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Defense New ,Ukraine Russia War :- When Russian forces withdrew from the town of Balakliia in eastern Ukraine in late 2022, pursued by Ukrainian troops and under artillery fire, they left a poorly equipped group of volunteers to guard their retreat. The force of around 50 men came from the  National Army Combat Reserve - known by its Russian acronym BARS - a loose assembly of units totaling several thousand fighters that Russia's defense ministry has deployed in Ukraine to supplement its regular forces. About four hours of footage from a bodycam worn by one of the fighters, obtained by Reuters, provides a rare first-hand view of the combat operations of a BARS unit, according to three military experts who reviewed the video to provide an assessment for the news agency of the unit's military capability.  The invasion of Ukraine marked the first time BARS, which was founded in 2015, deployed units in combat. The video, coupled with interviews with four platoon members, shows the BARS unit was left to defend Balakliia with no heavy weaponry or air support, malfunctioning communications, and confused coordination with the regular military."Where is our air force?" asked one of the BARS fighters.  His squad, tasked with defending a crossroads north of the town, was sharing a mess tin of cold meat stew during a break in Ukrainian shelling.The squad leader, Anton Kuznetsov, whose bodycam recorded the exchange, told the men that there must be a good reason there was no air support. "Do they understand that we're surrounded?" complained another soldier, off-camera. Contacted by Reuters, Kuznetsov said that he had made the bodycam video and had then misplaced the camera's memory card but he declined to comment on combat operations. The memory card was left behind in a rucksack after the retreat.Russia's defence ministry and the Kremlin did not respond to requests for comment about the video or the extent to which the military relies on the BARS irregulars. A deputy commander of the BARS 9 force that fought in Balakliia, contacted by Reuters, confirmed his position in the unit but declined to comment on its activities.The news agency could not independently determine how representative the conditions in the video were of the operations of the wider BARS force. Russia has made territorial gains along parts of the frontline in recent months. Ukraine, which replaced its military top brass in early February, has repeatedly said it needs more equipment and support from Western allies to prosecute the war. On at least two occasions, President Vladimir Putin has publicly praised the contribution of BARS to Russia's campaign. In a Feb. 21, 2023 annual address to parliament, he said BARS fighters were patriotic volunteers and thanked them for their service.As the war enters a third year, BARS is part of a patchwork of irregular forces that helps Russia avoid an unpopular general draft, the military experts said.Rod Thornton, associate professor at the Defence Studies Department of King's College London, estimated that BARS contributes  between 10,000 and 30,000 men to a Russian force operating in or near Ukraine of about 200,000.  Russia does not  disclose the number of BARS fighters.In recent months, BARS units have been fighting in north-east Ukraine and in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, two of the most bitterly contested fronts, according to updates posted on social media by Dmitry Rogozin, the Moscow-appointed representative for Zaporizhzhia in the upper house of the Russian parliament, and a report from Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.BARS units were useful in plugging gaps in Russian manpower, said Nick Reynolds, Research Fellow in Land Warfare at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), a UK-based defence think tank. "With the Russian state clearly mobilizing for a longer conflict, a system such as BARS does provide an additional avenue from which to mobilize parts of the population, get them trained and provide additional mass," said Reynolds, who reviewed the bodycam footage.He said the group shown in the video appeared "not particularly professional or well trained."      "WE'D BEEN FORGOTTEN" On Sept. 6, 2022, the core of the Russian force in Balakliia was withdrawing in the face of a major Ukrainian counter-offensive. Ukrainian forces have already taken the nearby settlements of Verbivka and Lagery. But the BARS fighters stayed behind. Kuznetsov, aged 29 and from Siberia, was one of the squad leaders of a BARS 9 platoon, in command of around a dozen men, the video showed.The commander of the BARS platoon inside Balakliia ordered Kuznetsov's squad to head to the crossroads and repel Ukrainian forces, the video showed. They knew they would be outgunned by the Ukrainians, conversations caught on camera showed. The heaviest weapons Kuznetsov's squad had at its disposal were machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and mortars. Two members of the BARS force were sent to find a spot with radio signal to contact a nearby artillery unit to get support, according to one of the four fighters who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity.After around 24 hours, they located an artillery unit, but they were already pulling back towards Russia, so could not help, the person said."My first impression was that we'd been forgotten," he said. "It hit me very hard psychologically." TOY SOLDIERS On Sept 7, the last day recorded on the bodycam, Kuznetsov's squad were keeping watch from an apartment building overlooking the crossroads, as radio traffic reported Ukrainian forces approaching.While they waited, Kuznetsov and two of his men played with a toy plane and toy tank, pantomiming a soldier requesting air support.Soon after, a radio report came in saying five Ukrainian Humvees were spotted nearby. Kuznetsov tells his squad: "Right, men, let's get into the mood for a battle."  The video footage ends as Kuznetsov heads downstairs into the street.Two of the fighters told Reuters they did engage the Ukrainian forces, but the Russians were outnumbered.After the retreat, BARS 9 temporarily disbanded, according to the same two fighters, though they said it has since been re-started.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:48:33

 World 

Defense News ,Netherland :- In a major move, the Netherlands is set to sign a crucial security agreement with Ukraine, signaling its commitment to support the country for the next decade. This decision, announced during the NATO summit in Vilnius on July 12 last year, aligns the Netherlands with the G7 countries in establishing security arrangements with Ukraine.The agreement, currently in discussion between the two nations, encompasses provisions for long-term military support, cooperation to bolster the defense industry, enhancing Ukraine's cyber resilience, and fostering interoperability between the Ukrainian army and NATO forces.Netherlands Minister of Defence, Ollongren, emphasized that Ukraine is not only fighting for its own freedom and security but also for the freedom and security of Europe. The security agreement, she stated, symbolizes the Netherlands' commitment to a shared freedom over the next decade, ensuring sustained support for Ukraine.The Netherlands has been actively involved in supporting Ukraine, providing over €2.8 billion in military assistance. This support includes financial contributions to international funds, such as the International Fund for Ukraine, as well as direct deliveries of weapons, ammunition, and equipment from Defence's own stocks, both independently and in collaboration with industry. Deliveries are made in coordination with Ukraine and its allies, showcasing a collective effort.Despite Ukraine's commendable efforts in inflicting heavy losses on Russian forces, the ground situation remains precarious. The country requires significant supplies, especially ammunition, to effectively counter Putin's troops. International support, including the substantial contribution from the Netherlands, plays a pivotal role in meeting these critical needs.Minister Ollongren stressed the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices for security and freedom, noting that Ukraine must overcome Russia's aggression. The Netherlands stands firmly behind Ukraine, recognizing the challenges faced in the liberated regions and the potential struggles in the occupied parts of the country. The commitment to supporting Ukraine is not just about their freedom but also about safeguarding the freedom of nations collectively.In collaboration with Denmark and the United States, the Netherlands leads the air force coalition within the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG). As part of this coalition, the Dutch government has readied 24 F-16 fighter aircraft for delivery. Additionally, Defence is actively working on a comprehensive support package, encompassing spare parts and ammunition, to maintain the operational readiness of these aircraft.The Netherlands' actions are not just about providing assistance; they are a strong message to the Kremlin, underscoring the collective commitment to stand against aggression and support nations fighting for freedom. This 10-year security pact and the ongoing financial and military aid signify the Netherlands' dedication to a secure and free future for Ukraine and the broader European community.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:41:57

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Defense News ,U.S :- A small balloon floating high above Utah caught the attention of fighter aircraft recently, but officials say it's nothing to worry about. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) reported that the balloon was flying between 43,000 and 45,000 feet in the air.NORAD sent fighter jets to check it out, but they quickly determined that the balloon wasn't a danger and couldn't move around on its own. Both NORAD and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concluded that the balloon didn't pose any threat to national security or flight safety.Even though it's not a problem, NORAD will keep an eye on the balloon, just to be sure. According to an unnamed official, the balloon had a box hanging below it, shaped like a cube and about two feet long on each side.This situation is different from last year when the United States took down a large balloon from China that was seen near nuclear weapons sites. China insisted it was a weather research balloon that had drifted off course, not a spy balloon as some suspected.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:20:42

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Defense News ,Ukraine ,UK :- The UK announced on Saturday a new £245 million ($311 million) defence package to help boost the production of "urgently needed artillery ammunition" for Ukraine, two years after war broke out with Russia.Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said Ukraine's armed forces "against all odds" had recaptured large parts of the land seized by Russia in its 2022 invasion."But they cannot win this fight without the support of the international community -- and that's why we continue to do what it takes to ensure Ukraine can continue to fight towards victory," he added.The new funding will be used to "procure and invigorate supply chains to produce urgently needed artillery ammunition to boost Ukraine's reserves," said the Ministry of Defence (MoD).Ukraine has been "particularly noted for its highly effective use of its artillery", which has "proved critical to Ukraine's battlefield successes, continuously degrading Russia's forces and preventing them from making significant breakthroughs," the MoD added.In an update to parliament on Thursday, Shapps confirmed the delivery of an additional 200 Brimstone anti-tank missiles, bringing the total number to more than 1,300.He also announced the UK will co-lead an international coalition that will supply thousands of drones to Ukraine.While the total of Ukraine's military losses remains undisclosed by Kyiv, US officials reportedly estimate that about 70,000 soldiers have been killed and 120,000 others injured.Losses are also heavy on the Russian side, but Moscow appears to be able to fill its ranks through coercion and financial incentives -- on top of having a bigger population.Saturday is the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbour.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:16:39

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The Shahpur Kandi Barrage project, which is a big plan to provide water and electricity on the Ravi River between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, is almost done after facing problems for thirty years. This is a big deal because it changes the direction of 1150 cusecs of water that used to go to Pakistan. Now, it will be used to water more than 32,000 hectares of land in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua and Samba districts.The project started in 1995 when Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao began it. However, there were many delays because the governments of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab were arguing. It wasn't until Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stepped in, in 2018, that the project started again after being stopped for four and a half years.This project, which costs about Rs. 3300 crore, has many benefits:1. Irrigation: 1150 cusecs of water will help grow crops in Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab will get over 5000 cusecs.   2. Hydropower: The project will create 206 MW of electricity, mostly for Punjab.3. Tourism: People are expected to visit the site as it becomes a tourist attraction.Dr. Singh criticized the past governments of Jammu and Kashmir for stopping the project for political reasons, even though it could have helped the Jammu region. He said that because Prime Minister Modi got involved and the project was considered national under Governor’s Rule, it was finished quickly.This is a big step forward in using the Ravi River’s water for farming and making power. It also makes sure that the water is shared fairly between the states.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:13:45

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Defense News ,Ukraine :- In a significant move towards strengthening Ukraine's air capabilities, the Royal Air Force (RAF) has initiated training for the first cohort of Ukrainian pilots. These six skilled pilots are currently undergoing flying and English language training in the UK, marking a crucial step in the international Air Capability Coalition for Ukraine. The goal is to enhance Ukraine's ability to defend its skies through collaborative efforts with allies and partners.The training program began in August, encompassing aviation-specific English language training for the six Ukrainian combat fighter pilots. This language proficiency aims to facilitate effective communication and collaboration during coalition training and support initiatives. Additionally, ten more Ukrainian trainee pilots participated in language training and are continuing their practical elementary flight training, including essential skills like aviation medicine and centrifuge training, in the UK.UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps expressed pride in the RAF's support for the next generation of Ukraine's combat air pilots and ground crew. He highlighted the pivotal role of the UK in building Ukraine's air defenses since the onset of Putin's full-scale invasion. The UK has provided substantial support, including missiles, munitions, radar, and weapons systems, significantly enhancing Ukraine's ability to intercept and destroy incoming threats.Shapps emphasized the collaborative effort to ensure Ukraine's future air force is credible, utilizing the highly capable fourth-generation F-16 fighter jet. The training program is designed to equip Ukrainian pilots with the skills needed for advanced training with partner nations and to align them with NATO standards in flying approaches.During the elementary flight training scheme, pilots are engaged in practical lessons using Grob Tutor aircraft with experienced RAF instructors. The curriculum includes general handling procedures, instrument flying, medium and low-level navigation, and formation flying. Once the RAF training is completed, the pilots will undergo advanced flying training in another Air Capability Coalition country, preparing them for F-16 aircraft operations.The UK Prime Minister confirmed the country's commitment to supporting the Air Capability Coalition by providing basic flying training. Although the UK does not operate F-16 aircraft, Ukraine has chosen to build its future air force around this advanced platform. The UK plans to continue supporting Ukrainian pilots and ground crew throughout 2024.In addition to pilot training, English language training is being provided to Ukrainian aircraft technicians, focusing on engineering. This initiative aims to enable them to effectively engage with coalition training and support efforts. Furthermore, the RAF, in collaboration with the British Army, has been actively involved in training over 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers in the UK.Last year, the UK Defence Secretary announced Operation Interflex, with the aim of training an additional 10,000 Ukrainian recruits in the first half of 2024. This initiative, part of the £4.6 billion worth of UK military support, includes providing long-range missiles, western main battle tanks, and logistical support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The comprehensive support from the UK underscores its commitment to assisting Ukraine in pushing back Russian forces and fortifying its defense capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 15:10:43

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Defense News, Ukraine Russia War :- Ukraine on Saturday marked two years since Russia's invasion, entering a new year of war weakened by a lack of western aid while Russia is emboldened by fresh gains.When Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" at dawn on February 24, 2022, many expected Moscow's victory within days, but Ukraine fought back, forcing Russian troops into humiliating retreats.But Ukraine has suffered setbacks with the failure of its 2023 counteroffensive. The Russian army has in turn built up a position of strength thanks to booming war production, while Ukraine's troops are short of manpower and running low on Western-supplied ammunition for artillery and air defences.President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that decisions on arms supplies have to be "the priority".Saturday's anniversary will see visits by Western leaders including EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, but the overall picture remains bleak for Kyiv due to the US Congress blocking a vital $60 billion aid package. This has come on top of delays in promised European deliveries.US President Joe Biden renewed calls for Republican lawmakers to unblock the additional funding, warning that "history is waiting" and "failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten".'War is our life' Russia is attacking hard in the east, with the destroyed town of Maryinka near Donetsk the latest hotspot after it captured the heavily fortified town of Avdiivka on February 17.Ukraine's economy has also been hit by a border blockade by Polish farmers that Kyiv says threatens exports and has held up deliveries of weapons.In Kyiv, the mood was grim but still defiant as people said they had grown accustomed to wartime conditions."For women of Ukraine, this is our heartache -- for our husbands, for our children, for our fathers," said nutritionist Olga Byrko in Kyiv."I would really like this to end as quickly as possible.""Yes of course we have learned to live with it... now the war is our life," said Yuriy Pasichnyk, a 38-year-old businessman."I think we need to have more weapons so that we can drive this evil spirit out of our land and start rebuilding our Ukraine," said 51-year-old Kostyantyn Gofman.Ukraine needs almost half a trillion dollars to rebuild towns and cities destroyed by Russia's invasion, according to the latest estimate by the World Bank, European Union, United Nations and Ukrainian government.Ukraine has estimated that around 50,000 civilians have been killed.Running out of shellsNeither side has given numbers for military deaths and injured, while both claim to have inflicted huge losses.In August 2023, The New York Times quoted US officials as putting Ukraine's military losses at 70,000 dead and 100,000 to 120,000 injured.Leaked US intelligence in December indicated that 315,000 Russian troops had been killed or wounded.On the eastern front, morale is low as outnumbered and outgunned Ukrainian troops are ceding ground to Russian forces."We are running out of shells and the Russians keep coming. Lots of our comrades are injured -- or worse. Everything is getting worse and worse," said one soldier near Bakhmut, speaking on condition of anonymity.Moscow has massively ramped up its arms production and received drones from Iran, while Kyiv says it has confirmed Russia's use of North Korean missiles.Zelensky said in December the military wanted to draft up to 500,000 more troops. A bill to broaden mobilisation has caused wide public fear.The conflict has thrown Russia into even greater isolation from the West, with the United States and its allies imposing a slew of sanctions.But Putin has brushed off the fallout and hailed the troops as "true national heroes".He has used the war years to rally patriotism and mount an even harsher crackdown on dissent, with few daring to voice opposition to the war.The death in prison of opposition leader Alexei Navalny has removed Putin's arch-foe, and he is set to extend his term in office in elections next month.On the streets of Moscow, most people told AFP they back the soldiers fighting in Ukraine."I'm proud of our men," said 27-year-old Nadezhda, an environmental engineer."Of course I am anxious for them, but it's a pleasant feeling that they are doing great, they are out there fighting for our country."One of the few to give an alternative opinion, was Konstantin, a drama teacher working as a waiter, who said: "I'm against any war. Two years have passed and it annoys me that people can't talk to each other and are still at war."

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 08:04:36

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Defense News ,U.S :- Two powerful U.S. Air Force planes, known as B-1B Lancers, have traveled from their base in South Dakota to Sweden for a special mission called Bomber Task Force 24-2 on February 23, 2024.During this mission, the bomber crews and their support team will work closely with the Swedish Armed Forces, NATO Allies, and other international partners. The goal is to coordinate their abilities and ensure safety commitments in the region overseen by the U.S. European Command.The U.S. frequently demonstrates its dedication to NATO Allies and partners through missions like Bomber Task Force. By doing this, the U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa make sure there is strategic predictability and assurance for Allies and partners. This also helps in deterring potential adversaries by introducing operational unpredictability.These regular deployments of U.S. strategic bombers serve as important training opportunities. They allow American forces to collaborate with Allies and partners, strengthening the collective response in case of any global conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 07:49:15

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Defense News ,Poland ,Russia :- Last month, Russia conducted tests using special electronic systems that caused disruptions in the Global Positioning System (GPS) over eastern Poland, particularly in the Suwałki Gap. This information comes from a report by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI).Aircraft flying over the Baltic region had previously reported issues with their GPS function, and many believed these problems were linked to electronic weapons testing by the Russian Army. On January 16, Russia’s Western Military District Press Service announced that the Baltic Fleet was conducting a military drill to protect command posts from enemy UAV strikes.The drill involved electronic warfare (EW) systems, specifically the RB-341V Leer-3 complex and Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile and gun systems. During the exercise, the EW systems created a protective 'dome' with a radius of several dozen kilometers. About 100 servicemen and 10 vehicles were reportedly part of the event.The RB-341V Leer-3 is an electronic warfare system based on the Orlan-10 UAV. This system can interfere with the GPS system, simulate signals from cellular stations in the GSM 900 and GSM 1800 bands, and send false signals.This wasn't the first time such exercises were held in the Kaliningrad region. Similar disturbances and jamming had been reported in the past two months. In one instance, drills aimed at shutting down the radio frequency of a hypothetical AWACS plane were reported at the end of January.Against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine and Finland's decision to join NATO, it appears that the Kremlin is taking electronic warfare seriously, particularly in defense against UAVs from potential adversaries.On February 17, additional coastal exercises were conducted in Kaliningrad Oblast, with the goal of destroying command posts and satellite communications nodes of a hypothetical enemy. The Iskander-M operational-tactical missile system was used in these exercises.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 07:29:19

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Defense News ,Red Sea :- American forces shot down three attack drones near commercial ships in the Red Sea Friday and destroyed seven anti-ship cruise missiles positioned on land, the US military said. Yemen's Iran-backed Huthis have been targeting shipping for months and their attacks have persisted despite repeated American and British strikes aimed at degrading the rebels' ability to threaten a vital global trade route. Early on Friday, US forces "shot down three Huthi one-way attack (drones) near several commercial ships operating in the Red Sea. There was no damage to any ships," the Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media. In a statement later in the day, CENTCOM said US forces destroyed "seven Iranian-backed Huthi mobile anti-ship cruise missiles that were prepared to launch towards the Red Sea." It said those strikes , carried out between 12:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Sanaa time, were made in self-defense. "CENTCOM forces identified these missiles in Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined that they presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and to the US Navy ships in the region," it said in a statement. The day prior, American forces struck four Huthi drones as well as two anti-ship cruise missiles, CENTCOM said, adding that the weapons "were prepared to launch from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen towards the Red Sea." The Huthis began attacking Red Sea shipping in November, saying they were hitting Israel-linked vessels in support of Palestinians in Gaza, which has been ravaged by the Israel-Hamas war. US and UK forces responded with strikes against the Huthis, who have since declared American and British interests to be legitimate targets as well. Anger over Israel's devastating campaign in Gaza -- which began after an unprecedented Hamas attack on October 7 -- has grown across the Middle East, stoking violence involving Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 07:10:53

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Defense News ,Iran :- Iranian military forces have reportedly killed Ismail Shahbakhsh, a senior commander of the Jaish al-Adl militant group, along with some of his companions in Pakistan's territory. This incident comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and Pakistan, following a series of events that have strained their relationship.Jaish al-Adl: A Persistent ThreatJaish al-Adl, designated as a "terrorist" organization by Iran, is a Sunni group that has operated in Iran's southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan since its formation in 2012. The group has been responsible for numerous attacks on Iranian security forces over the years. In December, Jaish al-Adl claimed responsibility for an attack on a police station in Sistan-Balochistan that resulted in the deaths of at least 11 police personnel.Missile Strikes and RetaliationThe recent killing of Shahbakhsh follows a series of events that have heightened tensions between Iran and Pakistan. Last month, both countries conducted missile strikes against each other's territories, targeting alleged "terror units." Iran's missile and drone strikes in Pakistan aimed to destroy two "important headquarters" of Jaish al-Adl, leading to casualties, including children, as reported by Al Arabiya News.Notably, tensions between the two nations escalated after Tehran and Islamabad carried out missile strikes against each other targeting 'terror units'.Iran carried out missile and drone strikes in Pakistan on the late night of January 16, to destroy two "important headquarters" of Jaish al-Adl (Army of Justice). Islamabad alleged that the strikes killed two children and injured three girls, Al Arabiya News reported, citing Tasnim News Agency.Pakistan withdrew its ambassador from Iran on January 17 and announced that it would not allow the Iranian envoy visiting his home country at that time to return to protest a "blatant breach" of its sovereignty.The next day, on January 18, Pakistan launched strikes inside Iran in a retaliatory attack. Islamabad said it targeted the hideouts used by 'terrorist militant organizations,' namely the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF).However, later, both countries agreed on the return of ambassadors of both countries to their respective posts and also decided to mutually work for 'de-escalation' of tensions, Geo News reported.Diplomatic Fallout and De-escalation EffortsIn response to the missile strikes, Pakistan withdrew its ambassador from Iran, protesting what it called a "blatant breach" of its sovereignty. However, both countries have since agreed to de-escalate tensions. They have agreed on the return of ambassadors to their respective posts and have expressed a commitment to work towards reducing tensions.The recent developments highlight the complex and fragile nature of the relationship between Iran and Pakistan, as both countries navigate security challenges and regional dynamics.(With inputs from ANI)

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 06:51:17

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Defense News ,Sweden :- Saab recently agreed to a deal with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to supply Hungary with four more Gripen C fighter aircraft. This comes as an addition to the initial contract signed in December 2001, which involved 14 Gripen C/D fighters for the Hungarian Air Force. The Hungarian Ministry of Defence and FMV signed the contract amendment on February 23, 2024.With these four additional aircraft, Hungary will soon have a total of 18 Gripen C/D fighters, enhancing its ability to safeguard both Hungarian and NATO airspace.Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, expressed excitement about Hungary having one of Europe's most capable air forces with the Gripen fighter. He also mentioned Saab's commitment to working closely with the Hungarian Government and defense industry.Saab is currently under contract with FMV to provide support for Hungary's Gripen aircraft, and they are prepared to offer further upgrades and assistance for the Hungarian fighters beyond the year 2035.In addition to the fighter aircraft deal, Saab and the Hungarian Ministry of Defence have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing high-tech industrial areas and enhancing fighter aircraft capabilities. This partnership also involves supporting the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for VR technologies in Hungary.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:40:43

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Defense News , Russia :- President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that 95% of Russia's strategic nuclear forces had been modernised and that the Air Force had just taken delivery of four new supersonic nuclear-capable bombers.Putin made the comments in a statement released to coincide with Russia's annual Defender of the Fatherland Day, which celebrates the army, a day after he flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber.The Russian leader praised soldiers fighting in Ukraine in what he called a "special military operation", hailing them as heroes battling for "truth and justice."But he devoted much of his speech to what he said were the achievements of the military-industrial complex.His message: that Russia's nuclear triad - its strategic land, sea and air nuclear capabilities - were up to date, being constantly modernised, and in good order."Incorporating our real combat experience, we will continue to strengthen the Armed Forces in every possible way, including ongoing re-equipping and modernisation efforts," Putin said."Today, the share of modern weapons and equipment in the strategic nuclear forces has already reached 95 percent, while the naval component of the 'nuclear triad' is at almost 100 percent," he added

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:16:23

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Defense News ,Singapore :- ST Engineering has introduced a cool military robot called Taurus, which can team up with a flying drone for better spying. The robot was on display at the Singapore Air Show 2024. Taurus is a four-wheel drive robot that can be customized for different military jobs and can go to tricky places.This robot can work together with another big vehicle called Terrex s5. Taurus can do many tasks like moving stuff around, helping injured people, and keeping an eye on places that are hard to get to with regular military vehicles. It even has a robotic arm for lifting things.The smart people at the Singapore tech company finished making Taurus last year, but they didn't have anyone to buy it then.Taurus can be set up in different ways depending on what the operators need. It can carry a four-legged robot to see even farther, or it can have a generator to keep going for a long time.But what's really catching everyone's attention is the spying setup. Taurus can carry a drone called DrN-15, which can fly for up to 40 minutes and can go beyond where the operator can see. This drone is super smart; it can detect obstacles and avoid crashing into things. Plus, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore gave it the thumbs up for flying.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:04:46

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Defense News ,U.S :- Boeing recently handed over the first MQ-25 Stingray aerial refueling drone to the US Navy for testing. The drone will undergo a thorough evaluation of its airframe integrity. This delivery comes after production delays, which pushed back the initial operational capability (IOC) of the carrier-based aircraft to 2026.The IOC is crucial as it allows the low-rate production of the aircraft and approves it for limited operations. The US Department of Defense's Office of the Inspector General raised concerns about the Navy's initial plan to declare IOC without completing necessary developmental tests and evaluations.Urgent Need to Assist F/A-18sThe MQ-25 is urgently required in the fleet to relieve F/A-18 fighters from their refueling duties and for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. With greater fuel carrying capacity and longer operational distances compared to the F/A-18, the MQ-25 will enhance the Navy's carrier-based aircraft range, reducing costs, and improving readiness. The Navy aims to deploy a fleet of 73 Stingray drones.Key Specifications of MQ-25 Stingray DroneThe Boeing MQ-25 Stingray is an unmanned aerial refueling drone designed for the US Navy. Here are its key specifications:Primary Function: Aerial refuelingContractor: BoeingPropulsion: Rolls-Royce AE3007N turbofan engineLength: 51.0 ft (15.5 m)Wingspan: 75.0 ft (22.9 m) (wings spread), 31.3 ft (9.5 m) (wings folded)Height: 9.8 ft (3.0 m) (wings spread), 15.7 ft (4.8 m) (wings folded)Maximum Takeoff Weight: 72,000 lb (32,659 kg)Fuel Capacity: 15,000 lb (6,804 kg)Operational Range: 500 nm (926 km)Ferry Range: 1,500 nm (2,778 km)Service Ceiling: 30,000 ft (9,144 m)Endurance: 9 hours on stationThe MQ-25 can deliver up to 15,000 pounds of fuel to various aircraft, including the F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, and F-35C Lightning II. It also has the capability to transport cargo and perform other missions. As the world's first operational carrier-based unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the MQ-25 is expected to significantly enhance the Navy's carrier strike groups' operational range and flexibility.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 14:52:24