Defence Security Asia - Asian Defence and Security Affairs

Iran is repairing access to its Eagle 44 underground airbase after repeated reported strikes, highlighting how exposed taxiways and damaged support infrastructure could constrain residual airpower near the Strait of Hormuz.

Türkiye’s SIPER Block 2 reportedly intercepted a replacement target after receiving new instructions in flight, demonstrating greater engagement flexibility within the Steel Dome air defence network.

Russia’s Rosoboronexport will unveil its Anti-Drone Dome concept at the Russia-Africa Summit, presenting a layered approach to defending troops and critical infrastructure against UAV attacks.

France expects only two new Rafale fighters in 2027 while combat aircraft operate more than 15% above planned utilisation, squeezing the reserve needed for nuclear deterrence, national air defence and NATO commitments.

Japan is building two Aegis System Equipped Vessels to counter ballistic-missile threats, but concentrating advanced radars and interceptors aboard two hulls creates a demanding protection and readiness challenge.

The Philippines reportedly favours a 40-aircraft KF-21 Boramae fleet, a potential shift that could strengthen air defence, consolidate Korean defence ties and reshape Manila’s fighter competition.

China’s J-20 design institute has proposed wing-embedded radar arrays that use aircraft manoeuvres and coordinated drones to expand early-warning coverage, although flight testing and integration with operational fighters remain unconfirmed.

Malaysia plans Japanese counter-drone deployments at Sepanggar and Labuan to protect facilities supporting South China Sea operations, expanding maritime security cooperation with Tokyo while key capability details remain unconfirmed.

Four Philippine Air Force pilots were killed when two SF-260 trainers collided at Fernando Air Base on October 23, 2026, triggering a fleet grounding and renewed questions over military pilot-training continuity.

Indonesia has landed F-16s and Super Tucanos on an East Java toll road, expanding contingency runway options as it tests how dispersed operations could preserve airpower when conventional bases become unavailable.

Four Chinese KJ-3000 radar aircraft photographed at Xi’an-Yanliang suggest growing programme activity, with potential implications for Taiwan air defence, airborne command coverage and Western Pacific operations, although serial production remains unconfirmed.

BrahMos Aerospace is leveraging the missile’s reported Operation Sindoor performance to attract international buyers, with Southeast Asian coastal defence requirements putting delivery capacity and maritime deterrence in focus.

France and the UAE have reopened Rafale F5 cooperation, restoring a major combat aviation partnership while leaving unresolved questions over funding, technology access and industrial control.

Oman is reportedly exploring JF-17 Thunder fighters with Pakistan and China, raising questions over Hormuz air defence, Western military ties and the logistics of a third frontline fighter fleet.

Malaysia is acquiring 34 Thai-designed support vehicles for its CAESAR artillery programme, addressing the ammunition, maintenance and communications requirements behind sustained shoot-and-scoot operations.