National Security Journal

2 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Brent M. Eastwood

Key Points – China is a world leader in hypersonic weapons, possessing at least four operational systems that pose a significant threat to the United States and its allies in the Indo-Pacific. -Key platforms include the road-mobile DF-17 hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), the air-launched DF-ZF HGV, the intermediate-range DF-27, and the new YJ-21 “Eagle Strike” anti-ship missile.

3 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Brent M. Eastwood

Key Points – The F-35 Lightning II’s top speed of Mach 1.6 (~1,200 mph) is comparable to other fifth-generation stealth fighters like China’s J-20 (Mach 1.7) and Russia’s Su-57 (Mach 1.7). -While some older, non-stealth Russian interceptors like the MiG-31 are significantly faster, the F-35’s primary advantages lie in its advanced stealth, maneuverability, and extensive interoperability with allied air forces.

3 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Brent M. Eastwood

Key Points – China might be beginning deliveries of its J-35 stealth fighter to both its air force (J-35A) and navy (carrier-borne J-35), a significant step in its military modernization. -The naval J-35, a twin-engine aircraft visually similar to the US F-35C and evolved from the FC-31 prototype, features folding wings and CATOBAR capabilities for operations from China’s newest aircraft carriers like the Fujian.

3 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – The US Navy’s Virginia-class Block VI attack submarines represent a significant leap in undersea warfare capability, designed to maintain American dominance. -The subs are designed to ensure they can win a fight against Russia, but also China, North Korea, Iran, or any other nation. -These boats feature enhanced stealth, advanced sonar (including a bow conformal array), and importantly, the Virginia Payload Module (VPM).

3 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – Russia launched the “Perm,” its newest Yasen-M class nuclear-powered attack submarine, on March 27, 2025, marking it as the first Russian SSN officially equipped with 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles as a standard feature. -The Yasen-M class, powered by an advanced, quiet KTP-6-185SP nuclear reactor with a 25-30 year core life, boasts a vertical launch system for Zircon, Kalibr, and Oniks missiles, alongside torpedo tubes.