World
Defense News ,U.S :- In Texas, a nuclear weapons plant, known as the Pantex Plant, located near Amarillo, faced a temporary shutdown due to five uncontrolled wildfires raging in the area. The largest fire, called the Smokehouse Creek Fire, had already scorched 300,000 acres. Despite these challenges, the Pantex Plant reassured the public that it would resume normal operations on Wednesday.The wildfires were fueled by strong winds and unusually warm temperatures, as seen in satellite imagery spreading southwards near Amarillo. To protect its facilities, the Pantex facility had initially halted operations, constructed fire barriers, and retained only essential staff overnight. The plant specializes in assembling and disassembling the United States' nuclear stockpiles, conducting nuclear material testing, and manufacturing high explosives.Although the plant confirmed that all weapons and special materials remained safe and unaffected during the wildfire crisis, it did not provide specific information on whether the danger had passed.Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster in 60 counties, allowing for the allocation of additional resources to combat the fires. Across Texas, efforts had brought 25 out of 31 active fires under control. Evacuation orders were issued in several towns, with citizens urged to stay indoors due to poor air quality caused by the smoke.Reports indicated significant damage to buildings in Hutchinson county, with some towns issuing evacuation orders up to 100 miles away from Amarillo. More than 200 people sought shelter in a church in Fritch, 35 miles from Amarillo, after being forced to leave their homes. Many faced devastating losses, confirming the destruction of their residences.Melanie McQuiddy, a motel manager from the town of Canadian, described the scene as resembling "Armageddon," with trees covered in white ash. The wildfires also led to power outages, affecting over 4,000 Texans.Despite the challenges posed by the wildfires, the Pantex Plant's decision to resume operations signaled a step toward normalcy in the midst of a difficult situation.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 15:31:15
India
Defense News ,India :- Santhan, one of the seven people found guilty in the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, has died at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai. His death marks the end of a challenging journey that started with his role in a major political tragedy in Indian history.Santhan had been unwell, and he was admitted to the hospital in January because of liver failure, diagnosed with cryptogenic cirrhosis. Despite medical efforts to revive him after a cardiac arrest, Santhan passed away at 7:50 am. He leaves behind a legacy filled with controversy and legal battles.Originally from Sri Lanka, Santhan spent more than two decades in prison before his release in 2022. His release followed a long sentence for his involvement in the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, an event that had a significant impact on Indian politics and resonated worldwide.However, Santhan's health declined, raising uncertainty about his hopes for a peaceful life after release. His death highlights the harsh realities faced by individuals caught up in the complexities of the criminal justice system, where the consequences go beyond the prison walls.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 15:22:12
India
Defense News ,India :- A group of Indian civilians has come to the Maldives to run one of three aviation platforms. This is a big step in the process of Indian military personnel leaving, and they aim to finish this by March 10.This move shows how the two countries are working together more closely, moving from the military managing things to civilians taking charge.The team has arrived in Addu to start the careful process of handing over control. Their main job is to make sure everything goes smoothly as they take full command.The helicopter currently in Addu will soon head to India for planned maintenance. It needs test flights there to make sure it's ready for the journey.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 15:16:56
World
Defense News , Norwey :- Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, with help from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Armed Forces, recently tested a revamped AMRAAM-Extended Range missile from a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The test proved that the upgraded AMRAAM-ER has enhanced capabilities.This new AMRAAM-ER version is unique as it uses the guidance section from AIM-120 C-8. It also has a stronger 10-inch rocket motor from Nammo and a 10-inch Control Actuator System, called the Norwegian Propulsion Stack, developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. The Norwegian MoD has been a collaborative partner in this project.Paul Ferraro, president of Air & Space Defence Systems at Raytheon, emphasized, “Adding this new technology to the AMRAAM-ER ensures its advanced capabilities will last for many years. Regular software upgrades will keep advancing AMRAAM to stay ahead of emerging threats.”During the testing, a missile was fired to follow a predetermined path, confirming its safe launch from the NASAMS launcher and checking its performance.The AMRAAM-ER is designed to work seamlessly with the NASAMS launcher, offering increased air defense protection by intercepting targets at a greater range and altitude compared to the non-extended range AMRAAM.NASAMS, a versatile medium-range air defense solution, is a joint effort between Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. With years of experience, collaboration, and significant investment, this partnership aims to continually enhance NASAMS capabilities to effectively counter evolving complex threats.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 15:12:33
World
Defense News , Germany :- Two years have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine, and Germany is still discussing whether to send much-needed long-range weapons to the war-ravaged nation.Recently, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock admitted that the country is undecided on the matter. The concern is that these weapons might be used to strike deep into Russia, potentially escalating the conflict. The move could also be seen as more direct involvement by Germany.Despite acknowledging that Berlin's military aid to Kyiv is insufficient, Baerbock mentioned that German authorities have been brainstorming for the past year to figure out how they can provide more support, including long-range weapon systems.Ukrainian defense officials have been requesting long-range missiles and jets from the West to help repel the invading Russian troops. The US, the UK, and France have already reversed their previous decisions and delivered long-range weapons to Ukraine.Baerbock emphasized that it's totally understandable for the people in Ukraine to demand more support, considering the recent advances of Russian forces. Moscow has gained control of the strategic city of Avdiivka after months of heavy fighting and multiple failed attempts to seize the territory.Despite these gains, German lawmakers remain skeptical about delivering the highly-requested Taurus missiles to Kyiv. Initial plans involved technically modifying the weapon by applying programming restrictions to reduce its range and prevent Moscow from obtaining key components if captured.Baerbock did not provide information on whether a decision to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine is imminent.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 14:58:06
India
Defense News ,India :- In a bold move, Manipur Police commandos decided to set aside their weapons in protest after the abduction of Additional Superintendent Amit Kumar Moirangthem. The incident occurred on Tuesday when a group of Meira Paibis (women volunteer group) and members of the Metei radical group Arambai Tenggol kidnapped the police officer and attacked other personnel. Fortunately, the officer was rescued quickly and is currently receiving medical attention.The police commandos, representing all five valley districts, have come together to demand action against the Arambai Tenggol group. They are also seeking assurance that political executives will not hinder their efforts when dealing with such outfits. The situation escalated on Tuesday, leading to the deployment of four columns of the Assam Rifles by the Army in Manipur East.Highlighting the urgency of the situation, a senior security official drew a parallel with a famous quote from former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2011: "You can't keep snakes in your backyard and expect them to only bite your neighbor." The official emphasized the need to address the rise in violence in Manipur, which has seen over 180 casualties since May 3.The violence erupted following a "Tribal Solidarity March" protesting the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting 53% of Manipur's population and residing in the Imphal Valley, differ from the tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, who make up 40% and primarily inhabit the hill districts. Senior police officials are assuring their personnel that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the recent incidents.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 14:54:13
World
Defense News ,North Korea :- North Korea's first spy satellite is "alive," a Netherlands-based space expert said on Tuesday, after detecting changes in its orbit that suggest Pyongyang is successfully controlling the spacecraft - although its capabilities are still unknown. After two fiery failures, North Korea successfully placed the Malligyong-1 satellite in orbit in November. Pyongyang's state media claimed it has photographed sensitive military and political sites in South Korea, the United States, and elsewhere, but has not released any imagery. Independent radio trackers have not detected signals from the satellite. "But now we can definitely say the satellite is alive," Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, wrote in a blog post. From Feb. 19-24, the satellite conducted manoeuvres to raise its perigee, or the lowest point in its orbit, from 488 km to 497 km, Langbroek said, citing data from the U.S.-led Combined Space Operations Center. "The manoeuvre proves that Malligyong-1 is not dead, and that North-Korea has control over the satellite - something that was disputed," he said. South Korea's Defense Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Monday, Defense Minister Shin Won-sik said the satellite was not showing any signs of performing other tasks or engaging in reconnaissance. "While we indeed currently can not be sure whether the satellite does successfully take imagery, it at least performs orbital manoeuvres, so in that sense it is functional," Langbroek wrote of Shin's comments. The orbit-raising manoeuvre was a surprise as the presence of an onboard propulsion system is unexpected, and previous North Korean satellites never manoeuvred, he said. "Having the capacity to raise the satellite's orbit is a big deal," Langbroek said. That means that as long as there is fuel in the satellite, North Korea can prolong the satellite's lifetime by raising its altitude when it gets too low because of orbital decay, he concluded. Nuclear-armed North Korea has vowed to launch three more spy satellites in 2024.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 14:47:34
World
Defense Newws ,Ukraine Russia War :- The British government has committed £245 million ($310 million) to provide artillery ammunition for Ukraine as the country marks its second anniversary in defense against Russia's full-scale invasion.This financial support is aimed at urgently acquiring and reinforcing essential shells to replenish Kyiv's arsenal, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of artillery systems that have proven their operational capabilities in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty.The UK Ministry of Defence asserts that this funding will strengthen the Ukrainian armed forces' strategic advantage over Moscow, citing tactics honed during the conflict. Notably, the use of aerial drones and radar systems has been instrumental in swiftly identifying the locations of Russian weapons and neutralizing them.Admiral Tony Radakin, the UK Chief of Defence Staff, commended the Armed Forces of Ukraine, stating, "During the past two years, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have become one of the largest, most capable and respected fighting forces in the world."He added, "Today the Russian Army has lost half the territory it seized, over 350,000 men killed or wounded, thousands of tanks, artillery pieces and armored fighting vehicles, the Russian Fleet has been driven from Crimea and Ukraine’s maritime exports are returning to pre-war levels."The UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, emphasized the necessity of providing additional military aid to Ukrainian forces as they enter their third year resisting Russian aggression. Shapps acknowledged the remarkable achievements of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, highlighting their success in pushing back Russian invaders and reclaiming stolen territory.Shapps emphasized, "But they cannot win this fight without the support of the international community – and that’s why we continue to do what it takes to ensure Ukraine can continue to fight towards victory."In a move preceding this announcement, Shapps confirmed the donation of 200 additional Brimstone anti-tank missiles to Kyiv, bringing the British government's total deliveries to over 1,300. This commitment was made following the recent delivery of 600 Brimstone projectiles.Furthermore, London pledged an additional £18 million ($22.7 million) in humanitarian and economic aid for Kyiv's recovery. These funds will primarily be allocated to organizations such as the UN and Red Cross for distributing necessities on the frontline, with the remaining amount dedicated to reinforcing Ukraine's energy infrastructure against future attacks.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 14:38:56
India
Defense News ,India :- Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has received board approval for the establishment of a wholly-owned subsidiary with an investment of ₹830 crore, marking the company's foray into the fabless semiconductor chip design industry. This move follows the footsteps of other major Indian conglomerates like Vedanta, Tata, and the Hiranandani groups, who have also ventured into the semiconductor sector.L&T's strategic decision involves focusing on fabless chip design rather than semiconductor manufacturing. The Chief Financial Officer, R. Shankar Raman, announced the board's approval during the second-quarter financial results call.What Is Fabless?A fabless semiconductor company specializes in designing and creating semiconductor chips without owning or operating semiconductor manufacturing facilities, known as "fabs" or fabrication units. This cost-efficient approach involves subcontracting the manufacturing process to specialized foundries, allowing these companies to concentrate on chip design and marketing. Well-known global fabless companies include NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and MediaTek.Why Fabless?L&T acknowledges its focus on the low-investment segment of the chip supply chain, avoiding direct competition with Chinese, Taiwanese, and South Korean companies initially. The decision to start with semiconductor design is well-considered, considering the challenges faced by other conglomerates in locking in technology partners.Additionally, the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem demands substantial investments. Setting up a silicon semiconductor fab can range from $3 billion to over $20 billion, depending on the nanometer. L&T's decision aligns with the industry trend, as it recognizes the challenges and prerequisites of participating in the Indian government's ₹76,000 crore semiconductor scheme.Furthermore, India boasts a significant talent pool of around 125,000 engineers with expertise in chip design and development, making it a favorable environment for semiconductor ventures. Many leading global fab and fabless companies, including Intel, NXP, Global Foundries, Samsung Semiconductor, Micron, Qualcomm, and MediaTek, have established their R&D centers in India.The Agility of the Fabless Model:The fabless model offers increased agility and responsiveness to market demands. With the continuous evolution of technology, fabless companies can adapt more easily without the long lead times and constraints associated with operating their fabs. This strategic move positions L&T to capitalize on India's talent pool and navigate the dynamic semiconductor landscape efficiently.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:37:07
World
Defense News ,UK :- The UK Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, has unveiled the next stage of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) Programme, an initiative aimed at acquiring a modern medium-lift support helicopter. This innovative approach involves consolidating up to five rotary wing requirements into a single aircraft type, streamlining capabilities and enhancing operational efficiency.The NMH Programme is designed to provide the Armed Forces with a versatile medium lift aircraft capable of executing various Defence tasks across different environments, ranging from warfighting to humanitarian efforts globally.During the International Military Helicopter conference in London, the Ministry of Defence released the Invitation to Negotiate, marking a crucial step in the competition. The three NMH candidate suppliers—Airbus Helicopters UK, Leonardo Helicopters UK, and Lockheed Martin UK—will now prepare their bids for evaluation by the Ministry of Defence, with the contract award anticipated in 2025, subject to Government approvals.Minister James Cartlidge emphasized the NMH's significance in supporting military operations and expressed satisfaction with reaching this pivotal stage in the program. The competition prioritizes criteria essential for securing rotary wing Operational Independence, enabling swift responses to emerging threats in a highly contested world.Furthermore, the NMH competition encompasses vital industrial considerations, including design, production, manufacture, and export potential. This approach ensures that the NMH contract not only addresses the immediate operational needs but also invests in long-term UK skills, aligning with the UK Government's commitment to the Defence & Security Industrial Strategy.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:22:11
World
Defense News ,Philippine :- In a significant move under the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, the US Department of Defense has successfully handed over a C-130H Hercules military transport aircraft to the Philippine Air Force. The aircraft made its journey from Waco, Texas, to the Clark Air Base in Mabalacat, Pampanga, under the command of a skilled US aircrew and was greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute upon landing.This delivery marks the second cargo plane provided by the US government to the Philippines through the EDA framework, reinforcing the bilateral defense ties between the two nations. Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo, spokesperson for the Philippine Air Force, emphasized the positive impact of this acquisition, stating that the C-130H Hercules will enhance the cargo airlift fleet and play a crucial role in supporting humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, and various military missions.Formal turnover and acceptance ceremonies for the newly acquired aircraft are anticipated to take place in either February or March, as announced by the Philippine Air Force.The EDA program, managed by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, facilitates the transfer of surplus military assets from the US military's existing stockpile to allied nations. These transfers, either through foreign military sales or donations, contribute to the modernization efforts of partner nations. The assets, provided at reduced prices based on their condition, are subject to an "as is, where is" policy, placing responsibility on the receiving party for logistics, transport requirements, and optional refurbishments.In addition to the recent C-130H Hercules delivery, the Philippine Air Force is set to bolster its fleet further with the acquisition of three new C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, as announced in October 2023. This strategic move is part of a joint effort by the US and its Asia Pacific ally to counteract Beijing's ongoing military activities in the South China Sea. Lockheed Martin is expected to deliver two of the C-130J aircraft in 2026, with the remaining one scheduled for 2027. The total value of this sale has not been disclosed by the Philippine Department of Defense.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:12:52
Space & Technology
Space News , India :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Tuesday that India is set to establish its own space station by 2035, marking a significant leap in the nation's space exploration endeavors. Addressing a gathering at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister also revealed plans for an Indian astronaut to land on the moon using indigenous rockets.Modi emphasized the transformative role of India in the 21st century, showcasing substantial advancements across various sectors. He highlighted the country's remarkable progress by noting that in the past decade alone, India has launched about 400 satellites, a stark contrast to the 33 launched in the preceding decade.Expressing his delight, the Prime Minister noted that a majority of the equipment for the Gaganyaan mission, India's first human space flight program scheduled for 2024-25, is domestically produced. Modi proudly announced the names of the four chosen Indian Air Force pilots who will be part of this historic mission, trained at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia.Commending the astronauts for their dedication, Modi stated, "These are not just 4 names and 4 humans, but 4 forces taking 140 crore aspirations to space." He underscored the significance of India's success in the space sector, asserting that it is fostering a scientific temperament among the nation's youth.During his visit to Kerala, Prime Minister Modi reviewed the progress of the Gaganyaan mission and awarded 'astronaut wings' to the selected candidates at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. The Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate India's human spaceflight capability by sending a crew of three members to an orbit of 400 km for a three-day mission, safely returning them to Earth.The prerequisites for the Gaganyaan mission involve the development of critical technologies, including a human-rated launch vehicle, life support systems, and crew management aspects. Various precursor missions, such as Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT), Pad Abort Test (PAT), and Test Vehicle (TV) flights, are planned to demonstrate technology readiness before the manned mission.Highlighting the paramount importance of human safety, Modi emphasized the development of new technologies to ensure the success and reliability of the Gaganyaan mission. India's recent achievements, such as the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon's South Pole and the launch of Aditya-L1, have not only solidified the country's position in the global space economy but have also spurred the growth of the private space sector in India.Looking ahead, India envisions establishing 'Bharatiya Antariksha Station' by 2035 and aims to send the first Indian to the Moon by 2040, further solidifying its place in the global space exploration landscape.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:08:08
India
Defense News ,India :- In a significant development today, the Indian Army strengthened its bridging capabilities through the official induction of the 46-meter Modular Bridge. Crafted by DRDO and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the innovative bridging system was ceremoniously handed over at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, attended by high-ranking officials, including General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff.Valued at ?2,585 Crores, a total of 41 sets of the Modular Bridge will be progressively incorporated over the next four years. This mechanically launched single-span, fully decked 46-meter assault bridge is designed to facilitate the army in overcoming obstacles such as canals and ditches effortlessly. Offering enhanced mobility, ruggedness, and quick deployment and retrieval, these bridges significantly augment the vital bridging capability of the Indian Army Engineers, aligning with the dynamic nature of mechanized operations.Comprising seven carrier vehicles based on 8×8 Heavy Mobility Vehicles and two launcher vehicles based on 10×10 Heavy Mobility Vehicles, each Modular Bridge set is adaptable to various obstacles with its quick launching and retrieval capabilities. The equipment's mobility, versatility, and ruggedness enable it to keep pace with both wheeled and tracked mechanized vehicles.Notably, the Modular Bridges mark the replacement of the manually launched Medium Girder Bridges (MGB) currently in use by the Indian Army. Offering advantages such as increased span, reduced construction time, and mechanical launching with retrieval capability, these indigenously designed and manufactured bridges signify a leap forward in bridging technology.The induction of the Modular Bridge signifies a pivotal advancement in enhancing the Indian Army’s bridging capabilities, showcasing India's expertise in designing and developing cutting-edge military equipment. It underscores the nation’s commitment to 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and self-reliance in defense production.Beyond bolstering operational effectiveness, the acquisition of these advanced bridges underscores India’s rising prominence in defense technology and manufacturing, reinforcing its position as a key player on the global stage.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:01:15
World
Defense News ,Finland :- The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) orchestrated the 10th Night Vision Surveillance Equipment (NVSE) Conference from February 13-15, held in Rovaniemi, Finland and hosted by the Finnish Defense Forces. This gathering brought together military experts, NSPA specialists, and NVSE manufacturers from various NATO countries.Fifty national delegates representing 16 NATO nations and associated states, along with NATO specialists and 14 prominent industry players, convened at the NVSE Conference. The primary focus of discussions was on the latest advancements in Night Vision and Optoelectronics (NVO) technologies, with a particular emphasis on sniper clip-on devices and augmented reality. Thermal sights, along with auxiliary sniper equipment such as spotter scopes, weather stations, and ballistic calculators, were also explored.Attendees seized the opportunity to exchange operational, technical, and logistics information crucial for the acquisition and in-service support of the latest generation NVO. NSPA representatives provided insights into the support offered to nations through the NVO Support Partnership, highlighting procurement best practices, opportunities, and trends in the domain. Additionally, Finland showcased its Logistical Support capabilities during the conference.The two-day event seamlessly blended briefings, presentations, exhibitions, and live demonstrations at the Rovajärvi training area near the Arctic Circle. Industry representatives not only explained cutting-edge solutions but also encouraged participants to test sniper equipment mounted on rifles in challenging northern weather conditions.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 06:54:39
Space & Technology
Space News ,India :- Great news! India's Gaganyaan project has passed all tests and is now ready for a successful launch, according to former ISRO chairman K Sivan.Sivan shared that India will conduct the second round of astronaut training, following the completion of the first round in Russia. He emphasized that test pilots will be part of the initial mission, and mission scientists will get the chance to join any successful future missions.In addition, Sivan revealed details about a joint satellite project with NASA. Although specific information is not available yet, he confirmed that both space agencies are actively working on this exciting project.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 06:47:05
World
Defense News ,U.S , Ukraine War :- The White House shared on Tuesday that the United States won't be sending soldiers to Ukraine, following French President Emmanuel Macron's consideration of deploying Western forces.According to National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson, President Joe Biden has been firm about not sending troops to fight in Ukraine. The only US military personnel in Ukraine are at the American embassy in Kyiv, working on ensuring accountability for weapons provided to Ukraine, as mentioned by National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.Contrary to suggestions by French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, Kirby clarified that US troops won't be sent for demining, arms production, or cyber operations. He emphasized that the decision to send troops to Ukraine is a "sovereign decision" for France or any other NATO country.Addressing other potential purposes like training, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that the Biden administration opposes any deployment of troops to Ukraine. Both the White House and the State Department emphasized that the priority is for Congress to approve new military aid to Ukraine.Miller stressed, "We're not sending boots on the ground in Ukraine. The president's been very clear." However, there is a challenge in the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson, a supporter of former President Donald Trump, has not allowed a vote on Biden's request for approximately $60 billion for Ukraine.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 06:43:39
World
Defense News ,Taiwan :- Eleven Chinese naval vessels were detected around Taiwan, Taipei's defence ministry said on Wednesday, the highest number this year as a row between the island and China over a fatal fishing boat incident drags on.A Chinese speedboat carrying four people capsized on February 14 near Taiwan's Kinmen islands while being pursued by the Taiwanese coast guard, throwing all on board into the water.Two of the crew died and two others were rescued and temporarily detained in Kinmen -- a territory administered by Taipei but located just five kilometres (three miles) from China's city of Xiamen.The incident occurred against a backdrop of already-heightened tensions between China and Taiwan, a self-ruled island that Beijing claims as part of its territory.A survivor reportedly claimed the boat was "rammed" after returning to the mainland, though Taiwan insists the coast guard was following legitimate procedures.In the 24 hours leading up to 6:00 am on Wednesday (2200 GMT Tuesday), Taiwan's defence ministry said China sent 15 warplanes, 11 naval vessels and one balloon into the waters and skies around the island.The ministry said at least 15 more Chinese warplanes had been detected since then.The number of Chinese naval ships was more than the usual four to six spotted in a 24-hour window, and the highest so far this year, according to Taiwan's official data.In December, 11 Chinese naval vessels were detected around Taiwan in the run-up to its January presidential elections -- won by Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing has called a "separatist".On Monday, one Chinese maritime surveillance ship and four Chinese coast guard boats briefly entered prohibited or restricted waters around Kinmen, according to Kuan Bi-ling, minister of Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council, which supervises the coast guard.Beijing has accused Taiwanese authorities of "seeking to evade their responsibilities and hide the truth" about the February 14 incident, while a Taiwanese coast guard official has said the boat involved was zigzagging, "lost its balance and capsized" while trying to evade a patrol vessel.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 06:36:25
World
Defense News ,Australia :- Elbit Systems has won a $600 million contract to provide advanced defense capabilities for Australia's Redback infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). The deal, part of the Australian Land 400 Phase 3 Project, involves delivering a sensor suite and enhanced protection features over the next five years.Elbit Systems' President and CEO, Bezhalel Machlis, expressed commitment to delivering top-notch solutions for the Australian Army, emphasizing the importance of supplying cutting-edge technologies for troop safety on the modern battlefield.The Redback IFV, developed by Hanwha Aerospace Australian subsidiary, boasts improved performance, firepower, and protection to meet the demands of contemporary warfare. With a maximum speed of 65 kilometers per hour, the vehicle can accommodate up to 11 individuals and is equipped with a 30mm cannon and a 7.62mm machine gun.Australia plans to invest between $18 to $27 billion to acquire 450 IFVs, replacing its M113 armored personnel carriers.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-27 16:33:03
World
Science , Russia :- Russian President Vladimir Putin has shared exciting news about the progress made by Russian scientists in developing vaccines for cancer. He mentioned that these vaccines could be available for patients soon. During a televised forum on future technologies in Moscow, Putin stated, "We have come very close to the creation of so-called cancer vaccines and immunomodulatory drugs of a new generation."While Putin didn't specify the types of cancer the vaccines would target or how they would work, he expressed hope that these vaccines would be used effectively as individual therapy methods.Currently, there are six licensed vaccines against human papillomaviruses (HPV) that can cause various cancers, including cervical cancer, according to the World Health Organization. Additionally, vaccines against hepatitis B (HBV), a virus that can lead to liver cancer, are available.Several countries and companies are actively working on cancer vaccines. The UK government, for instance, has partnered with Germany-based BioNTech to launch clinical trials for personalized cancer treatments, aiming to help 10,000 patients by 2030. Pharmaceutical companies Moderna and Merck & Co are also in the process of developing an experimental cancer vaccine that has shown promising results in reducing the chance of recurrence or death from melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer.The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released estimates on World Cancer Day, revealing that about 1 in 5 people develop cancer in their lifetime, with 1 in 9 men and 1 in 12 women succumbing to the disease. In 2022, cancer claimed 9.7 million lives, and close to 20 million new cases were detected globally.According to WHO, lung cancer tops the list as the most commonly occurring cancer worldwide, with 2.5 million new cases, accounting for 12.4% of total new cases. Female breast cancer ranks second, followed by colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and stomach cancer. The global burden of cancer underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts, innovative treatments, and comprehensive prevention strategies to ease its impact on societies worldwide.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-27 16:25:46
India
Defense News ,India :- India's Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is at the forefront of innovation with the creation of the DATRAN 1500 engine, a potent diesel powerhouse designed for the next generation of Indian main battle tanks (MBTs). Let's delve into the engine's specifications and explore its potential impact on the future of armored vehicles:Technical Specifications:Engine Design: 90-degree VeeCylinders: 10Cycle: Four-strokeAspiration: TurbochargedCooling: Liquid-circulationMax Power: 1500 HP at 2400 rpmMax Torque: 5013 Nm at 1600 rpmBore: 170 mmStroke: 175 mmDisplacement: 39.7 dm3Idling Speed: 850 rpmTop Speed: 2400 rpmKey Features:The DATRAN 1500 stands out with a robust power output of 1500 HP, marking a substantial enhancement over current engines used in Indian MBTs.Its modular design opens doors for potential future upgrades and adaptations.The integration of a turbocharger elevates performance, especially in high-altitude scenarios where traditional engines might falter due to thinner air.Efficient liquid-circulation cooling ensures optimal heat dissipation, a critical factor for sustaining engine performance in challenging conditions.Future Perspectives:The DATRAN 1500 is primarily designated for the Futuristic Main Battle Tank (FMBT) , also known as the Arjun Mk-II, currently in the developmental phase. Additionally, this engine has emerged as a viable alternative for the existing **Arjun Mk-IA** MBTs facing disruptions in engine supply from Germany.Arjun Mk-IA Opportunity: Another potential application for the DATRAN 1500 engine lies in the Arjun Mk-IA MBT. The recent German decision to halt MTU engine supplies for the Arjun has created an opening for the DATRAN engine to serve as a domestic substitute.However, incorporating the DATRAN engine into the Arjun Mk-IA requires adjustments to the tank's chassis and engine compartment to accommodate the new engine's size and weight. Furthermore, rigorous testing and validation are essential to ensure seamless integration with the existing Arjun systems.Considerations for Adoption:Testing and Integration:Ongoing trials and development demand comprehensive testing and integration with the Arjun Mk-IA to guarantee compatibility and reliable performance.Production and Cost:* Establishing a production line for the DATRAN 1500 necessitates substantial investment. Assessing its cost-effectiveness compared to existing options is crucial.The DATRAN 1500 engine signifies a significant stride in India's pursuit of self-reliance in armored vehicle technology. While challenges persist, its success could usher in a more powerful and indigenous era for the Indian Army's MBT fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-27 16:15:06Search
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