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Defense News ,Israel :- In a significant blow to the Russian navy, the Kremlin acknowledged on Tuesday that a Ukrainian attack had successfully damaged a warship in the occupied Crimean port of Feodosia. Ukraine air force claimed responsibility for the destruction of the Novocherkassk landing ship, a move described by President Volodymyr Zelensky on social media as the vessel now joining "the Russian underwater Black Sea fleet."President Vladimir Putin received a detailed report from Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu regarding the damage to the large landing ship, according to Dmitry Peskov, the president spokesperson. The Russian defence ministry attributed the damage to guided aerial missiles.Ukraine military asserted that its air force carried out a missile attack on the Russian naval ship in the eastern Crimean port. The Ukrainian defence ministry, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), declared that the "Novocherkassk landing ship was destroyed in Feodosia tonight," accompanied by an unattributed photo depicting flames and smoke in the port at night.Expressing satisfaction with Ukraine aviation, the ministry stated, "Ukraine aviation did an excellent job. Crimea is Ukraine. There is no place for the occupier fleet here." President Zelensky emphasized, "The occupiers will not have a single peaceful place in Ukraine."This attack follows Ukraine strike on the Black Sea fleet headquarters in Sevastopol in September, prompting Moscow to relocate warships to ports further east. British defence minister Grant Shapps asserted on Twitter that "this latest destruction of Putin navy demonstrates that those who believe there a stalemate in the Ukraine war are wrong!" He added, "Russia dominance in the Black Sea is now challenged."Despite this success, Ukraine reported a setback on the eastern front, with Commander-in-chief Valeriy Zaluzhny revealing a troop withdrawal in the town of Maryinka, near the key Russian-held city of Donetsk.Ukraine air force detailed that the tactical aviation attacked the Novocherkassk with cruise missiles around 0030 GMT in the area of Feodosia. Videos on social media captured a fire on the horizon in the port area, followed by a loud explosion and multiple subsequent explosions.Ukraine armed forces disclosed that "on board of the ship were Shahed drones that Russia uses for attacks on Ukrainian cities." Notably, Ukraine has frequently targeted the Russian military in Crimea, sinking the cruiser Moskva, the flagship of the Black Sea fleet, in April 2022.The Novocherkassk, previously deployed by Russia in its military intervention in Syria, suffered casualties in the attack on Feodosia. According to Sergei Aksyonov, the governor of the Russian-annexed peninsula, one person was killed, and two others were wounded. The city port was cordoned off after an "enemy attack" caused a "detonation" and fire, damaging six buildings, mostly with broken windows. Some local residents were evacuated as a result of the incident.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-27 04:41:54

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Defense News ,Israel :- Israeli forces launched a ground offensive into urban refugee camps in central Gaza on Tuesday, expanding their operations after bombarding Palestinian communities and issuing evacuation orders. Gaza main telecom provider announced a "complete interruption" of services in the besieged territory.The military declaration of a new battle zone raises concerns about increased destruction in an already devastating conflict. Israel, pledging to crush the ruling Hamas militant group, has been engaged in heavy urban fighting in northern Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, pushing Palestinians into smaller areas for refuge.Despite US calls to minimize civilian casualties and international pressure for a cease-fire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared an escalation of the conflict, stating, "We see you (Hamas terrorists), and we will get to you."The ongoing offensive, labeled one of the most devastating military campaigns in recent history, has resulted in over 20,900 Palestinian casualties, with the Health Ministry in Gaza reporting 240 deaths in the past 24 hours. The UN human rights office highlighted over 100 Palestinian lives lost in middle Gaza since Christmas Eve.In response to the conflict, Israel announced the suspension of automatic visas for UN employees, accusing the international body of complicity with Hamas. This move could further limit aid efforts in Gaza.Residents in central Gaza reported intense bombing in the Nuseirat, Maghazi, and Bureij camps, which house Palestinians displaced since the 1948 war. The military ordered the evacuation of a territory in central Gaza, affecting nearly 90,000 people before the war, now sheltering over 61,000 displaced individuals.Amid regional spillover, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant described Israel facing a "multi-arena war" on seven fronts, including Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran. Iranian-backed militia groups across the region intensified attacks in support of Hamas.In Yemen, Houthi rebels attacks disrupted trade in the Red Sea, prompting a US-led naval operation. The Israeli military reported shooting down a hostile aerial target above the Red Sea. Meanwhile, Hezbollah and Israel exchanged missiles, airstrikes, and shelling on the Israeli-Lebanese border.Gaza humanitarian crisis worsened, with over 85% of the population displaced and a quarter facing starvation under Israel siege. The UN Security Council called for expedited aid deliveries, but progress has been limited.In response to Hamas October 7 attack in southern Israel, Israel aims to free more than 100 hostages still in captivity. President Joe Biden and Qatar ruling emir discussed efforts to secure the release of hostages and facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.Israel attributes the high civilian death toll in Gaza to Hamas tactics, citing the use of residential areas and tunnels by militants. At the Kerem Shalom border crossing, Israeli forces handed over about 80 unidentified bodies, buried in a mass grave, raising concerns of possible "war crimes" investigations.The Israeli military reported the deaths of two more soldiers, bringing the total killed since the ground offensive began to 161. The conflict continues to unfold, with the international community urging a peaceful resolution.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-27 04:35:50

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Defense News , UK :- In a recent development, Britain (UK) has announced its decision to dispatch the Royal Navy warship, HMS Trent, to the waters off Guyana, marking a strategic move in response to the renewed territorial tensions between the South American nation and Venezuela. The deployment comes in the wake of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro revival of his country century-old claim to the oil-rich Essequibo region, a move that has significantly heightened regional concerns.Scheduled to arrive later this month, HMS Trent will engage in diplomatic and military activities in the region, according to the UKs Ministry of Defence (MoD). The decision to send the patrol vessel is seen as a proactive measure to demonstrate solidarity and support for Guyana, a former British colony grappling with the territorial dispute.While both Venezuela and Guyana recently agreed not to resort to force in resolving the disagreement, tensions have been escalating, particularly after Guyana issued licenses for oil exploration in the disputed Essequibo region. The region, constituting about two-thirds of Guyana territory, has long been claimed by Caracas.Although the vessel will not dock in Georgetown, the capital of Guyana, due to shallow ports, the move is intended as a symbolic gesture to emphasize diplomatic and military backing. UK Foreign Minister David Rutley, who visited Guyana earlier this month, emphasized the importance of respecting sovereign borders and affirmed London commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of Guyana through international cooperation.Venezuelan President Maduro recent referendum, in which officials claim 95 percent of voters supported declaring Venezuela the rightful owner of Essequibo, has further heightened tensions. Maduro has initiated legal maneuvers to establish a Venezuelan province in Essequibo and has instructed the state oil company to issue licenses for oil extraction in the disputed region.Guyana President Irfaan Ali has strongly condemned these actions, labeling them a "grave threat to international peace and security." As the situation unfolds, the deployment of HMS Trent serves as a visible manifestation of Britain commitment to supporting its former colony in the face of escalating territorial disputes in the region.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 15:06:51

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Defense News , U.S :- In response to a surge in demand from end-users, DroneShield has launched the DroneSentry-C2 Tactical (DroneSentry-C2T) on December 19. This latest addition to DroneShield portfolio is a robust and on-the-edge version of their primary Command-and-Control solution, DroneSentry-C2. Designed to meet the evolving needs of operators, DroneSentry-C2T offers real-time Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) situational awareness through a single device or a network of DroneShield and third-party devices.The C2T features an intuitive satellite map-based display, facilitating 2-way communication between users and a distributed network of counter-drone devices. This allows for seamless drone detection relayed from a sensor network to a central point, displayed on a rugged user tablet. Additionally, where permitted by law, the system provides the capability to activate drone defeat systems.Existing DroneShield users can enhance their capabilities with the DroneSentry-C2 Tactical as an optional add-on feature. Furthermore, the DroneSentry-C2T introduces a new entry-level C2 solution for customers who may not require the full DroneSentry suite.Angus Bean, DroneShield Chief Technology Officer, explained the significance of the release: "The DroneSentry-C2 Tactical solution aligns with contemporary defense technology trends, emphasizing enhanced situational awareness and decision-making tools for operators at "the edge." This allows ground personnel to adopt a more strategic view of their operational areas."As both a sensor manufacturer and a developer of C2/sensor integration systems, DroneShield leverages its position as a global leader in C-UAS handheld systems. The release of DroneSentry-C2T marks the world first command-and-control system tailored for a handheld C-UAS environment.Bean highlighted the practical applications of handheld C-UAS devices, citing examples like Ukraine, where these devices offer a cost-effective, mass-scale drone detection and defeat capability. DroneSentry-C2T facilitates the networking of these devices, allowing for an unlimited number of connections, providing a central point of awareness and response, either in the hands of a single master user or distributed among multiple users in the field.The product has successfully completed trials with the US Department of Defense and is immediately available for purchase.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 14:53:11

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Defense New , Iraq :- In a disturbing turn of events on Monday, a military base in northern Iraq, housing both US and anti-jihadist coalition forces, fell victim to a drone attack, according to statements from US and Iraqi officials. The incident near Arbil airport in Iraqi Kurdistan resulted in injuries, as confirmed by Yehia Rasool, the Iraqi prime minister spokesman for military affairs, though specifics were not disclosed.Speaking on condition of anonymity, a US military official verified the drone attack targeting "US and coalition forces" at the airbase, emphasizing that assessments of injuries and damages were still pending.Shortly after this initial attack, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for launching another drone against a base near Harir, northeast of Arbil, which also houses US and coalition forces. This loosely formed coalition of armed groups is affiliated with the Hashed al-Shaabi coalition, comprised of former paramilitaries now integrated into Iraq regular armed forces.Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7, attacks on the coalition have surged, marking a total of 103 incidents against US troops in Iraq and Syria, as per a tally by US military officials. The majority of these attacks have been claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a group opposing US support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.In a related development in early December, the US embassy in Baghdad experienced rocket fire, the first such incident since the commencement of the Gaza conflict. Although unclaimed, several arrests were made, with some individuals found to have links to the security services,

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 14:46:49

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Defense News , Europe :- In a significant move to bolster the cyber security infrastructure for mission-critical applications, Clavister, a prominent European cybersecurity specialist, has placed an order worth SEK 97 million for MilDef cutting-edge hardware. This substantial investment follows a successful prototype order for customized and resilient network equipment, marking a crucial step in fortifying the Clavister Cyber Armour—a comprehensive cybersecurity system tailored for defense platforms. The anticipated deliveries are scheduled between 2024 and 2029.In collaboration with MilDef, Clavister has actively participated in the joint development of an integrated hardware and software solution tailored for deployment in leading vehicle platforms, which are manufactured by a global industry player. This strategic partnership exemplifies the synergy between Nordic innovation in hardware and software, combining MilDef robust hardware with Clavister advanced software expertise to create optimal conditions for the next level of cyber security.Daniel Ljunggren, CEO of MilDef, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing its significance in the context of joint Nordic development efforts in hardware and software. The unique combination of MilDef durable hardware and Clavister cutting-edge software positions the partnership as a key contributor to the modernization of European defense capabilities.Clavister CEO, John Vestberg, highlighted the enduring and robust relationship between Clavister and MilDef, emphasizing the critical role played by their collaboration in addressing the heightened need for cybersecurity in defense forces undergoing increased digitization. MilDef expertise in ruggedized hardware complements Clavister leadership in cyber software, making them an ideal partnership for shaping the future of defense capabilities.The newly ordered product, an integral component of the Cyber Armour system, is engineered to meet the expanded requirements of customers. Designed as a potent military-graded security gateway product, it is poised to seamlessly integrate into the electronics and communication structure of highly digitalized defense platforms. This collaborative effort stands as a testament to the commitment of Clavister and MilDef to deliver state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions that meet the evolving demands of modern defense systems.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 14:40:02

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Defense News , Saudi Arabia :- In a recent development, the US State Department has given the green light to Saudi Arabia request for comprehensive military training for its air force, aimed at addressing current and future threats. The Foreign Military Sale (FMS) totaling $1 billion encompasses flight training, technical expertise, and professional military education for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) and related forces.As part of this agreement, the US will deploy mobile training teams, a technical assistance field team, specialized trainers, and English language instructors to enhance the capabilities of Saudi military aviators. The move is seen as a strategic step to bolster the security of the Middle Eastern nation, recognized as a key stabilizing force in the region.Under the terms of the deal, a total of 339 training personnel will be provided by the US government or contracted vendors. Beyond flight and technical training, the program will encompass a broad spectrum of instruction, ranging from command and control to civilian casualty avoidance. Additionally, courses on the laws of armed conflict and human rights will be offered to prepare Saudi forces for potential future conflicts.The State Department indicates that the agreement may also involve medical support training, simulators, and other related equipment. Once finalized, this comprehensive training initiative is expected to enhance the interoperability of the RSAF with its US counterparts, contributing to the overall proficiency of the Saudi Arabian air force.This strategic move coincides with reports suggesting that the US is contemplating the resumption of offensive arms sales to Saudi Arabia. With the Middle Eastern country reportedly adhering to a US-brokered truce with Yemen for nearly two years, insiders suggest that the US is poised to reciprocate the goodwill by resuming arms sales. A US official, familiar with the matter, conveyed, "So, the Saudis have met their end of the deal, and we are prepared to meet ours, returning these cases to regular order through appropriate congressional notification and consultation," as reported by Reuters.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 14:25:38

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Defense News ,Thailand :- In a strategic move, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is set to supply the Royal Thai Navy with its state-of-the-art Sea Mini-POP sensor payloads. These advanced systems are poised to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Navy patrol vessels, equipping them to navigate through challenging and adverse conditions with greater efficiency.The Sea Mini-POP, developed by IAI, stands out as a versatile multi-sensor electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payload. This cutting-edge technology includes a thermal camera with continuous optical zoom, a color camera featuring continuous daytime zoom, and a laser rangefinder. Additionally, the system incorporates advanced image processing, precise positioning, and focusing capabilities, ensuring a comprehensive and sophisticated solution for maritime operations.Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI, expressed confidence in the company global impact, citing recent transactions as evidence of meaningful collaborations on an international scale. The trust placed by nations worldwide in IAI innovative solutions, positioned at the forefront of technology, is a testament to the company commitment to excellence. Levy emphasized IAI dedication to sustaining economic growth while supporting the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and security forces, underscoring the company role in serving customers during both routine operations and times of conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 05:06:20

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Defense News , Romania :- In a significant stride towards fortifying its air defense capabilities, Romania recently conducted the inaugural live-fire test of the Raytheon PATRIOT air defense system. The testing ground was the Capu Midia Training Range in Constanța County, where four demonstrations unfolded during a comprehensive two-day exercise. This crucial event served as a litmus test for evaluating the preparedness of the Romanian Armed Forces in operating the advanced missile system.Facilitated by the US Army Security Assistance Command and its Security Assistance Training Management Organization (SATMO), the testing exercise marked a pivotal moment in Romania military landscape. The Patriot missile system, procured through a USD 3.9 billion foreign military sale from the US in 2017, signifies a substantial leap forward in enhancing the country defensive capabilities.Under the terms of the contract, Romania acquired the PATRIOT Configuration 3+, the most sophisticated iteration of the system, alongside an undisclosed quantity of GEM-T and PAC-3 MSE interceptor missiles.The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) provided detailed insights in July 2017, revealing that Romania had requested 56 PATRIOT MIM-104E Guidance Enhanced Missile-TBM (GEM-T) missiles, 168 PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles, 28 M903 launching stations, and seven PATRIOT Configuration-3+ Modernized Fire Units. The comprehensive sale package also included radar systems, engagement control stations, power plants, and various other essential equipment and support.Romania strategic move to bolster its air defense capabilities through the deployment of the PATRIOT system underscores its commitment to national security and readiness to confront contemporary threats effectively.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 05:00:31

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Defense News , Spain :- A consortium of Spanish companies, including Escribano Mechanical & Engineering and Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, has clinched a lucrative contract from the Spanish Military Procurement Directorate. Valued at over EUR 700 million, the contract is earmarked for the production and supply of a state-of-the-art Spanish Rocket Launcher, drawing inspiration from the Israeli Elbit Systems PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System), locally known as Silam in Spain.The collaborative effort is set to deliver a comprehensive package to the Spanish Army, with the initial rollout scheduled for 2024, including launchers and training rockets. Subsequently, live ammunition will be provided from 2025 onwards, with the final batch of rockets expected to be delivered by 2028. Alongside the twelve launchers, the comprehensive package encompasses support vehicles and systems, diverse command post vehicles, recovery vehicles, high mobility reconnaissance vehicles, munition vehicles with cranes, and a specialized rocket launcher platform designed for ammunition testing and validation.The PULS, a heavy truck-mounted launcher, boasts versatility by accommodating various rocket types with ranges of up to 300 km. The launcher is equipped with two PODS, each tailored for specific rocket types, such as the Accular 122mm, Accular 160mm, EXTRA, and Predator Hawk, offering capabilities at varying ranges. Notably, the PULS has garnered international interest, with reports confirming its adoption by the Royal Army of the Netherlands.Expanding on Elbit Systems innovation, the company recently introduced the Light PULS, a lightweight airborne version of the rocket launcher system. Crafted to address the challenges faced by Special Forces operating in remote and high-risk locations, beyond the reach of conventional artillery fire support, the Light PULS is heralded as a groundbreaking solution. Elbit Systems notes that this lightweight version can be easily transported by a C-130 or similar aircraft, enhancing its operational flexibility in diverse and challenging environments.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 04:54:59

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Defense News ,South Korea :- Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has recently entered into a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to provide its cutting-edge ADA system for the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) program. This strategic partnership involves the implementation of IAIs ADA system, a state-of-the-art GPS Anti-Jamming solution designed to counteract interferences from multiple jammers emanating from various directions, ensuring the LAH platforms resilience.Having been selected by the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) in 2017, IAIs ADA system has already been slated for installation across diverse platforms of the Republic of Korea Air Force, Navy, and Army. The comprehensive contract encompasses system installation, rigorous testing, and airworthiness certification for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. As an integral part of the LAH program, KAI has successfully integrated the ADA system onto LAH prototypes.The versatility of the ADA system lies in its seamless integration capabilities with existing navigation solutions across airborne, surface, and maritime platforms, as well as guided munitions. Operating concurrently in L1 and L2 bands, supporting C/A and P(Y) signals, and featuring provisions for M-code waveform, the ADA system offers a robust and adaptable solution.IAI, with a remarkable track record spanning over 20 years, has consistently delivered top-tier GNSS anti-jamming solutions tailored to meet the most demanding requirements. The ADA system, a mature and battle-proven technology, has received certification, demonstrating effectiveness against all forms of jamming and ensuring uninterrupted operation in challenging environments. Rigorous testing in operational scenarios with multiple jammers worldwide has attested to the system exceptional performance.Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI, expressed pride in the company impactful collaborations on the global stage, emphasizing the trust placed by nations worldwide in IAIs innovative solutions. He underscored the company commitment to economic growth and unwavering support for the IDF and security forces in both conflict and routine operations.Boaz Levy further highlighted the significance of the recent contract, marking a significant milestone in collaboration as IAI prepares to deliver its Adaptive Defence Antenna (ADA) system for the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) 2nd Phase Production in the Republic of Korea. This reaffirms IAI commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of global defense initiatives.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-26 04:38:34

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Defense News , Europe :- In a significant development on November 17, 2022, Sweden approved the donation of RBS 70 MANPADS to Ukraine, signaling a crucial move in bolstering the country air defense capabilities amidst the ongoing conflict. This donation marked the beginning of an intensive training program for Ukrainian soldiers in Sweden, focusing on the versatile and rapid-deployment RBS 70 air defense system.Since the deployment of RBS 70 MANPADS in Ukraine, the system has played a pivotal role in strengthening the nation air defense. Noteworthy successes include the downing of a Russian Ka-52 helicopter and neutralizing cruise and patrol missiles, showcasing the system adaptability and precision in diverse combat scenarios.The RBS 70, developed by Saab Bofors Dynamics, stands out for its portability and effective range, providing a vital asset in Ukraine defense arsenal. Its successful performance in combat not only highlights its capabilities but also emphasizes Sweden supportive role during the conflict.This MANPADS features a laser beam riding guidance system, ensuring high accuracy and minimizing the risk of missing targets. Its capability to engage various aerial threats, including helicopters, drones, and fixed-wing aircraft, underscores its versatility in modern warfare. The short reaction time of the RBS 70 is crucial for rapid engagement against sudden aerial attacks, safeguarding high-value assets and ground forces.With an effective firing range of approximately 8 kilometers and the ability to engage targets at altitudes up to 5 kilometers, the RBS 70 provides comprehensive coverage against a wide array of aerial threats. Operated by a two-person crew, its straightforward targeting and firing process enhances its reliability in combat situations.In conclusion, the RBS 70s combination of mobility, accuracy, all-target capability, rapid response, broad engagement range, and altitude coverage positions it as a robust and reliable air defense solution for modern military forces. Its adaptability to different operational requirements and seamless integration with other defense systems make it a key player in countering evolving threats.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-25 15:03:26

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Defense News , Iran :- In response to a recent U.S. allegation, a spokesperson for Iran foreign ministry dismissed on Monday the assertion that Iran had targeted a chemical vessel near India as "groundless."The Pentagon had announced on Saturday that a drone launched from Iran had attacked a chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean."The motor vessel CHEM PLUTO, a Liberia-flagged, Japanese-owned, and Netherlands-operated chemical tanker was struck at approximately 10 a.m. local time (6 a.m. GMT) today in the Indian Ocean, 200 nautical miles from the coast of India, by a one-way attack drone fired from Iran," stated a Pentagon spokesperson to Reuters.This incident has brought attention to the escalating tensions in the region and heightened risks to shipping lanes, following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.Both the Iranian government and its allied militant forces in Yemen have openly criticized Israel military operations in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the loss of thousands of Palestinian lives, according to aid monitors.The Pentagon statement noted that this marked the "seventh Iranian attack on commercial shipping since 2021."Fortunately, there were no casualties in this recent attack, and a brief fire on board the tanker was swiftly extinguished. The incident occurred a mere 200 nautical miles from the coast of India.As of now, a spokesperson for the Iranian delegation at the United Nations has not responded to requests for comments on the matter.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-25 14:51:17

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Defense News , Ukrain Russia war :- In a recent overnight assault, Russia deployed a total of 31 drones and 2 missiles against Ukraine, primarily focusing on the southern regions. The Ukrainian military disclosed on Monday that their air defenses successfully neutralized 28 drones and intercepted both missiles.The Ukrainian Air Forces shared the outcomes of the air combat on the Telegram messaging app, announcing, "In the Odesa, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kirovohrad, and Khmelnytskyi regions, the Ukrainian Air Force and defense forces effectively eliminated 28 Shahed attack drones."The origin of the drone attacks was traced back to Russian-occupied Crimea, according to the military. Debris from the downed drones caused damage to technical facilities in the Odesa port, including an administrative building and a warehouse rendered inoperable.A warehouse in the Kherson region also caught fire, but the military assured that no injuries were reported in the incident.The military reasserted previously released information regarding the downing of two Russian military aircraft. One incident occurred near the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol on the Sea of Azov in southern Ukraine, while the other took place near the occupied Donetsk city in eastern Ukraine.On a related note, both Russian and Ukrainian military officials confirmed the downing of enemy aircraft in different sectors along the 1,000-km-long (621-mile) front of their ongoing 22-month-old war on Sunday.Despite the Ukrainian Air Force report, Reuters could not independently verify the information at the time of this report, and there has been no immediate comment from Russia.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-25 14:42:10

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Defense News , Red Sea :- In a concerning development off the coast of India, a Japanese-owned chemical tanker fell victim to a drone strike on Saturday, with the Pentagon pointing fingers at Iran as the responsible party. The attack occurred approximately 370 kilometers off the Indian coast and is indicative of a growing threat to commercial shipping routes beyond the Red Sea.This incident is part of a series of drone and missile strikes orchestrated by Yemen Iran-backed Houthi rebels on a crucial Red Sea shipping lane, aligning their actions with the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict that began on October 7. Despite the vessel, MV Chem Pluto, flying under a Liberian flag and being operated by a Dutch entity, the Pentagon explicitly accused Iran of directly targeting ships, marking the first such acknowledgment since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.While no casualties were reported, the MV Chem Pluto, owned by a Japanese company, was reportedly Israel-affiliated, en route from Saudi Arabia to India. The Dutch company managing the vessel has connections to Israeli shipping magnate Idan Ofer, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.The Indian navy promptly responded to the situation, dispatching an aircraft to ensure the safety of the ship and its crew. Simultaneously, an Indian navy warship was sent to provide assistance as needed.This incident follows a pattern of attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, prompting major companies to reroute vessels around the southern tip of Africa. The Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for over 100 drone and missile attacks on merchant vessels involving more than 35 countries. In response to the heightened threat, the United States claimed to have shot down four drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.As tensions escalate, the Iranian delegation at the United Nations has not yet commented on the allegations. Notably, last month witnessed a suspected drone attack on an Israeli-owned cargo ship in the Indian Ocean, further raising concerns about the security of maritime trade routes. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for global shipping and diplomatic relations.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-25 06:49:21