Updates on 12 July 2026
All of July 2026 →10th Anniversary of South China Sea Arbitral Award
On 12 July 2026, the South China Sea Arbitral Award completed 10 years since its issuance by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. The tribunal's 2016 ruling invalidated China's Nine-Dash Line claims under international law as per UNCLOS provisions. The award addresses key maritime disputes in the South China Sea, including sovereignty over disputed shoals such as Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal, and maritime entitlements. Despite China's rejection of the ruling, countries like the Philippines commemorate the date as West Philippine Sea Victory Day. The ruling remains critical for maritime law, geopolitical stability, and competitive exam preparations.
Japan Successfully Tests Prototype Reusable Rocket RV-X
On 11 July 2026, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) conducted the first lift-off and landing test of its reusable rocket prototype named RV-X at the Noshiro Rocket Testing Center in Akita Prefecture. The 7.3-meter tall rocket reached an altitude of approximately 10-11 meters, moved about 16 meters horizontally, and landed safely after a 40-second flight. The RV-X's engine is designed for around 100 launches. This test is part of Japan's efforts to reduce space launch costs and improve efficiency, and it supports the international reusable launch vehicle project CALLISTO, involving Japan, France, and Germany, which has a planned flight test in April 2027.