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Defense News ,NATO :-  In a historic achievement, NATO recently conducted its first Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) mission with a fully female crew. The 22-member crew comprised servicewomen from eight NATO allies, including Canada, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Poland, Portugal, and the US.This groundbreaking mission was part of NATO’s enhanced Vigilance Activities initiative, aimed at strengthening the alliance's deployment of multinational battle groups to enhance its defense capabilities. The initiative was organized by the NATO Airborne Early Warning & Control Force Women’s Initiative Team, with a focus on showcasing women's accomplishments in aviation and promoting gender equality and inclusion in the field.Captain Ciara, the Aircrew Training Squadron Simulator Operations Chief, highlighted the crew's ability to perform in traditionally male-dominated missions at an equal capacity. She stated, "The flight demonstrates that the mission and every position on board the AWACS can be executed by women."NATO has made significant strides in increasing the representation of women in its armed forces, with the number more than doubling since 1998. This commitment involves incorporating gender perspectives into defense strategies and counterterrorism missions. Additionally, the alliance established the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in 2000, recognizing the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and girls, emphasizing the crucial roles women play in peace and security, and underlining the importance of integrating gender perspectives in all alliance activities. This achievement marks a significant step forward in promoting diversity and gender equality within NATO's operations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 15:01:25

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Defense News ,U.S :-  The US Army is testing out some new laser weapons in the Middle East. They've sent four prototypes called Directed Energy Maneuver Short Range Air Defense (DE M-SHORAD) to see how well they work in real-life situations.These laser weapons are not like the ones we see in movies. They are attached to Stryker armored vehicles, which are like big trucks that can move around easily. The lasers are powerful, with a strength of 50 kilowatts. The goal is to use these lasers to stop and destroy drones and other things that might be a threat.The Middle East is known for its dusty conditions, and the Army wants to see how well these lasers can perform in such environments. General James Mingus, who is in charge, explained that the lasers can be affected by weather, especially dust storms. Testing them in the Middle East will help the Army understand how they work in these tough conditions.The reason for these new laser weapons is to protect US troops from attacks. Drones are becoming a big problem in the Middle East, and the Army wants to find effective ways to deal with them. These lasers are not just for drones; they can also stop rockets, artillery, and mortars.However, even though these laser weapons seem promising, General Mingus is clear that they are not fully ready for actual combat. They are still in the prototype stage, which means they are like test versions. The Army wants to try them out in a real setting to see what issues might come up. General Mingus said, "It’s a prototype, but we want to experiment in a live environment… Is it going to work perfectly? Probably not, but we’re going to learn from it."In recent times, there have been attacks on US bases in Iraq and Syria, and even a drone strike that killed three American troops in Jordan. These events have made the military look for better ways to defend against such threats, leading to the development and testing of these advanced laser weapons.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 14:49:07

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Defense News ,Pakistan :-  The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is currently undergoing a substantial modernization effort, grappling with a complex mix of geopolitical pressures, aging fleets, and financial constraints. Recent announcements shed light on the PAF's evolving strategy to address these challenges through a combination of advanced aircraft procurement and indigenous development initiatives.Stealth Unveiled: PAF's Leap into Advanced CapabilitiesOne of the most attention-grabbing developments is the PAF's intention to acquire the Chinese-made FC-31 stealth fighter jet. Despite operational readiness expected in the 2030s, this move signifies a clear shift towards incorporating advanced stealth technology into the PAF's combat inventory. If successfully acquired, the FC-31 would enhance Pakistan's air defense capabilities, providing advantages in reconnaissance, air superiority, and precision strikes with reduced detection risks.JF-17: Modernization and ExpansionIn addition to pursuing stealth capabilities, the PAF is heavily investing in the JF-17 PFX (Pakistan Fighter Experimental) project. This initiative aims to upgrade the existing fleet of JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighters, extending their lifespan and integrating cutting-edge avionics, radar, and weapons systems. Analysts also perceive efforts to maximize Pakistan's investment in the indigenously developed JF-17 platform by extending its airframe life.Navigating Challenges and ComplexitiesThe PAF's modernization ambitions are constrained by economic realities and the persistent regional arms race, with India's military advancements, like the Rafale fighter acquisition, adding pressure. The emergency purchase of 25 J-10CE fighters from China addresses immediate needs but raises questions about the long-term operational costs of managing another fighter type in relatively small numbers.The Countdown: Aging Fleets and F-16 DilemmaThe PAF faces the imminent retirement of several aging fighter fleets by 2030, including the 1970s-era Mirage-III/V and Chinese F-7P aircraft. The status of the F-16 fleet is particularly concerning, with the majority being older Block 15/20 variants exceeding 40 years of service. As these aircraft age, maintaining them becomes more challenging and costly, raising concerns about operational effectiveness and safety, prompting the PAF to seek suitable replacements within its financial constraints.Towards the Future: Stealth and BeyondThe FC-31 emerges as a potential future backbone of the PAF, potentially replacing a significant portion of the F-16 fleet by 2035, according to analysts. Alternatively, Turkey's TAI Kaan stealth fighter could become another contender with potential cooperation. The PAF's strategic decisions will continue to be shaped by a unique blend of geopolitical pressures, economic constraints, and the imperative to maintain a robust air defense capability. The pursuit of stealth technology, the revitalization of the JF-17 program, and potential international partnerships will all play pivotal roles in determining its future.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 07:22:41

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Defense News ,Europe :-  The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) recently convened the inaugural Programme Board meeting for the Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS), popularly known as the Eurodrone Programme. Senior representatives from the four participating nations – Germany, Italy, France, and Spain – participated in the event.The meeting served as a platform for OCCAR, along with prime contractor Airbus Defence and Space and key industry partners such as Leonardo and Dassault Aviation, to showcase recent accomplishments and discuss upcoming initiatives. Notable advancements included progress in system development, covering aspects like requirement and design maturation, supplier selection, and validation processes through wind tunnel testing. The assembly of parts and bench test manufacturing were also highlighted as imminent activities in the project's timeline.The Journey of MALE RPAS: From Concept to RealityInitiated in 2016, the MALE RPAS Programme has reached critical milestones, starting with a Definition Study and culminating in a System Requirement Review (SRR) and a System Preliminary Design Review (SPDR) in 2018. The comprehensive contract finalized in February 2022 for the development, production, and initial in-service support of 20 systems marked a significant achievement, covering 60 aircraft and 40 Ground Control Stations. This contract places Airbus Defence and Space GmbH and its major subcontractors at the forefront of this groundbreaking endeavor.In a noteworthy development in 2021, the program secured financial backing from the European Commission through the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), facilitating a Grant Agreement with industrial partners.With the completion of initial development design reviews, the project is poised to commence the manufacture of the first prototype in 2024, targeting the delivery of serial items by the end of the decade.Eurodrone: A Pioneer in Unmanned Aerial SystemsEurodrone, a twin-engine Large Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial System (LLUAS), represents a new class of Multi-Mission Unmanned Systems. With a maximum take-off weight of 12t (MTOW), 2.300 kg pure mission payload, and capabilities spanning Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), Early Warning, Large Area-Surveillance, Fleet Protection, Protection of Critical Infrastructure, and SIGINT missions, this new generation RPAS will be certified to operate in non-segregated (civil) airspace.Strengthening European Defence and AutonomyThe European MALE RPAS is poised to revolutionize Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, traditionally reliant on non-EU manufacturers. This initiative is a crucial step towards ensuring European strategic sovereignty and integrating cutting-edge technology into civil air traffic and non-segregated airspace.As the first large-scale Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) program for European industries, MALE RPAS represents a significant leap forward in the field of Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR). It is designed to support international conflict prevention and crisis management across all operation phases, emphasizing its role as an indispensable asset for future military and peacekeeping efforts.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 07:07:13

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Defense News ,Pakistan :-  Pakistan's newly-elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday raked up the Kashmir issue in his maiden address but pledged to improve ties with all leading nations, including the country's neighbours. Shehbaz said that Pakistan would not become part of any "great game" and his government would increase the number of friends.He pledged to build and improve ties with all leading nations, including neighbours."We will keep ties with neighbours on the basis of equality," Shehbaz, 72, said as he easily won the election in the National Assembly to become Pakistan's prime minister for a second time.Shehbaz, however, raked up the Kashmir issue and equated it with Palestine. "Let's all come together [...] and the National Assembly should pass a resolution for the freedom of Kashmiris and Palestinians," he added.He also thanked his allies in the coalition government for putting their trust in him and making him Leader of the House."When my Quaid (leader Nawaz) was elected the prime minister thrice, the development that followed in the country is an example of its own. And it is not wrong to say that Nawaz Sharif is the one who built Pakistan," Shehbaz said in his victory speech.The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president thanked his elder brother Nawaz and all the allies for putting their trust in him and making him Leader of the House.Shehbaz, who was the consensus candidate of the PML-N and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), received 201 votes in the 336-member house.Shehbaz's challenger Omar Ayub Khan of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) secured 92 votes.Shehbaz said that the country was facing challenges primarily due to the fragile economy. He said that he was starting his tenure when the country was facing a budgetary deficit of more than one trillion rupees."How we will pay the salaries for armed forces and how to pay the civil servants," he wondered and added that reforming the economy was the biggest challenge faced by the country.Shehbaz highlighted the burden of debt paying and said that the country was required to pay billions of rupees in interest only.He highlighted that the energy sector was crumbling due to the accumulating debt owed by the country to the power-producing companies. He also mentioned that state-owned entities like Pakistan International Airlines were running into losses worth billions of rupees.He promised to put the country on the path of development and announced to overcome all hurdles. "Though it is easier said than done, we will fulfill our task," he said.Shehbaz said that the government was determined to bring the country out of the current crisis. "I don't want to set any deadline but due to various steps we will take, the positive results will start pouring in after a year," he said.He promised to bring investment into the country and create economic conditions that would spur economic growth. He also vowed to spread the web of "one window" export zones in all four provinces and work day and night to fulfil all these promises.The newly-elected premier vowed to make Pakistan "self-sufficient". "We will rise and we will make Pakistan self-sufficient," said Shehbaz."There are talented people sitting in this Parliament who can steer Pakistan's ship to the shore [...] these include journalists, intellectuals, politicians, religious leaders," he said.Shehbaz said Pakistan had a big challenge and opportunity before it. "If we come together and decide to change the fate of Pakistan [...] then God willing, we will defeat these challenges and take Pakistan to its rightful position," he said.He highlighted that this job was difficult but not impossible."Back to the good old days of development! Onwards and upwards. Nawaz Ka vision, Shehbaz Ka mission," the PML-N said in a post on X along with a picture of both the leaders."The other name of deliverance is MUHAMMAD SHEHBAZ SHARIF," it said in another post.The session of the new parliament was convened amid ruckus and sloganeering by PTI-backed lawmakers.In his speech, Shehbaz also said that the nation would always remember the sacrifices of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the maternal grandfather of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.He also announced the elimination of terrorism from the country by following the already adopted National Action Plan to deal with extremism in the country.Shehbaz also targeted his rivals Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf for attacking the national institutions and army buildings on May 9 last year when supporters of Imran Khan resorted to violent protest against his arrest in a case of alleged corruption."It is shameful that the country saw a day when GHQ, corps commander houses, airfields were attacked on May 9," Shehbaz said, adding that such sights are unforgettable.He said that the PTI put the entire opposition behind bars without caring about women or children and used language that cannot be said out loud. "This is the difference between this leadership and that leadership; the entire assembly is witness to the fact that we never thought of the politics of revenge," he said.Shehbaz also said that those responsible for the May 9 incident would not be spared while saying that all innocent people implicated in various cases would be spared.Opposition PTI lawmakers kept on shouting slogans during the speech by the prime minister who, undeterred by the rowdyism continued his address and made a long speech on the occasion. He asked the opponents to seek recourse to the national institutions to get the complaints about rigging redressed.Shehbaz also questioned why Imran Khan wrote a letter to the International Monetary Fund which he said was tantamount to inviting foreign intervention in the affairs of the country. He offered reconciliation to the opposition and invited them to also cooperate to address the economic issues.He will be administered the oath of office on Monday at the Presidential mansion, Aiwan-e-Sadr.Shehbaz earlier served as prime minister of a coalition government from April 2022 to August 2023 before Parliament was dissolved to hold general elections.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 07:03:47

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Defense News ,China :-  News about China's fifth-generation J-20 fighter jet performing exceptionally well in a simulated combat exercise has sparked intense discussions.Reports, initially shared by Chinese state media like the Global Times, suggest that the J-20 took down an impressive 17 Dassault Rafale fighters from the Indian Air Force without suffering any losses.However, when we delve deeper into the matter, things become more complicated and uncertain.Where the Claim Comes FromIt's important to note that the source of this information is Chinese state-controlled media. These outlets often emphasize narratives that highlight China's military prowess. Also, these reports lack specific details about the simulated exercise and have not been independently verified.Additionally, this claim first surfaced almost three years ago, and we're not sure about the exact type of "enemy" aircraft involved. Some experts speculate it might have been older fighter jets like the Shenyang J-11 instead of the Rafale.Training vs. Real-World CombatIt's not uncommon for advanced fighter jets to show high success rates in training simulations, especially against older or less advanced opponents. However, it's crucial to understand the difference between simulations and the unpredictable nature of real air combat. Factors like pilot skill, tactics, electronic warfare systems, and the coordination of air and ground forces play significant roles in actual conflicts, making training outcomes not entirely reliable.Questioning Stealth CapabilitiesThe debate between the J-20 and Rafale brings attention to a critical issue: the effectiveness of the J-20's stealth capabilities. While the Rafale isn't a fifth-generation fighter, some Western analysts doubt the J-20's ability to fully evade advanced radar systems due to concerns about its design elements and radar cross-section.Counterarguments and Expert ViewsFormer IAF Chief Dhanoa has challenged the perceived threat of the J-20, stating that India's Su-30MKI fighter radars can detect the J-20 from a significant distance. This raises doubts about the J-20's ability to operate unnoticed in contested airspace. It's important to recognize that such statements might also serve as strategic messaging amid ongoing tensions between India and China.ConclusionApproaching the widely circulated claim of the J-20's dominance in simulated combat requires caution. Without verifiable evidence and transparent reporting, there's a risk that such assertions may be more about propaganda than an accurate representation of military capability. The intricacies of modern air combat, uncertainties about the J-20's stealth features, and the limitations of simulations all underscore the need for a careful and skeptical interpretation of these publicized achievements.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 06:46:21

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Defense News ,U.S :-  South Korea and the United States began large annual military exercises Monday to bolster their readiness against North Korean nuclear threats after the North raised animosities with an extension of missile tests and belligerent rhetoric earlier this year. The South Korean and US forces began a computer-simulated command post training called the Freedom Shield exercise and a variety of field exercises for an 11-day run, the South Korean Defense Ministry said.North Korea had no immediate response to the major annual drills it regards as a rehearsal for invasion. The North has staged provocative weapons tests in the past in reaction to its adversaries' joint drills.South Korea's military said last week that it would conduct 48 field exercises with the US forces this spring, twice the number conducted last year, and that they would involve live-firing, bombing, air assault and missile interception drills.Since early 2022, North Korea has conducted more than 100 rounds of missile tests to modernize its arsenal as talks with the United States and South Korea have been stalled for an extended period. In response, the United States and South Korea have expanded their training exercises and increased the deployment of powerful US military assets such as aircraft carriers and long-range nuclear-capable bombers.This year, North Korea carried out six rounds of missile tests and barrage of artillery firing drills. Its leader Kim Jong Un also said North Korea would scrap its long-standing goal of peaceful unification with South Korea and take a more aggressive military posture along the disputed sea boundary with South Korea. He also vowed to "annihilate" South Korea and the United States if provoked, a threat that he had previously issued.The North Korean steps raised worries that it might make provocations along the tense Korean sea and land borders. But experts say the prospect for a full-blown attack by North Korea is dim as the North knows its military is outmatched by US and South Korean forces.North Korea's moves to raise tensions are likely because its rivals are holding elections this year - the US presidential election in November and South Korea's parliament election in April. North Korea believes an advanced nuclear arsenal will increase its leverage in future diplomacy and it can win concessions like the easing of international sanctions, experts say.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-04 06:38:24

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Defense News ,France :-  The French defence procurement agency (DGA) has finished delivering the last of six H160 helicopters. These helicopters, ordered in 2020 and 2021 from Airbus Helicopters, Babcock France, and Safran Helicopter Engines, are stationed at the Lanvéoc-Poulmic Naval Air Base.The H160s have a crucial role in maritime rescue alert missions (Secmar), replacing older Caïman Marine, Dauphin, and Panther helicopters. This shift allows the older helicopters to return to their primary job of air-sea combat on French Navy ships.The H160 helicopters, designed for sea rescue operations, started deployment in 2023 from Cherbourg Airport and naval air bases. After more than 1,500 hours of flight time and numerous successful rescue missions, the feedback has been very positive. This input is helping develop the H160M “Guépard,” the military version under the Light Joint Helicopter (HIL) Programme managed by the DGA, as showcased at the 2023 Le Bourget Air Show.Manufactured by Airbus Helicopters with additional features by Babcock France, these H160s are equipped with a winch, the Euroflir 410 optoelectronic system by Safran Electronics & Defence, and modular cabins for optimized layouts suited for maritime missions. They are also certified for night vision goggle flights, crucial for night missions.Babcock France, in partnership with Airbus Helicopters and Safran Helicopter Engines, ensures high aircraft availability. This collaboration is vital for sustaining maritime rescue missions along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, as well as the English Channel.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:39:53

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Defense News ,Turkey :-  Baykar Technologies, a top Turkish drone maker, recently shared exciting news on social media. They successfully tested their new drone, the Akinci, and it's equipped with powerful missiles made by the Turkish defense company Roketsan.The Akinci drone can carry two special missiles: the Çakır cruise missile and the UAV-230 air-to-surface supersonic ballistic missile. These missiles are quite advanced! The Çakır missile, with a range of at least 150 kilometers, can be used by drones, airplanes, helicopters, ships, and even land vehicles. It can have different warheads, like one for penetrating armored targets or a thermobaric one. The UAV-230 missile, with a range over 150 kilometers, has a fragmentation warhead. This missile is prepared during its pre-launch phase and, once released, ignites its engine for precise targeting. It has a 42kg warhead with options like frangible impact, armor-piercing, and thermobaric.In a successful test, the Akinci drone showcased its ability to fire MAM-L and MAM-T guided bombs at moving sea targets.. This is a significant step forward in Turkey's defense capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:31:36

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Defense News ,Russia Ukraine War :-  In recent news, Ukrainian intelligence and armed forces revealed insights into Russia's plans to boost artillery ammunition production. President Vladimir Putin announced an expansion during a recent speech, shedding light on the scale of the Russian defense industry.Ukrainian intelligence and armed forces shared that Russia is planning to make more artillery ammunition. President Putin wants to increase the production even more. Currently, they make about 3.8 million units each year, including different sizes of shells and rockets. They aim to reach 4.5 million units by the end of 2024.The focus is on shells of 122mm and 152mm calibers, but some sources say the real number might be less than expected. Russia produces ammunition faster than Western countries, which are expected to make about 2.5 million units yearly. The main reason for this difference is that Russia hasn't shifted its economy to wartime production, making their increase slower.Despite making more ammunition, reports suggest that it's not enough for Russian troops in the Ukraine invasion. Russia is also getting ammunition from other places like Iran and North Korea. North Korean ammunition is known for being of low quality, causing more wear and tear on artillery systems.Ukrainian media talked about Russia facing problems in making barrels for their artillery systems. The quick firing during combat wears out the barrels fast, and they struggle to replace them quickly.Even with these challenges, Russia still has a big advantage over Ukraine in artillery. The situation is made worse by the US not making quick decisions on giving more military aid funding to Ukraine, leaving them at a big disadvantage.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:05:16

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Defense News ,Ukraine War :-  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday called on the West to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems as a wave of Russian missile, drone and artillery strikes killed at least 11 people.Eight were confirmed dead, including a child and a baby, after an overnight drone strike on the southern port city of Odesa, a regional official said.Separate shelling attacks on the frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, Ukrainian officials said."Russia continues to hit civilians," Zelensky said in a post on social media."We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror. More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives."Ukraine is currently on the back foot in the two-year war as a crucial $60 billion aid package is held up in the United States Congress.In Odesa, "a nine-storey building was destroyed as a result of an attack by Russian terrorists", Interior Minister Igor Klymenko said in a Telegram post Saturday.Around 10 people were still unaccounted for, with almost 100 rescuers set to continue a search and rescue operation overnight.Footage from the scene showed several floors of a residential building collapsed and its facade ripped off.Ukraine's air force said falling debris from Russian drones it had shot down fell onto residential buildings in both Odesa and Kharkiv.'Difficult situation'The attacks came as Russia sought to press its advantage on the battlefield.Kyiv has acknowledged that it is heavily outgunned and outnumbered, facing ammunition shortages and aid delays.Half of all promised Western ammunition arrives late, the defence minister has said.Russian forces have advanced westwards following last month's capture of the key eastern town of Avdiivka, seizing several small villages in recent days.Visiting frontline military posts on Saturday, Ukraine's new Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky said "the situation at the front remains difficult, but controlled".Kyiv appeared to have launched its own overnight drone attack, with the Russian defence ministry claiming early on Sunday to have shot down 38 drones over the occupied territory of Crimea.An apparent Ukrainian drone also damaged a residential building a day earlier in Saint Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city.Videos on Russian social media showed what appeared to be a drone spiralling downwards into the building, triggering an explosion that blew out windows and caused small fires.The city's National Guard division said its preliminary assumption was that the damage was caused by a "falling drone".Ukrainian media reported that the drone was shot down by Russia's air defences while targeting an oil depot around a kilometre from the crash site.Kyiv has hit several Russian oil facilities in recent months in what it has called fair retribution for Moscow's attacks on Ukraine's power grid.Russia's Investigative Committee said separately that four of its officials had been wounded when a Ukrainian drone dropped explosives over the Bryansk border region.Russia also expressed outrage at a leak of confidential German army talks in which officers allegedly discussed missile strikes on the annexed Crimean peninsula.German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday promised a full investigation after the head of Russia's state-run RT outlet posted the alleged leaked recording on social media.A spokeswoman for the German defence ministry confirmed on Saturday that a secret air force conversation had been tapped, but that they could not say for certain whether any changes had been made to the conversation in the leaked audio file.Russia's foreign ministry demanded a "prompt" explanation from Berlin, while Moscow's top diplomat Sergei Lavrov said it showed Ukraine's European backers were intent on inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia on the battlefield.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:23:02

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Defense News ,Germany :-  Chancellor Olaf Scholz has promised a swift investigation into a leaked recording of private discussions among high-ranking German military officials regarding the Ukraine war. The German military acknowledged the authenticity of the leaked recording but couldn't confirm if it had been edited.Germany's Defense Ministry confirmed on Saturday that the leaked recording, shared by Russian state media, captured a confidential conversation among Bundeswehr officers discussing the Ukraine conflict. A ministry spokesperson stated that they are currently unable to determine if any alterations were made to the circulated version on social media.The head of Russian state broadcaster RT, Margarita Simonyan, released an audio recording on Friday, claiming it featured German officers, including Air Force Chief Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz.German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the situation "very serious" and assured a thorough and speedy investigation during his visit to Rome.The leaked audio includes discussions about the potential use of Taurus cruise missiles to destroy a bridge, possibly referring to the bridge connecting Russian-occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland over the Kerch Strait. The conversation, recorded from a video conference among Luftwaffe officers discussing Russia's war in Ukraine, also explores ways German officers could provide targeting information to Ukrainians without direct involvement.The audio leak also mentions the presence of British individuals "on the ground" related to the deployment of Storm Shadow cruise missiles to Ukraine. According to reports, the virtual meeting did not utilize a secure line but relied on the Webex platform, as disclosed by German outlet Der Spiegel.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:07:55

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Defense News ,Red Sea :-  A ship attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels has sunk in the Red Sea after days of taking on water, officials said Saturday, the first vessel to be fully destroyed as part of their campaign over Israel's war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.The sinking of the Rubymar, which carried a cargo of fertilizer and previously leaked fuel, could cause ecological damage to the Red Sea.Persistent Houthi attacks have already disrupted traffic in the crucial waterway for cargo and energy shipments moving from Asia and the Middle East to Europe. Already, many ships have turned away from the route.The sinking could see further detours and higher insurance rates put on vessels plying the waterway - potentially driving up global inflation and affecting aid shipments to the region.The Belize-flagged Rubymar had been drifting northward after being struck by a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile on Feb. 18 in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial waterway linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.Yemen's internationally recognized government, as well as a regional military official, confirmed the ship sank. The official spoke on condition of anonymity as no authorization was given to speak to journalists about the incident.The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center, which watches over Mideast waterways, separately acknowledged the Rubymar's sinking Saturday afternoon.The Rubymar's Beirut-based manager could not be immediately reached for comment.Yemen's exiled government, which has been backed by a Saudi-led coalition since 2015, said the Rubymar sank late Friday as stormy weather took hold over the Red Sea. The vessel had been abandoned for 12 days after the attack, though plans had been made to try and tow the ship to a safe port.The Iran-backed Houthis, who had falsely claimed the ship sank almost instantly after the attack, did not immediately acknowledge the ship's sinking.Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak, the prime minister of Yemen's internationally recognized government, called the ship's sinking "an unprecedented environmental disaster.""It's a new disaster for our country and our people," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Every day, we pay for the Houthi militia's adventures, which were not stopped at plunging Yemen into the coup disaster and war."Greenpeace also raised concerns about the ship sinking."Without immediate action, this situation could escalate into a major environmental crisis," said Julien Jreissati, program director at Greenpeace MENA."As well as any further leaks of fuel oil from the engines, the sinking of the vessel could further breach the hull, allowing water to contact with the thousands of tonnes of fertilizer, which could then be released into the Red Sea and disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystems, triggering cascading effects throughout the food web."The Houthis have held Yemen's capital, Sanaa, since 2014, expelling the government. Its fought a Saudi-led coalition since 2015 in a stalemated war.Satellite pictures analyzed by The Associated Press from Planet Labs PBC showed smaller boats alongside the Rubymar on Wednesday. It wasn't immediately clear whose vessels those were. The images showed the Rubymar's stern sinking into the Red Sea but still afloat, mirroring earlier video taken of the vessel.The private security firm Ambrey separately reported Friday about a mysterious incident involving the Rubymar."A number of Yemenis were reportedly harmed during a security incident which took place" on Friday, Ambrey said. It did not elaborate on what that incident involved and no party involved in Yemen's yearslong war claimed any new attack on the vessel.A satellite image taken Friday from Maxar Technologies showed new blast damage on the Rubymar not previously seen, with no other vessels around it.Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and surrounding waters over the Israel-Hamas war. Those vessels have included at least one with cargo bound for Iran, the Houthis' main benefactor, and an aid ship later bound for Houthi-controlled territory.Despite over a month of U.S.-led airstrikes, Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. That includes the attack on the Rubymar and the downing of an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. The Houthis insist their attacks will continue until Israel stops its combat operations in the Gaza Strip, which have enraged the wider Arab world and seen the Houthis gain international recognition.However, there has been a slowdown in attacks in recent days. The reason for that remains unclear.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 06:52:02

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Defense News ,Thailand :-  The Royal Thai Air Force has recently laid out its comprehensive vision for the future in a 74-page whitepaper released on February 29. This document, revealed during the annual symposium, outlines the Air Force's ambitious aspirations, encompassing critical areas such as counter-drone systems, the acquisition of new fighter jets, and the enhancement of medium-range air defense systems, spanning a procurement timeline that extends out to 2037.Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul, the commander of the Royal Thai Air Force, stressed the importance of long-term development planning and strategic budget allocation to maximize the national defense value. This whitepaper serves as a roadmap to secure long-term funding, particularly as the Air Force's existing aircraft inventories age, with the average age of the fighter fleet reaching 26 years, a figure that continues to rise.However, challenges exist in the government's procurement process, as pointed out by experts like Greg Raymond. Factors such as political instability, inadequate strategic planning, annual budgeting measures, and weak civil oversight contribute to a disjointed procurement process, allowing each armed service to make independent decisions.In the latest whitepaper, the Royal Thai Air Force outlines its priorities, focusing on a medium-range air defense system with a minimum 30-nautical-mile range from fiscal 2025 to fiscal 2028. Following this, from FY33 to FY37, plans are in place for a second phase, targeting a medium- or long-range air defense system. Additionally, from FY28 to FY32, the force aims to acquire a short-range air defense system equipped with gun-, missile-, and laser-based weapons. Counter-drone systems are also given prominence, with a nine-year procurement project set to commence in 2025.A critical aspect of the Air Force's vision is the replacement of aging F-16 jets. The plan involves acquiring 12-14 new fighters for the 102 Squadron based at Korat, with procurement scheduled from FY25 to FY34. The contenders for this requirement are Lockheed Martin's F-16 Block 70/72 and Saab's Gripen. The procurement timeline has been adjusted, with the retirement of the squadron's F-16s from the late 1980s expected by 2028.Thailand's efforts to maintain relationships with various nations, including the United States, China, Russia, and India, are highlighted in the whitepaper. While procurement from China has occurred in the past, the document suggests a reluctance to consider Chinese fighters like the J-10CE, emphasizing the importance of the relationship with the U.S. and like-minded allies.The whitepaper also delves into refurbishment efforts for C-130H Hercules transport aircraft, as well as advancements in pilot training. Efforts are underway to refurbish existing aircraft, with a shift away from the previous recommendation to buy replacements. The Air Force has retired its Pilatus PC-9 fleet after the delivery of 12 T-6TH trainers last year. Basic trainers are anticipated from FY33, with new lead-in fighter trainers sought from FY25.Unmanned technologies are a significant focus, with developments such as the Thai-developed M Solar X solar-powered drone and plans to purchase loitering munitions, medium combat drones, and high-altitude pseudo-satellites. The Air Force emphasizes the importance of micro- and nano-drone swarms from FY26, coupled with research and development efforts for weaponized tactical drones from FY29.Furthermore, Saab 340B Erieye airborne early warning aircraft are set to undergo enhancements in command-and-control capabilities, with dorsal-mounted radars to be replaced from FY26 to FY29.The government's FY24 defense budget bill includes a 198 billion baht (U.S. $5.5 billion) fund, allocating $1 billion for the Air Force. The service has already applied for approximately $530 million for the initial batch of four fighters, showcasing a commitment to realizing its ambitious vision outlined in the comprehensive whitepaper.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 15:35:49

 World 

Defense News ,Netherland :- In a recent update, the Netherlands is stepping up its support for Ukraine's defense efforts. The Dutch government has decided to send 14 high-speed and agile rubber boats, 8 military river patrol boats, and CB90 assault craft to Ukraine. Alongside this, they are contributing a significant amount of EUR 250 million to a Czech initiative, ensuring a quick supply of artillery shells to Ukraine.These boats are not just any boats - they are designed to be fast and easy to control. Some will come from the Dutch Defense's existing collection, while others will be obtained from industry sources.This isn't the first time the Netherlands has aided Ukraine. Since December 2023, they've been sending various types of ammunition, radar systems, rifles, machine guns, field hospitals, tents, generators, and medical supplies.Adding to this support, the Netherlands announced an additional EUR 100 million in ammunition just last Monday. This extra contribution is crucial for Ukraine, emphasizing the immediate need for more ammunition.What's more, there's a significant development on the diplomatic front. The Netherlands, represented by Prime Minister Mark Rutte, officially signed a 10-year security agreement with Ukraine, solidifying their commitment to support Ukraine in the medium and long term. This agreement focuses on security cooperation, including ongoing military assistance.It's not just the Netherlands standing by Ukraine. A total of 31 countries, along with the European Union, have formalized agreements with Ukraine, demonstrating a united front against Russian aggression. These commitments signify a prolonged collaboration between the Netherlands, international partners, and Ukraine in the defense against external threats.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 15:25:02