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Defense News - The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is under congressional pressure to expedite the development of interceptors capable of countering hypersonic weapons, as outlined in the recently passed fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. Contrary to the agency initial estimates of delivering a Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) capable of intercepting hypersonic missiles by the early 2030s, Congress mandates that the program achieve initial operational capability by the end of 2029.This directive requires the MDA not only to demonstrate the interceptor efficacy in countering hypersonic weapons through tests but also to deploy and field a minimum of 12 GPIs by the specified deadline. The legislation further stipulates that the program must attain full operational capability by the end of 2032, with a subsequent requirement for the Pentagon to deploy "not fewer than 24" GPIs by the end of 2040.To enhance this initiative, Congress has allocated an additional $225 million in funding, supplementing the agency fiscal year 2024 request of $209 million for hypersonic defense development. The legislation also empowers MDAs director to enter into cooperative development agreements with international partners, opening the possibility of collaboration with countries such as Japan, akin to the cooperative effort for the Navy’s SM-3 Block IIA program.Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, both participating in an MDA-led competition, are individually developing hypersonic weapons interceptors, each having received approximately $61 million in funding to date.Designing interceptors capable of thwarting hypersonic missiles, which can travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound and maneuver during the glide phase of flight, poses significant challenges. These interceptors are intended to be integrated into the U.S. Navy Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense destroyers, utilizing the standard vertical launching system and modified Baseline 9 Aegis Weapon System to detect, track, control, and engage hypersonic threats.The urgency to develop effective hypersonic defense measures stems from the progress made by adversaries such as Russia and China, who are advancing in this domain. Noting the potential security risks, experts emphasize the need for the United States to accelerate its hypersonic defense efforts. Despite allocating approximately $4 billion annually to catch up in offensive hypersonics, the U.S. dedicates a comparatively modest sum of around $250 million per year, less than 10% of the offensive budget, to hypersonic defense.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-19 04:40:01

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Defense News - Leaders from Southeast Asia and Japan reached a consensus on Sunday to enhance collaboration in maritime security in response to the escalating assertiveness of Beijing, notably demonstrated in recent confrontations with Philippine vessels. Beijing expansive claims over the South China Sea, a crucial trade route, and its increasing use of vessels to enforce these claims have raised concerns among regional nations and Washington.While not explicitly naming China, Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) affirmed their commitment to "strengthen dialogue and cooperation for the maintenance of maritime security and safety, maritime order based on the rule of law," according to a joint statement released after a summit in Tokyo.As a staunch ally of the United States, Japan, which faces its own territorial disputes with China, has been bolstering defense spending and expanding security partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region. On Saturday, Japan announced plans to deepen ties with Malaysia and allocate 400 million yen ($2.8 million) for "warning and surveillance" equipment.In the preceding month, Japan committed to assisting the Philippines in procuring coastguard vessels and supplying a radar system. Discussions are underway to permit troop deployments on each other soil. Last week, Japan expressed "serious concern" over "dangerous actions" following a tense encounter between Philippine and Chinese vessels at contested reefs, involving a collision and the use of water cannons by Chinese ships.Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, in an interview with Japan NHK broadcaster on Saturday, noted that the situation in the South China Sea has become increasingly complex. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida remarked on Sunday, "We are at a turning point in history, and the free and open international order based on the rule of law is facing serious challenges."Kishida emphasized Japan commitment to addressing global crises alongside ASEAN countries, referring to them as linchpins of the free and open Indo-Pacific—a term used by the US and its allies.In addition to maritime security, Japan and ASEAN leaders agreed to enhance supply chain resilience and deepen cooperation on climate change across various sectors, including energy, critical minerals, space, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.During a dinner he hosted on Saturday, Kishida announced the launch of an initiative for the "next generation automotive industry," aiming to maintain ASEAN position as the world leading hub for automotive production and export.Notably absent from the ASEAN summit, which marked 50 years of ties with Japan, was Myanmar. The country has been excluded from high-level meetings since the military coup in 2021. President Marcos stressed the need for proactive engagement to address the worsening violence and the plight of the people of Myanmar.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 14:45:32

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Defense News - The establishment of a Russian naval base in the breakaway region of Abkhazia in Georgia, along the Black Sea, introduces a new layer of complexity to the already tense situation in the region amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.In the midst of frequent clashes involving Ukrainian drones, Russia Black Sea Fleet warships, and missile strikes on the naval base in Sevastopol, the construction of the base in Ochamchire emerges as a focal point in the broader Great Power rivalry unfolding in the Caucasus.Abkhazia, officially recognized as part of Georgia but under the control of Russia-aligned separatist forces since the 1990s, has historical significance. The base genesis traces back to 2009, a year after the Russia-Georgia war over South Ossetia, when Russia unveiled its plans for the Ochamchire base.The development of the Ochamchire base, evident in satellite images revealing ongoing construction, is rooted in two key elements of regional geopolitics. First is Georgia concern about the base potentially being used to target Ukraine, making it a legitimate target for counterattacks. Second is the suspicion that the base represents a strategic move against the Western-backed Anaklia Project, part of the Middle Corridor aimed at facilitating cargo transportation between Asia and Europe, bypassing Russia.Georgian political figures expressed their outrage over the violation of their sovereignty in a deal signed between the separatist Abkhazia administration and the Russian government in September. In early November, 50 Georgian Members of Parliament appealed to the European Union and NATO for a unified stance against Russia, fearing that the base could entangle Georgia in Russia war in Ukraine and undermine Tbilisi Black Sea port plans.Despite the condemnation and concerns, Georgia diplomatic and security officials downplay the immediate threat posed by the base. They emphasize that even if construction begins, it will take at least three years to complete. The base is situated 500 kilometers south of Novorossiysk along the Black Sea coast.Abkhazia de facto leader, Aslan Bzhania, confirmed the agreement with Russia on the permanent naval base, framing it as essential for defense and security. While Georgia was granted EU "candidate status," the intentions behind Russia establishment of the base remain uncertain—whether geo-economic and commercial or military in nature.Given Russia strong response to Ukraine NATO aspirations, deterring further NATO expansion eastwards, talks of Georgia joining the Membership Action Plan (MAP) seem unlikely. The Ochamchire base could serve as a strategic point for Russia on the Black Sea coast, enhancing defense capabilities for both Russia and Abkhazia.The geopolitical implications are intricate, with Russia aiming to deter anti-Russian sentiments within Georgia and prevent opposition to normalized ties with Abkhazia. The ruling Dream Party of Georgia, with a majority in Parliament, has refrained from supporting resolutions against the Ochamchire base, dismissing them as provocative and politically motivated.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 14:31:57

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Defense News - On Saturday, the Egyptian air force successfully intercepted and downed a drone near the Sinai Peninsula, not far from the Israeli border, as reported by state-linked media. Witnesses observed a second unidentified flying object crashing further along the coast.Yemen Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for launching multiple drones towards southern Israel. A Houthi spokesperson, communicating through the platform formerly known as Twitter, stated that the operation aimed at "sensitive" Israeli sites was part of their broader effort to compel Israel to cease what they termed "aggression" in Gaza.According to Egyptian television channel Al-Qahera, an unidentified flying object crashed in Egyptian territorial waters near Dahab. Witnesses reported that air defenses promptly detected and engaged the flying object. Despite these efforts, the origin of the drone remains unknown, as per information from a security services source.In recent weeks, Houthi rebels have intensified their actions in support of Gaza, targeting shipping in the Red Sea, irrespective of its destination, and causing significant disruptions to the crucial shipping route between Asia and Europe. Two global firms have announced the redirection of their vessels due to these attacks.The Houthi rebels had previously launched drones toward southern Israel following a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7. This event triggered a comprehensive offensive against the militant group governing Gaza. In late October, two drones caused injuries to six people in Egypt when they came down in the Sinai Peninsula.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 14:23:57

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Defense News - The US State Department has granted approval to the Taiwanese government for the acquisition of tactical information systems equipment, marking a significant development in bolstering the island nation defense capabilities. The proposed foreign military sale, valued at $300 million, encompasses life cycle support for Taiwan Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) infrastructure.In addition to providing spare and repair parts, the sale includes comprehensive support, such as personnel training and software and hardware upgrades. The commitment involves the dispatch of 26 US government personnel and 83 contractor representatives to Taiwan, who will offer engineering and technical assistance.This initiative aims to fortify Taiwan ability to address both current and future threats, enhancing operational readiness and ensuring a secure flow of tactical information. Notably, Taiwan faces the imminent threat of invasion from China, which asserts territorial claims over the island and has expressed a willingness to use force for reunification with the mainland.The proposed sale aligns with US legislation mandating support for Taipei defense needs, as highlighted by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency. This approval underlines President Joe Biden commitment to Taiwan security, marking the 12th arms sale to the island nation during his tenure.Anticipating the sale approval, the Taiwanese defense ministry foresees a significant boost in the effectiveness of its joint combat command and control systems, resulting in heightened battlefield awareness. Recognizing the timing of the sale as crucial, the ministry points to ongoing military operations by China around Taiwan, posing a serious threat to the safety of the Taiwanese people.Reports indicate that the sale is expected to take effect within one month, solidifying the United States ongoing support for Taiwan defense capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 14:13:59

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Defense News - Finland is set to solidify its defense partnership with the United States through the signing of a crucial Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) this week, granting the U.S. access to 15 military bases in NATOs newest member. The Finnish defense ministry announced this development on Friday, emphasizing that Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will ink the agreement in Washington DC on Monday. However, parliamentary approval in Finland remains a necessary step.The Foreign Ministry underscored the strategic significance of the DCA, stating that it will fortify Finland defense capabilities by facilitating the presence and training of U.S. forces, along with the prepositioning of defense material within Finland territory. Furthermore, the agreement is expected to contribute to the implementation of NATOs deterrence and defense initiatives.Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen is slated to attend the signing ceremony in Washington, where she will meet with Secretary of State Blinken. This move aligns with the broader regional context, as the United States recently entered into a comparable pact with Sweden on December 6, providing access to 17 military bases.The geopolitical landscape shifted for Finland and Sweden after Russia invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, prompting both nations to depart from their longstanding military non-alignment stance and apply for NATO membership. While Finland successfully joined NATO in April, Sweden awaits the ratification of its bid by NATO members Hungary and Turkey.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 14:06:18

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Defense News - Reports are circulating that the notorious global terrorist, Dawood Ibrahim, is allegedly in critical condition at a hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, with unconfirmed speculations pointing to poisoning as the cause of his sudden health decline. The 65-year-old fugitive, one of India most wanted criminals, has long found refuge in Karachi under the protection of Pakistan ISI, evading global law enforcement agencies, including India RAW.Linked to a range of criminal activities such as organized crime, terrorism, and drug trafficking, Dawood Ibrahim is infamous as the mastermind behind the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, resulting in over 250 casualties and thousands of injuries.The circumstances surrounding his hospitalization remain mysterious, as both Pakistani and Indian officials have yet to officially confirm the news. Speculation about poisoning adds complexity to the situation, intensifying the intrigue.Information about Dawood health is primarily disseminated through social media channels. Recent reports suggest significant health challenges, including the amputation of two toes in a Karachi hospital due to gangrene, a claim previously dismissed as fake by his close associate Chhota Shakeel two years ago.Despite limited coverage in Pakistan official media—restricted to outlets such as The Dawn newspaper and Geo TV—news of Dawood Ibrahim alleged poisoning is gaining traction on Twitter (X). Many Indian users are expressing both celebration and skepticism, with some mistakenly crediting India National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for the development. However, it is crucial to note that the Government of India and Indian intelligence agencies have not made any official statements on this matter.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 13:56:05

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Defense News - North Korea conducted its third intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test powered by solid fuel on Monday, according to South Korean officials. While the specific missile was not identified by Seoul, North Korea had previously showcased its solid-fuel Hwasong-18 ICBM at a military parade in February and tested it in April and July of the same year.In addition to these ICBM tests, North Korea recently revealed successful trials of solid-fuel engines for a new type of intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).Solid-fuel technology provides several advantages, enhancing North Korea missile capabilities. Unlike liquid-fuel missiles, solid-fuel missiles do not require immediate fueling before launch. They are easier and safer to operate, demand less logistical support, and are more challenging to detect, contributing to increased survivability.Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, highlighted the responsiveness of solid-fuel capabilities during times of crisis.Solid-fuel technology involves a mixture of fuel and oxidizer, where metallic powders like aluminum serve as the fuel, and ammonium perchlorate acts as the oxidizer. These components are bound together by a resilient material and packed into a metal casing. When the propellant burns, it produces thrust, lifting the missile from the launch pad.While solid fuel has historical roots in Chinese fireworks, it gained significant advancements in the mid-20th century, notably with the development of more powerful propellants by the United States. North Korea currently utilizes solid fuel in various small, shorter-range ballistic missiles.The use of solid fuel in ICBMs dates back to the early 1970s when the Soviet Union introduced the RT-2, followed by France S3 (SSBS), a medium-range ballistic missile. China began testing solid-fuel ICBMs in the late 1990s. South Korea has also claimed to possess "efficient and advanced" solid-propellant ballistic missile technology, albeit in smaller rockets.Comparatively, liquid propellants offer greater propulsive thrust and power but demand more complex technology and additional weight. Solid fuel, on the other hand, is dense, burns quickly, and remains stable in storage for an extended period without degrading—overcoming a common issue associated with liquid fuel.North Korea has asserted that the development of its new solid-fuel ICBM, the Hwasong-18, will "radically promote" its nuclear counterattack capability. Despite the first launch, South Korea defense ministry downplayed the significance, suggesting that North Korea would require "extra time and effort" to master the technology.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 13:48:47

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Defense News - On December 17, the Russian defense ministry announced the successful loading of a new Yars intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into a silo at the Kozelsk base in the Kaluga region, located southwest of Moscow. The 23-meter-long RS-24 (Yars) missile is equipped to carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs), allowing it to effectively deliver multiple nuclear warheads to distinct targets.The official statement from the defense ministry highlighted the event at the Kozelsky compound, where the Strategic Missile Forces undertook the loading process of the Yars ICBM into a silo launcher. Accompanying the announcement was a video clip depicting the colossal missile transportation and its subsequent insertion into the silo, set to an intense backdrop of rock music.Russia presently maintains the world largest arsenal of nuclear weapons, with the United States as its closest competitor. Together, these two nations exercise control over more than 90% of the global nuclear weapons stockpile. According to data from the Federation of American Scientists, Russia possesses approximately 5,889 nuclear warheads, while the United States follows closely with about 5,244. Notably, both nations have approximately 1,670 strategic nuclear warheads deployed in their respective arsenals.The loading of the Yars ICBM underscores Russia ongoing commitment to bolstering its strategic capabilities, contributing to the geopolitical landscape where nuclear arsenals continue to play a pivotal role. The release of the video with accompanying music serves as a visual testament to the nation advancements in missile technology, capturing the attention of global observers amid the broader context of nuclear arms competition.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 05:39:35

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Defense News - On Monday, South Korea military reported that North Korea had conducted its second missile launch in less than 12 hours, firing what seemed to be a long-range ballistic missile. This action came in response to a U.S.-led display of force against the nuclear-armed state, according to statements from Pyongyang.The missile, launched from an area near the capital Pyongyang towards the sea off the North east coast, prompted concern from both South Korea and Japan. South Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch, while Japan defense ministry observed the missile falling into the sea west of Hokkaido about an hour after liftoff.Details regarding the missile flight range and maximum altitude were not immediately available. Japan NHK broadcaster suggested it could be a long-range missile, citing information from Japan Defense Ministry. Notably, the international airport serving Pyongyang is suspected to be associated with missile assembly activities.This development follows a short-range ballistic missile launch by North Korea on the previous night, covering approximately 570 km (350 miles) from an area near Pyongyang and landing in the ocean. North Korea, in response to the U.S.-South Korea military maneuvers, issued a vehement statement, characterizing it as a "preview of a nuclear war," particularly denouncing the presence of a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea.Amidst escalating tensions, the United States, following high-level discussions with South Korea, issued a warning that any nuclear attack by North Korea would result in the end of the regime. South Korea condemned the missile launch as a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, emphasizing the ban on ballistic missile technology, which North Korea rejects as an infringement of its right to self-defense.The North Korean defense ministry, in a statement, criticized what it referred to as "military gangsters" in the U.S. and South Korea, blaming them for heightening tensions through drills, displays of force, and nuclear war planning. The arrival of the U.S. nuclear-powered submarine Missouri in the South Korean port city of Busan on Sunday was specifically highlighted.This statement was accompanied by condemnation of a meeting between South Korean and U.S. officials in Washington, which North Korea viewed as a provocative move indicative of efforts to streamline war preparations. Notably, the increased frequency of visits by U.S. nuclear submarines to South Korea and joint military drills between the U.S. and South Korea has been met with strong opposition from North Korea, further intensifying regional tensions.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-18 05:21:07

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Defense News - The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) conducted a series of operations targeting approximately 200 Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip in the last 24 hours, as reported by The Times of Israel.The IDF revealed that one of the operations involved the search of a building near the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) school. During the raid, they uncovered machinery used in the construction of rockets intended for attacks against Israel. Additionally, three tunnel shafts were found in the vicinity of the school.In Gaza City Shejaiya, the Paratroopers Brigade conducted raids on several apartments utilized by Hamas, discovering firearms, explosive devices, and other military equipment. A 15-meter-long tunnel was also located and subsequently destroyed in an airstrike.Meanwhile, in southern Gaza, the Commando Brigade targeted a Hamas weapons depot located in the residence of an operative. The IDF described the depot as "significant" and crucial for rearming activities in the region. In a separate operation, the Commando Brigade identified and directed airstrikes at seven armed Hamas operatives in the Khan Younis area.Soldiers from the Nahal Infantry Brigade 931st Battalion uncovered a hidden Hamas tunnel beneath a baby crib in a residence in Jabaliya, northern Gaza. The IDF emphasized the strategic importance of this underground passage as a Hamas attack tunnel, which was later destroyed by combat engineers.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-17 16:04:56

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Defense News - On Saturday morning, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the successful interception of a swarm of Houthi drones over the Red Sea by the USS Carney, a guided missile destroyer. In a statement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CENTCOM revealed that the USS Carney engaged and neutralized 14 unmanned aerial systems launched in a coordinated drone wave from Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen. The tweet emphasized that the intercepted drones were identified as one-way attack drones and that the operation resulted in no injuries or damage.While the announcement did not specify the intended target of the drone wave, tensions have escalated since November 9, with Iran-backed Houthi forces launching ballistic missiles and aerial drones towards Israel. Notably, all these attempts have either been successfully intercepted by Israeli or American air defense systems or have fallen short of reaching their intended destinations.Beyond the immediate conflict, Houthi rebels stationed along the Yemeni coast pose a threat to shipping in the Red Sea, particularly as they navigate the Bab el-Mandeb Straits. This narrow maritime passage, situated between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa, serves as a crucial route for the majority of the world oil traveling from the Indian Ocean towards the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean Sea.Of concern is the recent declaration by the Houthis that they would target any ship bound for Israel in the Red Sea, irrespective of ownership. This threat has materialized in the form of attacks and harassment directed at various vessels, including the Galaxy Leader. Presently, the cargo ship, along with its crew of 25, is being held hostage in the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-17 15:48:11

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Defense News - Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed concerns about the implications of Finland recent NATO membership, cautioning about potential "problems" in the bilateral relationship. In an interview published on Sunday, Putin announced Moscow response, revealing plans to establish a new military district in north-west Russia.Putin highlighted that Finland decision to join NATO occurred amidst Moscow Ukraine offensive and suggested that this move by the West had strained relations. He stated, "They (the West) dragged Finland into NATO. Did we have any disputes with them? All disputes, including territorial ones in the mid-20th century, have long been solved." Despite previous resolutions, Putin asserted that the new development would introduce challenges, prompting Russia to create the Leningrad military district and concentrate specific military units in the region.The timing of these statements coincided with Finland decision to close its border with Russia again, accusing Moscow of orchestrating a migrant crisis on the border. Moscow had previously issued warnings about potential counter-measures in response to Helsinki NATO accession.Addressing the broader context, Putin refuted the notion of Russia being inclined towards war with NATO countries. He responded to recent comments by US leader Joe Biden, who suggested that Moscow "won"t stop" in Ukraine if successful there. Putin dismissed such rhetoric as a justification for a misguided policy on Russia, emphasizing that Moscow has no interest, whether geopolitical, economic, or military, in engaging in conflict with NATO countries.Despite these assurances, the Kremlin ongoing Ukraine campaign has heightened concerns about potential Russian aggression in the eastern flank of NATO. The situation remains dynamic, with geopolitical tensions impacting the relationship between Russia and its neighbors, particularly in the aftermath of Finland NATO alignment.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-17 15:35:12

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Defense News - After grappling with a massive economic crisis that plagued the island nation for nearly two years, Sri Lanka has finally marked a positive turn in its economic trajectory, as reported by the Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror.The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Sri Lanka in the third quarter of 2023 exhibited a noteworthy growth of 1.6 percent compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, according to data from the Census and Statistics Department. This achievement follows a prolonged recession that began in the first quarter of the prior year.Despite this encouraging development, the overall economic outlook remains cautiously pessimistic, with the full-year growth anticipated to be modestly negative, as stated by the Daily Mirror. The Census and Statistics Department second-quarter national accounts officially confirm the emergence of the economy from the protracted recession.The initial signs of a severe economic crisis surfaced in the first quarter of 2022, hinting at the potential for a prolonged downturn spanning several years. Nandalal Weerasinghe, the Governor of the Sri Lankan central bank, attributed the achievement of stability, earlier than expected, to a series of significantly challenging policy measures. These measures included historically high policy rate increases, debt repayment suspensions, tax hikes, import controls, and market-based pricing for energy and utilities, as reported by the Daily Mirror.An interesting facet of this economic turnaround is the simultaneous growth observed in all three major sectors—agriculture, industries, and services—during the second quarter, following multi-quarter contractions. Agriculture returned to positive territory from the fourth quarter of the previous year, with a growth rate of 3.0 percent in the third quarter. Industries registered a 0.3 percent growth, and services showed a 1.3 percent growth. Taxes less subsidies also increased by 13.6 percent in the third quarter.The sector-wise contributions to the economy were reported as 7.8 percent for agriculture, 28.1 percent for industries, 57.5 percent for services, and 6.5 percent for taxes less subsidies, according to the Daily Mirror.However, despite the positive developments in the third quarter, the cumulative economic contraction for the first nine months of 2023 is projected to be 4.9 percent compared to the same period last year. This contraction, although more moderate than the 7.9 percent decline observed in the first half of the year, underscores the lingering challenges faced by the Sri Lankan economy.The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected a decline of 3.6 percent in the Sri Lankan economy for the entire year of 2023. The country, with a population of 22 million, had experienced economic contraction for nine consecutive quarters since the third quarter of 2021. In April of the previous year, Sri Lanka defaulted on its $46 billion external debt, leading to a critical shortage of foreign exchange to fund essential imports.The economic crisis reached its nadir in the fourth quarter of the previous year with a contraction of 12.4 percent. However, the pace of contraction gradually slowed to 11.5 percent in the first quarter of the current year and further to 3.1 percent in the second quarter.While expectations suggest a potential acceleration in growth for the fourth quarter compared to the third, the overall economic forecast remains negative due to the contraction experienced in the first half of the year. The Central Bank has refrained from providing a specific growth number, according to the Daily Mirror.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-17 14:54:00

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Defense News - A nuclear-powered submarine from the United States, identified as the USS Missouri (SSN-780), made its way to the South Korean port city of Busan on Sunday, as reported by the South Korean navy, according to Yonhap news agency. This arrival follows the second Nuclear Consultative Group meeting between South Korea and the U.S. held in Washington on Friday.During the meeting, a joint statement emphasized the unequivocal stance that any nuclear attack launched by North Korea against the United States or its allies would be deemed unacceptable, leading to the downfall of the Kim regime. Earlier in the week, a senior South Korean official had expressed concerns that North Korea might conduct a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile in the coming month.The frequency of visits by U.S. nuclear submarines has notably increased, departing from the previously infrequent occurrences. This shift is attributed to agreements between Seoul and Washington aimed at augmenting the presence of U.S. military assets to serve as a deterrent against North Korea. In November, another U.S. nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Santa Fe, visited a port on the South Korean island of Jeju.In a related effort to bolster deterrence against North Korea nuclear and missile programs, the USS Carl Vinson, a U.S. aircraft carrier, had also docked at a port in Busan the previous month.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-17 04:15:23