MISSILES

North Korea says its recent missile tests involved new ballistic missile with 'super-large warhead'

North Korea announced Tuesday the successful test-firing of a new tactical ballistic missile, named Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5, capable of carrying a 4.5 ton-class "super-large warhead." The test aimed to verify flight stability and accuracy, with a range from 90 to 500 kilometers. South Korea reported two missiles launched, with differing flight paths: one reaching 600 kilometers and the other 120 kilometers. North Korea plans further tests in July. These developments follow heightened North Korean military activities since 2022, focusing on expanding its nuclear-capable arsenal amid regional tensions with the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.

Russia-Ukraine war: 7 killed and dozens wounded after missiles slam into town in southern Ukraine

Russian missiles struck a town in southern Ukraine, killing seven civilians, including children, and injuring dozens. Local authorities in Vilniansk reported bodies under picnic blankets and damaged buildings. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urged Western support to enhance air defenses against ongoing Russian attacks. Elsewhere, civilians died and were wounded in Donetsk, Kherson, and Kharkiv regions. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed shooting down Ukrainian drones in southwest Russia.

N. Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles, one fails

North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles, with one launch failing, South Korea's military reported Monday. The launches followed North Korea's warning of "fatal consequences" after joint military exercises by South Korea, Japan, and the US. The first missile flew 600 km, while the second traveled 120 km and seemed to explode mid-air. The launches come amid tensions over accusations that North Korea supplied weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine and ongoing military activities in both Koreas.

North Korea test-launches 2 ballistic missiles, after end of new US-South Korea-Japan drill

North Korea test-fired two ballistic missiles on Monday, following a vow of "offensive and overwhelming" responses to recent US-South Korea-Japan military drills. The missiles were launched from Jangyon, with the first traveling 600 km and the second 120 km. The first missile landed in the waters off Chongjin, while the second likely crashed inland. The test comes amid heightened tensions, with North Korea condemning the "Freedom Edge" drill and asserting defensive measures against perceived threats from the trilateral alliance and regional pressures.

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.

Putin says Russia should produce previously banned missiles

Putin was referring to missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (300-3,400 miles) that were banned under the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. Washington withdrew from the deal in 2019, citing Russia's failure to comply. The Kremlin said at the time that it would abide by a moratorium on production if the US did not deploy missiles within striking distance of Russia.

5 missiles land near ship in the Red Sea in likely the latest attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels

The rebels have targeted more than 60 vessels by firing missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed a total of four sailors. They seized one vessel and sank two since November. A US-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes on May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

Reforms in armed forces should be continuous to maintain supremacy during wars: President Murmu

President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the government's efforts to boost domestic defence production. She claimed that nearly 70 per cent of defence procurement was sourced from Indian manufacturers in the last year, and reforms resulting in India manufacturing over Rs one lakh crore of defence equipment. She emphasised upon modernisation of the armed forces, the importance of continuous reforms for military supremacy, and India's increasing defence exports, including the BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines.

North Korea says it tested a new multiwarhead missile. South Korea says it's covering up a failure

North Korea announced a successful test of a multiwarhead missile aimed at enhancing its capability to overcome US and South Korean defenses. However, South Korea disputed this claim, asserting the missile launch had actually failed. North Korea's state media reported the test involved separating and guiding warheads accurately, showcasing progress in its missile development despite technical challenges. Analysts anticipate further tests to refine this technology, which includes decoys to evade missile defenses. The test coincides with heightened regional tensions, including North Korea's objections to US military presence and provocative actions toward South Korea.

North Korea says it tested a multiwarhead missile. Kim Jong Un covets the weapon to overwhelm US defenses

North Korea announced it successfully tested a multiwarhead missile, aiming to enhance its capability to overwhelm U.S. missile defenses. The launch tested separation and guidance control of individual warheads, which were accurately directed to targets and verified by radar. This test, North Korea's first known attempt at developing a multiwarhead missile, was seen as a significant step in Kim Jong Un's weapons modernization program. While South Korea initially assessed the launch as a failed hypersonic missile test, analysts suggest it was a preliminary evaluation of key MIRV subsystems. This development intensifies regional security concerns.

N. Korea may have used hypersonic missile in failed launch, South's military says

North Korea's missile launch on Wednesday ended in failure as the device exploded mid-air, according to South Korea's military. Officials suspect that the failed launch involved a hypersonic missile.

North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile, says Japan; instructs for precaution

Japan issued an emergency alert after a suspected ballistic missile launch by North Korea on Tuesday. The Japan Prime Minister's Office quickly lifted the alert, stating the missile was not expected to reach Japan. Despite the false alarm, the PMO instructed officials to gather and analyze information, ensure the safety of aircraft and vessels, and prepare for contingencies. This incident follows increased missile activity by North Korea, leading the US, Japan, and South Korea to condemn such actions and enhance their strategic cooperation.

India, US discussing co-production of Javelin anti-tank missiles

India and the US discussed joint production of American javelin missiles to meet Indian military needs.

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 launches missile attack on Kyiv and surrounding region, Ukraine says

Russia launched three missiles on Ukraine, with two destroyed. No damage reported. Kyiv under air raid alerts. Witnesses heard blasts around Kyiv. Reporting by Pavel Polityuk and Sergiy Karazy.

With its new pact with North Korea, Russia raises the stakes with the West over Ukraine

In a significant move, President Putin's visit to North Korea showcased Russia's willingness to challenge Western interests, particularly in the context of the Ukraine crisis. The pact signed with Kim Jong Un includes mutual military assistance and the possibility of weapons shipments to North Korea. This agreement marks the strongest tie between the two countries since the Cold War. Putin's actions have raised concerns in Washington and Seoul, with South Korea considering supplying arms to Ukraine in response. However, Putin warned against this, indicating potential repercussions.

US to fast-track Ukraine anti-air missile deliveries

The US prioritizes delivering anti-air missiles to Kyiv, including Patriot and NASAMS missiles, ahead of other countries, delaying their orders. Deliveries to Taiwan, facing China's threat, and Israel, targeted by Iran and Hamas, remain unaffected. The US has supported Ukraine with $51 billion in weapons and ammunition since Russia's invasion in 2022.

Russia and North Korea sign partnership deal that appears to be the strongest since the Cold War

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement pledging mutual aid against "aggression," signaling stronger ties amid their standoffs with the West. The summit marked Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years and raised concerns over potential arms deals for Russia's war in Ukraine. The agreement enhances security, trade, and cultural ties. U.S. and South Korean officials expressed alarm, and Putin’s subsequent visit to Vietnam underscores Russia’s efforts to bolster alliances amid global tensions.

North Korea says deal between Putin and Kim requires immediate military assistance in event of war

The new agreement between Russia and North Korea, as reported by North Korean state media, requires the countries to provide immediate military assistance to each other in the event of war. This agreement marks a significant upgrade in their relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural, and humanitarian ties. The summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin also raised concerns about a potential arms arrangement between Pyongyang and Moscow, with North Korea supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, with ongoing weapons tests and military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.

India surpasses Pakistan in nuke race but China three times ahead: SIPRI report reveals

Taiwan keeping watch after Chinese submarine surfaces in Taiwan Strait

The narrow strait that separates Taiwan from China is a frequent source of tension. Taiwan reports Chinese warplanes and warships operating there on a daily basis, as Beijing seeks to assert its sovereignty claims against the democratically governed island.

Taiwan to receive 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles from US by year-end

Taiwan is set to receive all 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles and 100 launchers from the US by the end of this year, following a two-year delay. The delay was due to the weapons initially failing to meet US Army standards. However, after passing all required tests, delivery is now expected before year-end. These missiles are part of three major arms packages purchased from the US, including F-16V fighter jets and AGM-154 air-to-ground missile systems. The TOW 2B missiles target the tops of armored vehicles, enhancing Taiwan's defensive capabilities.

Israel defence exports hit record $13.1 billion in 2023

Israeli defence exports reached a record high of $13.1 billion in 2023. The exports were driven by missile and air defence systems, radar, electronic warfare, and other technologies. The Defence Ministry emphasised the importance of strengthening security relations globally, entering new markets, and reducing regulatory obstacles. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant highlighted the industry's dual focus on supporting national security and pursuing international partnerships through exports.