IINA: Australia’s National Defence Strategy and the Strengthening of Bilateral Ties with Japan

On April 16, 2026, the Australian government released the public version of its 2026 National Defence Strategy (NDS) in line with its commitment to update policy at two-year intervals. While the document contains no major “surprises”, it reflects a strengthening of resolve among defence planners and enduring commitment towards building Australian capabilities, both independently, and with key partners and allies such as Japan and US. This trajectory was mapped out in the earlier 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR) and proceeding National Defence Strategy (2024) but has taken on a new momentum in a worsening global and regional security environment.

By Thomas Wilkins, Senior Fellow, Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI)

IINA: Weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz: Naval Mines and the Spread of Economic Coercion

The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran in late February 2026, prompting Iran to retaliate with attacks on US military bases and infrastructure in neighboring countries. A ceasefire remains in place as of May 21, but the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues, inflicting major damage to the global economy.

By Yasuhiro Kawakami, Director and Senior Research Fellow, General Affairs ＆ Networking Program, Sasakawa Peace Foundation

SPF China Observer: Satellite Imagery Analysis - China’s Nuclear Fuel Reprocessing Facility Begins Operation — Progress Toward Establishing a Nuclear Fuel Cycle

Satellite imagery has confirmed that the first plant of a nuclear fuel reprocessing facility under construction in inland Gansu Province, China, has likely commenced operation.