Uncrowned Guard

North Korea Officially Enters Mutual Defense Treaty with Russia In a recent development, North Korea has announced the ratification of a defensive alliance with Russia, based on statements from official state media on November 12. This agreement obligates both countries to provide military aid to each other in the event of an armed attack. Rising Tensions and Mutual Goals The proclamation follows initial skirmishes between the Ukrainian forces and North Korean troops placed near Kursk, a border region of Russia. This comes after recent reports noted the first instances of conflict between Ukraine's military and North Korean soldiers stationed within the boundaries of Russia. Kim Jong Un's Decree This pact was confirmed by North Korea’s own KCNA news agency, stating that supreme leader Kim Jong Un had issued a decree ratifying the treaty. The news agency stated that “the treaty will take effect from the day when both sides exchanged the ratification instruments." Russia's Response and International Efforts Russian lawmakers gave a unanimous nod to this treaty the preceding week, following which President Vladimir Putin signed it into law. This agreement was first drawn up during Putin's visit to Pyongyang in June of this year, and it commands immediate military support from either party in the event of an attack. North Korean Foreign Minister, Choe Son Hui, during her latest trip to Moscow, declared her country's allegiance with Russia, insisting that Pyongyang will stand by Russia "until the day of victory." Accusations and Concerns Critics, including South Korea, Ukraine, and several Western nations, have accused North Korea of setting up approximately 10,000 troops to boost Russia's war efforts. Western governments have also claimed that Pyongyang has provided Moscow with artillery shells and missiles to be utilized in Ukraine. The G7 nations voiced their concerns last week over the escalating military collaboration between Russia and North Korea. They expressed fears that North Korean soldiers might receive training in the use of ballistic missiles, a move that would be in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. View full article

Report: Iran Develops Fentanyl-Based Chemical Weapons According to a recent report from Business Insider, Iran is suspected of developing pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs) with lethal or incapacitating properties. These PBAs function by affecting the victim's central nervous system, resulting in severe harm or death. The situation may escalate dangerously if these advanced tools are provided to Iran's militant allies, such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Pharmaceutical-Based Agents: A New Approach in Warfare An expert from the US claims that Iran has developed synthetic opioid-based chemical weapons, such as fentanyl. These powerful agents have the potential to incapacitate both military personnel and civilians if incorporated into artillery or grenades. PBAs, which are essentially weaponized medicines, function by incapacitating or killing their victims, depending on the exposure levels. Reports also suggest that Iran might have distributed PBAs among proxies like Hezbollah, which runs the risk of utilizing them against Israeli military and civilians. The U.S. Government Accountability Office describes PBAs as chemicals based on pharmaceutical compounds, some of which have legitimate medical uses. However, misuse of these substances can cause devastating illness or death. Opioids such as fentanyl and sedatives used for veterinary purposes are included in this category. Lethality of PBAs and Strategies to Counter Victims exposed to these drugs suffer a significant impact on their central nervous system, potentially leading to a complete loss of consciousness. This gives the deploying party an advantage, allowing them to advance unnoticed and capture the incapacitated victims. During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, Iran itself was a victim of chemical weapons that led to almost a million casualties. Regardless of their past experiences, there's evidence of Iran using PBAs against rebels during the Syrian Civil War and reports suggesting Iran-backed militias in Iraq might have deployed them against anti-government protesters. There is international concern that Iran is breaking the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention by developing these pharmaceutical-based weapons. The Convention prohibits the creation and use of toxic chemicals, defined as those that can inflict death, temporary incapacitation, or permanent harm to humans or animals. All signatories to the treaty, including Iran, are required to destroy any existing stockpiles. Detection and Difficulties in Regulating PBAs Despite the growing evidence pointing to Iran's continued development of PBAs, regulating them poses a significant challenge due to overlaps with legal law enforcement and medical applications. The concern around Iran and PBAs grows if Tehran has passed these weaponized medicines to proxies like Hezbollah, as these actions can provide Iran plausible deniability. PBAs could be used strategically to incapacitate border guards or soldiers. While the recent Israeli military offensives have significantly weakened Hezbollah and its missile arsenal, the group still holds considerable stocks of smaller weapons that can be paired with PBAs. With the chance of encounters between US forces and Iran and its allies, the potential risk of pharmaceutical-based agents couldn't be higher. View full article

Policy Shift Allows US Contractors in Ukraine for Military Maintenance The Pentagon has reportedly relaxed restrictions to permit a select group of American defense contractors to operate within Ukraine for the repair and maintenance of essential military equipment. This significant modification of policy includes providing support for F-16 fighters and Patriot air defense systems. Heralded by the Department of Defense, this recent approach is aimed at enhancing the upkeep process of key equipment used by Ukrainian forces in their ongoing confrontation with Russia. This move enables American firms to bid for contracts and provide on-site assistance in Ukraine, marking the first such initiative since the invasion by Russia in 2022. The change essentially acknowledges the need for specific technical skills for maintaining equipment like F-16s and Patriot batteries. Consequently, the Department of Defense is looking for a handful of skilled contractors to ensure the optimal functioning of the assistance already provided by the US and its allies. The Expanding Role of US Contractors Until this recent development, the US has aided maintenance remotely with American personnel offering guidance through secure communication and video calls. Although helpful, this form of remote support faced numerous operational challenges, not the least of which was the necessity for hands-on expertise to carry out many repairs. With the revised policy, the Pentagon anticipates that on-site experienced contractors can facilitate quicker and more efficient fixes to these intricate systems. This underscores the need for regular upkeep of advanced equipment like the F-16 because of the intense operational demands from Ukraine’s defense efforts. Necessity for Policy Amendments: Past Challenges and Future Prospects The need for the current policy shift becomes evident considering the almost three years of rigorous combat that has considerably damaged the military equipment provided to Ukraine. Previously, the administration's policy constraints did not allow experienced US contractors to function directly within Ukraine. This necessitated the transport of the damaged equipment to NATO nations for repair. Moreover, the remote assistance provided was often insufficient and complicated. It resulted in logistical issues and delays in returning essential equipment to active status. Particularly for advanced systems like the F-16 jets and Patriot defenses, on-site expertise was crucial to deal with frequent maintenance needs. Under the new Pentagon regulation, a judicious number of US defense contractors will be permitted to offer their services in Ukraine. While the contractors are not expected to be stationed on the battlefront, their presence in the country does invite a certain degree of risk due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The new policy was launched ahead of the recent US elections. However, its continuity remains uncertain, especially considering the imminent shift in administration. The incoming President-elect, Donald Trump, has previously expressed his reservations about the magnitude of the US military and financial support for Ukraine. Lastly, the risk posed by Russia's continued occupation of considerable parts of Ukraine, bolstered by North Korean soldiers, amplifies the need for escalated support from Western allies. While Ukraine has urged these nations to relax restrictions on using missiles deep into Russian territories, the Biden administration seems disinclined to take this drastic step due to its probable destabilizing effect on the region. View full article

Qatar Halts Role as Peacemaker in Israel-Hamas Simmering Conflict The role of Qatar as the intermediary in the longstanding friction between Hamas and Israel has reached an impasse. The Gulf nation, a crucial U.S. ally, has announced its withdrawal from the delicate task of facilitating negotiations. Citing a lack of sincere efforts to negotiate from both sides, the suspension came after an anonymous diplomat disclosed the country's decision. A Pivotal Yet Fragile Role in the Global Spotlight As the Gaza conflict ignited in October 2023, Qatar's position in the fray was a critical component. Despite its slight physical presence on the globe, the Arab state held considerable sway in shaping the discourse between Israel and the Palestinian militant organization, Hamas. However, the cessation of Qatar’s peacemaking role was instated in April, of their own volition and not due to coercion from the U.S. or Israel. Despite requests from the Biden administration to re-engage and attempt to coax exiled Hamas leaders back to the negotiation table, Qatar's efforts yielded no fruitful result in terms of securing an agreement. Following Qatar's ultimatum to Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement within a stipulated 10 days, the country resolved to suspend mediation. The Qatari Foreign Ministry did, however, state that their efforts would recommence if the necessary earnestness to end the conflict and alleviate civilian distress is properly expressed. An Episode of Shifting Alliances and Negotiating Ceasefires In a significant development last year, Qatar brokered a temporary ceasefire, leading to the liberation of over 100 hostages within Israel's confines, a result of Hamas's aggression. This fleeting pact was instrumental in procuring the release of several Palestinians detained in Israel. Despite their efforts, mediators from Qatar and Egypt haven't shied away from attributing the lack of commitment to ending hostilities and fluctuating negotiations to Israel's premier and the nation's far-right government. Israeli authorities persist in their stance to only pause hostilities temporarily, even after their military reportedly dismantled Hamas's units. Military personnel are increasingly questioning the need for the ongoing conflict after over a year of confrontation. For the past two decades, Qatar has served as a sanctuary to leaders of Hamas ousted from their homeland. However, given the inconclusiveness of negotiations toward a ceasefire, the diplomat suggests that there is little motivation to continue hosting the Hamas political establishment. In 2006, under a proposal from the George W. Bush administration, the exiled Hamas leadership found asylum in Qatar following their electoral victory in the Gaza Strip. In the years following, multiple U.S. administrations have leveraged this avenue to communicate with the organization that they had to engage, while avoiding direct contact. The Future of Qatar's Mediator Legacy Despite the recent announcement of the suspension, high-ranking officials in the U.S. administration appreciate Qatar's invaluable role in securing the release of hostages previously. However, the continued reluctance of Hamas to liberate withheld hostages marred this achievement. As a result, the senior U.S. official deemed their continued occupation of Doha as unfeasible and unacceptable. As per U.S. officials, given that Hamas has a history of anti-American activities, including hostage-taking, the organization's leaders should not receive hospitality in the capital city of any country that allies with America. While Qatar has faced heavy criticism from Israel’s far-right leadership for harboring ties with Hamas, their decision to withdraw comes at a time when a new Trump-led administration is on the horizon in the U.S. View full article

US Marine Corps Commences Full-Scale Production of ACV-30 Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has been awarded a contract from the US Marine Corps marking the beginning of full-rate production for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30). The USD 51 million contract comprises subcomponents related to the 30mm remote turret. These parts will be manufactured by Kongsberg at their facility in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Extended Contract Worth Estimated USD 329 Million The contract issued to Kongsberg can be viewed as a component of a larger framework agreement, otherwise referred to as an “undefinitized contract action”. The total value of this agreement may reach up to USD 329 million. Revolutionized Medium Caliber Turret by KONGSBERG The ACV-30 features a highly stable and remotely controllable Medium Caliber Turret (MCT-30) crafted by Kongsberg. This advancement ensures the safety of Marines, while simultaneously ensuring room for troops and essential mission payloads without compromising armor protection. The remotely controlled turret replaces the spatial need of traditional turreted cannon systems, presenting additional room for troop or equipment transportation, along with reduced weight, thus improving mobility. Veteran defense company executive Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, identified this agreement as a pivotal step for the US Marine Corps ACV-30 program. He expressed satisfaction with the Marine Corps' decision to incorporate Kongsberg's advanced 30mm PROTECTOR remote turret system into their program. Continued Collaboration Between US Marine Corps and KONGSBERG The cooperation between the US Marine Corps and Kongsberg continues to deepen as they together explore the PROTECTOR family of remote weapons and remote turrets. This collaboration will bring simplified training and sustainment as well as developments in wireless fire control and future tech and effector integration. In reference to the value of the awarded contract, it's significant to note that it contributes to a larger framework agreement. On November 4, the US Department of Defense announced that Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace was granted a potential USD 329 million firm-fixed-price, undefinitized contract for the procurement of medium MCT-30. View full article

Expansion of the Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) Satellite System: Japan and Poland set to join Access to the U.S. military's Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellite network will be facilitated for Japan and Poland, marking a strategic development in the expansion of the system, according to recent agreements. This system already serves the U.S. and various partner nations, and it is set for further growth. Reflecting the Emergence of Space-based Communications in Military Strategy The enlistment of these countries into the WGS network is indicative of the escalating significance of space-based communication in military coordination and response. This, officials said, is due to the prevailing global tensions that are progressively stretching into the space arena. Constructed by Boeing and run by the U.S. Space Force, the WGS satellites offer improved communications for military operations. WGS, with its array of 10 geostationary Earth orbit satellites, forms the crux of the U.S. military communication network. The WGS-1, the inaugural satellite, set out in 2007. The most recent additions, WGS-11 and WGS-12, slated to launch in 2025 and 2027, respectively, will grant prime access to Japan and Poland as per the freshly arranged agreements. The Role of International Collaborations in Space Programs Lt. Col. Nicholas Yeung, from the Space Systems Command’s International Affairs Office, stated on the importance of the agreements at the recent Space Industry Days conference in Los Angeles. He pointed out the necessity of alliances as the U.S. and its allies face emerging threats from Russia and China's anti-satellite technologies. The WGS network now incorporates Japan and Poland into its coalition, joining several other members including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Czech Republic, and various NATO countries that leverage the WGS system when required. WGS participation allows nations to reduce the costs of satellite development and maintenance, lightening the financial load for the U.S. For instance, WGS-6 was funded by Australia, while WGS-9 and the WGS-11 launch were financially aided by other allies. International Push Towards Space Ventures Deanna Ryals, director of the Space Systems Command’s International Affairs Office, noted a growing enthusiasm from U.S. allies to engage in joint space ventures. “As nations increasingly recognize space as a critical national investment area, there is a growing appetite for participation,” she remarked during a recent press briefing. This interest is synchronized with NATO's amplified focus on space, a shift prompted by evolving security scenarios post-Ukraine invasion. Prospective Initiatives by NATO Following these developments, NATO has launched two initiatives — Northlink and Starlift. These are aimed at enhancing the alliance's satellite and launch capabilities. Participation in these programs by the United States is dependent on ongoing deliberations about optimal contribution strategies. Starlift's objective is to enable NATO members with satellite launch capabilities to assist their allies during crises or conflicts, thereby fostering collective responses to security threats. On the other hand, Northlink's goal is to develop a multinational communication network specifically for the Arctic, aiming to neutralize Russian military activity in the region. Ryals referred to these initiatives as proactive measures to cater to future needs. She added that legal frameworks and logistical prerequisites are currently under thorough review to support joint operations and multinational space missions. View full article

Concerns Raised Over Su-57’s Construction at Zhuhai Air Show In an unexpected turn of events, the recent display of the Sukhoi Su-57 at the forthcoming Zhuhai air show has raised eyebrows over its perceived subpar construction quality. A close examination of a widely circulated video raises questions about the overall build of Russia's prospective stealth fighter. Insight into the Su-57 at Zhuhai The aircraft set to grace the air show—the model 054 prototype—has been showcased at various air shows, particularly in its Russian homeland. According to the 2024 World Air Forces directory by FlightGlobal, the Russian Air Force includes 14 such aircraft in its fleet and has placed orders for another 62. The video that brought this issue to light, predominantly shared via Chinese social media, examines the front left part of the aircraft, including the fuselage joint and the leading edge of the left wing. It abruptly comes to an end as a result of intervention by security personnel. https://x.com/clashreport/status/1853403110657409363 Noteworthy Observations and Public Reactions Some noticeable irregularities include seemingly rough fuselage joints and uneven rivets uncharacteristic of modern stealth fighters, and panels that do not align seamlessly forming prominent gaps. Similar flaws can be traced back to former Russian aircraft designs. Also discernible were the aircraft’s infrared search and track sensor and two pitot tubes located just beneath the forward canopy. The Su-57's leading edge extension (LEE) and leading edge have visibly poorly fitted joints. The LEE's position, bent sharply downward, exposes large holes, necessary for attaching the actuator. Additionally, the wing's underside panels are not flush. These apparent flaws in stealth features have subjected the Su-57 to mockery on Chinese social media platforms, with an unfavorable comparison being drawn to the Chengdu J-20. Questionable Security Measures and Combat Effectiveness Alarmingly, the security measures surrounding the aircraft, touted as a cutting-edge, fifth-generation stealth fighter, were glaringly inadequate. Photographers managed to get exceptionally close to the jet, noting that the intakes – vital for creating a truly low visibility aircraft – were unshielded. The Lockheed Martin F-35's security, in contrast, is notably stringent at air shows and press interactions, with photo opportunities restricted to a safe distance and the fighter's intakes and thrust nozzles fitted with covers. Despite its status as Russia's most advanced fighter, the Su-57’s contributions to Russia's Ukraine incursion have been minimal. The UK Defence Intelligence revealed in January 2023 that, despite being deployed against Ukraine, the Su-57 has only struck from stand-off ranges, suggesting Moscow's anxiety over the potential downing of the aircraft over Ukrainian territory. Further adding to its dilemmas, a Su-57 was reportedly damaged by a Ukrainian drone strike at a distant airbase this year. The Zhuhai Air Show Roster and Media Exclusion The 2024 Zhuhai air show, scheduled from November 12th to 17th, will also feature China's new Shenyang J-35, capable of landing on an aircraft carrier, and the J-20. However, there is speculation that a myriad of unmanned systems won't be on display. Notably, this year's show is not welcoming international media—a stark difference from previous years, when the event attracted global media—since both mainstream and trade outlet reporters have been denied invitations. View full article

Hyundai Introduces Silent Stealth Battle Tank Fueled by Hydrogen Due to Hyundai subsidiary Rotem, South Korea is poised to be the first country to design and introduce entirely hydrogen fuel cell-operated battle tanks. Rotem recently revealed its envisionment of the future of core battle machinery for the Republic of Korea (ROK) - tanks driven by hydrogen energy. Transition from Diesel to Hydrogen Power in Battle Tanks ROK's K-series battle tanks will transition into the next version, K3, powered by hydrogen and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, making it one of the most technologically advanced tanks globally. The K3 tank, designed in partnership with the Korean Agency for Defense Development and other national technology research institutions, anticipates hitting the production line by 2040, catapulting it to be the first of its kind in the world. This innovative tank will substitute the diesel engine of the K-series with hydrogen fuel cells. This project plans a phased transition, with initial prototypes fusing hydrogen and diesel engines. This development aligns with South Korea's broader vision of shifting its war machinery away from combustible engines. Hyundai Rotem - Revolutionary Main Battle Tanks "The next-generation main battle tanks surpass all capabilities of current MBTs, providing a more effective mission implementation with advanced technology for future warfare. Hyundai Rotem is gearing for future warfare by designing next-generation main battle tanks that enhance combatant capabilities and functional replacements. Our priority is peacekeeping," The company explains on its official website. Modernized Attributes of K3 The new version, K3, will flaunt enhanced stealth competencies, autonomous driving, slave drones, and a new 130-mm smoothbore main gun. An official at Hyundai Rotem stated, "Using an artificial intelligence-based control system, the next-generation tank will have a superior pre-emptive strike ability." Making military assets like tanks more sustainability extends beyond itself - it also provides comprehensive improvements that render the new tank highly flexible and fatal on the battlefield. These include low heat discharge due to the absence of hot exhaust, significantly reduced noise levels during mobility, enhanced acceleration, and much better fuel economy. Additionally, with fewer moving components, the tank is also expected to require less maintenance and maneuver more efficiently across steep and rough terrains. The K3 will be manned by a three-man crew - a driver, a commander, and a gunner housed inside an intensively armored capsule towards the front of the hull. Robust Defense and Increased Firepower This design seeks to enhance crew protection by shielding them from potential threats from autoloaders and ammunition storage. The tank is well-armed with an unmanned turret having a remotely controlled 130 mm smoothbore cannon, enabling targeting from up to 3 miles (5 kilometers) off. The K3 will also feature sophisticated armor comprising an inventive mix of modular steel, ceramic, and composites. Moreover, the tanks will come equipped with multi-purpose anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) capable of reaching up to 5 miles (8 kilometers), including advanced modes for both line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight engagements. There will also be a remote-controlled weapon station on the turret that can accommodate weapons ranging between 12.7mm to 30mm. The tank will leverage advanced defensive technologies, such as a Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system to thwart heat-seeking missiles, an Active Protection System (APS), and a drone jamming device. Its low-profile design, combined with reduced radar and infrared signatures, makes it extremely challenging to detect on the battlefield, akin to the Polish PL-01 tank. View full article

Northrop Grumman Introduces Aerial Data Center to Boost Military Intelligence Northrop Grumman, the renowned defense contractor, has released new technology destined to supersede traditional methods of intelligence gathering for military operations. The technology, informally known as a flying data center, transforms an aircraft into a hub for real-time processing of data garnered from satellites, drones, and sensors on land and at sea. Deep Sensing and Targeting: A Game-changer for Real-time Intelligence Branded as the Deep Sensing and Targeting system (DSAT), this latest innovation saw its debut at a U.S. Army exercise last month. Brent Swift, the director of the DSAT program situated in Northrop Grumman's intelligence center in Colorado, declared, "We're supplying immediate, space-based intelligence to the airborne platform, making it accessible to operators." Swift asserts that this technology holds the potential to address long-standing hindrances faced by the military regarding precise and timely targeting data. Such information is essential during rapid combat situations to guide long-range artillery and missile strikes. The live demonstration was conducted during the Vanguard 24 exercise at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. This two-week event was aimed at piloting advanced military sensors and surveillance systems. Overcoming the Shortcomings of Ground-based Stations The DSAT manifested its capability to process different forms of intelligence data while aboard a commercial aircraft during this demo. The collected data was primarily from both commercial and military satellites and transmitted via tactical radios, enabling communication with units within and outside the direct line of sight. This novel approach effectively bypasses the limitations posed by traditional stationary ground stations, which often lose connection with satellites due to physical obstructions or distance. An Evolution in Military Intelligence Infrastructure Swift acknowledged the Army's current investment in ground-based systems like the Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN) built by Palantir Technologies. He added that Northrop Grumman's airborne system builds upon a former TITAN prototype developed by the company in 2022. In addition, as part of the Army's plan to modernize its intelligence tools, the Sierra Nevada Corp. scored a billion-dollar contract for creating HADES (High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System), a highly specialized intelligence aircraft. This deal is now under scrutiny as rival defense contractor L3Harris Technologies has lodged a dispute. View full article

Imminent Arrival of Mirage 2000 Jets Enhances Ukraine's Defence Arsenal In a pivotal move to bolster Ukraine's defense capability, France is set to deliver Mirage 2000 aircraft to the Eastern European nation in the forthcoming months. This revelation was made by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot during a recent press conference he held jointly with his Ukrainian counterpart, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. The first of these aircraft is anticipated to touch Ukrainian soil in the early months of 2025. French Support Bolsters Ukraine’s Defense Sector Further emphasizing France's undeterred commitment to Ukraine, Barrot cited concrete instances of this alliance. He shed light on France's initiative to bolster Ukraine's defense prowess by providing military hardware and training programs. As a pioneer, France stands as the first nation to have fully trained a Ukrainian brigade, aptly named the Anna Kyivska brigade. An important inclusion in this support is the delivery of the first Mirage 2000 aircraft, slated for early next year. Enhanced Operational Capability through Pilot Training Beyond providing state-of-the-art combat machinery, France is also assuming the responsibility of training Ukrainian pilots to skillfully navigate the newly acquired aircraft, thereby enhancing the operational capacity within the Ukrainian Air Force. Enriching Ukraine’s Military Aircraft Fleet with Western-style Jets Reports dating back to June suggested a strategic augment of Ukraine's combat aircraft fleet by the end of 2024. The new additions were predicted to consist of Western-style aircraft, including F-16 fighters and ACS 890 long-range reconnaissance aircraft from the United States, along with the Mirage 2000-5 from France. The French government has charted plans to supply Ukraine with an arsenal of 20 Mirage 2000-5F fighters. The original delivery dates have since been revised, and supplies are now expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, there have been hints at a potential upgrading of the Mirage-2000 jets to be delivered to Ukraine. View full article