Gordon Arthur
Gordon Arthur is an Asia correspondent for Defense News. After a 20-year stint working in Hong Kong, he now resides in New Zealand. He has attended military exercises and defense exhibitions in about 20 countries around the Asia-Pacific region.
All Stories By Gordon
Tanks, howitzers galore: Australian Army embraces influx of new armor
Australia has never operated a self-propelled howitzer before, and the weapon extends the range of the army’s tube artillery to around 25 miles.
Xi, Putin, Kim Jong Un unite at glitzy China military parade
In his speech, Xi warned that the world was “faced with a choice of peace or war,” adding that “the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable."
China to parade new missiles in Beijing, including ‘Guam Killer’
After its unveiling in 2015, the DF-26 intermediate-range missile was dubbed the “Guam killer” since it has sufficient range to reach the U.S. island.
After dillydallying, Thailand proceeds with Chinese-built submarine
Once tempted to ditch its acquisition of a Chinese-built S26T diesel-electric submarine, Thailand has decided the project will now proceed.
Japan closes in on biggest ever defense export with frigate selection
Japan recently won selection for a lucrative Australian frigate requirement worth up to US$6.5 billion.
US Marines train beach landings Down Under with old allies, new rides
One key subplot to the July 24 landings was the first ever touchdown of the Marine Corps’ new Amphibious Combat Vehicle in Australia.
US, allies drill pop-up missile positions to keep Chinese ships at bay
Various anti-ship missile firings demonstrated the ability of the U.S. and its allies to hit maritime targets from land-based launchers.
US Army drops into Australia for massive war games
“We landed right on the X," a commander told Defense News.
Australian Abrams battle tanks arrive in Ukraine
The U.S.-built tanks, still painted in their AusCam camouflage scheme, had been loaded onto a commercial cargo ship in Geelong, Australia, in May 2025.
South Korea backtracks over follow-on Apache helicopter buy
Officials cite cost and perceived tactical vulnerabilities as reasons behind the change of heart.
