{"id":7500,"date":"2026-09-15T08:43:15","date_gmt":"2026-09-14T23:43:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/?page_id=7500"},"modified":"2026-09-18T09:19:31","modified_gmt":"2026-09-18T00:19:31","slug":"vol-53-september-15-2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/newsletter\/vol-53-september-15-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Vol. 53 September 15, 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<div>\n<style>\n    body {\n      background-color: #fafafa;\n    }\n    h1,\n    h2,\n    h3,\n    h4,\n    th,\n    td,\n    p,\n    div {\n      font-family: \"Helvetica\", sans-serif;\n    }\n    .center-wrapper {\n      max-width: 600px;\n      margin: 0 auto;\n      background-color: #ffffff;\n      padding: 20px 10px;\n    }\n    hr,\n    .hr {\n      border: none;\n      border-bottom: 1px solid #000;\n      margin: 10px 0;\n      max-width: none;\n    }\n    .topics-table th,\n    .topics-table td {\n      padding: 3.75pt 13.5pt;\n      vertical-align: top;\n      border: 1px solid #ffffff !important;\n    }\n    .topics-header-date {\n      background: #a5e9ff;\n      border-right: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n      text-align: center !important;\n      width: 100px;\n      white-space: nowrap;\n    }\n    .topics-header-title {\n      background: #eeeeee;\n      font-weight: bold;\n      text-align: center;\n    }\n    .topics-date {\n      background: #a5e9ff;\n      border-top: solid white 1pt;\n      border-right: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n      text-align: center;\n      white-space: nowrap;\n    }\n    .topics-content {\n      background: #eeeeee;\n      border-top: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n    }\n    .topics-source {\n      color: #2322e4;\n      font-weight: bold;\n    }\n    .topics-link {\n      color: #337ab7;\n      word-break: break-all;\n    }\n    .analysis-box {\n      margin-bottom: 1.5rem;\n      padding: 1rem;\n      background: #aeedf1;\n    }<\/p>\n<p>    .l-post-content table.stats-table {\n      border-collapse: collapse;\n      border-top: none;\n      word-break: break-all;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th,\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td {\n      border: 1px solid #000;\n      text-align: center;\n      vertical-align: middle;\n      padding: 4px;\n      background-color: #d9e1f2;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th {\n      background-color: #b4c6e7;\n      font-weight: bold;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td.stats-spacer-col {\n      border: none;\n      width: 10px;\n      background-color: #fff;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(1),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(1),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(5),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(5) {\n      width: 10%;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(2),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(2),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(3),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(3),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(6),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(6),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(7),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(7) {\n      width: 20%;\n    }\n  <\/style>\n<div class=\"center-wrapper\">\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center; font-size: 18pt; color: #202020; margin-bottom: 20px\">Vol.53. Sep 15. 2026<\/h1>\n<p>What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>    <!-- Statistical Data and Analysis --><\/p>\n<div class=\"sdaa-wrapper\">\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-size: 16pt; margin: 30px 0 10px\">Statistical Data and Analysis (as of Sep. 15)<\/p>\n<div class=\"analysis-box\">\n<p>\n          The rivalry between China and Taiwan is causing disunity among Pacific Island countries. Last year&#8217;s Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) summit avoided bringing the issue to light by not inviting external partner countries to the meeting. However, this year&#8217;s chair, Palau,<br \/>\n          maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan and invited the Taiwanese delegation. In response, China expressed serious concern, warning that it would lead to &#8220;consequences,&#8221; and ramped up pressure by citing the &#8220;understanding and support&#8221; of other Pacific Island nations.<br \/>\n          Palau requested that other countries condemn China for its missile launch test in July, but due to Nauru&#8217;s opposition, they were forced to limit their response to merely expressing concern. China reacted strongly against Palau&#8217;s stance, a move that Taiwan subsequently<br \/>\n          criticized. Within the PIF, the United States has also increased its engagement to counter China&#8217;s expanding influence, making the US-China rivalry increasingly apparent. Other external partner countries, including Japan, also participated in PIF-related meetings to<br \/>\n          deepen cooperation with the island nations and counter China&#8217;s growing presence.\n        <\/p>\n<p>\n          China is also engaging in a war of words with the Philippines. At the Seoul Defense Dialogue, the Philippine Defense Secretary sharply criticized China&#8217;s attitude toward the South China Sea arbitration ruling, drawing global attention to the China-Philippines<br \/>\n          confrontation.\n        <\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, China has been dispatching intelligence-gathering aircraft around Japan with unprecedented frequency, intensifying its information-gathering activities in the East China Sea.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\n        <strong>[Statistical Data as of Sep. 15]<br \/> <\/strong>\n      <\/p>\n<p>\n        The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) daily updates the statistical data on the number of China Coast Guard vessels entering in the contiguous zone around the Senkaku Islands and intruding into Japanese territorial waters. The below is from the website of the JCG.<br \/>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp\/mission\/senkaku\/senkaku.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp\/mission\/senkaku\/senkaku.html<\/a>\n      <\/p>\n<div class=\"table-box\">\n<table class=\"stats-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Aug.<\/th>\n<th>Contiguous<br \/>zone<\/th>\n<th>Territorial<br \/>Waters<\/th>\n<td rowspan=\"100\" class=\"stats-spacer-col\"><\/td>\n<th>Sep.<\/th>\n<th>Contiguous<br \/>zone<\/th>\n<th>Territorial<br \/>Waters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>31<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>8<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Sep.<\/th>\n<th><\/th>\n<th><\/th>\n<td>9<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>1<\/td>\n<td>8<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>10<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>2<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>11<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>3<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>12<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>13<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>14<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>6<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>15<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>7<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>    <!-- \/Statistical Data and Analysis --><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>    <!-- Topics --><\/p>\n<div class=\"topics-wrapper\">\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-size: 16pt; margin: 30px 0 10px\">Topics<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-box\">\n<table class=\"topics-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"topics-header-date\">Date<\/th>\n<th class=\"topics-header-title\" style=\"text-align: center\">Topics<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">8\/28<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Vietnam expressed its intention to oppose all foreign activities in the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea. The Paracels have been occupied by China since 1974, and new construction of buildings on Yagong Island, one of the islands comprising the<br \/>\n                  archipelago, was discovered through satellite imagery analysis last month.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/china\/vietnam-demands-end-activity-paracels-after-report-chinese-construction-2026-08-28\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/china\/vietnam-demands-end-activity-paracels-after-report-chinese-construction-2026-08-28\/<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">8\/31<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On August 31, the Ministry of Defense of Japan submitted a record budget request for fiscal year 2027, amounting to \u00a58.89 trillion ($56 billion). Observers anticipate that the final amount will grow to nearly \u00a510 trillion ($63 billion) because projects related<br \/>\n                  to the revision of strategic security documents are listed in the request without specific amounts. Japan is planning to develop a submarine-launched hypersonic missile and a way to equip unmanned underwater vehicles with long-range missiles.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Mainichi<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260831\/p2g\/00m\/0na\/043000c\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260831\/p2g\/00m\/0na\/043000c<\/a><\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">(Reference) Ministry of Defense of Japan (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/j\/budget\/yosan_gaiyo\/fy2027\/yosan_20260831.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/j\/budget\/yosan_gaiyo\/fy2027\/yosan_20260831.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">8\/31<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On August 31, JMSDF confirmed one Russian Steregushchiy class frigates (hull number 343) sailing northeast in the waters 110km west of Rebun Island (Hokkaido Prefecture).<\/p>\n<p>This vessel sailed east through the Soya Strait.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_1.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260831_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260831_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">8\/31<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Taiwan has published its annual report on the military threat posed by China. The Taiwanese Defense Ministry analyzed that the regional security situation continues to escalate and that China&#8217;s decision-making is becoming unpredictable due to a large-scale purge<br \/>\n                  of senior military officers. The report also indicates that the objective of China\u2019s military exercises around Taiwan is to develop the capability for a joint blockade or control of Taiwanese sea lanes, and that China is creating favorable conditions for an<br \/>\n                  invasion by deploying aircraft and ships during these drills.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (The Strait Times)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/asia\/east-asia\/taiwan-says-unpredictable-china-strengthens-air-and-sea-control-nearby\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/asia\/east-asia\/taiwan-says-unpredictable-china-strengthens-air-and-sea-control-nearby<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/1<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  China\u2019s special envoy to the Pacific voiced serious concerns over Taiwan&#8217;s attendance at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders&#8217; meeting in Palau. He warned of \u201cconsequences\u201d regarding Taiwan\u2019s presence at the meeting, while emphasizing that most Pacific<br \/>\n                  countries understood and supported China\u2019s position. Taiwan maintains diplomatic relations with Palau, and the Taiwanese Foreign Minister attended this year\u2019s summit\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">ABC News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abc.net.au\/news\/2026-09-01\/china-warns-of-consequences-over-taiwan-attendance\/107100296\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.abc.net.au\/news\/2026-09-01\/china-warns-of-consequences-over-taiwan-attendance\/107100296<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/2<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it monitored 56 Chinese coast guard and naval vessels in key areas of the West Philippine Sea in August.<\/p>\n<p>An AFP spokesperson explained that the monthly report aims to expose China\u2019s illegal activities in the region.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">ABS-CBN News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abs-cbn.com\/news\/nation\/2026\/9\/1\/afp-monitors-56-chinese-coast-guard-naval-vessels-in-west-ph-sea-in-august-1332\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.abs-cbn.com\/news\/nation\/2026\/9\/1\/afp-monitors-56-chinese-coast-guard-naval-vessels-in-west-ph-sea-in-august-1332<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/1<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  To counter China\u2019s expanding presence among Pacific Island countries, the U.S. and New Zealand are funding the development of a port in the Cook Islands with $US60 million. The U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, the Foreign Minister of New Zealand, and the Prime<br \/>\n                  Minister of the Cook Islands signed the agreement on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau. The U.S. Deputy Secretary stated that this port development is vital for deep-sea mining\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Senior<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesenior.com.au\/story\/9341656\/us-nz-to-fund-cook-islands-port-for-deep-sea-mining\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.thesenior.com.au\/story\/9341656\/us-nz-to-fund-cook-islands-port-for-deep-sea-mining\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/1<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 1, the 8th Visegrad Group Plus Japan Foreign Ministers&#8217; Meeting (V4: the Slovak Republic, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland) was held near Bratislava, Slovakia. Japan&#8217;s Foreign Minister explained the concept of the updated \u201cFree and Open<br \/>\n                  Indo-Pacific (FOIP)\u201d and Japan\u2019s position on regional issues concerning East Asia, Ukraine, and the Middle East. In response, the V4 ministers expressed their support for the initiative. They also reaffirmed the importance of a free and open international order<br \/>\n                  and their intention to cooperate in addressing global challenges.\n                <\/p>\n<p>During bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Austria and Poland, the Japanese Minister also reiterated Japan&#8217;s commitment to realizing the updated FOIP.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/pageite_000001_01799.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/pageite_000001_01799.html<\/a><br \/>\n                <br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/cz\/pageite_000001_01798.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/cz\/pageite_000001_01798.html<\/a><br \/>\n                <br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/erp\/erp_2\/at\/pageit_000001_03179.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/erp\/erp_2\/at\/pageit_000001_03179.html<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/1<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Russia strongly condemned the upcoming joint U.S.-Japan-Australia military drill, \u201cOriental Shield,\u201d scheduled to start on September 8, citing the first-time deployment of the Typhon missile system in Japan. The Typhon system can launch Tomahawk cruise missiles,<br \/>\n                  which could reach parts of Russia and China if deployed in Japan.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Japan Times<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.japantimes.co.jp\/news\/2026\/09\/01\/japan\/japan-orient-shield-russia\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.japantimes.co.jp\/news\/2026\/09\/01\/japan\/japan-orient-shield-russia\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/2<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The President of Russia stated in an interview that Japan\u2019s response to his visit to the Northern Territories of Japan was not a surprise to him, and that Japan bears full responsibility for the deterioration of relations between the two countries. The Russian<br \/>\n                  President visited Etorofu Island, one of the islands comprising the Northern Territories, on August 13, a move that Japan strongly condemned.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Jiji Press News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/50031\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/50031<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/2<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The U.S. alleged that the Chinese state-owned shipping company COSCO is gathering information related to military communication in Europe, North America, and Asia. A U.S. official stated that COSCO\u2019s vessels are equipped to collect information on \u201cmilitary<br \/>\n                  communications technology and developments in the field of encryption.\u201d Chinese companies have the duty to support government intelligence activities under domestic laws. COSCO is one of the largest shipping companies in the world, and the U.S. has placed it on<br \/>\n                  its list of companies linked to the Chinese military.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (Liga.net)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/biz.liga.net\/en\/amp\/transport\/news\/reuters-chinese-shipping-giant-is-gathering-intelligence-for-beijing-the-us-is-concerned\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/biz.liga.net\/en\/amp\/transport\/news\/reuters-chinese-shipping-giant-is-gathering-intelligence-for-beijing-the-us-is-concerned<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/2<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The U.S. and Australia announced a combined $580 million in funding for Pacific Island nations at the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders\u2019 Meeting in Palau, aiming to counter China\u2019s growing influence in the region. Australia will provide $430 million to combat drug<br \/>\n                  smuggling, while the U.S. will contribute $150 million, including $60 million to address the global energy crisis.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (Internazionale)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.internazionale.it\/ultime-notizie-reuters\/2026\/09\/02\/us-australia-commit-580-million-in-support-for-pacific-islands\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.internazionale.it\/ultime-notizie-reuters\/2026\/09\/02\/us-australia-commit-580-million-in-support-for-pacific-islands<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/2<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Taiwan denied a report published by a Solomon Islands media outlet claiming that it is conducting &quot;checkbook diplomacy&quot; in South Pacific Island nations. Taiwan&#8217;s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that its cooperation projects with Palau and other<br \/>\n                  countries are tailored to local needs and implemented in strict compliance with the administrative regulations of both nations.\n                <\/p>\n<p>\n                  The Solomon Star had reported on September 1 that Taiwan&#8217;s Foreign Ministry gave $281,000 to Palauan politicians to secure their support at the Pacific Islands Forum. According to a 2023 report by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project\u2014a U.S.-based<br \/>\n                  nonprofit investigative journalism organization\u2014the Solomon Star received nearly $140,000 from China in exchange for a promise to promote &quot;the truth of China&#8217;s generosity.&quot;\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Focus Taiwan<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/focustaiwan.tw\/politics\/202609020022\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/focustaiwan.tw\/politics\/202609020022<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 3, China Central Television reported that China&#8217;s Ministry of Natural Resources conducted a maritime survey in waters east of Taiwan last month to understand the area&#8217;s basic geology and structural characteristics. On August 21, the Taiwan Coast<br \/>\n                  Guard had warned and tracked a Chinese research vessel in sensitive waters near Taiwan.\n                <\/p>\n<p>On the same day, the China Coast Guard announced that it had conducted routine law enforcement patrols in waters east of Taiwan.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (The Economist Times)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/defence\/china-says-it-conducted-survey-of-waters-east-of-taiwan-last-month\/articleshow\/133724986.cms?from=mdr\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/defence\/china-says-it-conducted-survey-of-waters-east-of-taiwan-last-month\/articleshow\/133724986.cms?from=mdr<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 3, Russia held the 81st memorial ceremony commemorating its victory over Japan in World War II on the islands of Etorofu and Shikotan in the Northern Territories of Japan, which have been occupied by Russia since 1945. About 150 people participated<br \/>\n                  in the ceremony held on Etorofu, while about 100 attended on Shikotan.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">47 News (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.47news.jp\/14886700.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.47news.jp\/14886700.html<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 3, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed one Chinese Y-9 intelligence gathering aircraft flying from the continent through the East China Sea toward the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands, Nagasaki Prefecture. The aircraft flew to the area off the<br \/>\n                  coast of Okinawa Island, and then turned back and proceeded toward the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_2.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260903_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260903_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 3, a Japan-Mongolia Foreign Ministers\u2019 meeting was held in Ulaanbaatar. Both ministers reaffirmed the importance of the 2022 Joint Statement, which included the concept of a \u201cFree and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP),\u201d and concurred on the necessity of<br \/>\n                  implementing the Joint Statement. The Foreign Minister of Japan stated his intention to further cooperate under the concept of an updated FOIP, and his counterpart expressed her support for the vision of FOIP.\n                <\/p>\n<p>On the same day, the Japanese minister paid a courtesy call on the President of Mongolia and the Chairman of the State Great Khural, and stated that Japan supports strengthening Mongolia\u2019s autonomy and resilience under the concept of an updated FOIP.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m2\/mn\/pageit_000001_00001.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m2\/mn\/pageit_000001_00001.html<\/a><br \/>\n                <br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m1\/mn\/pageit_000001_03181.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m1\/mn\/pageit_000001_03181.html<\/a><br \/>\n                <br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m1\/mn\/pageit_000001_00004.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/a_o\/c_m1\/mn\/pageit_000001_00004.html<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The President of Russia stated that Russia\u2019s designation of the Kuril Islands, including Japan&#8217;s Northern Territories, as a special tax zone has been successful, underscoring his intent to develop the islands as Russian territory. Russia has exempted businesses<br \/>\n                  operating in the special zone from corporate and other taxes.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Jiji Press News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/50080\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/50080<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders\u2019 meeting issued a joint statement which showed concern about a test launch of a ballistic missile conducted by China last July, but Nauru disagreed with this expression. In the statement, the Pacific Islands leaders required<br \/>\n                  countries conducting ICBM tests to notify them at least 24 hours in advance, in accordance with international practice.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">SBS News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sbs.com.au\/news\/article\/pacific-islands-forum-statement-on-chinese-ballistic-missile-test\/pq71exzgy\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.sbs.com.au\/news\/article\/pacific-islands-forum-statement-on-chinese-ballistic-missile-test\/pq71exzgy<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/3<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  A People\u2019s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) destroyer that was damaged in a collision with a China Coast Guard cutter has returned to the South Pacific. A photograph of the Type 052D guided-missile destroyer Guilin, along with other PLAN vessels in the South China<br \/>\n                  Sea, was posted on social media. The Guilin and the cutter collided while pursuing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel near Scarborough Shoal, resulting in the deaths of two China Coast Guard personnel.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">USNI News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/news.usni.org\/2026\/09\/03\/chinese-destroyer-involved-in-fatal-collision-returns-to-south-china-sea\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/news.usni.org\/2026\/09\/03\/chinese-destroyer-involved-in-fatal-collision-returns-to-south-china-sea<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/4<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Taiwan\u2019s Foreign Minister criticized China\u2019s \u201cwolf-warrior\u201d diplomacy at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders\u2019 meeting in Palau, after China strongly opposed Taiwan&#8217;s participation in PIF-related events. The minister stated that China\u2019s behavior undermined<br \/>\n                  the unity of the Pacific Island nations, adding that China acted like the host even though it was only an invited guest. He also pointed out China&#8217;s threatening statements and suspected spying activities at the venue.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (Internazionale)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.internazionale.it\/ultime-notizie-reuters\/2026\/09\/04\/taiwan-condemns-china-s-wolf-warrior-behaviour-at-pacific-forum\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.internazionale.it\/ultime-notizie-reuters\/2026\/09\/04\/taiwan-condemns-china-s-wolf-warrior-behaviour-at-pacific-forum<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/4<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan attended the Dialogue Partners Meeting of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) as the Special Envoy of the Prime Minister, and exchanged views with leaders of participating countries. He expressed Japan\u2019s intention<br \/>\n                  to cooperate with Pacific Island countries under the concept of an evolved \u201cFree and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).\u201d\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/press\/release\/pressit_000001_04129.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/mofaj\/press\/release\/pressit_000001_04129.html<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/4<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 4, the Philippine Coast Guard announced that a Chinese maritime research vessel had been operating in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines for 25 days without Philippine permission. A spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea stated that<br \/>\n                  the vessel is a 76-meter-long ship with drilling capability and is operated by the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey under China&#8217;s Ministry of Natural Resources.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">GMA News Online<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gmanetwork.com\/news\/topstories\/nation\/1001133\/chinese-survey-vessel-operating-inside-ph-eez-for-25-days-without-permit-pcg\/story\/?amp\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.gmanetwork.com\/news\/topstories\/nation\/1001133\/chinese-survey-vessel-operating-inside-ph-eez-for-25-days-without-permit-pcg\/story\/?amp<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/4<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 4, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed one Chinese Y-9 intelligence gathering aircraft flying from the continent through the East China Sea toward the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands, Nagasaki Prefecture. The aircraft flew to the area off the<br \/>\n                  coast of Okinawa Island, and proceeded toward the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_3.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260904_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260904_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/6<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The U.S. Pacific Commander held a meeting with China\u2019s Commander of the People\u2019s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command on the sidelines of the Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defense Conference in Canada. According to a statement issued by the U.S. Pacific Command,<br \/>\n                  both sides exchanged views on the importance of maintaining communication lines between military leaders of both countries to avoid the risk of miscalculation.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Taiwan News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6434695\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6434695<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/6<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  China deployed JL-10 fighter jets to respond to Philippine aircraft over the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The JL-10s deployed in the area are equipped with PL-5 short-range air-to-air missiles and can fly at a relatively low speed, enabling them to<br \/>\n                  respond effectively to the Philippine aircraft. The JL-10 is cheaper than an advanced fighter jet such as the J-16, giving China a cost-effective option to confront the Philippines.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Interesting Engineering<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/interestingengineering.com\/military\/china-puts-missile-armed-trainer-jets-to-work-over-scarborough-shoal\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/interestingengineering.com\/military\/china-puts-missile-armed-trainer-jets-to-work-over-scarborough-shoal<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 5, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed one Chinese Y-9 intelligence gathering aircraft flying from the continent toward the area off the coast of Okinawa Island. The aircraft then flew northeast to the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands, Nagasaki<br \/>\n                  Prefecture, and proceeded toward the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_4.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 5, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed one Russian IL-20 intelligence gathering aircraft flying from the continent through the Sea of Okhotsk toward the Pacific Ocean. The aircraft flew south to the area off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, then turned<br \/>\n                  back and flew through the Sea of Okhotsk toward the Sea of Japan. The aircraft passed through Japan&#8217;s airspace over the Northern Territories in the process.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_5.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_03.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_03.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">NEWSjp (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/news.jp\/i\/1469564131958096176?c=1179248089549373591\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/news.jp\/i\/1469564131958096176?c=1179248089549373591<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 6, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed that a Chinese Y-9 intelligence-gathering aircraft flew from the continent toward the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The aircraft then flew southwest to the area off the coast of<br \/>\n                  Okinawa Island before turning back. It changed course south of the Danjo Islands and proceeded toward the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_6.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_04.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_04.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On September 6, JMSDF confirmed one Russian Steregushchiy class frigates (hull number 343) sailing west in the waters 50km northeast of Cape Soya (Hokkaido Prefecture).<\/p>\n<p>This vessel sailed west through the Soya Strait.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_7.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_05.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_05.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 6, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed that a Chinese Y-9 intelligence-gathering aircraft flew from the continent toward the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The aircraft then flew southwest to the area off the coast of<br \/>\n                  Okinawa Island before turning back. It changed course south of the Danjo Islands and proceeded toward the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_8.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_06.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260907_06.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Japanese government plans to renovate Indonesian fishing ports for use by coast guard vessels under its Official Development Assistance (ODA) program. By expanding the number of Indonesian coast guard bases, Indonesia will strengthen its capability to<br \/>\n                  counter illegal fishing and smuggling. Japan also aims to maintain maritime order in the South China Sea, where China is strengthening its presence.\n                <\/p>\n<p>Japan believes that developing maritime security and law enforcement capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region aligns with its updated &quot;Free and Open Indo-Pacific&quot; concept.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">NEWSjp (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/news.jp\/i\/1469241216876871848\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/news.jp\/i\/1469241216876871848<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/7<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  China requested South Korea to provide evidence to punish the owner of a \u201cghost\u201d ship detained by the Coast Guard of South Korea in May on suspicion of conducting illegal fishing in the Yellow Sea. Illegal fishing in the Yellow Sea has long been a concern for<br \/>\n                  both China and South Korea. The two countries agreed to start consultations for a rapid and smooth exchange of evidence related to illegal fishing.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Chosun Biz<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/biz.chosun.com\/en\/en-international\/2026\/09\/07\/4PVYQJX3BBB4DBOZGTVAJTTUBY\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/biz.chosun.com\/en\/en-international\/2026\/09\/07\/4PVYQJX3BBB4DBOZGTVAJTTUBY\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/8<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Philippine Defense Secretary sharply criticized China during the Seoul Defense Dialogue 2026 over a 2016 international tribunal ruling that upheld Manila&#8217;s maritime claims in the South China Sea. He received a note from the audience reiterating Beijing&#8217;s<br \/>\n                  stance against the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling, which had invalidated China&#8217;s expansive claims and reaffirmed the Philippines&#8217; Exclusive Economic Zone. In response to the note&#8217;s assertion that the arbitration violated fundamental international<br \/>\n                  law, he ironically pointed out that the author was essentially arguing that the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea itself violates international law. Furthermore, addressing the claim that the PCA award has no binding force, he stated that China neither<br \/>\n                  accepts nor recognizes the ruling simply because it lost. He also noted that China needs basic decency in its behavior, emphasizing that its actions represent actual coercion rather than a mere gray-zone activity. He then told the author of the note, \u201cYou&#8217;ve<br \/>\n                  just done your country a great service,\u201d adding, \u201cI hope you don&#8217;t suffer in a gulag for it.\u201d\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Korea Times<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.koreatimes.co.kr\/foreignaffairs\/20260908\/philippine-defense-chief-slams-china-over-audience-note-on-south-china-sea-at-seoul-forum\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.koreatimes.co.kr\/foreignaffairs\/20260908\/philippine-defense-chief-slams-china-over-audience-note-on-south-china-sea-at-seoul-forum<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/8<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Royal New Zealand Navy vessels conducted monitoring and surveillance activities against illegal maritime activities, including ship-to-ship transfers by North Korea that were prohibited by UN Security Council resolutions in waters surrounding Japan. This was the<br \/>\n                  third time New Zealand has conducted these activities since 2024.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02637.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02637.html<\/a><\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Dfense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/09\/db21fdc8c8a984969c2536f49b65e58cf6c8aae5.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/09\/db21fdc8c8a984969c2536f49b65e58cf6c8aae5.html<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/8<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Australia and the Solomon Islands have agreed in principle to conclude a comprehensive treaty. Under the new agreement, Australia will provide more than USD 705 million to support a free education policy, visa improvements, and security assistance. Australia has<br \/>\n                  recently concluded similar security and development treaties with other Pacific Island countries to counter China\u2019s expanding influence in the region.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Mainichi<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260908\/p2g\/00m\/0in\/037000c\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260908\/p2g\/00m\/0in\/037000c<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/8<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The U.S. and Philippine Marines conducted a military exercise to defend the coastal waters of Manila utilizing BrahMos anti-ship missiles. The Indian-made BrahMos missile can fly at three times the speed of sound with a 400-pound explosive warhead to counter<br \/>\n                  pressure from China in the South China Sea.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Mainichi<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260908\/p2g\/00m\/0in\/037000c\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/mainichi.jp\/english\/articles\/20260908\/p2g\/00m\/0in\/037000c<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/8<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The U.S. and Philippine Marines conducted a military exercise to defend the coastal waters of Manila utilizing BrahMos anti-ship missiles. The Indian-made BrahMos missile can fly at three times the speed of sound with a 400-pound explosive warhead to counter<br \/>\n                  pressure from China in the South China Sea.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">USNI News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/news.usni.org\/2026\/09\/08\/marines-help-philippine-armed-forces-develop-strike-plans-for-brahmos-anti-ship-missile\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/news.usni.org\/2026\/09\/08\/marines-help-philippine-armed-forces-develop-strike-plans-for-brahmos-anti-ship-missile<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/9<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>According to a report commissioned by Taiwan\u2019s Mainland Affairs Council, a Taiwanese defense analyst stated that Chinese nuclear-powered submarines equipped with JL-3 ballistic missiles could strike large parts of the U.S.<\/p>\n<p>\n                  The report notes that China is working to equip its Type-094 nuclear submarines with the JL-3, which boasts an effective range of 10,000 km. This capability would allow Chinese submarines to launch nuclear attacks against most of the U.S. mainland from waters<br \/>\n                  relatively safe for China.\n                <\/p>\n<p>China conducted a test launch in July of a ballistic missile with an estimated range of 6,000 to 7,000 km.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Taipei Times<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taipeitimes.com\/News\/taiwan\/archives\/2026\/09\/09\/2003863940\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.taipeitimes.com\/News\/taiwan\/archives\/2026\/09\/09\/2003863940<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/9<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  In a world map published by the creator of the Equal Earth map projection, the Northern Territories of Japan are colored the same as Russia. A total of 164 countries, including Japan, supported a UN General Assembly resolution urging the adoption of the Equal<br \/>\n                  Earth map projection. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan stated that the UN resolution concerns the map projection rather than the map itself, adding that the stance of the Japanese government remains unchanged and that the government will take necessary<br \/>\n                  measures if needed.\n                <\/p>\n<p>Ukraine abstained from voting on the UN resolution because it could not accept the depiction on the map which colored the Crimean Peninsula in a lighter shade that matched neither Ukraine nor Russia.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Sankei Shimnun (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sankei.com\/article\/20260909-7CPJGBWQOJIPVFWRA4IVBTCCEE\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.sankei.com\/article\/20260909-7CPJGBWQOJIPVFWRA4IVBTCCEE\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/9<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Director of the American Institute in Taiwan stated that any conflict over Taiwan could have a bigger impact on the global economy than World War II, adding that the Trump administration treats maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region as one of its top<br \/>\n                  priorities. He also noted that the U.S.-China summit scheduled for later this month is an opportunity to advance a relationship of strategic stability to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (Taipei Times)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taipeitimes.com\/News\/taiwan\/archives\/2026\/09\/09\/2003863964\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.taipeitimes.com\/News\/taiwan\/archives\/2026\/09\/09\/2003863964<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/9<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 9, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed that a Chinese Y-9 intelligence-gathering aircraft flew from the continent toward the area off the coast of the Danjo Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The aircraft then flew back and forth around the area before<br \/>\n                  turning back to the continent.\n                <\/p>\n<p>In response, the JASDF scrambled fighter jets.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_9.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260909_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260909_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/9<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  China condemned the statement criticizing China by the Defense Secretary of the Philippines at the Seoul Defense Dialogue 2026 as an act of stirring up trouble. The Defense Secretary refuted China\u2019s assertion when he was handed a note asserting China\u2019s claim<br \/>\n                  regarding the South China Sea Arbitration ruling, and stated that the note was disrespectful to the forum and international law. Although Chinese representatives participated in the forum as audience members, not panelists or speakers, the author of the note was<br \/>\n                  still unclear.\n                <\/p>\n<p>A spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of China stated that the Philippines should stop stirring up trouble and undermining the China-Philippines relationship.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">AP News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/china-philippines-teodoro-note-south-china-sea-9d490192be557df2ea2284278cacd32c\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/china-philippines-teodoro-note-south-china-sea-9d490192be557df2ea2284278cacd32c<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/10<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 10, the Chief Cabinet Secretary announced that Japan had asked a website operator to correct its map projection of the Northern Territories. The world map, created using the Equal Earth projection, colored the islands as part of Russian territory.<br \/>\n                  This is despite Japan&#8217;s firm position that the islands are an inherent part of its territory and remain illegally occupied by Russia.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Sankei Shimbun (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sankei.com\/article\/20260910-KRNBAU3MBVOJDORJZPGWR3AN7Q\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.sankei.com\/article\/20260910-KRNBAU3MBVOJDORJZPGWR3AN7Q\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/10<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 10, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced that the People\u2019s Liberation Army (PLA) launched flares toward an unarmed PCG aircraft which was conducting a maritime domain awareness flight over the Kalayaan Island Group in the South China Sea. The<br \/>\n                  PCG also stated that \u201cthe discharge of flares against an aircraft in flight disregarded the duty of due regard under the Convention on International Civil Aviation\u201d.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Inquirer<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inquirer.net\/488159\/west-ph-sea-china-fires-flares-at-unarmed-philippine-aircraft\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.inquirer.net\/488159\/west-ph-sea-china-fires-flares-at-unarmed-philippine-aircraft\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/10<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 9, the JMSDF confirmed one Russian Vishnya class Intelligence ship (hull number 208) sailing in waters 150km east of Okidaitojima Island (Okinawa Prefecture). The vessel sailed northwest in the contiguous zone off Okidaitojima Island and then<br \/>\n                  proceeded from the waters southwest of Okinawa Island to the waters northwest of Kume Island (Okinawa Prefecture) before entering the Pacific Ocean.\n                <\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_10.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260910_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260910_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/10<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has warned that while the probability is low, China may invade Taiwan in the coming years, and Australia could get involved. In his speech at the National Press Club on September 10, he mentioned that Taiwan\u2019s next<br \/>\n                  presidential election may trigger Chinese military action toward Taiwan if a member of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party is elected. He also pointed out the possibility of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan before 2028 if China miscalculates the U.S. attitude<br \/>\n                  toward Taiwan. Rudd stated that Australia should cooperate with the U.S. and its partners to deter conflict in the region.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Nine.com.au<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/Nine.com.au\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">http:\/\/Nine.com.au<\/a><br \/>\n                <br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nine.com.au\/australia-news\/kevin-rudd-national-press-club-address-one-in-three-chance-china-will-take-action-against-taiwan-20260910-p60w8v.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.nine.com.au\/australia-news\/kevin-rudd-national-press-club-address-one-in-three-chance-china-will-take-action-against-taiwan-20260910-p60w8v.html<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/11<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 10, according to the JCG, four Chinese government vessels entered Japan\u2019s territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. Their hull numbers are 1301, 1304, 1307 and 1303. This was the first confirmed entry of Chinese government<br \/>\n                  ships into the area since August 14.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Yaeyama Nippo (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yaeyama-nippo.co.jp\/article\/33865\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.yaeyama-nippo.co.jp\/article\/33865<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/11<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>Monthly Statistics on Scrambles\uff08August\uff09<\/p>\n<p>The Japan Joint Staff released its monthly statistics on scrambles. In August, the Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) conducted 76 scrambles. The most scrambles were against Russian aircraft (48 times), followed by Chinese aircraft (25 times).<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260911_06.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260911_06.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/11<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The creator of the Equal Earth map projection changed the color of Japan&#8217;s Northern Territories to match Japan in the Japanese version. Previously, they were painted the same color as Russia. In the English version, the areas are colored light gray to show that<br \/>\n                  territorial disputes remain. In the Russian version, they are painted the same color as Russian territory.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Yomiuri Shimbun News (Japanese)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yomiuri.co.jp\/politics\/20260911-GYT1T00083\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.yomiuri.co.jp\/politics\/20260911-GYT1T00083\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/11<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan announced that it tracked 11 Chinese military aircraft, eight naval vessels, and two government ships near Taiwan between 6 a.m. on the 10th and 6 a.m. on the 11th. Ten of the 11 aircraft entered Taiwan&#8217;s air defense<br \/>\n                  identification zone. The Ministry monitored the Chinese activities using Taiwan\u2019s own aircraft, naval vessels, and missile systems.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Taiwan News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6438029\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6438029<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/11<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 10, Taiwan announced that four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels entered its restricted waters off Kinmen Island earlier that day. Taiwanese authorities stated that this was the third time CCG vessels had sailed into these waters this month, and with<br \/>\n                  the frequency apparently increasing, they expressed their strongest condemnation.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Focus Taiwan \uff08Japanese\uff09<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/japan.focustaiwan.tw\/cross-strait\/202609110002\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/japan.focustaiwan.tw\/cross-strait\/202609110002<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The China Coast Guard announced that it will escort Chinese fishing vessels in the waters between 35\u00b0N and 26\u00b030&#8217;N starting September 16 to prevent conflicts and accidents. China\u2019s fishing moratorium in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea ends on September 16, and<br \/>\n                  a large number of fishing boats are expected to head to the area.\n                <\/p>\n<p>The latitude of 26\u00b030&#8217;N is located approximately 35 nautical miles north of the northernmost point of the Senkaku Islands. While this area lies outside Japan&#8217;s territorial waters, many Japanese fishing vessels operate there daily.<\/p>\n<p>By exercising jurisdiction in these disputed waters, China may look to assert its sovereignty over the region.<\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Business Upturn<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/businessupturn.com\/asia\/east-asia\/china\/china-coast-guard-fishing-escort-east-china-sea\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/businessupturn.com\/asia\/east-asia\/china\/china-coast-guard-fishing-escort-east-china-sea\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 13, the Prime Minister of India and the President of the Philippines held a summit meeting. They exchanged views on regional and international affairs of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to deepen cooperation \u201cacross all areas of the<br \/>\n                  Strategic Partnership.\u201d\n                <\/p>\n<p>\n                  The Philippines purchased the BrahMos anti-ship cruise missiles from India, and the two countries have strengthened their defense cooperation. India has supported the Philippines\u2019 position regarding the South China Sea dispute, but there was no reference to any<br \/>\n                  discussions on the matter, despite it being included in the Joint Statement issued by the two leaders in August 2025.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">The Print<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/theprint.in\/india\/india-philippines-look-to-deepen-defence-ties-even-as-south-china-sea-finds-no-mention-in-indian-readout\/3041769\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/theprint.in\/india\/india-philippines-look-to-deepen-defence-ties-even-as-south-china-sea-finds-no-mention-in-indian-readout\/3041769\/<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Prime Minister of Malaysia stated that Malaysia has started \u201cinitial discussions\u201d with India to purchase India\u2019s BrahMos air-launched missiles (BrahMos-A). The BrahMos-A has a high-speed stand-off capability, and its introduction to the Royal Malaysian Air<br \/>\n                  Force may give Malaysia a significant maritime deterrence capability and alter the strategic balance in the South China Sea.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Defense Security Asia<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/defencesecurityasia.com\/en\/malaysia-brahmos-missile-south-china-sea-power-balance\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/defencesecurityasia.com\/en\/malaysia-brahmos-missile-south-china-sea-power-balance\/<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  China will host the three-day Xiangshan Forum in Beijing on September 15 amid tensions with Taiwan and in the South China Sea, as well as growing doubts over the U.S. commitment to Asia. The Xiangshan Forum was launched by China to counter the Shangri-La<br \/>\n                  Dialogue in Singapore.\n                <\/p>\n<p>\n                  Criticism of the U.S. and its Western allies is anticipated to be modest because the visit of the President of China to the U.S. is scheduled for late this month. However, an expert anticipated that China will criticize Japan\u2019s past activities in World War II<br \/>\n                  and its \u201cremilitarization\u201d.\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters (The Strait Times)<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/asia\/east-asia\/chinese-defence-forum-set-to-open-amid-roiling-regional-tensions?ref=latest-headlines\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/asia\/east-asia\/chinese-defence-forum-set-to-open-amid-roiling-regional-tensions?ref=latest-headlines<\/a\n                >\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  The Secretary General of NATO stated at the annual Conference of the Heads of German Missions in Berlin that the Taiwan conflict could have a huge impact far beyond the Indo-Pacific region. He warned that China\u2019s actions toward Taiwan could be accompanied by<br \/>\n                  Russia\u2019s action in Europe, stating that \u201cthe Indo-Pacific and Europe are more and more interconnected.\u201d\n                <\/p>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Taiwan News<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6439069\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.taiwannews.com.tw\/news\/6439069<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 11, JMSDF confirmed one Russian Udaloy-\u2162 class destroyer (hull number 543), one Udaloy-I class destroyer (hull number 564) and one Dubna class medium replenishment ship sailing east in the waters 380km west of Cape Tappizaki (Aomori Prefecture).\n                <\/p>\n<p>These vessels sailed east through the Soya Strait and navigated to the Pacific.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_11.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_01.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_01.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                  On September 11, the JMSDF confirmed one Russian Vishnya class Intelligence ship (hull number 208) sailing north in waters 210km southwest of the Danjo Islands (Nagasaki Prefecture). The vessel sailed northeast through the Tsushima Strait and navigated to the<br \/>\n                  Sea of Japan.\n                <\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_12.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_02.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On September 12, JMSDF confirmed one Russian Steregushchiy class frigates (hull number 343) sailing southwest in the waters 200km northwest of Tsushima Island (Hokkaido Prefecture).<\/p>\n<p>This vessel sailed southwest through the Tsushima Strait and navigated to the East China Sea.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_13.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_03.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_03.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">9\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On September 13, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Dongdiao class intelligence collection ship (hull number 799) sailing southeast in waters 70km west of Amami Island (Kagoshima Prefecture).<\/p>\n<p>This vessel sailed northeast through the waters between Amami Island and Yokoate Island (Kagoshima Prefecture) and navigated to the Pacific.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/53_14.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>                <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_04.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260914_04.pdf<\/a>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>    <!-- \/Topics -->\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Newsletter Registration<\/h3>\n<p>What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, \u201cEast Asian Maritime Security (EAMS)\u201d and updates the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory.<\/p>\n<div class=\"u-mbs is-top mw-400\">\n  <a class=\"c-button\" href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/CiMT6bWdHrryT8mM6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span>Registration Form<\/span><\/a>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Vol.53. Sep 15. 2026 What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory. Statistical Data and Analysis (as of Sep. 15) The rivalry between China and Taiwan is causing disunity among Pacific Island countries. Last year&#8217;s Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) summit avoided bringing the issue to light by not inviting external partner countries to the meeting. However, &hellip; <span>More<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":2309,"menu_order":12,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v17.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Vol. 53 September 15, 2026 - RIPS - Research Institute for Peace and Security -<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"\u300cVol. 53 September 15, 2026 \u300d\u306b\u3064\u3044\u3066\u3054\u7d39\u4ecb\u3044\u305f\u3057\u307e\u3059\u3002- RIPS - Research Institute for Peace and Security - The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) is Japan\u2019s first nonprofit, private think tank. 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