People's Liberation Army (PLA)

A Chinese state television documentary revealed test launches of the DF-17, the world’s first operational hypersonic glide weapon system, showcasing its capabilities. The episode focused on the PLA Rocket Force, which manages China’s land-based missiles and nuclear arsenal.

China has implemented stricter regulations to ban unauthorized sales of decommissioned military equipment, citing adverse impacts and security risks. An administrative notice from multiple state bodies prohibits the sale of such items, including uniforms and machinery, through unapproved channels.

Two Chinese military pilots, including a high-ranking tactical commander, were killed during PLA frontline flight training exercises last month. Official regional government notices and local media reported the deaths, but Beijing has not issued a statement. It remains unclear if the pilots died in the same incident.

China's Type 054B frigate made its debut with the aircraft carrier Liaoning during live-fire drills in the Pacific east of the Philippines. The exercise, involving at least four escorts, follows a long deployment in the South China Sea and was reported by Japan's defense ministry near Okinotorishima.

China significantly increased military activities across the Indo-Pacific in 2025, conducting record-breaking operations in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea while expanding far-seas training beyond the First Island Chain. The PLA sustained higher operational tempo around Taiwan following President William Lai's inauguration, conducted two large-scale exercises, and demonstrated unprecedented capabilities including simultaneous aircraft carrier operations in the Pacific.