NUCLEAR THREATS
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.
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.
Seoul, Tokyo, Washington start new joint military drills
South Korea, the United States, and Japan began major military exercises, "Freedom Edge," focusing on missile and air defenses, anti-submarine warfare, and cyber training. This follows a summit where the countries agreed to annual drills to counter North Korea's nuclear threats and China's regional influence. The exercises involve assets like the USS Theodore Roosevelt, JS Atago, and KF-16 fighter jets. North Korea, which views such drills as invasion rehearsals, responded angrily, especially after Seoul's announcement followed North Korea's claimed successful multi-warhead missile test.
Uniqueness of India's nuclear trajectory premised on principle of 'no first use & massive retaliation': CDS Chauhan
Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan emphasizes adapting to new doctrines in the evolving geopolitical landscape for modern warfare challenges.
Russian lawmaker warns Moscow may change timing for use of nuclear weapons
Moscow may change timing for nuclear weapons use if threats increase, says Russian official cited by RIA news agency on Sunday.
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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 aircraft carrier arrives in South Korea as a show of force against nuclear-armed North Korea
A U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt, has arrived in South Korea for a joint exercise involving Japan, aimed at bolstering military readiness against North Korean threats. The exercise, called Freedom Edge, follows heightened tensions after a security pact between Russia and North Korea. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan are increasing military cooperation, with the USS Roosevelt strike group expected to participate in the drills. The group will later head to the Middle East to promote regional stability and protect commerce.
US and China hold first informal nuclear talks in 5 years, eyeing Taiwan
The Chinese representatives offered reassurances after their U.S. interlocutors raised concerns that China might use, or threaten to use, nuclear weapons if it faced defeat in a conflict over Taiwan. Beijing views the democratically governed island as its territory, a claim rejected by the government in Taipei.
Putin says Russia is considering changing its nuclear doctrine
Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed possible changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine, emphasizing no need for a pre-emptive strike. He met with Kim Jong Un, signing a treaty for mutual military aid in case of aggression.
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.
South Korea blasts Russia-North Korea deal, says it will consider supplying arms to Ukraine
South Korea condemns Russia and North Korea's mutual defense agreement, reconsidering support to Ukraine. North Korea and Russia vow military assistance in case of war, causing concern. Seoul warns of negative consequences on relations with Moscow.
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.
China's nuclear force now three times larger than India's: SIPRI data
China is rapidly increasing its nuclear arsenal, now boasting 500 warheads, triple that of India. This expansion reflects heightened geopolitical tensions and a global trend toward modernizing nuclear capabilities. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reports that all nine nuclear-armed states are enhancing their arsenals, with China and the US notably placing warheads on high operational alert.
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.
NATO in talks to put nuclear weapons on standby, chief Jens Stoltenberg tells UK's Telegraph newspaper
"I won't go into operational details about how many nuclear warheads should be operational and which should be stored, but we need to consult on these issues. That's exactly what we're doing," Stoltenberg told the paper.
Why Russia’s bond with North Korea is a danger to the world
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit North Korea, strengthening ties with Kim Jong Un. The two countries have increased trade in commodities and arms, aiding Russia's war on Ukraine. The meeting could lead to further arms transfers, impacting the conflict and regional stability.
G7 warns Iran over continuing nuclear programme escalation
The G7 leaders warned Iran to halt nuclear enrichment activities and avoid transferring ballistic missiles to Russia, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue and compliance with IAEA regulations.
Russia rehearses delivering tactical nuclear weapons with dummy warheads
Russia conducted drills involving tactical nuclear weapons, deploying dummy warheads to storage points and an airfield amid escalating tensions with the West over Ukraine. President Putin ordered these exercises, which involved multiple military districts. The drills aim to signal Russia's readiness to respond to threats, particularly from Western support for Ukraine. The U.S. and European allies are urged to consider the consequences of escalating the conflict. These drills highlight the ongoing risk of nuclear confrontation and the need for diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions.
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.
South Korea, US work on joint strategy over North nuclear threat
Senior South Korean and U.S. defense officials met in Seoul to discuss new guidelines for coordinating their response to potential nuclear threats from North Korea. The guidelines focus on maintaining a "credible and effective" nuclear deterrence policy and posture. The meeting follows last year's summit where the U.S. promised to share more nuclear planning information with South Korea. The next meeting will be held in Washington later this year.
Putin says Russia could deploy missiles in striking distance of the West
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of deploying missiles near the US and its allies if Ukraine uses Western weapons. He emphasized Russia's nuclear capabilities and criticized NATO's stance on the conflict.
US, South Korea conduct joint bombing drills
The United States flew a B-1B bomber over the Korean Peninsula for the first joint bombing drills with South Korea in seven years, amidst heightened tensions from North Korea's provocations. The US bomber, escorted by South Korean F-15K jets, dropped Joint Direct Attack Munitions during the exercise. South Korea suspended a 2018 inter-Korean military pact and resumed military activities along the demarcation line. The drills aim to reinforce the US extended deterrence commitment and combined defense posture against North Korea's threats.
Pakistan does not adhere to 'no first use' of nuclear weapons policy: ex-Army official
Pakistan does not adhere to a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, clarified Lt Gen (retd) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, Adviser to the National Command Authority, during a seminar commemorating the 26th anniversary of Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests. Kidwai emphasized that Pakistan's nuclear deterrence capabilities are fully operational and ready to respond to any threats, underscoring that Pakistan maintains strategic ambiguity regarding its nuclear stance.
Russia begins nuclear drills in an apparent warning to West over Ukraine
Russia's military has started drills with tactical nuclear weapons in response to Western officials' comments on deeper involvement in Ukraine. The drills involve non-strategic nuclear weapons like Kinzhal and Iskander missiles in the Southern Military District near Ukraine and Crimea.
Russia starts exercise with tactical nuclear weapons
Russia's Foreign Ministry has cited comments by French President Emmanuel Macron, who floated the possibility of sending European troops to fight Russia in Ukraine, and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who said Ukraine had the right to use weapons provided by London to strike targets inside Russia.
Why is Russia holding nuclear exercises - and what to watch for?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his military to conduct drills involving the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons, citing perceived threats from France, Britain, and the United States. The drills will include missile forces, aviation, and the navy from the Southern Military District, near Ukraine, as well as Belarus. Russia linked the drills to what it called "militant statements" by Western officials. While nuclear powers routinely conduct nuclear exercises, it is rare to explicitly link such drills to ongoing conflicts.
Russia says Western actions compel it to boost its nuclear deterrent
Russia is signaling its intent to bolster its nuclear deterrent in response to what it perceives as escalating actions from Western adversaries. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov clarified that Russia is not altering its nuclear doctrine, which permits the use of nuclear weapons in response to an existential threat. However, he emphasized that the evolving situation necessitates a reassessment of Russia's security needs. Ryabkov warned that the current trajectory of escalation from opponents requires Russia to enhance its deterrence measures, including recent exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons.
Vladimir Putin orders tactical nuclear weapons drills amid Western 'threats'
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian forces to conduct exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons in response to perceived "threats" from the West, according to CNN. This marks the first public announcement of such drills by Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The exercises will focus on preparations and deployment scenarios for non-strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed for battlefield use with lower destructive capabilities than strategic nuclear weapons.
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