On December 18, 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) released its annual report on China's military and security developments, as mandated by Congress.
The report provides a detailed overview of China's military advancements, with a particular focus on the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF), which was established in 2015 to manage the country's land-based missile arsenal.
According to the report, China currently possesses a total of 3,100 ballistic missiles under the PLARF's control.
The report concludes that the PLARF’s modernization aligns with China’s stated objectives of improving nuclear deterrence, strengthening intermediate and long-range strike forces, and building a modernized missile force.
(Picture source: US DoD)
In comparison, as of early 2024, the United States operates 400 deployed LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBMs in ground silos and 192 Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) aboard Ohio-class submarines.
- Russia maintains a total of 521 ICBMs, encompassing both land-based and sea-based systems.
- The United Kingdom possesses four Vanguard-class submarines, each equipped with 16 Trident II SLBMs, totaling 64 missiles.
- France deploys four Triomphant-class submarines, each armed with 16 M51 SLBMs, also totaling 64 missiles.
- India has operational Agni-V ICBMs and is developing K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
The report notes that the PLARF has completed the construction of three solid-propellant ICBM silo fields containing at least 300 silos, with some already loaded with missiles. The force is developing new ICBMs equipped with MIRVs, which will require additional nuclear warheads. Satellite imagery analysis indicates the assembly of at least 72 DF-26 transporter-erector-launchers (TELs) between 2023 and 2024, reflecting growth in regional strike capabilities.- Operational activities of the PLARF demonstrate improved readiness, with the force conducting live-fire drills and joint exercises.
- Notably, the "Joint Sword" operation in 2023 simulated coordinated strikes involving land-based aircraft, the PLAN’s CV-17 Shandong carrier group, and the PLARF in a scenario simulating Taiwan encirclement.
Other exercises tested anti-submarine warfare and vessel-aircraft integration, supporting counter-intervention objectives. The PLARF's missile forces have also engaged in mock strikes targeting airfields, bunkers, aircraft, and ships.
In September 2024, the PLARF conducted an intercontinental ballistic missile test, launching a missile from Hainan Island into the South Pacific. This marked China’s first ICBM test in the Pacific Ocean since 1980, with the missile covering approximately 12,000 kilometers. The test underscored China’s capability to conduct long-range strikes. Following this event, President Xi Jinping inspected a PLARF brigade, highlighting the need to enhance the force’s deterrence and combat readiness.
Dec
19
During the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024 in Hanoi, the SPYDER air defense system, designed and manufactured by Israel, was showcased as a vital solution for protecting airspace in a region marked by growing tensions. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the SPYDER stands out as a strategic tool for air defense, combining mobility, rapid response capabilities, and precision in countering aerial threats.
Dec
19
The Chinese 61K (M1939) 37/Type 55 mm anti-aircraft gun, currently showcased at the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024, is a versatile weapon system designed to neutralize both aerial and ground targets. It stands out as one of the anti-aircraft systems presented at the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024.
Dec
19
Australia has completed the acquisition of 72 American F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to modernize its defense capabilities. On December 18, 2024, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) announced the arrival of the last three F-35A aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown. This event concludes a six-year procurement program that has transformed Australia’s airpower, elevating its defense capabilities to a new level of sophistication.
Dec
19
At the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024, a display of the systems and equipment used by the Vietnamese military was presented outdoors, showcasing the country’s growing defense capabilities. Among the featured equipment were two examples of the T-90S and T-90SK tanks. These vehicles, manufactured by the Russian company Uralvagonzavod, not only highlighted Vietnam’s commitment to modernizing its armored forces but also underscored the depth of the defense partnership between Vietnam and Russia.
Dec
19
On December 15, 2024, the Gladius program, one of Poland's most significant reconnaissance and strike systems, underwent substantial technological and structural improvements. Among these were the Mobile Analysis Station and new functionalities for the FT-5 drone. These developments aim to enhance the efficiency of artillery and reconnaissance units.
Dec
19
According to information published by the Indian government on December 16, 2024, he Indian Navy marked a major milestone in its modernization drive with the steel-cutting ceremony of the first ship under the Next-Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV) program. Held at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, the event was graced by Commodore S. Parthiban, Warship Production Superintendent.
Dec
19
At the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024, the Vietnamese Armed Forces have introduced their latest innovation in modern warfare: the Tactical Loitering Munition VU-C2. This cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is designed to neutralize ground targets such as infantry and light utility vehicles with precision and stealth, showcasing Vietnam’s growing capabilities in advanced military technology.
Dec
19
The U.S. Army has officially deployed the new M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) to its 41st Field Artillery Brigade based in Germany, which is crucial in enhancing its European artillery capabilities. This move comes as tensions with Russia continue to escalate, driven by the ongoing war in Ukraine, where the effectiveness of earlier MLRS versions has been prominently demonstrated. Read full Defense News at this link ...
Dec
19
The XCB-01 infantry fighting vehicle, a product developed and manufactured in Vietnam, was showcased at the Vietnam Defense Exhibition 2024, a major event in the defense industry, taking place from 19 to 22 december. The XCB-01 represents an advancement in Vietnam’s defense capabilities, combining cutting-edge technical features with a design tailored to meet modern strategic needs. This is the first time that the XCB-01 has been unveiled at the show.
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Dec
19
According to the Tehran Times on December 14, 2024, Iran’s domestically produced Qaher stealth fighter jet completed its first flight tests in an unmanned configuration. The announcement was made during the 12th Iran International Aerospace Exhibition (Iran Airshow 2024) on Kish Island.
Dec
19
According to information published by The Moscow Times on December 18, 2024, Sudan has officially declined Russia's request to establish a naval base on the Red Sea coast in Port Sudan, despite ongoing negotiations and offers of military and economic assistance.
Dec
19
As reported by Restitutor Orientis on December 18, 2024, two Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets from the Royal Air Force (RAF) landed at Murted Air Base near Ankara, Türkiye, for evaluation by Turkish authorities. This follows Türkiye’s expressed interest in acquiring 40 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft to modernize its air force as an interim solution while awaiting the operational readiness of the TAI KAAN, its indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet. Read full defense news at this link...
Dec
19
On December 19, 2024, the Defense Minister of Argentina, Luis Petri, announced that the Argentine Air Force (FAA) took delivery of its first F-16B MLU Block 10 aircraft, a static training unit, which arrived at Tandil Air Base. The disassembled airframe was transported aboard a KC-130H Hercules aircraft, while an earlier flight with Hercules TC-66 carried additional components, including a Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200 engine.
Dec
19
According to a PR published by MHI on December 19, 2024, the firm held a naming and launch ceremony for the frigate Nagara at its Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works in Akunoura, Nagasaki City. This event follows the June 2024 ceremony for the naming and launch of the Natori, another vessel of the same class.
Dec
19
In September 2024, Rheinmetall Canada showcased its advanced drone defense system during the Red Sands III exercise, held at the Shamal 2 firing range in northeastern Saudi Arabia. This multinational event, which brought together participants from US Army Central Command and the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces, focused on countering uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS). It provided an opportunity to evaluate various C-UAS solutions in a realistic and challenging environment.
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Dec
19
On December 19, 2024, the Polish Ministry of Defence (MON) announced an important contract with Fabryka Broni Radom for the delivery of MSBS GROT carbines, underbarrel grenade launchers, and VIS 100 pistols. The agreement was formalized during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Warsaw, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
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Dec
19
On December 18, 2024, Japan and Mongolia formalized a historic agreement enabling the transfer of defense equipment and technology between the two nations. The accord was signed by Japan's Ambassador to Ulaanbaatar, Masaru Ogasawara, and Mongolia's Minister of Defense, Sandagiin Byambatsogt, highlighting both countries' commitment to strengthening defense cooperation.
Dec
19
The war in Ukraine has vividly demonstrated the transformative potential of drones on the battlefield, signaling a gradual reduction in the role of soldiers in direct combat. Drones, extensively used for reconnaissance, precision strikes, and even autonomous assaults, have proven their capability to execute missions in hostile environments while minimizing human casualties.
Dec
19
On December 18, 2024, the French Air Force announced the signing of an amended $48.5 million contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) for the maintenance of its MQ-9 Reaper fleet. This contract, part of the existing FA8689-22-C-2017 agreement and the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, ensures the operational readiness of France's unmanned aerial systems (UAS) through December 31, 2025.
Dec
19
On December 19, 2024, Lithuania’s Minister of National Defence, Dovilė Šakalienė, met with representatives from Swedish manufacturer BAE Systems Hägglunds to discuss the acquisition of CV-90 tracked armored vehicles (IFVs) and potential cooperation with Lithuania’s defense industry.
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Dec
19
On November 19, 2024, the Cypriot company Theon Sensors announced that the German Parliament approved the exercise of the third option in the OCCAR Night Vision Capability Programme contract, authorizing the procurement of several thousand additional Mikron binocular night vision goggles (BNVG).
Dec
19
According to a PR published by Hanwha Ocean on December 19, 2024, the Korean company has signed an 640.000 million USD contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration to construct the first two ships of the Ulsan-class Batch-IV frigates, scheduled for completion by December 2030.
Dec
19
On 18 December 2024, Rostec announced the development of an advanced, scalable regional defense system designed to protect urban areas from drone threats. The system, based on the Sfera drone detection and suppression technology, has already proven its effectiveness in conflict zones and is now being adapted for broader security applications.
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Dec
19
In December 2024, Babcock, in collaboration with ST Engineering and Supacat, conducted a firepower demonstration of the 120mm Ground Deployed Advanced Mortar System (GDAMS) mounted on the Supacat Jackal high-mobility transporter in South Africa’s Northern Cape. The demonstration was aimed at showcasing the system’s capabilities to potential UK customers, and the GDAMS fired conventional, smoke, and precision munitions, achieving a three-round grouping of 1.1 meters at a range of 5.5 kilometers.
Dec
19
On December 18, 2024, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $3.549 billion contract to serve as the prime contractor for the U.S. Navy’s E-130J aircraft program. This aircraft will replace the E-6B Mercury in fulfilling the Take Charge And Move Out (TACAMO) mission, ensuring survivable and reliable communication between the National Command Authority and U.S. nuclear forces. The TACAMO mission is a critical element of the U.S.
Dec
18
According to a PR published by BAE Systems on December 17, 2024, the Australian and UK Governments have achieved a major milestone in the AUKUS trilateral partnership with the signing of a Tasking Statement between the Australian Submarine Agency, BAE Systems, and ASC Pty Ltd.
Dec
18
On December 18, 2024, the Russian Strategic Missile Forces announced the completion of the re-equipment of a division located in the Orenburg region with the Avangard hypersonic missile system, according to Commander Sergei Karakaev. This transition marks a major advancement in the modernization of Russia’s strategic capabilities, significantly bolstering its arsenal against modern missile defense systems.
Dec
18
On December 18, 2024, the Ukrainian National Guard received its first batch of Novator-2 command and staff vehicles (KShM), developed by Ukrainian Armor in collaboration with the National Guard. These vehicles are designed to enhance command and control in combat zones while providing protection for unit commanders. The Novator-2 retains the essential characteristics of its predecessor, including mobility, ballistic and mine protection, and additional enhancements for operational flexibility.
Dec
18
On December 11, 2024, the US company Kratos Defense and Security Solutions announced the successful first flight of its Thanatos stealth Uncrewed Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) prototype. The exact date and location of the test have not been disclosed, but the company confirmed that it took place within the last few months.
Dec
18
On December 18, 2024, Rostec, Russia’s state-owned defense conglomerate, stated that its efforts focus on the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence into unmanned systems to enhance operational capabilities while reducing risks to personnel. Key developments include systems that convert existing vehicles into autonomous platforms. Additionally, a wide range of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) is being developed for both combat and logistical roles, especially in Ukraine.
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