BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS CENTER
As North Korean and Chinese threats rise, US looks to lock in defense partnerships with Asian allies
The United States concluded its inaugural multidomain exercise with Japan and South Korea in the East China Sea, marking a milestone in strengthening regional security alliances. Dubbed Freedom Edge, the exercise focused on enhancing joint capabilities in missile defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surveillance amid escalating threats from North Korea and China. Despite geopolitical tensions, the drills aimed to foster interoperability among allied forces, crucial for coordinated responses to regional challenges. The exercises underscore efforts by the Biden administration to solidify partnerships amidst growing military dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
Taiwan detects 35 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels near its territory
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported detecting 35 Chinese military aircraft and seven naval vessels near Taiwan from Wednesday to Thursday morning. Among these, 33 aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan's ADIZ. In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems. This incident is part of a pattern of increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan, with 371 aircraft and 204 vessels detected so far in June. Additionally, Taiwan's Coast Guard monitored four Chinese vessels near the Kinmen Islands, reflecting ongoing tensions and China's assertive policies towards Taiwan.
AI's hunger for power can be tamed
Tech firms investing in AI must prioritize energy-efficient algorithms to combat environmental impact and rising power consumption, shifting away from current energy-intensive models towards more sustainable practices.
US urges Israel's defense minister to avoid Lebanon escalation
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israel to avoid escalating tensions in Lebanon during a meeting with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They discussed efforts to free hostages in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of a diplomatic resolution. Tensions have risen with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Israel is winding down the Gaza conflict, redeploying forces to the northern border. President Joe Biden proposed a ceasefire and hostage release plan on May 31, but Hamas has its own demands. Gallant also met with CIA chief Bill Burns to discuss hostage negotiations.
Taiwan detects 15 Chinese military aircraft, 6 naval ships around nation
The Ministry of National Defense reported 15 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels near Taiwan over the weekend. Eight aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. Taiwan responded by deploying aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems to monitor the activity. This adds to a pattern of increased Chinese military presence around Taiwan, with 301 aircraft and 183 naval/coast guard vessels tracked this month alone. China's actions are part of its strategy to assert sovereignty over Taiwan.
Russia-North Korea pact could dent China's influence, but Beijing still holds sway over both
China appears concerned as Russia and North Korea strengthen ties through a new defence pact, potentially challenging China's influence over North Korea. Experts suggest China is struggling to respond due to conflicting goals of maintaining peace in Korea while countering the US. China's weak public response may indicate uncertainty on how to proceed. Concerns include Russia aiding North Korea's weapons program and the potential for a new Cold War alliance.
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Russia obliterates front-line Ukraine towns by retrofitting bombs and expanding its air base network
A devastating Russian bombing of Kharkiv's Epicenter store left 19 dead and unleashed shockwaves across Ukraine. Using retrofitted Soviet-era bombs, Russia's attacks have intensified, targeting cities like Avdiivka, Chasiv Yar, and Vovchansk. Investigators hope an unexploded bomb will trace the supply chain for these destructive weapons. Despite restrictions on hitting Russian airfields, Ukraine remains determined to defend its cities. Survivors, like salesperson Nina Korsunova, vow to stay in their hometowns, refusing to be driven away by terror.
India, US working for training ISRO astronauts at NASA's Johnson Space Center
India and the US are collaborating on the Artemis programme, planning joint efforts at the International Space Station, and strengthening space cooperation through the Advanced Domains Defense Dialogue.
Ukraine says it struck one of Russia's most advanced warplanes
Ukraine hit a modern Russian warplane at an air base far from the front lines, using Western-supplied weapons. Satellite photos confirm the strike on a Su-57 fighter plane at the Akhtubinsk base.
US test-launches hypersonic missile that can hit Moscow in 30 minutes. Are we inching toward World War 3?
The nuclear hypersonic missile Minuteman III can hit a target in Russia from the US in 30 minutes. It has been test-launched at a time when the Russia-Ukraine War is escalating.
Tether acquires $100 million stake in US-Listed bitcoin miner Bitdeer
The two firms entered into a subscription agreement for a private placement of 18.6 million Class A ordinary shares, Bitdeer said in a statement on Friday, which generated $100 million in gross proceeds. There was also a warrant to purchase up to five million in additional shares at $10 per share. The private placement closed on Thursday.
Top US and Chinese defence officials seek to restore communications as tensions rise in Indo-Pacific
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun for the first time in person since 2022. The two discussed tensions in the Indo-Pacific region at the Shangri-La defence forum. The US emphasised freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. China accused the US of inflaming regional security. Both countries are restoring defence contacts and plan to resume military-to-military communications.
Meta says generative AI deception held in check — for now
Social media giant Meta says its bid to thwart coordinated disinformation campaigns created through ever-improving generative AI is working, despite widespread concerns. Meta said it had seen "threat actors" put AI to work to create bogus photos, videos, and text, but no realistic imagery of politicians, according to the report.
Climate tech has a promising future in India: Hisham Mundol, Chief Advisor, Environmental Defense Fund, India
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) wants India to become the first major economy to industrialise without carbonising, says Hisham Mundol, Chief Advisor, Environmental Defense Fund, India.
Meta identifies networks pushing deceptive content likely generated by AI
Meta found 'likely AI-generated' content on Facebook and Instagram, including comments praising Israel's handling of the Gaza war. The content was attributed to a Tel Aviv-based political marketing firm, STOIC.
In a growing economy, new defensive sectors tend to emerge: 5 tiles and ceramic and home makers stocks with upside potential of up to 41%
Many times the word, defensive stocks is used on the street. Most of the time it is FMCG, pharma and others which are referred to as defensive stocks. The reason being that the demand for these companies is steady and is not impacted much even when there is any slowdown in an economy. The question is in an economy which is growing faster and new areas of consumption are coming up every second day, where the demand from being seasonal and cyclical has reached a stage where in all economic conditions it stays above single digit, shouldn't those also be considered as defensive and valued accordingly. Probably the Indian economy has reached a stage where the demand for tiles, ceramic and home building products, ex-cement has reached a level where in worst cases it will not go below a point.
Xi's bugbear: The man behind China's latest shock-and-awe maneuver
Taiwan's new leader, Lai Ching-te, has provoked China into military drills around the island in response to his inauguration and calls for Beijing to cease threats. China views Taiwan as a rebel province, while Lai asserts the country's separate status. The military escalation raises fears of a possible invasion.
China launches military drills around Taiwan as 'punishment'
China initiated two days of military drills around Taiwan in response to the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, who emphasized Taiwan's sovereignty. These exercises aim to encircle Taiwan and serve as a warning against pro-independence forces and external interference. Taiwan condemned the drills as threats to regional peace but remains prepared to defend its security. Despite the tensions, Lai has signaled a willingness to engage in dialogue with Beijing and maintain peaceful relations.
Taiwan detects Chinese incursion with military vessels around nation
Taiwan's Ministry of Defence has detected Chinese military vessels near the nation, including seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels and four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels. The Taiwan Armed Forces (ROCArmedForces) have monitored the situation and responded accordingly. This development marks a concerning escalation in tensions between Taiwan and China, which has long claimed sovereignty over the island.
Defensive stocks: FMCG is “passe”; 8 stocks from two sectors may be called “new defensives” with upside potential of up to 32%
1994 to 2024 is a difference of 30 years, but there is one thing which has remained constant, advice to move to defensive stocks when markets are volatile or there is an event risk. Four questions need to be asked; first, what is a defensive stock? Second, is a stock which was considered a defensive in 1994 when the Indian economy was just opening, still a defensive stock in 2024 ? Third, should there be a new definition of defensive stock in 2024 ? Last but not the least, what are the new defensive sectors or stocks?
Hospital chain Artemis Medicare raises Rs 330 crore from IFC
Artemis Medicare Services has raised Rs 330 crore from IFC to increase bed capacity and introduce advanced specialty services. The company plans to set up cardiac care centers, expand in tier 2 and 3 cities, and in the Delhi NCR region through brownfield and greenfield opportunities. Artemis operates 713 beds in the Delhi NCR region and runs seven centres under the Artemis Cardiac Care brand in a joint venture with Philips.
Russian President Putin appoints Sergei Shoigu as secretary of Russia's national security council
The appointment comes after Putin proposed appointing Andrei Belousov as the country's defense minister in place of Shoigu, who has served in the post for years. The reshuffle comes as Putin starts his fifth presidential term and as the war in Ukraine drags on for the third year. In line with Russian law, the entire Russian Cabinet resigned on Tuesday following Putin's glittering inauguration in the Kremlin.
Tech giants start to treat SE Asia like next big thing
Southeast Asia transforms into a tech hub, attracting major investments from global tech giants like Apple and Microsoft. The region's young population drives growth in video streaming, online shopping, and AI, positioning it as a key player in the tech industry.
Chinese warships have been docked in Cambodia for 5 months, but government says it's not permanent
Cambodia's Defense Ministry insisted Wednesday that the months-long presence of two Chinese warships in a strategically important naval base that is being newly expanded with funding from Beijing does not constitute a permanent deployment of the Chinese military in the country.
From oil rigs to military fortresses: US Navy's innovative defence solution
The US Navy is converting surplus oil rigs into mobile missile defense and resupply bases to counter missile threats in the Pacific, particularly from China. The Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) concept, unveiled at Sea Air Space 2024 expo, will enhance air defense capabilities and aid in strike missions, with potential dual roles in missile defense and resupply. While experts debate their feasibility and effectiveness, the project signifies a strategic shift in military strategy to adapt to evolving threats and technological advancements.
Iraq's PMF force says base was attacked, army investigates
Blast at Kalso base in Iraq kills Iraqi security force member linked to Iran-backed groups. Abdul Aziz al-Mohammedawi visited. Incident in Babil province amid heightened Middle East tensions after Israeli attack in Isfahan.
Google unveils Arm-based data center processor, new AI chip
Google's tensor processing units (TPUs) are one of the few viable alternatives to the advanced AI chips made by Nvidia, though developers can only access them through Google's Cloud Platform and not buy them directly.
Newly enlarged NATO starts drill in Finland, Norway and Sweden in defense of its Nordic turf
NATO has launched a large-scale exercise, Nordic Response 2024, involving over 20,000 soldiers from 13 nations, including Finland, Norway, and Sweden. This marks Finland's largest participation in a foreign exercise since joining NATO in April 2023. The drill, conducted in harsh Arctic winter conditions, aims to strengthen collective defense capabilities in the region. The exercise, part of Steadfast Defender 24, demonstrates NATO's commitment to defending its territory and comes amid heightened tensions with Russia. The drill includes land, sea, and air components and underscores the strategic importance of the High North for NATO.
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