 152mm gun. Despite its retirement, it remains the U.S. Army's best post-World War II light tank due to its unique capabilities. The recent failure of the M10 Booker light tank highlights the lack of a suitable replacement for the Sheridan's operational role.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and Hanwha Aerospace conducted the first flight operations of the Mojave STOL aircraft from a simulated battlefield in Pocheon-Si, South Korea, on September 16, 2026. The aircraft successfully landed and took off from a live-fire range, demonstrating its capabilities for tactical missions. This milestone highlights the collaboration between GA-ASI and Hanwha in developing unmanned systems for future military applications.

Embraer is adapting the A-29 Super Tucano to counter drones, enhancing its capabilities for air defense. This aircraft will operate between ground defenses and high-end fighters, engaging UAVs at ranges of 50-200 miles from protected assets. The A-29 utilizes advanced sensors and precision weaponry to effectively target and destroy drones, addressing the cost disparity in current counter-UAS operations. A proof-of-concept demonstration is underway with an undisclosed country.

China urged the U.S. to stop its military build-up in outer space, warning that it could lead to a global arms race. U.S. officials acknowledged the deployment of space control weapons, marking a significant shift in military strategy. Chinese analysts expressed concerns that continued U.S. actions may force other nations to enhance their counter-space capabilities, creating a security dilemma.

The Royal Navy's Astute-class submarines, displacing 7,800 tons, are compared to the U.S. Navy's Virginia-class submarines, which displace 7,900 tons. Both classes are recognized for their advanced capabilities, including stealth and armament. The Astute-class is noted for its superior test depth and speed, while the Virginia-class has a larger crew and missile capacity. This comparison highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two navies regarding submarine technology.