MILITARY BUILD UP
New Cuban radar site near US military base could aid China spying, think tank says
Cuba is constructing a new radar site near Santiago de Cuba, capable of monitoring U.S. military activities at Guantanamo Bay, according to satellite imagery analyzed by a Washington think tank. The facility, set east of Santiago de Cuba and due to be operational soon, could track signals up to 8,000 miles away. The development raises concerns about China's strategic interests, despite denials from Cuban officials. This site adds to suspicions of increased Chinese surveillance capabilities in Cuba, targeting U.S. military and space operations.
Chinese troops are going to stay at the disputed site along India border for longer period: US Report
China-India Border Tensions: Amid global focus on Ukraine, Gaza, and the South China Sea, tensions on the China-India border remain significant. Reports from the US Army War College and the US Annual Threat Assessment highlight the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) strategic positioning and infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Aksai Chin. These developments indicate a prolonged readiness for potential conflict, underscoring the importance of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Poised along the Indian border, Chinese troops are there for the long haul
The Strategic Studies Institute of the US Army War College published an in-depth report examining PLA activity along the mountainous border in Aksai Chin opposite India in 2020-21. It considered how the PLA rapidly moved troops into the region as violence flared between Chinese and Indian troops in Galwan Valley on 15-16 June 2020. However, Blasko, a former US defence attache in Beijing and Hong Kong, also provided a useful assessment of current and future conditions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Zelenskyy appeals to West to relax targeting limits for Ukraine as glide bombs hammer front line
Recent drone footage released by Ukraine's military shows bodies in the civilian area of Toretsk amid heavy Russian bombardment. Ukrainian rescue services have scaled up evacuation efforts as Russian glide bombs devastate the town. President Zelenskyy reported over 800 glide bomb attacks in the past week and called for increased military aid to counter Russian aircraft. Russian bombs recently struck a postal warehouse in Kharkiv, killing one and injuring nine, while another attack in Vilniansk killed seven civilians and wounded dozens. Russian officials reported Ukrainian shelling injuries and downed drones in various regions.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange pleads guilty in deal with US that secures his freedom, ends legal fight
Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, pleaded guilty to obtaining and publishing U.S. military secrets, ending a prolonged legal battle over press freedom and national security. The deal, struck in Saipan, allows Assange to return to Australia without U.S. prison time. Assange had been jailed in the UK since 2019, resisting extradition. The plea resolves a Trump-era criminal case and highlights Assange's role in revealing military misconduct. His wife expressed relief, and Assange's supporters celebrate his impending freedom.
Russia keeps up pressure on the front line as Ukraine gets a boost from Western military aid
Russian attacks on Ukrainian positions in the eastern town of Chasiv Yar are disrupting troop rotations and supply deliveries, soldiers report. As Ukraine awaits new Western military aid, Russia seeks to exploit its numerical and firepower advantage. Civilian targets are also heavily bombed, leading to ICC arrest warrants for former Russian defense leaders for alleged war crimes. Despite intense fighting, Ukrainian forces strive to hold Chasiv Yar, crucial for its strategic location. The U.S. and Czech Republic are bolstering Ukraine's ammunition supplies, while a prisoner swap was mediated by the UAE.
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US military looks for West Africa 'Plan B' after Niger ousting
Air Force General C.Q. Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is visiting Africa to explore options for maintaining a U.S. presence in West Africa after Niger decided to expel the U.S. military in favor of partnering with Russia. Brown mentioned opportunities to work with countries in West Africa to possibly relocate capabilities from Niger to other locations. However, replicating the U.S. counter-terrorism presence in Niger seems unlikely. The changing political landscape in the region, with several coups, presents challenges for U.S. strategy. The U.S. is evaluating its goals and relationships in the region amid these changes.
Kuwait identifies bodies of 45 Indians, 3 Filipino nationals; vows to promptly investigate the incident
Kuwaiti authorities have identified the bodies of 45 Indians and three Filipinos killed in a tragic fire at a building housing foreign workers in Mangaf. At least 49 workers were killed, and 50 others injured in the incident. DNA tests are being conducted, and an Indian Air Force aircraft is on standby to repatriate the bodies. Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah leads an inspection campaign on illegal properties. Emir Sheikh Meshal has ordered financial aid and repatriation of the deceased. The public prosecutor has launched an investigation.
France racing to build giant army camp for Paris Olympics security
France is constructing the largest army camp on its mainland since World War II to accommodate thousands of soldiers for the Paris Olympics. The camp, built at a record pace, will house 4,500 troops and provide amenities like green army bunk beds and massive mess halls. The soldiers will be tasked with ensuring security during the Olympics from July 26 to August 11.
Modi 3.0 takes aim: Blueprint to make the Indian armed forces future ready
India faces growing security challenges from China and Pakistan, prompting calls for a robust and integrated defence strategy. This includes bolstering nuclear deterrence, enhancing military capabilities, and pushing for systemic reforms in defence production and organization. The new government must prioritize these measures to ensure national security and strategic autonomy in the coming years.
Iran helicopter crash shows Tehran's reliance on an aging fleet as well as its challenges at home
While the cause of the May 19 crash remains unknown, the sudden death of the hard-line protege of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei exposed the contradictions and challenges facing the country's Shiite theocracy. The Iranian military investigators probing the crash have previously faced international criticism over their report on troops shooting down a Ukrainian airliner in 2020.
NATO nations 'need to build more' military equipment: top general to AFP
NATO must boost military equipment production to counter Russia's growing threat, said General Christopher Cavoli at the D-Day 80th anniversary in Normandy. Cavoli emphasized the need to expand the industrial base and highlighted the recent Steadfast Defender 24 exercise involving 90,000 troops. With a shift towards territorial defense, NATO is adapting to modern conflicts' high demand for equipment. Cavoli stressed the importance of quick hardware production and learning from the Ukraine war, including innovative drone use, with a new "lessons learned" center in Poland.
US trying to build Asia-Pacific version of NATO: Chinese defence official
A Chinese defense official criticizes the US' attempt to build an Asia-Pacific version of NATO through its Indo-Pacific strategy, calling it doomed to fail due to selfish geopolitical interests.
Satellite images show China's J-20 stealth fighters near Indian border in Sikkim
Satellite images reveal China's deployment of J-20 stealth fighters near the Indian border in Tibet. This strategic move places the advanced aircraft within proximity to India, raising regional tensions. India counters with its Rafale fighters and upgraded air defenses, including the S-400 system. Both nations are enhancing their military capabilities along the border, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the region.
China enhances military support to Pakistan along LoC in Kashmir
This move is seen as part of efforts to strengthen China's ties with Pakistan and safeguard Chinese investments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, particularly related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
China unveils gun-totting robot dog that can conduct reconnaissance, identify targets and fire. Details here
In a joint exercise with Cambodia, China unveiled its robot dog which performed many military tasks. These exercises are set to conclude on Thursday.
China warns of Taiwan 'war' as military drills encircle island
On the second day of exercises, warships and fighter jets surrounded Taiwan in what Beijing described as a test of its capability to seize the island, following the inauguration of its new president. China's military initiated the two-day war games on Thursday, deploying naval vessels and military aircraft to encircle democratic Taiwan, affirming its determination that the blood of "independence forces" on the island would be shed.
Philippines opens coast guard post after China build-up
The Philippines opens a coast guard post in the far north to enhance security amid China's military build-up near Taiwan. The outpost aims to gather maritime data and intelligence to address threats like illicit trade and foreign intrusions.
Seven dead in Russian strikes on Kharkiv as Kyiv pleads for weapons
On Thursday, Russia launched missile strikes on Kharkiv, killing seven people at a printing house and wounding 28 others, as President Zelenskiy criticized Western allies for insufficient military support. The city, heavily bombarded for months, faced an intensified ground offensive beginning May 10, which has reportedly stalled. Around 15 missiles targeted transport infrastructure and the printing house, causing significant damage and casualties. Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials have called for more air defense systems, emphasizing the need for greater international assistance to counter Russian attacks effectively.
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.
Israeli forces raze parts of Gaza's Jabalia, hit Rafah with airstrikes
Israeli forces intensified their operations in Gaza, targeting Jabalia in the north and Rafah in the south. Strikes hit hospitals and residential areas, leading to significant destruction and civilian casualties. The conflict, ongoing for eight months, has caused over 35,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement. Aid distribution faces severe disruptions, raising famine risks. Israel aims to dismantle Hamas, which controls Gaza. The humanitarian crisis worsens as northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals face critical challenges amid relentless military actions.
China plans to float nuclear reactors in disputed South China Sea, analysts see it 'risky for environment'
China's development of marine nuclear power platforms in the South China Sea raises concerns for regional stability and security. The US warns of the risks posed by China's plans to power disputed islands with floating reactors. Analysts highlight the potential for radiation leaks, weaponization, and security implications in the region.
A year after May 9 protests in Pakistan: A turning point in civil-military relations?
Even though the military remains the final arbiter in Pakistan to determine the course of politics, the May 9 protests have made it more difficult and challenging than ever for it to manage the guided democracy. The anguish and sentiment of people against the instrumental role of the military have raised questions about its legitimacy.
Donald Trump suggests Chinese migrants are in the US to build an 'army.' The migrants tell another story
Chinese immigrants in Flushing, New York, deny Trump's claim of forming a military, seeking work and better lives. Concerns arise about potential violence due to political rhetoric. Immigrants face challenges post-border crossing, aiming for stability and opportunity in the U.S.
Reports: North Korea continues with military expansion, Kim Jung Un demolishes own buildings for military installations
North Korea-centric news outlet 'NK Pro' has reported that the main residential buildings and auxiliary structures were most likely demolished between April 21 and April 25, 2924. Quoting an unnamed expert it also said the demolition could indicate Kim's plans to use the land for constructing military facilities.
US military ships are working to build a pier for Gaza aid. It's going to cost at least USD 320 million
Sabrina Singh, Pentagon spokeswoman, told reporters the cost is a rough estimate for the project and includes the transportation of the equipment and pier sections from the United States to the coast of Gaza, as well as the construction and aid delivery operations.
Israel defence chief to visit US as Rafah pressure builds
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant is set to visit Washington to discuss the planned offensive in Gaza's Rafah, despite US opposition. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's delegation will also visit at US President Joe Biden's request. The operation aims to eliminate Hamas in Rafah, but concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis persist. Biden urged Netanyahu to send a team to Washington to explore alternatives to a full-scale military operation. Netanyahu's office confirmed the delegation's visit but did not specify the timing.
How the US military is scrambling to build a floating dock for urgently needed aid to Gaza
In his State of the Union address, President Joe Biden announced plans to provide aid to Gaza by sea. The US Army's 7th Transportation Brigade and other units are working to build a floating dock off the Gaza coast to deliver food and other assistance. The operation, which may involve up to 1,000 US troops, will take weeks or even months to complete and is dependent on Israel's cooperation.
French defence companies to build military equipment on Ukrainian soil - minister
France plans to aid Ukraine by having its arms manufacturers produce military equipment directly on Ukrainian soil. Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced that three French companies will partner with Ukrainian firms to produce spare parts and possibly ammunition in the future, focusing on drones and land equipment. The goal is to have production units operational by summer, with tank maker KNDS likely to be involved.
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