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Latest Defence News Italy ,Israel Italy's decision to halt plans to purchase Blue Whale undersea drones, derived from an Israeli firm's platform, sheds light on the complex factors influencing defense procurement. Originally intending to buy three 'Blue Whale' drones from ELTA Systems, Italy's defense ministry suspended the program due to concerns over technological self-sufficiency and political sensitivities.The proposed purchase, included in last year’s defense budget, aimed to bolster Italy's intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, and mine countermeasures capabilities. However, doubts arose regarding the level of Italian industry involvement and political apprehensions over procuring arms from Israel, prompting a reassessment of the procurement plan.Italy's evolving stance in sub-sea warfare, exemplified by initiatives like the new center at La Spezia, underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing defense capabilities through domestic innovation and collaboration with industry and academia. While Italy’s right-wing government maintains pro-Israel sentiments, opposition voices within parliament have expressed reservations, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza. This divergence of opinion, combined with concerns over the performance and cost-effectiveness of the Blue Whale platform, led to the decision to postpone the purchase.This outcome underscores the complexities inherent in defense procurement decisions, where strategic, technological, and political considerations intersect. As Italy navigates these complexities, the episode underscores the importance of balancing national security imperatives with broader geopolitical sensitivities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 14:45:08

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Latest Defence News U.S ,Japan A United States Air Force (USAF) F-22 Raptor stealth fighter encountered a landing gear failure on April 11, 2024, at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. The Okinawa Defense Bureau confirmed the mishap, stating that the jet experienced an issue with its landing gear during a towing process.Images circulating online show the F-22 Raptor resting on its nose, with its nose gear collapsed. According to witness reports, the incident transpired around 10:30 AM local time. Emergency response vehicles were dispatched but no fire was reported.While the exact cause of the malfunction is under investigation, initial reports suggest that the nose gear collapsed while the aircraft was being towed after its engines were shut down. Thankfully, there are no reports of injuries.The damaged F-22 likely belongs to one of the two squadrons recently deployed to Okinawa as part of a rotational presence. The squadrons arrived at Kadena Air Base in late March 2024, replacing retired F-15 Eagles. The extent of the damage to the F-22 and the duration of the repairs remain unknown.This incident has drawn attention amidst ongoing discussions about basing US fighter aircraft in the region. Some Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns that the decision to rotate fighters through the Indo-Pacific could negatively impact military readiness.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 14:36:35

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Latest Defence NewsU.K ,UkraineThe UK government has granted BAE Systems a contract to refurbish and maintain L119 light guns previously donated to Ukraine. This move aims to support Ukrainian forces by ensuring their equipment remains operational and minimizes downtime on the front lines.The L119, developed by BAE Systems, is the British version of the American M119 howitzer. It is part of the arsenal deployed in Eastern Europe to counter Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. With a barrel length of 3.2 meters and a bore diameter of 105 millimeters, the L119 boasts a range of 11.4 kilometers and a firing rate of up to 15 rounds per minute.James Cartlidge, British Defence Procurement Minister, emphasized the UK's commitment to Ukraine amid the conflict with Russia. He stated, "As the conflict in Ukraine continues, it is vital that the UK Government and UK industry continue to support the Ukrainians to sustain their equipment."The contract builds upon previous agreements between BAE Systems and Ukraine. Last year, a deal was signed to establish local arms production in Ukraine, following a partnership with Dubai-based logistics group AMS to deliver support and repair services for Ukrainian artillery systems in December 2023. Negotiations with the Ukrainian government for domestic weapons production began in June 2023.Gabby Costigan, BAE Systems Business Development Managing Director, highlighted the company's dedication to assisting Ukrainian Armed Forces. "We're committed to working with our government customers and industry partners to provide solutions that will help Armed Forces Ukraine secure victory," she remarked.The establishment of a strategic military repair facility is expected to significantly reduce downtime for critical artillery assets. This contract represents a step forward in strengthening the relationship between BAE Systems and Ukraine, paving the way for more direct and long-term support.In the ongoing conflict, where industrial production plays a crucial role, the support provided by BAE Systems underscores the importance of international cooperation in aiding Ukraine's defense efforts against Russian aggression.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 14:32:35

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Latest Defence NewsU.S ,Japan ,South Korea ,ChinaAboard The USS Theodore Roosevelt: A US carrier strike group led by the USS Theodore Roosevelt has held a three-day joint exercise with its allies Japan and South Korea as US President Joe Biden met for talks with leaders from Japan and the Philippines at the White House. The duelling military and diplomatic maneuvers are meant to strengthen the partners' solidarity in the face of China's aggressive military actions in the region.A number of US and South Korean guided missile destroyers and a Japanese warship joined the April 10-12 drill in the disputed East China Sea, where worries about China territorial claims are rising. The Associated Press was one of several news organizations allowed a front-row look at the drills.Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, said the three nations conducted undersea warfare exercises, maritime interdiction operations, search and rescue drills and work focused on communication and data sharing.He told journalists Thursday on the Roosevelt that these drills would help improve communication among the United States and its allies and "better prepare us for a crisis in the region."F/A-18E Super Hornet combat jets took off from the carrier's flight deck, which also had anti-submarine MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. Journalists were flown more than an hour from Kadena Air Base, the hub of US Pacific air power. Kadena is on Japan's southern island of Okinawa, which is home to about half of the 50,000 American troops stationed in Japan."It is a busy time; there is a lot going on in the world," Alexander said. "The significance of this exercise is we have three like-minded countries, three like-minded navies that believe in peace, security and stability in the western Pacific."The participation of Japan and South Korea was another sign of improving ties between the sometimes wary neighbours. The two US allies' relationship has often been strained by the memory of Japan's half-century colonization of the Korean Peninsula. Washington has been pressing them to cooperate so the three partners can better deal with threats from China and North Korea.This week's huge parliamentary election defeat of the governing party of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has sought better relations with Japan, could constrain his Japan-friendly efforts, but experts believe ties will remain stable.The latest naval exercise is part of Biden's work to deepen security and diplomatic engagement with Indo-Pacific nations. Biden invited Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to the White House for their first trilateral talks Thursday, and has declared that the US defence commitment to the Pacific allies is "ironclad."Tensions between China and the Philippines have risen over repeated clashes by the two nations' coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.Beijing has defended its operations in the South China Sea and blamed the United States for creating tensions. China's President Xi Jinping had a series of talks this week with senior officials from Vietnam, Russia and Taiwan.The US-Japan-South Korea naval exercises follow four-way drills held in the South China Sea, where Japan joined the United States, Australia and the Philippines. Participants carefully avoided mentioning China and said they were holding the exercises to safeguard a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific.An area of long-simmering disputes, the South China Sea serves a key sea lane for global trade. Concerned governments include Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Taiwan.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 06:41:24

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Latest Defence NewsPakistanTensions erupted in Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Pakistan, as Pakistan army troops clashed with police officers following a dispute over the recovery of an alleged illegal weapon from a soldier's family member. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, was captured in several viral videos, showing men in army uniforms assaulting policemen, resulting in injuries and signs of torture.The conflict began when police officers raided the family home of an army SSG (Special Service Group) commando named Khalil on April 8. However, they were reportedly detained by the soldier and his relatives instead. Subsequently, a larger police force was deployed to rescue the captured officers, leading to the arrest of Khalil, his father Anwar Jat, his brothers, and other family members for assaulting the police party. It's reported that the soldier and his relatives faced mistreatment while in custody and were not brought before a magistrate for police remand. Military authorities intervened after the arrest and alleged mistreatment of the soldier and his family, registering a case against several police officers for holding them in "illegal" custody. The situation escalated further when soldiers arrived at the police station where the soldier and his family were detained. They forcefully entered the station and attacked policemen with rifle butts and sticks, resulting in injuries to the station in-charge and his staff.Deputy Commissioner Zulfikar Ahmed Bhoon, District Police Chief Naseebullah Khan, and army officers intervened to pacify the situation. However, the aggressive conduct of the soldiers at the police station was recorded and shared on social media, provoking outrage among journalists, politicians, and rights activists. PTI leader Hammad Azhar criticized the Punjab police chief and accused the provincial government of downplaying the incident.In response to the viral videos, the police issued a statement clarifying that the incident was misrepresented as a conflict between the Pakistan army and Punjab police. The statement stressed that both institutions conducted a joint investigation, and upon reviewing the facts, the matter was peacefully resolved.This incident underscores the delicate relationship between the military and police in Pakistan, raising concerns about power misuse and the imperative for accountability and transparency in such situations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 06:35:22

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Latest Defence NewsRussia Ukraine WarUkrainian defense forces have achieved a significant victory by intercepting and destroying Russian armored convoys en route to the town of Chasiv Yar. Reports from the 67th Brigade’s press center indicate that approximately 20 enemy combat vehicles were rendered inoperable, thwarting the occupiers' attempts to establish a presence in the area.The operation, which took place on the Bahmutsky direction, effectively repelled Russian assaults near Chasiv Yar, as stated in the brigade's publication.This success follows earlier reports in April of failed attacks by Russian forces on the eastern outskirts of Chasiv Yar. Despite Russian attempts to secure various structures, Ukrainian military personnel managed to remove them from the area. Chasiv Yar has been identified by Ukrainian officials as facing one of the most challenging situations since the onset of the full-scale invasion. The town continues to endure daily bombardment by Russian artillery and aviation, with only brief periods of respite.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 06:21:18

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Latest Defence NewsNigeriaA bomb explosion claimed the lives of six Nigerien soldiers near the border with Mali, as confirmed by Niger's army on Thursday. The incident occurred when an army patrol vehicle hit a homemade landmine close to the village of Tingara in the southwestern region. Several other soldiers sustained injuries and were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, according to a bulletin released by the defense ministry.Niger, currently under military governance following a coup in July, has cited the deteriorating security situation as a primary reason for assuming power. Despite the change in leadership, the persistent threat of jihadist violence, ongoing for over eight years, continues to pose a significant challenge. The targeted patrol was returning from Inates, located in the Tillaberi region, known for its susceptibility to jihadist attacks.Responding to the attack, the army conducted air strikes after identifying and tracking the individuals deemed responsible, resulting in the neutralization of several perpetrators. Additionally, another air strike targeted a group of terrorists in Amalaoulaou, Mali, resulting in the death of at least eight fighters and the destruction of their equipment.Last month, Tillaberi witnessed a tragic ambush where 23 Nigerien soldiers lost their lives, highlighting the persistent threat in the region. Tillaberi shares borders with Burkina Faso and Mali, both of which are also under military regimes. Furthermore, the Niamey regime contends with violence from Boko Haram jihadists and their adversaries, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), particularly in the southeastern Diffa region near Nigeria.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 05:16:45

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Latest Space NewsRussiaRussia successfully test-launched its Angara-A5 space rocket for the first time from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East on Thursday. This marked a significant milestone in Russia's efforts to develop a new post-Soviet launch vehicle.The Angara-A5 test launch aimed to underscore Moscow's ambition to maintain its status as a major space power. Situated in the forests of the Amur region of Russia's Far East, the Vostochny Cosmodrome played a crucial role in this endeavor.Prior to the successful launch on Thursday, two attempts were aborted due to technical malfunctions. However, the third attempt proved to be successful, coinciding with Russia's celebration of Cosmonaut Day, commemorating Yuri Gagarin's historic journey into space 63 years ago.The rocket, measuring 54.5 meters in length and weighing about 773 tonnes, demonstrated its capability by placing a test load into low orbit. With a capacity to carry approximately 24.5 tonnes into space, the Angara-A5 is poised to replace the aging Proton M rocket, which has been in operation since the mid-1960s.The Angara project, initiated in the aftermath of the Soviet Union's dissolution, aimed to develop a domestically-produced launch vehicle to ensure Russia's access to space without reliance on the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.Utilizing Russian components and environmentally friendly fuel, the Angara-A5 represents a leap forward in Russia's space capabilities. The involvement of the defense ministry underscores the strategic importance of this project for national security.Roscosmos, Russia's space agency, emphasized the significance of the Angara project, stating that it will provide the country with independent and guaranteed access to space. The successful test launch from Vostochny marks the beginning of flight design tests for the Angara space rocket complex.While previous test flights of the Angara-A5 took place from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia, the successful launch from Vostochny demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of the new launch vehicle.In conclusion, Russia's successful test launch of the Angara-A5 from the Vostochny Cosmodrome represents a significant milestone in its quest to maintain leadership in space exploration. With its capacity to carry heavy payloads and its reliance on domestic technology, the Angara-A5 heralds a new era in Russian space endeavors.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 05:13:13

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Latest Defence NewsAustriaAustria's Ministry of Defence recently inked a deal with Defenture for the supply of a batch of GRF (Ground Force) vehicles, marking a significant move in bolstering the country's military capabilities. The contract aims to equip the Austrian Special Operations Forces, known as Jagdkommando, with modernized vehicles to replace the outdated PUCH G 290/LP Sandviper.The decision to opt for Defenture's GRF vehicles underscores Austria's priority on high-level mobility and security. Recognized for their agility, speed, traction, and payload capacity, these vehicles offer enhanced ground clearance for navigating extreme off-road terrains. Equipped with a special 4-wheel steering system, the GRF ensures both mobility and safety, crucial for Special Operations Forces.What sets the GRF platform apart is its flexibility, allowing for specific configurations and system integrations tailored to the operational needs of the Jagdkommando. This adaptability ensures that the vehicles are optimized for diverse missions and scenarios. Delivery of the vehicles is slated to commence as early as 2024.In a strategic move, Defenture has partnered with Achleitner to provide comprehensive support for the GRF vehicles. Achleitner will handle lifetime maintenance and service support in collaboration with Defenture. Additionally, the partnership extends to system integration and further configuration development, demonstrating a commitment to long-term cooperation.Henk van der Scheer, CEO of Defenture, expressed pride in the partnership with the Austrian Ministry of Defence and the Jagdkommando. He emphasized the GRF's reputation as a benchmark in the light tactical vehicle segment and highlighted the strategic collaboration with Achleitner as a mutually beneficial endeavor.Defenture's vehicles are purpose-built to ensure the safety and effectiveness of special forces missions. Meeting all military requirements, these vehicles are classified as Military Off the Shelf (MOTS) mobility platforms. Defenture prioritizes mobility, safety, payload capacity, and modular design, while also focusing on minimizing lifecycle costs. Close cooperation with local partners further enhances the overall outcome for all stakeholders involved.As a Netherlands-based Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Defenture has established itself as a trusted mobility partner for Ministries of Defence across various countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland. This latest partnership with Austria reaffirms Defenture's commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions for military mobility and security.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 05:08:16

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Latest Defence NewsUkraine Russia WarUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that Russia unleashed a barrage of over 40 missiles and drones on Ukraine overnight, targeting vital infrastructure across the country. The city of Kharkiv, in particular, bore the brunt of the assault once again.Zelensky confirmed that despite efforts to intercept, a portion of the missiles and drones managed to evade defense systems. Kharkiv, situated in the northeast, faced another round of devastating attacks, further exacerbating the already dire situation in the region.Critical infrastructure in key cities like Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and Lviv faced targeted strikes, amplifying concerns over the safety and stability of Ukraine's essential facilities. Zelensky called upon Western allies to not overlook the escalating aggression and to extend support in bolstering Ukraine's air defense capabilities. Interior Minister Igor Klymenko disclosed that the onslaught prompted a widespread deployment of rescue teams across affected regions. Despite the extensive shelling, no casualties were reported, though Kharkiv experienced power outages due to the destruction of infrastructure.The mayor of Kharkiv issued a cautionary statement regarding potential energy supply disruptions in the city, underscoring the immediate repercussions of the attacks. In the Zaporizhzhia region, reports of explosions added to the chaos caused by the relentless assault.Governor Ivan Fedorov of Zaporizhzhia confirmed the destruction of a gas distribution facility and an electric substation by Russian missiles and drones. However, prompt action by firefighters contained resulting fires, preventing further escalation.Russia claimed to have neutralized 12 Ukrainian drones overnight, with engagements spanning across various regions. Despite being on the receiving end of drone attacks for months, Russia's retaliatory actions indicate a continuation of the conflict's intensification.The ongoing aggression underscores the urgent need for international solidarity and support for Ukraine as it confronts escalating hostilities. The latest attacks serve as a grim reminder of the precarious situation faced by Ukraine and the imperative of concerted efforts to address the crisis.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 04:59:59

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Latest Defence NewsU.SThe U.S. Navy's ARTEMIS project reached a crucial milestone as RUAG, a subcontractor for Tactical Air Support (Tactical Air), handed over the initial F-5 jet of a total of 22 aircraft. Tasked with inspections, structural work, and engine overhauls, RUAG's role underscores the collaborative effort in modernizing the F-5 fleet.In July 2022, Tactical Air secured the ARTEMIS F-5 modernization contract from the U.S. Navy, with RUAG appointed to provide maintenance services and overhaul GE-J-85 engines. Acquired from the Swiss government years ago, these F-5 aircraft are pivotal for the Navy's Red Air training program, aiming for reliable operation until 2040 and beyond.To enhance training realism, the ARTEMIS project includes avionics upgrades, safety enhancements, and an obsolescence program ensuring maintenance and spare parts availability. The scope of structural work on each F-5 varies based on flight hours and condition, with RUAG currently engaged in four aircraft.The delivered F-5 jet will undergo further modernization in Jacksonville, Florida, by Tactical Air, including the installation of a new cockpit and advanced avionics. Beyond bolstering Swiss F-5 fleet expertise, this project creates additional business opportunities for RUAG, reflecting a significant step forward in U.S. Navy training capabilities.About ARTEMIS F-5The ARTEMIS F-5 isn't a new variant of the F-5 aircraft, but rather a modernization program  for existing F-5E/F Tiger II aircraft previously used by the Swiss Air Force.  The U.S. Navy acquired 22 of these retired jets and is upgrading them through the ARTEMIS program to serve as adversary aircraft for pilot training. Specific details about the exact upgrades being implemented haven't been entirely released, but we do know the program includes:New glass cockpit with modern avionicsEngine modifications and overhaulStructural component replacementThese upgrades are expected to bring the F-5s up to the F-5N+/F+ configuration, which will enhance their performance and make them more capable training partners for Navy and Marine Corps pilots. The ARTEMIS program is expected to be completed in 2028, with the first upgraded aircraft delivered by mid-2025. 

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-12 04:51:32

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Latest Defense NewsIsrael ,IranTensions between Israel and Iran have reached a critical juncture, with fears mounting over the possibility of a direct confrontation. Amidst escalating hostilities, there are growing concerns that Israel may resort to using Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) bombs against Iran as a defensive measure.The recent conflict in Gaza has exacerbated the longstanding animosity between Israel and its neighboring adversaries. Reports suggest that Iran may be gearing up for an assault on Israel, prompting concerns of a wider conflict.In response to these developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing pressure to take decisive action to protect the nation's security interests. There are indications that Israel may deploy EMP bombs targeting strategic sites in Iran, including Tehran and its nuclear facilities.Unlike conventional weapons, EMP bombs do not cause direct physical harm to individuals. Instead, they unleash a pulse capable of disabling electronic devices within a certain radius. This could effectively cripple Iran's infrastructure, disrupting its ability to function effectively.The potential use of EMP bombs underscores the gravity of the situation and the lengths to which Israel may go to defend itself. However, such a move could have far-reaching consequences, risking further escalation and potentially drawing other nations into the conflict.Iran has issued warnings in response to perceived provocations by Israel, vowing to retaliate against any aggression. The recent airstrike in Damascus, which resulted in casualties among the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, has heightened tensions between the two adversaries.Despite unverified reports of missiles being deployed against Israel, the situation remains fluid and the potential for a full-scale conflict looms large. Global leaders have called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation and avoid the catastrophic consequences of a war between Israel and Iran.In the face of mounting tensions and the specter of conflict, the international community must redouble its efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The use of EMP bombs represents a dangerous escalation that could have grave implications for regional and global security.As the situation continues to unfold, all parties must exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to address underlying grievances and defuse the growing threat of conflict in the Middle East. The stakes are high, and the consequences of failure could be catastrophic for all involved.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-11 16:13:01

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Latest Defense NewsFinlandRauma, Finland - The Rauma shipyard celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of the first multi-purpose corvette for the Squadron 2020 project on Thursday, April 11, 2024. The traditional keel laying ceremony marked the commencement of the vessel's construction phase.This milestone signifies a pivotal moment in the development of the Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvettes, as the first block was laid on the shipyard's building bucks. The vessel will now take shape around this foundational keel block, with subsequent blocks being connected to one another.Construction progress has remained on schedule since the project commenced in late October 2023. The keel laying ceremony, steeped in maritime tradition, included the placement of ceremonial keel coins beneath the keel.Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) and its subsidiary, RMC Defence Oy, are tasked with the construction of four Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvettes designed to operate effectively in the Baltic Sea's varied conditions. These corvettes will fulfill a range of roles throughout the year, including mine laying, anti-submarine operations, and maritime security.The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command oversees the commissioning of the vessels, with the entire Squadron 2020 project slated for completion by 2029.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-11 15:38:02

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Latest Defense NewsU.S ,North Korea ,JapanUnited States President Joe Biden on Wednesday said he supported his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida's attempts to hold face-to-face talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un."I have faith in Japan," Biden told reporters during Kishida's state visit to Washington this week. "I think seeking a dialogue with him is a good thing."Kishida hopes to become the first Japanese leader in 20 years to hold leadership talks with nuclear-armed Pyongyang, but his prospects of doing so remain unclear.Why is Japan Seeking a Summit ?  While Kishida says he is willing to hold talks without preconditions, the burning issue he wants to resolve is that of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s.The Japanese government has said 17 people were kidnapped by the reclusive state. Five returned to Japan in 2002 following previous summit talks, but 12 still remain unaccounted for.North Korea has said the issue is settled. It has previously said that the unaccounted Japanese nationals had either died, or that it knew nothing about their whereabouts.Resolving the abductee issue has broad public support and Japan is being spurred to take action while the elderly family members of the abductees are still alive.The poster child of the abductees, Megumi Yokota, was just 13 when she was kidnapped while walking home from school in 1977. Her mother continues to lobby for her return despite North Korea saying she committed suicide.At a meeting with the families last May, Kishida said he would directly oversee high-level discussions with North Korean counterparts to try and realise the summit.Is North Korea Open to it ? North Korea has so far been non-committal on Kishida's repeated calls for a summit.Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korea's leader, said in February there is no impediment to closer ties with Japan and there may come a day when Kishida visits Pyongyang, state news agency KCNA reported.Japan said it would not comment on the statement but added North Korea's position that the abduction issue had been resolved was unacceptable.A month later, Kim Yo Jong issued another statement saying North Korea had no interest in a summit with Japan and would reject any talks, according to KCNA.Kim accused Tokyo of "clinging to the unattainable issues," the KCNA report said.Has a Summit happened Before ?In a historic first, then Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi travelled to Pyongyang to meet his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Il in 2002.Although North Korea denied any involvement in the abductee issue, the 2002 summit proved to be a breakthrough with Kim Jong Il admitting to some of the abductions.Koizumi and Kim Jong Il met again in Pyongyang in 2004, the last leadership talks between the two countries.Although Japanese and North Korean officials have had meetings since, ties have soured over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes, with the North conducting a number of test launches and Japan labelling the country a threat to regional stability.Could it Backfire ? With North Korea refusing to engage if the abductee issue is on the negotiating table, Kishida risks coming home empty-handed should he visit Pyongyang.A failure to provide any tangible wins from engaging with a nuclear-armed state that has continued to launch missiles into waters surrounding Japan could hurt Kishida's already low domestic approval ratings.Although Kishida has expressed his desire to meet with Kim Jong Un as early as possible, some government officials say privately it could be a politically risky gambit.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-11 15:24:59

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Latest Defense NewsJapan ,U.SThe United States and Japan have solidified plans to jointly develop a counter-hypersonic missile system, marking a significant step in bolstering their defense capabilities. The initiative, known as the Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) Cooperative Development program, was formalized during the security consultative committee meeting in January 2023.A statement from the White House, issued during Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to the US, reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to combatting hypersonic threats. The specifics of the GPI program remain undisclosed, although it has been confirmed that Northrop Grumman and Raytheon, under contract from the US Missile Defense Agency, will individually contribute to refining the GPI concept.Preliminary information suggests that the interceptors will be deployed through the ship-based Aegis Weapon System, targeting hypersonic glide vehicles just prior to their atmospheric entry. This approach entails modifications to the existing Aegis infrastructure and the development of new interceptors tailored to counter hypersonic threats.Hypersonic weapons, characterized by their ability to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5 and maneuver unpredictably at lower altitudes, pose a formidable challenge for traditional missile defense systems. Unlike ballistic missiles, which follow predictable trajectories, hypersonic missiles present a more elusive target due to their agile flight patterns.To address the tracking and monitoring aspect of hypersonic threats, the Space Development Agency has contracted L3Harris Technologies and Northrop Grumman to develop a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites. These satellites, totaling 28 initially and projected to reach 100 in number, will enhance the capability to detect and track hypersonic vehicles traversing the atmosphere.Notably, Japan had previously announced plans to launch three satellites in the mid-2020s dedicated to detecting and tracking hypersonic glide vehicles, particularly those being developed by China and Russia. The potential for US-Japan collaboration in establishing a satellite network to further bolster hypersonic threat detection and tracking has been speculated upon by various sources.The collaborative efforts between the US and Japan underscore a shared commitment to countering emerging security challenges posed by hypersonic technology. By leveraging technological advancements and fostering international cooperation, both nations aim to enhance their defense capabilities in the face of evolving threats.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-11 15:19:45