Uncrowned Guard

USS Carl Vinson Docks in Malaysia The USS Carl Vinson, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier belonging to the United States Navy, officially made her port call in Malaysia, marking a significant moment for international cooperation. This arrival happens just over a month after the USS Abraham Lincoln’s visit, highlighting consistent contact between the global naval powers. A Decade of Partnership: US and Malaysia The call marks the 10 years of a robust US-Malaysia partnership. Rear Admiral Michael Wosje, Carrier Strike Group One (CSG-1) commander, offered his remarks on the occasion, noting that the long-term security and military cooperation between both nations underlines their shared commitment to bolstering prosperity, security, and peace in the region. Beyond these shared objectives, the Rear Admiral pointed out how the visit by the world's largest warship facilitates further cooperation with the Royal Malaysian Navy. "This visit allows us to build upon our strategic and mutually beneficial partnership while also giving our sailors much-deserved rest and relaxation, exploring the rich cultural offerings of Kuala Lumpur and becoming closer to the local community," Wosje announced per NST. Wosje expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the Royal Malaysian Navy. He repeated his commitment to deepening ties through joint exercises, reemphasizing the close cooperation that exists between the US and Malaysia on security matters. Enhancing Relations through Cultural Exchanges Captain Matthew Thomas, the ship's commanding officer, thanked the welcoming citizens of Port Klang and Kuala Lumpur, recognized for their hospitality. He revealed his delight in inviting Royal Malaysian Navy and government officials aboard the Vinson and the opportunity to embrace the diverse history and culture of Malaysia. The significant docking will see nearly 7,500 sailors from CSG-1 taking part in cultural exchanges, community events, and morale, welfare, and recreation-sponsored tours to foster cultural understanding and cooperation. The visit also included a media tour, where press members were shown the ship's vast flight deck, home to over 60 aircraft, and other key facilities such as its canteen and medical amenities. The USS Carl Vinson will remain docked at Port Klang for several days before continuing its operations in the region. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group operates within the territory of the US Seventh Fleet, preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This naval giant, towering at approximately 244 feet tall from keel to mast, houses over 5,000 personnel. The US-Malaysia diplomatic relations began in 1957, following Malaysia's independence, culminating in a Comprehensive Partnership agreement in 2014. This latest port call by the USS Carl Vinson reaffirms this ongoing collaboration. View full article

Ukraine's Unique Plan to Prioritize Education Amid Conflict By 2025, Ukraine is revealing a rather unique blueprint for education, foreseeing the launch of over 150 underground educational facilities, as stated by Deputy Education Minister Nadiia Kuzmychova in a recent briefing. A Response to Unprecedented Challenges Ukraine has found itself entangled in a web of adversity resulting from continuous Russian aerial attacks. The relentless bombardment has severely impacted the nation’s civil infrastructure, compelling the government to ponder safer alternatives for its educational institutions. These underground schools and vocational training centers are, therefore, a calculated strategic move in response to the persistent threats. As detailed by Kuzmychova, the plan encompasses the building of 139 underground schools, alongside several vocational training institutions, as an efficacious way to ensure the provision of quality education amidst the crisis. The Journey of Construction As of now, there are 79 underground education facilities under construction, with most of them being built in regions that suffer the brunt of Russian shelling. Kuzmychova asserted that construction would continue vigorously, with an anticipated completion of all the facilities as early as September 1, 2025. Kharkiv, a city in Ukraine, has taken the lead by leveraging its metro stations to hold classes, thus pushing the boundaries and paving the way for a safe yet efficacious learning environment. Such initiative showcases the country's unwavering determination to keep educational opportunities alive despite turbulence. Impact of Russian Invasion on Ukraine's Education System The conflict with Russia has dramatically hampered Ukraine's educational foundation. Data published by the Education Ministry in February 2024 revealed that Russia's invasion had disrupted one in every seven Ukrainian schools, besides completely obliterating 400 educational institutions. Similarly, the commencement of the school year in September 2024 bore witness to the heartbreaking reality of conflict. Within the initial three days, at least 12 educational institutions were ravaged by Russian strikes, leading to many casualties. As such, Ukraine's innovative approach to its educational infrastructure underlines its commitment to the continuity of learning in the face of adversity. View full article

German-Made Leopard 1 Tanks Flood into Ukraine After Extended Delays It has taken a surprising period of 19 months for German industries to refurbish and deliver the first batch of 58 Leopard 1A5 tanks, out of a minimum of 155, pledged to Ukraine by a consortium led by Germany, including The Netherlands and Belgium. However, despite parts shortages, dispatch rates are finally on the rise. Since the initial delivery of the 58 Leopard 1A5 tanks, which arrived in Ukraine in early September, an additional 45 tanks have been shipped, increasing the pace significantly. The Impact of the Leopard 1A5 on Ukraine's Defense Capabilities The delivery schedule is significant to the Ukrainian's defense strategy. The Leopard 1A5, manned by a four-person crew, is set to become the most populous Western-made tank in Ukraine, outnumbering the Leopard 2 tanks (104 in total), the American-made M-1s (80 units), and surpassing the modest 14 British-made Challenger 2s. Currently, the Ukrainian general staff has already assigned the Challenger 2s, M-1s, and Leopard 2s to their designated brigades. This leaves the Leopard 1s, the only Western tanks, to equip the dozen or so new heavy brigades that the Ukrainians have formed recently. Each Ukrainian mechanized brigade typically houses a single tank battalion consisting of 31 tanks. Berlin announced the delivery of the most recent batch of 15 Leopard 1s on Monday. This delivery also included armored trucks, artillery, air-defense equipment, and a significant quantity of ammunition, adding to the nearly 7 billion Euros worth of aid that Germany has sent to Ukraine in the past 34 months since Russia intensified its warfare. The Key Features and Utility of the Leopard Tanks in Ukraine’s Warfare The Leopard 1 tank, a relic from the 1980s, is not the latest addition to the Ukrainian inventory, but it is not the oldest either. Its relatively light construction and armor compared to, for instance, the 69-ton M-1, should not detract from its powerful 105-millimeter main gun and robust EMES-18 fire-control system. Ukraine, recognizing the Leopard 1’s main flaw of thin protection, has added blocks of reactive armor and anti-drone netting to increase its defense capabilities. So far, the additions to the tanks appear to be constructive. Only six of the 58 Leopard 1s that Ukrainians received between July 2023 and early September have been confirmed as destroyed. However, it's noticeable that the Ukrainians tend to avoid sending the Leopard 1s to high-risk sectors. Despite some flaws, the Leopard 1 has inspired confidence in its crew members. Ukrainian units have developed tactics to reduce the risk of a catastrophic event, such as limiting the stowage of rounds in the turret to avoid ammunition explosion following an enemy hit. Ukraine's New Mechanized Brigade and Leopard 2 Tanks Strengthen Pokrovsk Ahead of Potential Russian Attack The eerie silence enveloping Pokrovsk, a transportation hub in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast, gives a chilling warning of an impending storm. The once-populated city has seen its residents shrink to a handful of Ukrainian military personnel since Russia escalated its war on Ukraine in February 2022. The looming threat is the Russian army’s 90th Guards Tank Division, which forms the powerhouse of a formidable force consisting of dozens of brigades and regiments in two field armies. This force, totaling nearly 70,000 troops, is preparing to capture Pokrovsk shortly. The Ukrainian garrison, much smaller in comparison, is expecting key reinforcements. The 155th Mechanized Brigade, equipped with the German-designed Leopard 2 tanks and French-made Caesar howitzers, is reportedly deploying near the city. The Russians, however, are closing in on Pokrovsk. Russian units south of Pokrovsk are reportedly pushing forward to form a defensive line, in an attempt to cut off Ukrainian support from the south. Ukrainians might respond by pulling back several brigades and battalions currently holding a small salient within the Russian-occupied territory. As the conflict escalates, the 155th Mechanized Brigade with its German tanks, French howitzers, and 2,000 new soldiers should be fully deployed in Pokrovsk. The question of whether they can hold the city against an onslaught is one of the pivots of this phase in the wider war that has, so far, claimed over a million casualties. View full article

AFN Now Streaming Service Reaches Unprecedented Milestones The Defense Media Activity (DMA) and the American Forces Network (AFN) have recently achieved a significant feat with their streaming service, AFN Now. Since its inception just two years ago, the Department of Defense's television streaming app has delivered over a million hours of content to military viewership globally, indicating its rising popularity due to its far-reaching accessibility and handiness. Kim Antos, the Associate Director of the AFN Broadcast Center, who has played a pivotal role in the expansion and adoption of AFN Now, commended the relentless efforts of the AFN team. "Our tenacity has not been in vain. It is gratifying to see that the military personnel based overseas can enjoy easy access to quality news, entertainment, and high-ticket sports events," Antos made this statement while reflecting on the app's success over the past year. Rapid Subscriber Growth and New Milestones Besides the one million hours streamed, Antos highlighted that AFN Now marked another significant milestone this year. Just two years since its launch, the app has garnered an impressive 100,000 subscribers in November. Antos attributes this achievement to the popular demand for simulcasting traditional satellite TV channels. “The live sports and newsreel viewers in, however, the excellent entertainment programming ensures they become loyal members," said Antos. Following AFN's partnership with the NFL, the network's authorization to stream each NFL game to military audiences overseas gave another spike to the app's popularity. Football enthusiasts from Korea to the Red Sea welcomed this development with open arms. Additionally, AFN Now offered Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) channels for a tailor-made viewing experience, a feature that quickly became a favorite among the subscribers. AFN Now's Impact on Military Communities The smashing achievements of AFN Now go beyond the significant numbers it boasts. Antos emphasized the substantial benefits offered to troop morale, reenlistment, safety, and quality of life by the streaming service. The special partnership with the NFL and the provision of custom-made channels like FAST have considerably enhanced user engagement. This year, AFN Now added another feather to its cap by offering an extra five channels dedicated solely to holiday-themed content, much to the delight of military families stationed overseas. The streaming app also played a critical role in disseminating timely information regarding breaking news events and community updates. Alongside AFN’s radio streaming app, AFN Go, the app provided access to crucial information on events like natural disasters or high-risk episodes. AFN Now's Legacy and Future Applauding the staggering growth of AFN Now, Jim Alexander, Director of the AFN Broadcast Center, praised the team behind the outstanding success of the service. He pointed out that the continual refinement and robust testing of the app have immensely contributed to its success. With over a million hours streamed, it is evident that AFN Now is invariably meeting the distinctive needs of overseas military audiences. The AFN Now app continues the long-standing legacy of AFN, which has catered to U.S. forces since World War II. As the network's biggest technological advancement since introducing satellite-delivered television in 1997, it effectively embodies AFN's motto of 'We Bring You Home'. The free AFN Now app is readily available for download and registration at AFN Now Registration for service members, families, and retirees living overseas. The app supports various platforms including Apple iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, Android phones, Android TV and tablets, Amazon Fire, Roku, and smart TVs with app functionality. View full article

Lockheed Obtains $11.8 Billion F-35 Production Contract Bid from Pentagon The Pentagon has extended an approximately $11.8 billion contract to Lockheed Martin, securing the continued production of the globally-coveted F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The perceived progress in contract negotiations has been viewed favorably as both parties edge closer to a comprehensive agreement for the stealth fighter. This hard-won contract encompasses 145 instances of the tri-variant fighter, set to serve the US Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and various international clientele. It's noteworthy that the contract is in the undefinitized stage; where particulars regarding dollar amount and quantities could undergo adjustments as discussions persist. The contract exclusively caters to production lot 18 of the stealth fighter. Quest for Contract Finalization: Spring 2025 Lockheed deferred all queries to the Pentagon. Russ Goemaere, an F-35 Joint Program Office spokesperson, relayed to Breaking Defense that the objective is to finalize this lot 18 contract during the spring. Goemaere went on to announce that similar expectations are in place for the issuance of an undefinitized contract for lot 19 production, contingent upon the approval of the 2025 fiscal budget. However, this may not transpire until as late as March, given the last-minute, stopgap provision approved by legislators recently. Overcoming Negotiation Impediments and Coronavirus Challenges Despite the original plan to secure an agreement last year for production lots 18 and 19, the Pentagon and Lockheed, have warsawed in reaching a consensus due to inflation and further complications. Although a "handshake" deal for these two lots was agreed upon in November, the specifics of quantities or prices remained unshared. Nonetheless, Lockheed indicated positive progress could be made with the issuance of an undefinitized contract as talks continued. Lockheed previously attested that securing a contract was essential to provide a cash influx that the company had been partly funding out-of-pocket to ensure continued production. F-35 Stealth Fighter: Quarrels and Defenders Notably, the F-35 program has been variously scrutinized by Trump's supporter Elon Musk, who is expected to cochair a "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE). The commission could theoretically recommend expenditure reductions. Musk's sharp criticism of decision-makers for continuing to produce the jet and DOGE co-chair Vivek Ramaswamy's advocacy for redirecting funds from manned fighters to alternate platforms such as drones bring up valid questions concerning the Joint Strike Fighter's future under the new administration. Nevertheless, the fighter continues to have its own advocate in the outgoing Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, who despite his well-known skepticism of the F-35 program, defended its continued production and upgrading in the face of Musk's critiques last Thursday. View full article

U.S. Defense Department Allocates Nearly $254 Million for Missile Production Boost The U.S. Defense Department announced on December 23 that it will award $253.7 million to Williams International. The funding, part of the Defense Production Act (DPA), aims to facilitate expanded missile production. The initiative will contribute towards military assistance programs for Ukraine, according to Pentagon reports. The declaration is pivotal as the Biden administration seeks to ramp up military assistance to Ukraine ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as President-elect. This move follows escalating apprehensions that an incoming Trump administration could halt weapons shipments to Kyiv. Enhanced Production Capacity for Precision Strike Armaments The additional financing will empower Williams International to augment engine production capabilities, thereby meeting the Defense Department's demands. The increased production is a prerequisite for accelerating the manufacture of precision strike weapons such as Harpoon, Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM), and Tomahawk, among others. The bolstering of production capacity aligns with the objectives outlined in the National Defense Industrial Strategy, valid until 2024. The strategy envisions expanding domestic production and securing sustainable supply chains. Laura Taylor-Kale, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, stated, "This endeavor is a critical aspect of the DoD's strategy to expedite the capacity and availability of precision strike weapons that offer cutting-edge capabilities and options to our armed forces." Funding Sources and Future Plans The crucial funds for DPA procurements are sourced from the Indo-Pacific Supplemental Security Appropriations Act of 2024 and the Ukraine Supplemental Security Appropriations Act of 2024. These Acts emphasize increasing the production capacity of critical materials essential for defense against aggression. "This facilitization effort is critical for both the Air Force and the Navy's engine-dependent weapons and is a necessity to facilitate the rapid restocking of our Nation's long-range weapons of choice," as per the statement from the Pentagon. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. granted over $60 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Moreover, the Biden administration is reportedly preparing to announce a final aid package in the coming days. This package, part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), is estimated to be worth around $1.2 billion, as per reports from Reuters on December 20. View full article

Ruger Debuts Ultra-light 10/22 Rifle with Carbon Fiber Barrel Sleeve Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. is excited to reveal the newest addition to their renowned armory — a supremely lightweight 10/22 rifle. Assembled at Ruger's Newport, New Hampshire facility, the .22 LR rifle is surrounded by a flurry of standout features, creating a custom-aesthetic and user experience. Sitting Atop the Lightweight Ladder This revolutionary new piece underscores Ruger's commitment to innovative design, as they proudly present the lightest 10/22 rifle in the company's current repertoire. Tipping the scales at only 3.5 lbs, this agile rifle showcases a 16.1" cold hammer-forged barrel enveloped by a carbon fiber sleeve. This clever construction not only reduces weight but enhances rigidity due to the stainless-steel tensioned barrel. Ideal for users seeking reduced vibration alongside the option to add muzzle devices, the barrel is threaded 1/2"-28. Hardy Stock with Enhanced Grip and Design The Magpul MOE X-22 stock, renowned for its lightweight yet robust characteristics, encases the new rifle. The black aesthetic is elevated with a textured, weather-resistant splatter paint finish that assures improved grip even in challenging climatic conditions. Built for the modern user, the stock is equipped with M-LOK attachment slots positioned at 6 o’clock and integral locking sling swivel loops. The length of pull measures at 13.5". Trigger Configurations for Improved Firing Ruger has also added a distinctive touch to the new 10/22 model with their authentic Ruger BX-Trigger®. This encapsulates a pristine break, coupled with an approximate pull weight of 2.75 lbs. Ruger Custom Shop: Launching Chassis Models In addition to the lightweight 10/22 release, Ruger's Custom Shop is also introducing two unique 10/22 rifles enveloped in a Grey Birch chassis. Sporting a tensioned barrel with a carbon fiber sleeve, the BX-Trigger, and options for right-handed and left-handed shooters, these models exemplify versatility. The high-end Grey Birch chassis has adjustable configurations for length of pull and comb height. It folds effortlessly, ensuring easy transportation. The 10" forend accommodates M-LOK slots and an Arca-Swiss rail underneath. View full article

Derya Arms Sets Foot in U.S. with New Manufacturing Unit, Unveils Fresh E-Commerce Platform Derya Arms, a trusted name for 9mm pistols and 12-gauge shotguns, has extended its footprint to the United States, setting off a ripple of excitement among American firearm enthusiasts. This marked expansion involves the establishment of a primary 15,000-square-foot base in Jacksonville, Florida. The facility will serve as both the headquarters and the factory where the company will import firearms, with domestic shooting absolutely on the cards scheduled from 2025 onwards. Breathing Life Into American Manufacturing with Top-tier Firearms Abdullah Celer, president of South Derya Corporation dba Derya, conveyed the company's enthusiasm for this venture. "With an unflinching commitment to quality, we are thrilled to introduce the Derya brand to the United States. Our initial launch will feature two of our hallmark creations, the DY9 pistol and the DY12 shotgun," expressed Celer. He further highlighted the admirable dedication and proficiency of American labor, voicing his anticipation about expanding the product range in the future. The DY9 and DY12 introductions promise shooters a superior shooting experience with high-quality, versatile, and high-capacity 9mm-chambered guns and adaptable shotguns that offer tactical leverage. Both products have earned a commendation for their striking reliability, performance, and groundbreaking design. New Digital Interface to Bolster U.S. Presence Alongside this expansion, Derya Arms has also brought forth a revamped U.S. website. This digital avenue will connect enthusiasts and dealers directly to the brand, featuring comprehensive product information, exclusive U.S.-based promotions, news, upcoming launches, and a committed customer service division catering to product inquiries. A Legacy Carved from Years of Excellence Starting its journey in the Beysehir region of Turkey back in 1998, Derya Arms has risen to become a global brand, boasting a massive 250,000-square-foot factory and exporting its top-tier shotguns, pistols, and rifles to 65 countries worldwide. To continue meeting the escalating demand, the firm is on the brink of unveiling a second manufacturing facility of equivalent size in the Konya locale of Turkey. Derya Arms stands tall as the largest shotgun manufacturer and the second-largest small-arms producer in Turkey, as per website details. Fans can brace themselves for an early 2025 launch of Derya Arms guns, with the high-capacity DY9 primed to be the first off the shelves. View full article

Troubling Declarations About Alaska Cause Stir, Reflect Russian Sentiment Shocking, or perhaps more appropriately laughable, statements from a member of Russia's mercenary organization, the Wagner Group, have once again placed Alaska under the spotlight of international politics. The Group's officer, Aleksey Berezutski, issued a bold assertion via social media stating, "Alaska, we will definitely come back to you, Russia!" alongside AI-generated images of Russian paratroopers descending on Alaskan territory. Paratrooper Threat Gains Attention Worldwide This audacious claim rapidly gathered momentum, amassing an enormous audience of over 14 million viewers on X, the social media platform owned by business magnate Elon Musk. Though ostensibly improbable, these statements underscore an increasingly dominant narrative propagated by some Russian factions, including members of the State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament. In fact, as early as June 2022, Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of the Russian State Duma, cautioned the U.S. to acknowledge Russia's historical entitlement over Alaska. Volodin twice emphasized the importance of America's recollection of Alaska's initial ownership, a memory that erstwhile belonged to Russia before the land was sold to the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million, a deal formalized in the Treaty of Cession. Rekindling Old Flames: The Alaska Case Reopened? The legitimacy of this sale, entrenched in history though it may be, is currently being questioned in light of recent Russian pronouncements. In an unexpected turn of events in January 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin provisioned funds for the investigation and registration of Russian properties overseas. These properties encompass territories earlier governed by the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. Despite the absence of explicit mention of Alaska, numerous military bloggers inferred that this decree targets the discrediting of the 1867 sale. American officials have largely dismissed such declarations as frivolous. Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson for the State Department, outright ridiculed attempts to question Alaska's allegiance at a recent public briefing, causing the audience to erupt into laughter. Troublingly, Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and current Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, belittled the U.S. dismissals. He wrote on social media," We'll just wait for [Alaska's] return any day now. War is now unavoidable", a statement which he casually punctuated with a smiley face emoji. These comments from Berezutski and Medvedev have sparked apprehensions about the possible misuse of inflammatory speech for domestic politics. Despite their doubtful credibility as genuine military threats, such proclamations appear to manipulate and incite nationalist sentiment amidst Russia's persisting frictions with the West. View full article

Ukrainian Security Service Targets Alleged Russian War Criminal Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, commander of the Russian Armed Forces’ radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops, died under mysterious circumstances in Moscow on December 17. A source within the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) claimed responsibility for the operation. The Kyiv Independent reported this alleged operation. Assassination by Explosion: The Scenario Kirillov and another member of the Russian service lost their lives in an apparent explosion occurring in the Russian capital on the morning of December 17. Ukrainian prosecutors had previously accused Kirillov of deploying unlawful chemical weaponry against Ukraine during conflicts. The SBU informant disclosed that explosives strapped to a scooter detonated as Kirillov and his aide neared the entrance to a house on Ryazansky Prospect in Moscow. "It is inevitable that there will be retribution for war crimes," the source proclaimed, adding that "Kirillov was a war criminal and entirely justified target, having commanded the deployment of illegal chemical weapons on Ukrainian soldiers". However, external validation of these allegations remains unattained. Investigation Unfolds, Accusations Levied According to the Mash Telegram channel, the detonation took place at around 6 a.m. local time in the vicinity of a service car conveyed for Kirillov. Kommersant, a pro-state media outlet, uncovered that the purported murder weapon was a homemade explosive device carrying an equivalent of 300 grams of TNT. The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a terrorism investigation into the incident. Reports by the Russian news agency RBC, citing anonymous sources, suggest investigators are most inclined to attribute the incident to Ukraine. This incident, if attributed to Ukraine, may heighten the already severe tensions between the two nations. An investigation by the Kyiv Independent in August showed escalating use of gas attacks by Moscow’s forces against Ukrainian troops. Anonymous interviews conducted by the Kyiv Independent also suggest these tactics have been effective for the Russian side. In addition to this, Kirillov had been subject to sanctions from the United Kingdom in October over allegations of chemical weapons deployment on Ukrainian battlefields. Having held high-ranking positions within the radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops since 2012, Kirillov was appointed as the department's chief in 2017, according to reports by Meduza. View full article

Polish Foreign Minister Pushes for Western Pressure on Russia Over Ukraine In an impactful press conference held in Brussels on December 16, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski strongly voiced that Western countries should focus their efforts on pressuring Russia, instead of Ukraine, to enter peace talks as a measure to halt the ongoing conflict. Unsettling Global Dynamics as U.S. Support Appears Uncertain This steely declaration from Sikorski arrives at a time when Europe finds itself preparing for a potential decline in U.S. support. The world awaits the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House and his subsequent potential to expedite the discussion process between Moscow and Kyiv. Proxy Support: Urgent Call to Strengthen Ukraine's Negotiating Position Emphasizing Russia's role as the instigator in the conflict, Sikorski accentuated that it should be Russia feeling the brunt of the pressure to enter negotiations. It's crucial, he stated, for both the United States and the European Union to aid Ukraine in evolving a more advantageous stance for any impending discussions. These viable negotiations, according to Sikorski, ought to be promoted and imposed on the offender, i.e., Russia, not on the target, Ukraine. Drawing attention further, Sikorski appealed for a consolidated front against Russia comprising of Europe and its allies. He added that the E.U. should exhibit a more forceful response to Russian transgressions. Ukraine: Bolstering Defenses and Solidifying Support Amid Unsettled Times Amid these uncertain conditions, Ukraine's allies have intensified their backing by amplifying economic and military aid to Kyiv. This driven effort aims to bolster the war-stricken nation's stand ahead of potential peace negotiations. In a significant move, on December 16, the E.U. sanctioned its 15th penalty package against Russia, focusing on disabling Russia's clandestine fleet and defense sector. Prior to this announcement, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha debriefed his European colleagues, including Sikorski, about the ongoing circumstances in Ukraine. View full article

U.S Government Responds to Increased Drone Sightings In this new era of technology, monitoring the daily drone activities in the United States is inevitable. Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records over a million legally registered drones that regularly occupy U.S. skies alongside those used for commerce, hobbies, and law enforcement. As we navigate these burgeoning technological frontiers, we anticipate this figure to rise further. Federal Government Investigating Multiple Drone Reports Over the recent weeks, an upsurge in reported drone sightings, surpassing 5,000, has found a way to the Federal Bureau of Crime (FBI). Approximately 100 potential leads have been generated from these reports. The federal government, respecting each department's individual mission and authority, is promptly prioritizing and pursuing these leads. In response to this surge, advanced detection technology and trained visual observers have been dispatched across relevant regions. Through meticulous examination of technical data and citizen tip-offs, the government has deduced that previous sightings encompass a mix of legally operating drones for commercial and hobbyist purposes, law enforcement drones, and conventional aircraft, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. In some cases, stars were wrongly reported as drones. To date, the government has been unable to identify any unusual activities or perceive any national security or public safety threats over the civilian airspace in New Jersey or other northeastern states. U.S Government Addressing Public Concerns and Military Facility Security However, the government has taken note of concerns raised in several communities and continuous support is being delivered to state and local authorities through advanced detection technology and law enforcement backing. In light of this, they are urging Congress to pass counter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) legislation that would broaden existing counter-drone mandates to identify and negate any emerging threat. Additionally, there have been a few isolated cases of drones sighted over military facilities in New Jersey and other locations, including within restricted air space. Intrusions over Department of Defense (DoD) installations are not rare and are being taken gravely by the DoD. The department is in active collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies as needed. Measures are underway to ensure adequate detection and mitigation procedures are implemented by local commanders. View full article

Russia Gears for Possible NATO Confrontation within a Decade, Warns Defense Minister Amid lingering tensions and political maneuvers, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov has cautioned the nation to brace for potential conflict scenarios, including a war with NATO, over the next ten years. These concerns came to light during a Defense Ministry meeting on December 16, as reported by the Interfax news agency. Belousov's fears are rooted in perceived shifts in NATO countries' doctrines and conclusions derived from the landmark Washington summit held in July. "The decisions of the North Atlantic Alliance summit, along with the altered doctrinal documents of the United States and other NATO countries, indicate a need for preparedness for war," remarked Belousov. His assertion is further strengthened by the increased support for Ukraine manifested during NATO’s 75th-anniversary celebration. From receiving more air defense systems, secured funding, and a NATO representative in Kyiv to the irreversible promise of its membership, developments have consistently ignited Russia-NATO tensions. Dissecting the Growing Tensions Between Russia and NATO Evidence of the escalating friction between NATO and Russia is visible, particularly in the support extended by allied countries to Ukraine after the advent of the full-scale invasion. Moscow's withdrawal from multiple nuclear treaties during the full-scale war and the deployment of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile, Oreshnik, in a strike against Dnipro in November, corroborate this fact. In return, Russia has retorted with concealed and open threats toward the West, possibly hinting at a nuclear response. Western officials have reciprocated these warnings with their own sentiments, predicting a possible open clash with Russia in the upcoming years. In light of this, NATO leaders propose amplifying the defense spending benchmark from 2% to 3% of gross domestic product. Russia's Advancement in Unmanned Battle Systems Along with its anticipatory move toward a potential war with NATO, Russia has announced its intention to set up an exclusive military division centered on unmanned systems. Mimicking Ukraine's establishment of the Unmanned Systems Forces in September this year, the Russian counterpart is projected to be finalized by the third quarter of 2025. The new branch's creation, as mentioned by Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, is intended to enhance its focus on drone warfare in response to swiftly revolutionizing military technologies. Over 3,500 drones are deployed daily in Russia, with their air defense systems intercepting more than 27,000 drones in 2024 alone. View full article