On Tuesday, the Department of Defense released its annual report on military and security developments for China. The report addressed China’s actions in the South China Sea and included assessments of China’s military modernization through its nuclear program, hypersonic weapons, and anti-satellite capabilities.
Also on Tuesday, it was reported that during a meeting, US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono discussed plans to replace the canceled Aegis Ashore system. The two leaders agreed on the danger of the threat from North Korea and the importance of showing a strong partnership between the US and Japan.
On Wednesday, the Chiefs of the General Staff of Belarus and Russia - Alexander Volfovich and Valery Gerasimov - held a phone call to discuss preparations for their military cooperation during Slavic Brotherhood-2020 and Kavkaz-2020 exercises and drills. The events, which also include other nations, work to increase joint capabilities for warfighting and defense strategy.
On Thursday, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Rob Soofer stated that despite a moratorium on test launches, North Korea is still advancing its ICBM program in hopes of expanding its reach and capability. This comes as officials suggest that North Korea is planning to show off a new ICBM at an upcoming military parade.
Click here to read all of the headlines from the week.
