The network of US submarine bases in the Pacific Ocean: how America is rebuilding its navy against China

Why are the old databases no longer safe?

The current strategy of the US Navy in the Pacific Ocean is based on one alarming fact: many operating bases are no longer so protected. Yokosuka, Sasebo in Japan, and Chinhae in South Korea are key hubs, but they are all within range of Chinese medium—range missiles (up to 5,500 km). This makes them vulnerable to massive attacks in the early days of the conflict.

If the base goes down, the submarines lose access to repairs, ammunition, and supplies. Therefore, the United States and its allies are actively exploring alternatives — dispersed, hidden and flexible.

New locations — from Micronesia to Australia

America is expanding its network of strongholds to increase operational freedom. Among the proposed locations:

• Midway is a remote atoll where you can arrange light supplies and short—term parking.
• Chuuk Lagoon (Micronesia) is considered as an advanced expeditionary base capable of maintaining submarines in a combat position.
• Darwin, Australia — it is planned to place a floating dry dock for the repair of submarines here, which will dramatically reduce dependence on Japanese shipyards.
• Stirling, Australia — will become a nuclear submarine rotation center as part of the AUKUS partnership.

These points form a chain spanning the entire Indo-Pacific region.

What does a floating dock in Darwin and a rotation in Stirling provide?

The floating dock in Darwin is not just a convenience. This is an opportunity to carry out repairs and maintenance without returning to the USA or Japan. This is critical in the context of a protracted conflict.

Stirling will become a permanent home for the rotation of submarines: American and British submarines will be able to come here to rest, recharge and change crews. Australia, in turn, will eventually receive its own nuclear submarines, and the base will be ready to receive them.

How does this change the game with China

The new network of bases is not just logistics. This is a deterrence strategy. By having submarines in different locations, the United States can:

• Stay unnoticed longer,
• React faster to threats,
• Create uncertainty for the enemy — where exactly will the strike be?

The range of 1,000 nautical miles (about 1,850 km) in just two days is the pressure across the entire South Pacific Ocean. China can no longer be sure that its coast is safe.

Sources

1. Business Insider — US Navy submarines key to countering China’s navy
2. South China Morning Post — US nuclear submarine deployed to Guam boosts Pacific presence
3. Newsweek — Two American nuclear-powered submarines in Western Pacific
4. Atlantic Council — AUKUS and broader US defense partnerships in Indo-Pacific
5. X (Twitter) — proposed submarine base locations map

The US Marine Corps conducted the first anti-submarine operations with Osprey tiltrotor aircraft

For the first time, the US Marine Corps conducted antisubmarine operations in the Indo-Pacific region from the decks of the aircraft carriers USS George Washington (CVN 73) and USS America (LHA 6). These exercises became an important stage in confirming the effectiveness of the Osprey long-range tiltrotor aircraft for anti-submarine missions.

Using the MV-22B as a platform for anti-submarine warfare opens up new opportunities for long-range operations. Compared to the US Navy's MH-60R helicopters, which currently carry out anti-submarine missions from ships, the Osprey tiltrotor aircraft provide significantly longer range and flexibility.

These tests demonstrate the enhanced capabilities of the Marine Corps in ensuring maritime security and protecting critical shipping routes in the strategically important Indo-Pacific Ocean region. In addition, the introduction of new aerial platforms contributes to increased operational mobility and effective counteraction to underwater threats.

The use of the aircraft carriers USS George Washington and USS America gives additional potential in the implementation of these tasks, allowing the Marines to work closely with the fleet. Such joint operations enhance the capabilities of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in the region.

Thus, the first anti-submarine operations using MV—22B tiltrotor aircraft are an important step in the development of anti-submarine warfare in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthening the US naval potential.

UK-Japan joint exercises: training F-35B pilots to work together in the Indo-Pacific region

 

The Ministry of Defense has updated data on the next step of Operation Highmast, where the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group 25 will focus on joint air operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Special attention is being paid to ensuring that British and Japanese forces hone joint operations with F-35B fighters, fifth—generation aircraft with the ability to take off and vertical landing (STOVL).

For the UK, this is a familiar technique: the F-35B has been in service since 2018, and they have a lot of experience using it. But Japan is just beginning to implement this platform in its naval forces and is still in the process of integration. The two countries are currently conducting joint exercises at sea, where pilots and maintenance personnel are training, working together, learning how to work together, and gaining experience for future operations.

These exercises are an important part of strengthening the military partnership between London and Tokyo. They show solidarity and willingness to jointly respond to various challenges in an increasingly strategic region. In addition, such training helps pilots and technicians better understand each other's work so that everything goes smoothly in real combat conditions.

In general, F-35B joint flights are not just a study, but a serious step forward in terms of strengthening security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Indeed, now that the world is becoming more and more complex from a military point of view, it is coherence and willingness to work together that help maintain balance and prevent conflicts.

Historic departure: the United States for the first time took a hypersonic "cannon" outside its territory

The US Army has taken a high-profile and symbolically important step in its hypersound program. For the first time in its history, it deployed a long-range hypersonic weapon (LRHW) system outside the continental United States. This advanced and so far secret system has been delivered and deployed in the Northern Territory of Australia.

This event took place as part of the Talisman Sabre 25 large—scale joint military exercises, the largest maneuvers between the United States and Australia aimed at developing coherence and strengthening strategic partnership. The 3rd Multidisciplinary Task Force (3MDTF) was responsible for the deployment, a special unit created to quickly deploy advanced systems, including hypersonic weapons, anywhere in the world.

The LRHW's location in Australia is not just a demonstration of technology. This is a historic milestone confirming the system's transition from the development and testing stage to the operational deployment stage. It is also a powerful strategic signal demonstrating the ability of the United States to rapidly deploy and use its most advanced weapons in the Indo-Pacific region, where tensions are rising.

Hypersonic weapons capable of reaching speeds of more than Mach 5 (five times faster than the speed of sound) and maneuvering along a trajectory are extremely difficult to intercept by existing missile defense systems. His appearance in Australia significantly enhances deterrence capabilities and underscores the US commitment to protecting its allies, in particular Australia.

3MDTF's participation in the exercise highlights its key role in the army's new concept of distributed deployment. Instead of large, vulnerable bases, small groups with high-tech weapons can quickly appear at critical points, strike and disappear. The Talisman Sabre 25 exercises are an ideal platform for testing just such scenarios and strengthening regional stability.

An American nuclear submarine with missiles sailed to Australia — and this is not just a courtesy call

One of the most formidable submarines of the US Navy, the USS Ohio (SSGN—726), suddenly appeared in Brisbane, in eastern Australia. This is not just an ordinary submarine: it belongs to the elite four nuclear-powered cruise missile submarines capable of delivering precision strikes against almost any target in the region. Her arrival is a rare and very significant event.

The submarine docked on Sunday, according to the US 7th Fleet, as part of a large-scale deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. She docked right next to the repair vessel USS Frank Cable (AS-40), which arrived there the day before, apparently to provide technical support and prepare the boat for further operations.

The USS Ohio is not just a "silent hunter". It is a floating missile base: it can carry up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, as well as support special forces, including navy seals. Such visits to Australia are rare, because these boats usually stay in the shadows, discreetly patrolling the depths. And here is a public parking lot in a major port. This is a clear signal: the United States is strengthening its presence in the Indo-Pacific region, especially against the background of Chinese activity and tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea.

For Australia, such a visit is not only a demonstration of allied relations, but also a reminder that the region is becoming more and more strategically important. Especially considering that Australia itself is currently building a nuclear submarine program with the help of the United States and Great Britain (under the AUKUS deal).

So the appearance of the USS Ohio in Brisbane is not just about refueling and resting the crew. This is a political message written underwater, but understandable to everyone.

Americans with HIMARS galloped across the islands: how they learn to quickly jump from shore to shore in the Pacific Ocean

 The US Army, together with its allies, has worked out a cool operation: the rapid delivery and unloading of HIMARS rocket launchers on one of the islands in the Indo-Pacific region. Imagine: a rocket launcher that can fly almost 80 km, is unloaded from a ship in a matter of minutes, shoots and disappears — like a ghost. This is not a movie, but a real tactic that the Americans and their partners are currently honing.

Why all this? In the event of conflict in regions such as the South China Sea or around Taiwan, every minute and every meter counts. If you are static, you will be quickly found and destroyed. Therefore, the key rule is: he came, shot, disappeared. Such exercises with HIMARS teach you how to move quickly without giving the enemy a chance to react.

Mobility is now the main trump card. HIMARS can be airlifted to the island by heavy helicopter or from an amphibious assault ship, and the system is ready for combat immediately after unloading. Then — transfer to another point, and again into battle. This allows you not only to survive under enemy attacks, but also to operate over a vast territory, as if appearing out of nowhere.

The tactics of frequent movements and lightning strikes make these installations especially dangerous. And it's not just the firing range, but how difficult it is to catch them. The exercises show that the United States and its allies are seriously preparing for scenarios where control of the islands and a quick reaction decide the outcome of the conflict.

The Americans have deployed another nuclear submarine to Hawaii — what does this mean in the game with China?

 

 USS Indiana

The United States is once again strengthening its military presence in the Pacific Ocean: the nuclear submarine USS Indiana has arrived in Hawaii, at the Pearl Harbor-Hickam base — and this is the second such transfer from the east of the country. She used to be based in Groton, Connecticut, but now she will be based right in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

What is the danger of *Indiana*? This is a Virginia—class attack submarine - fast, quiet and armed with long-range Tomahawk missiles. That is, it can deliver pinpoint strikes to almost any target on land, while remaining invisible underwater. She is now the third submarine of this class assigned to the 7th Squadron of the U.S. Navy in the Indo-Pacific region.

Why is this important? It's simple: The United States is clearly pulling the toughest forces to the southwest of the Pacific Ocean in response to the growth of the Chinese fleet. Each new submarine is not just a ship, but a signal.: "We're here, we're ready." Especially at a time when China is increasingly building a fleet, strengthening its position in the South China Sea and training in case of conflict.

So Indiana is not just a move. This is part of a big strategy: to keep the fleet in shape, the people on the ground and the opponent in suspense.

F-35Bs refueled and took off from HMS Prince of Wales for the first time before the Talisman Sabre exercises

In 2025, an important event took place within the framework of international military cooperation: F-35B stealth fighters of the United States Marine Corps successfully completed refueling and takeoff operations from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. This was part of his large—scale flagship campaign conducted as part of Operation High Mast, the key aircraft carrier deployment of the British Royal Navy this year.

These operations took place on the eve of one of the largest multinational exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, Talisman Sabre, which underlines the strategic importance of this event. The participation of the F-35B in joint operations with the British flagship demonstrates the high degree of interoperability of the allied forces and the strengthening of their presence in a critically important region.

The British Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, embarked on an eight-month mission that will take place from the Mediterranean Sea, through the Indian Ocean, and end off the Pacific coast. Such a deeply symbolic and tactically significant deployment is aimed at strengthening defensive ties, demonstrating strength and increasing combat readiness in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

The participation of American fifth-generation fighters in logistical and combat operations with the British aircraft carrier also serves as a prime example of transatlantic partnership and technological synchronization. The joint actions of the F-35B and HMS Prince of Wales have shown the effectiveness of integrating the advanced systems and capabilities of the two countries into a single combat structure.

Japan strengthens underwater exploration: purchase of SUUV REMUS 300 as a response to security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region

Amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, Japan has decided to purchase more than a dozen REMUS 300 small unmanned underwater vehicles (SUUV), indicating its commitment to enhance maritime security and anti-submarine defense. This program has become part of a multi-year agreement between the Japanese corporation Hitachi Ltd. and the American defense company Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII).

Deliveries of the REMUS 300 will allow Japan to expand its capabilities to monitor underwater spaces, ensure the security of ports and strategically important marine areas, as well as conduct reconnaissance operations. According to HII, these vehicles play a key role in modern naval operations due to their mobility, autonomy and ability to operate in difficult hydrological conditions.

The REMUS 300 is a lightweight and highly mobile autonomous underwater vehicle, ideal for mine detection, seabed mapping, coastal water patrol, and intelligence gathering tasks. Their integration into the Japanese Self-Defense Forces will enhance the effectiveness of both the national fleet and regional cooperation allies.

The deal also demonstrates the deepening of the bilateral defense partnership between Japan and the United States. Given the increasing activity of China and North Korea in the coastal waters of the region, such steps are becoming an important element of the strategy of deterrence and collective security.

In addition, the joint production and logistical support of the REMUS 300 under the agreement with Hitachi opens up the opportunity for technological exchange and the development of Japan's own base in the field of underwater UAVs.

Thus, the acquisition of the SUUV REMUS 300 becomes not just a technical upgrade, but an important strategic step by Tokyo in strengthening national defense and participating in the regional deterrence system.

REMUS 300

The United States is deploying F-35s in the Philippines amid China's increased military presence in the Indo-Pacific region

After the deployment of the Typhon missile system, the United States began the first deployment of the F-35 in the Philippines

The Philippines is rapidly becoming a state on the front line of U.S.-China rivalry in the Indo—Pacific region, with Washington deploying its latest weapons systems in the country, which is part of the first island chain - strategic archipelagos in East Asia, including Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines.

Just a few days after the nuclear-powered American aircraft carrier George Washington arrived in the Philippine capital for a visit, the United States sent one of its most advanced fighter jets to this country for the first time. — F-35.

This move reflects the growing convergence of strategic interests between the United States, which seeks to protect its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Philippines, which is increasingly becoming the target of China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

A fifth-generation stealth aircraft has arrived at Clark Air Force Base to participate in the Cope Thunder 25-2 joint aviation exercise. The exercises began on July 7 and will last until July 18.

More than 2,500 people are participating in the exercise, including 2301 from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and 225 from the US Pacific Air Forces. The Philippine Air Force also deployed several types of aircraft, including FA-50 fighter jets, A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and AW109, S-76A, and S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.

Coordinated deployment of aircraft carriers of Great Britain, France and Italy in the Indo-Pacific region: strengthening the presence of European fleets

In 2025, the Navies of Great Britain, France and Italy announced plans for the coordinated deployment of their aircraft carriers in the Indo-Pacific region, a step that marks the growth of European military interest in this strategically important area. This decision was a response to China's growing influence and increasing pressure from Russia, as well as part of a broader strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and strengthen international order in the Pacific Ocean.

The Royal Navy of Great Britain, the second largest in tonnage in the world, is taking a key role in the new initiative. Despite the fact that only a third of the British navy's destroyers are operational, the country continues to demonstrate activity outside Europe. The British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to be sent to the Indo-Pacific region to participate in joint operations. This will be a logical continuation of recent maneuvers, when British ships were already monitoring Russian maritime activity in May 2025.

In this context, special attention is being paid to the introduction of new technologies, such as the autonomous SWEEP system designed to detect naval mines — this increases the combat stability of the fleet in difficult conditions.

The French Navy, which is actively developing the Vortex hypersonic space aircraft project, also intends to demonstrate its projection of power in the Indo-Pacific region using the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. The move underscores Paris' desire to expand its global influence, especially after massive investments in the defense industry.

Italy, which has experience in operations with the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, has declared its readiness to participate in multinational exercises in the southern waters of the Pacific Ocean. The participation of all three countries in a single deployment indicates increased coordination between the European fleets and their desire to work together in a changing geopolitical environment.

This joint deployment is not just a demonstration of military might, but also a political signal to Moscow and Beijing. It recalls that European Powers remain involved in security issues at the global level, especially in light of the decline in the number of combat vehicles and equipment over the past two decades. In addition, it opens up opportunities for enhanced cooperation with countries such as Japan, South Korea and Australia, which are also concerned about the growing militarization in the region.

British F-35Bs will test the deck of the Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga during joint exercises

 

British F-35B carrier—based fighters may soon land and take off from one of Japan's de facto aircraft carriers, JS Kaga, as members of the British aircraft carrier strike group are scheduled to arrive in Japanese waters in August as part of the final phase of a multi-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that part of the joint activities will be the landing and take-off of F-35B fighters from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales onto the deck of the Japanese JS Kaga, as the fleets of the partner countries seek to increase interoperability and strengthen military cooperation.

Recall that JS Kaga has already been upgraded to operate F-35B aircraft, and in October 2024, an American F-35B successfully landed on its deck during sea trials. In turn, the British F-35B, based on HMS Prince of Wales, has a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, which makes them compatible with aircraft carriers of this type. 

The planned cooperation between the UK and Japan could be an important step in developing a bilateral military partnership and deepening the presence of allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Starting from 2029-2030, the full-fledged start of F-35B operations from Japanese aircraft carriers is also expected.

Hanwha Systems and Northrop Grumman sign memorandum on joint development of integrated air defense systems

On June 16, 2025, the South Korean company Hanwha Systems and the American defense contractor Northrop Grumman officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the joint development of integrated air defense (air defense) systems. This strategic partnership aims to create a multi-layered and interoperable air defense architecture capable of effectively countering modern and increasingly complex aerial threats.

The announcement of the cooperation was made against the backdrop of growing demand for advanced air defense systems both in the Indo-Pacific region and in NATO theaters. The new integrated system will combine Hanwha Systems' advanced radar technology with Northrop Grumman's innovative Air and Missile Defense Combat Control System (IBCS).

It is expected that this cooperation will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of air defense systems, provide faster and more accurate data processing, and improve coordination between various platforms and defense assets. This will effectively detect, track, and neutralize a wide range of threats, from drones and cruise missiles to ballistic and hypersonic targets.

Turkish Aerospace Industries has signed the largest export contract worth 10 billion dollars with Indonesia

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has signed the largest agreement in the history of the Republic of Turkey on the export of military products. Indonesia has signed a $10 billion contract for the supply of 48 fifth-generation KAAN multirole fighters. The deal was officially announced at the Indo Defense 2025 exhibition in Jakarta.

This unprecedented contract not only strengthens Ankara's position as a key player in the global arms market, but also reflects the strategic restructuring in the Indo-Pacific region. The delivery of modern KAAN fighter jets will allow Indonesia to significantly increase its defense capability and strengthen its influence in the region, which is becoming an increasingly important center of geopolitical interests.

TAI, which has advanced technologies and experience in the development of combat aircraft, demonstrates its ability to compete with the world's leading arms manufacturers. This contract also opens up opportunities for further cooperation between Turkey and Indonesia in the field of defense industry and technology.

Thus, the deal with Indonesia becomes an important milestone in the development of the Turkish defense industry and the strengthening of strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

The advanced MPS-OHC anti-drone protection system has been successfully tested

 

MPS-OHC protective structure above the building

The US Army Engineers Research and Development Center (ERDC) has improved its Modular Protective Cover System (MPS-OHC) to better protect against drone attacks, which are increasingly targeting infrastructure, key assets, and critical resources in conflict zones.

"In April, MPS-OHC passed the verification tests of its improvements for use in the Indo-Pacific region. These upgrades — including stronger armor, a new armor layout, and easier installation on cargo containers — have demonstrated an almost perfect success rate in protecting against explosive threats.

"In addition, "the updated structure can withstand direct hits and is quickly assembled without the need for a concrete foundation, making it ideal for rapidly changing situations. The system is scalable to protect various assets and is currently in use, and contracts have been signed to send these systems to forward—based soldiers," the report says.

US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz returns to disputed South China Sea

 

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the oldest operating aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy, was spotted returning to the South China Sea, a region where China claims most of the maritime territories. This return comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensifying territorial disputes between China and its neighbors.

The USS Nimitz is located in the area of responsibility of the US Seventh Fleet, based in Japan, which maintains the presence of American naval forces in the western Pacific Ocean. The aircraft carrier provides a demonstration of strength and readiness for combat, which serves as a deterrent in a region where China is actively consolidating its territorial claims.

In early May, Nimitz conducted two weeks of operations in the South China Sea, after which it passed through the important Malacca Strait linking the South China Sea with the Indian Ocean. During this time, the aircraft carrier visited the ports of Malaysia and Guam, demonstrating international cooperation and the US presence in the region.

The return of the USS Nimitz coincides with increased activity by Chinese naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Shandong, which is also conducting exercises in the area. China considers the South China Sea as its exclusive economic zone and regularly conducts operations to protect its interests, which leads to frequent clashes with the naval forces of neighboring countries and the United States.

The presence of the Nimitz aircraft carrier in the region is an important element of the US strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and maintain international order in the Indo-Pacific region. It is also a signal to Beijing of Washington's readiness to defend the interests of its allies and deter aggressive actions.

Thus, the return of the USS Nimitz to the South China Sea highlights the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China for influence in the strategically important region and maintains tensions in international relations.

India is faced with the problem of access to the source code of Rafale fighter jets: a technological limitation amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region

Rafale fighter jet

In the context of growing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, especially against the background of worsening relations with China and Pakistan, India is facing a serious challenge — France refuses to provide access to the source code of Dassault Rafale combat aircraft systems acquired under a contract in 2016.

Despite persistent diplomatic efforts New Delhi, the French company Dassault Aviation still does not agree to transfer key software elements governing aspects such as flight control systems, weapons integration and avionics. For India, this creates significant difficulties in terms of modernizing the fighter fleet and adapting them to its own needs.

The Indian authorities considered the possibility of independent updating and modification of the systems as an important step towards achieving technological independence and increasing  the combat effectiveness of the Air Force. However, the lack of access to the source code calls into question the full operational autonomy of these promising but strategically limited machines.

This issue is particularly acute now, as  China is strengthening its military presence in the South China Sea and is actively modernizing its aviation, and Pakistan is developing ties with Russia and other countries to purchase modern weapons.

Although France continues to support India through the QUAD+ trilateral cooperation, the issue of access to critical technologies remains a stumbling block in bilateral relations.

The Royal Navy uses drones for supply in the Indo-Pacific region

 For the first time, the Royal Navy will deploy a fleet of drones to carry out vital ship-to-ship resupply missions during the upcoming deployment of the British Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Indo-Pacific region.

According to updated Royal Navy news, nine Malloy T-150 octover helicopters will join the HMS Prince of Wales Air group later this month and will carry out missions alongside F-35B aircraft and naval helicopters to transport food, mail and engineering parts throughout the task force.

The goal is to, to free the helicopters from the routine work of supply, freeing them for their main combat and defensive tasks. Drone operations will be conducted by a 12-person team from 700X Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Culdrose.

Boeing and Northrop Grumman are awaiting a contract to supply new generation fighter jets to the US Navy

In the coming days, the US Navy will announce the selection of a contractor for the construction of a next-generation stealth carrier-based fighter. Boeing and Northrop Grumman, the two largest manufacturers of military aircraft in the United States, are awaiting a multibillion-dollar contract for the development and production of F/A-XX fighter jets. The cost of the program is estimated at hundreds of billions of dollars over the entire duration of its implementation. This is a key element of the US strategy to counter China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The F/A-XX is a project to create a new generation of carrier—based fighter aircraft for the US Navy. These fighters will be equipped with advanced technologies, including stealth, super maneuverability and integrated weapons systems. The goal of the program is to ensure the superiority of the US Navy in the air over potential adversaries such as China.

Boeing and Northrop Grumman are the two main contenders for the contract. Both companies have extensive experience in the production of military aircraft and have previously participated in similar projects. Boeing is known for its F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-15 fighter jets, while Northrop Grumman is the developer of the F-35 stealth fighter and other advanced systems.

The F/A-XX program is part of a broader U.S. strategy to strengthen its military superiority in the Indo-Pacific region. In recent years, China has been actively building up its military power, and the United States considers it necessary to modernize its armed forces to ensure regional security.

The contract for the development and production of F/A-XX fighter jets is estimated at billions of dollars in the short term and potentially hundreds of billions of dollars over the decades. This will allow the winning company to significantly strengthen its position in the arms market.

Selecting a contractor for the F/A-XX program will be an important step in modernizing the U.S. Navy. This will not only strengthen the US military superiority in the Indo-Pacific region, but also provide new opportunities for the development of technology and innovation in the field of military aviation.

Chinese GJ-2 UAV spotted off the coast of Japan: signs of increased military activity by Beijing in the Indo-Pacific region

Chinese reconnaissance and attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) GJ-2

In recent years, the growth of Chinese military activity in the Indo-Pacific region has become one of the key topics on the international agenda. Recently, an event occurred that attracted the special attention of experts and analysts: the Chinese reconnaissance and attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) GJ-2 was spotted in flight near Japanese territories. This incident not only demonstrates China's technological achievements in the field of unmanned aircraft, but also highlights Beijing's desire to strengthen its influence in the region.

The CH-5 or GJ-2 drone (its combat version) is one of the most modern examples of Chinese development in the field of attack and reconnaissance UAVs. It is an analog of the American MQ-9 Reaper, having a significant flight range, a long stay in the air and the ability to perform both reconnaissance and strike missions. The GJ-2 is capable of carrying various types of weapons, including guided missiles and bombs, which makes it a versatile tool for conducting various operations.

Main features of GJ-2:

- The maximum flight duration is up to 60 hours.

- The range is more than 10,000 km.

- The flight altitude is up to 9 km.

- The ability to carry up to 1 ton of ammunition.

These parameters allow the UAV to operate effectively both within the framework of local conflicts and for long-range reconnaissance.

The recording of the GJ-2 flight near Japanese territories indicates several important aspects:

1. Increased monitoring of the region: The presence of such a high-tech device indicates China's intention to step up intelligence gathering on strategically important sites, shipping routes and military infrastructure of neighboring countries.

2. Show of force: The deployment of advanced aerial reconnaissance and strike systems near the borders of rivals can be considered a form of "soft" military diplomacy aimed at showing force without direct military confrontation.

3. Testing the reaction of allies: Japan is an important partner of the United States in the region, and the appearance of the GJ-2 may be part of China's attempt to test the willingness of Tokyo and Washington to coordinate their actions in the event of an escalation of tension.

4. Technological superiority: The use of sophisticated systems such as the GJ-2 confirms China's desire to take a leading position in the field of defense technology and ensure a competitive advantage over other players in the region.

The Japanese government has already expressed concern about this incident, stating the need to strengthen the air defense system and airspace surveillance. In turn, the United States may consider this event as an additional incentive to strengthen its military bases in the region and expand cooperation with allied countries such as Australia, South Korea and India.

However, it is important to note that any escalation of tensions could have serious consequences for the economic and political climate in the Indo-Pacific region, which remains a central hub of global trade and interaction.

The appearance of the Chinese GJ-2 UAV off the coast of Japan was another symbolic step in the game of forces, where each side is trying to demonstrate its influence and ability to control the situation. For the countries of the region, this incident serves as a reminder of the need to create more reliable mechanisms for security and dialogue. At the same time, he stresses the need to develop our own technologies and protective equipment to meet the new challenges of modern warfare, where drones are playing an increasingly important role.

China will certainly continue to develop its military technology and increase its presence in the Indo-Pacific region. The question remains how other countries will respond to these changes while maintaining a balance of power and stability in the face of growing geopolitical uncertainty.