The B-52 bomber abandons standard landing gear for a tandem bicycle layout under its belly. It relies on unique wingtip outrigger wheels to protect its fuel-heavy wings, while its main tyres swivel 20 degrees to safely land sideways in crosswinds.

Why are the B-52 bomber's tyres different from those on most aircraft?

The B-52 is trading its Cold War analogue dials for a massive digital overhaul. Featuring a modern glass cockpit, fighter-grade AESA radar, and Link 16 integration, the upcoming B-52J variant will dominate the digital battlespace until the 2060s.

From analogue dials to digital warfare: The B-52 bomber's incredible transformation

Retired B-52 bombers never truly die; they are stored at the Arizona boneyard to provide vital spare parts for the active fleet. Some, like Ghost Rider and Wise Guy, have even been fully resurrected after decades in storage to fly once again.

Why retired B-52 bombers are never truly retired

In 1994, two US Air Force B-52 bombers completed a historic 47-hour continuous flight without burning out their engines. This extreme endurance relies on a specialised pure aluminium oil cooling system that wraps around the engine nacelles to capture peak high-altitude airflow.

How a B-52 Bomber can fly nonstop for 47 hours without burning its engine?

Hundreds of retired US Air Force B-52 bombers were permanently destroyed in the Arizona desert during the 1990s to comply with the START I arms reduction treaty. While 365 were chopped into pieces by giant guillotines, roughly 40 survive today in museums or as testbeds.


Aircraft graveyard: Where did all the retired B-52 bombers go?

The B-52 bomber relies on mid-air refuelling from KC-135 and KC-46 tankers to achieve unlimited global reach. Transferring fuel at 1,000 gallons per minute via a flying boom, this process unlocks historic non-stop combat operations.

Midair lifeline: Do B-52 bombers get refueled in the air?

The US has deployed F-35s, bombers, and tankers to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar amid rising Iran tensions. As CENTCOM's forward HQ, the base is critical for projecting American air power. This move strengthens deterrence and extends the reach of US forces across the Middle East.

Why Al Udeid Air Base matters now: US deploys F-35s, bombers and tankers amid rising Iran tensions

The B-1B Lancer is famous for its speed and payload, but what if it could take off vertically like a helicopter or an F-35B fighter? A vertical takeoff B-1B Lancer is a fascinating dream, but today’s technology makes it almost impossible for heavy bombers. 

What if the B-1B Lancer had vertical takeoff capability?

Imagine if the B-1B Lancer could fly itself without any onboard crew. A fully autonomous B-1B Lancer could change modern warfare, flying risky missions with AI-driven decisions and no pilots at risk. This move could mark the rise of robotic bombers on tomorrow’s digital battlefield. 

What if the B-1B Lancer became fully autonomous?

The B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit are both legendary symbols of American airpower. The B-1B Lancer focuses on speed and payload, while the B-2 Spirit masters stealth and invisibility. Both aircraft reflect different stages of America’s strategic bomber evolution. 

B-1B Lancer vs B-2 Bomber: Comparing the evolution of stealth

Russia's new satellite images show that Russia is relocating its strategic bombers a third of its strategic bombers are being moved to the Olenya Airfield near Finland border.

Russian bombers close to Finland border

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during his visit to Russia, inspected Moscow's nuclear-capable bombers, hypersonic projectiles and also an advanced warship from its Pacific fleet on Saturday (September 16).&nbsp;

He was accompanied by President Vladimir Putin's defence minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok.

In a video released by the Russian defence ministry, both were seen smiling as they inspected some of Russia's nuclear bombers at an airfield before boarding a warship.

Shoigu showed Kim Russia's strategic bombers - the Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 - which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons and form the backbone of Russia's nuclear air attack force, said Russia's defence ministry.

"It can fly from Moscow to Japan and then back again," Shoigu told Kim of one aircraft.

Shoigu then showed him the MiG-31I supersonic interceptor aircraft equipped with "Kinzhal" hypersonic missiles.

Russia's ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, in a press briefing, said that Kim's programme was "very intense" and that it was not yet clear as to how long he would remain in Russia, state news agency RIA reported.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-lee-weakens-to-post-tropical-cyclone-nears-atlantic-coast-thousands-without-power-636688">Hurricane Lee weakens to post-tropical cyclone, nears Atlantic coast; thousands without power</a>

RIA further quoted Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of Vladivostok's Primorye region, as saying that he would have talks with the North Korean leader over partnership in sport, tourism and culture on Sunday (September 17).

<h2>Kim inspects Russian Pacific Fleet's frigate&nbsp;</h2>

Kim also inspected the Russian Pacific Fleet's frigate "Marshal Shaposhnikov" in Vladivostok and saw a demonstration of the projectile control systems, said RIA.

The US has warned that Russia’s move to gain access to North Korea’s stockpiles will amount to a violation of UN sanctions and will be met by a strong retaliation.

The US also claimed that Russia was going to buy rockets from Pyongyang to use them against Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Putin earlier said he would help North Korea develop satellites, further drawing concerns from the US.&nbsp;

"That is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions" which Russia itself had voted for in the past, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during his visit to Russia, inspected Moscow's nuclear-capable bombers, hypersonic projectiles and also an advanced warship from its Pacific fleet on Saturday (September 16).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during his visit to Russia, inspected Moscow's nuclear-capable bombers, hypersonic projectiles and also an advanced warship from its Pacific fleet on Saturday (September 16). He was accompanied by President Vladimir Putin's defence minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok. In a video released by the Russian defence ministry, both were seen smiling as they inspected some of Russia's nuclear bombers at an airfield before boarding a warship. Shoigu showed Kim Russia's strategic bombers - the Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 - which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons and form the backbone of Russia's nuclear air attack force, said Russia's defence ministry. "It can fly from Moscow to Japan and then back again," Shoigu told Kim of one aircraft. Shoigu then showed him the MiG-31I supersonic interceptor aircraft equipped with "Kinzhal" hypersonic missiles. Russia's ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, in a press briefing, said that Kim's programme was "very intense" and that it was not yet clear as to how long he would remain in Russia, state news agency RIA reported. Also read: Hurricane Lee weakens to post-tropical cyclone, nears Atlantic coast; thousands without power RIA further quoted Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of Vladivostok's Primorye region, as saying that he would have talks with the North Korean leader over partnership in sport, tourism and culture on Sunday (September 17). Kim inspects Russian Pacific Fleet's frigate Kim also inspected the Russian Pacific Fleet's frigate "Marshal Shaposhnikov" in Vladivostok and saw a demonstration of the projectile control systems, said RIA. The US has warned that Russia’s move to gain access to North Korea’s stockpiles will amount to a violation of UN sanctions and will be met by a strong retaliation. The US also claimed that Russia was going to buy rockets from Pyongyang to use them against Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin earlier said he would help North Korea develop satellites, further drawing concerns from the US. "That is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions" which Russia itself had voted for in the past, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects Russian nuclear-capable bombers, hypersonic missiles

Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’.

The development was confirmed by CNN which cited satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies purportedly showing two Tu-95 strategic bombers with car tires on top of the airframes at the Engels Airbase, deep inside Russia.

Engels is one of Russia’s crucial airbases, serving as the home base for the 121st and 184th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiments. It is reportedly responsible for operating the Russian Aerospace Forces’ Tu-160M Blackjack and Tu-95M Bear strategic bombers, respectively.

It is believed that increased drone and missile attacks by Ukraine forced Russia to this unusual approach.

On December 5, 2022, the base faced an attack in the early hours, in which two Tu-95s were damaged. On December 26, 2022, another attack on the Engels airbase claimed the lives of three Russian Armed Forces officers.

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Brace yourselves, because russians have once again showcased unparalleled innovation. What you are looking at is a satellite image featuring a TU-95 strategic bomber covered with car tires. According to them, this should protect strategic bombers from drones <a href="https://t.co/ZjDDzRPOWf">pic.twitter.com/ZjDDzRPOWf</a>
— Tatarigami_UA (@Tatarigami_UA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1698302027552436366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Crude attempt to deter attacks</h2>

Experts argue that this is just a crude attempt at not only adding an extra layer of protection but also to reduce the visibility of the aircraft at night.

“It may reduce the thermal signature for exposed strategic aviation assets placed on airfield aprons, but they will still be observable under infrared cameras,” Francisco Serra-Martins of drone manufacturer One Way Aerospace told CNN.

The Ukrainian forces have been using drones manufactured by One Way Aerospace.

Echoing similar sentiments, another expert argued that it may have little to no impact.

“While it seems pretty goofy, they seem to be trying to do the best they can to up-armour the planes that are otherwise sitting ducks. Whether it works depends on what the warhead is on the missile/drone,” Steffan Watkins, an open-source research consultant who tracks aircraft and ships, told CNN.

A NATO military official, on the condition of anonymity, confirmed to CNN that the alliance was aware of this use of tyres.

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“We believe it’s meant to protect against drones,” the official told CNN. “We don’t know if this will have any effect.”

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Notably, this is not the first time that Russia resorted to such an unconventional method to safeguard its military assets against Ukrainian attacks.

In one instance, the Russian Navy applied paint&nbsp;to the front and rear sections of its Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates due to the persistent maritime drone attacks on these warships while anchored in the harbour in the Black Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’.

Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’. The development was confirmed by CNN which cited satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies purportedly showing two Tu-95 strategic bombers with car tires on top of the airframes at the Engels Airbase, deep inside Russia. Engels is one of Russia’s crucial airbases, serving as the home base for the 121st and 184th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiments. It is reportedly responsible for operating the Russian Aerospace Forces’ Tu-160M Blackjack and Tu-95M Bear strategic bombers, respectively. It is believed that increased drone and missile attacks by Ukraine forced Russia to this unusual approach. On December 5, 2022, the base faced an attack in the early hours, in which two Tu-95s were damaged. On December 26, 2022, another attack on the Engels airbase claimed the lives of three Russian Armed Forces officers. Brace yourselves, because russians have once again showcased unparalleled innovation. What you are looking at is a satellite image featuring a TU-95 strategic bomber covered with car tires. According to them, this should protect strategic bombers from drones pic.twitter.com/ZjDDzRPOWf — Tatarigami_UA (@Tatarigami_UA) September 3, 2023 × Crude attempt to deter attacks Experts argue that this is just a crude attempt at not only adding an extra layer of protection but also to reduce the visibility of the aircraft at night. “It may reduce the thermal signature for exposed strategic aviation assets placed on airfield aprons, but they will still be observable under infrared cameras,” Francisco Serra-Martins of drone manufacturer One Way Aerospace told CNN. The Ukrainian forces have been using drones manufactured by One Way Aerospace. Echoing similar sentiments, another expert argued that it may have little to no impact. “While it seems pretty goofy, they seem to be trying to do the best they can to up-armour the planes that are otherwise sitting ducks. Whether it works depends on what the warhead is on the missile/drone,” Steffan Watkins, an open-source research consultant who tracks aircraft and ships, told CNN. A NATO military official, on the condition of anonymity, confirmed to CNN that the alliance was aware of this use of tyres. Also read | US President Joe Biden tests Covid negative, all set to visit India on Sept 7 for G20 Summit “We believe it’s meant to protect against drones,” the official told CNN. “We don’t know if this will have any effect.” Also read | Nigerian president might lose power even before G20 convenes in Delhi Notably, this is not the first time that Russia resorted to such an unconventional method to safeguard its military assets against Ukrainian attacks. In one instance, the Russian Navy applied paint to the front and rear sections of its Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates due to the persistent maritime drone attacks on these warships while anchored in the harbour in the Black Sea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report

According to the country's defense ministry, long-range Russian bombers sailed over the Baltic Sea and the Arctic Ocean on Monday. According to a statement from the ministry, the Tu-160 and Tu-95MS strategic missile carriers and Tu-22M3 bombers carried out a "planned flight" in the airspace over the neutral waters of the Baltic, Barents, Norwegian, East Siberian, Chukchi, Beaufort, and Arctic Ocean.

Russian strategic bombers fly over Baltic sea and Arctic ocean

Two Russian strategic bomber planes flew over the Sea of Japan for more than seven hours as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was beginning a visit to Ukraine.

Russia flies two strategic bombers over Sea of Japan as Kishida visits Ukraine

Here are the latest updates on Poland-Belarus crisis, thousands of migrants are stuck at Europe's borders. What they hope for a better future, one far away from conflicts in their own countries.

Russia flies patrol bombers over Belarus, UNSC to hold emergency meeting

To give air support to Afghan security forces fighting Taliban in various parts of the country, US President Joe Biden has ordered B-52 bombers and Spectre gunships to target the group’s positions in Afghanistan, a MailOnline report said. Taliban are currently advancing towards key cities on Saturday.&nbsp;

According to the report, the bombers are supported by the AC-130 Spectre gunships, which are armed with a 25mm Gatling gun, a 40mm Bofors cannon and a 105mm M102 cannon. It can provide pinpoint accurate fire from the air.&nbsp;

Fierce fighting is going on in the capital cities of Kunduz, Takhar and Badakhshan provinces between Afghan security forces and the Taliban in the north of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

In Kunduz, the public health directorate said around 11 civilians were killed and 39 more were wounded in fresh clashes that started on Friday evening.&nbsp;

Police said Taliban attacks on Faizabad city were pushed back by Afghan forces in Badakhshan.&nbsp;

As per sources, the city of Sheberghan, Jawzjan province capital in northern Afghanistan, fell to the Taliban after one week of clashes, sources said. It is the second provincial capital, which has fallen into the hands of Taliban in the last two days.&nbsp;

Afghan residents strongly criticise government’s strategy as Taliban make heavy gains. &nbsp;

To give air support to Afghan security forces fighting Taliban in various parts of the country, US President Joe Biden has ordered B-52 bombers and Spectre gunships to target the group’s positions in Afghanistan, a MailOnline report said.

To give air support to Afghan security forces fighting Taliban in various parts of the country, US President Joe Biden has ordered B-52 bombers and Spectre gunships to target the group’s positions in Afghanistan, a MailOnline report said. Taliban are currently advancing towards key cities on Saturday. According to the report, the bombers are supported by the AC-130 Spectre gunships, which are armed with a 25mm Gatling gun, a 40mm Bofors cannon and a 105mm M102 cannon. It can provide pinpoint accurate fire from the air. Fierce fighting is going on in the capital cities of Kunduz, Takhar and Badakhshan provinces between Afghan security forces and the Taliban in the north of Afghanistan. In Kunduz, the public health directorate said around 11 civilians were killed and 39 more were wounded in fresh clashes that started on Friday evening. Police said Taliban attacks on Faizabad city were pushed back by Afghan forces in Badakhshan. As per sources, the city of Sheberghan, Jawzjan province capital in northern Afghanistan, fell to the Taliban after one week of clashes, sources said. It is the second provincial capital, which has fallen into the hands of Taliban in the last two days. Afghan residents strongly criticise government’s strategy as Taliban make heavy gains.

US orders B-52 bombers, Spectre gunships to target Taliban, says report  

The US&nbsp;military said on Tuesday that B-52&nbsp;bombers&nbsp;will be&nbsp;part&nbsp;of additional&nbsp;forces&nbsp;being&nbsp;sent&nbsp;to the Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;there.

White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East.

Captain Bill Urban, a spokesman for US&nbsp;Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52&nbsp;bombers.

The US&nbsp;officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1&nbsp;bombers&nbsp;were there as recently as last month. The B-52&nbsp;is a long-range, nuclear-capable bomber.

The military also confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had already been scheduled to go to the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East, but that its movement was "expedited" due to heightened tension with&nbsp;Iran. Iran's top security body dismissed the U.S. plan to send&nbsp;forces&nbsp;to the region as "psychological warfare."

Announcing details of the force on Tuesday, the US&nbsp;military did not provide specific details of intelligence it may have about an&nbsp;Iranian threat.

US Central Command, which is responsible for US&nbsp;military operations in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following "recent and clear indications" that&nbsp;Iranian and proxy&nbsp;forces&nbsp;were making preparations to possibly attack U.S.&nbsp;forces&nbsp;in the region, Urban said.

He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the US&nbsp;military was not able to discuss. The military has said the threat to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;was on land and at sea but declined to provide further details.

"US&nbsp;Central Command continues to track the number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility," Urban said. US&nbsp;officials have told Reuters that the intelligence was based on specific and "credible" threats to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;in Iraq, Syria and the broader region.

One US&nbsp;official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said there were indications that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East. The United States has previously accused&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;of providing&nbsp;parts of such missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen fighting a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. It is unclear how this intelligence was different.

The US military said on Tuesday that B-52 bombers will be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to US forces there.

The US military said on Tuesday that B-52 bombers will be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to US forces there. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. Captain Bill Urban, a spokesman for US Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52 bombers. The US officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1 bombers were there as recently as last month. The B-52 is a long-range, nuclear-capable bomber. The military also confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had already been scheduled to go to the Middle East, but that its movement was "expedited" due to heightened tension with Iran. Iran's top security body dismissed the U.S. plan to send forces to the region as "psychological warfare." Announcing details of the force on Tuesday, the US military did not provide specific details of intelligence it may have about an Iranian threat. US Central Command, which is responsible for US military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following "recent and clear indications" that Iranian and proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack U.S. forces in the region, Urban said. He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the US military was not able to discuss. The military has said the threat to US forces was on land and at sea but declined to provide further details. "US Central Command continues to track the number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in Iran throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility," Urban said. US officials have told Reuters that the intelligence was based on specific and "credible" threats to US forces in Iraq, Syria and the broader region. One US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said there were indications that Iran appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the Middle East. The United States has previously accused Iran of providing parts of such missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen fighting a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. It is unclear how this intelligence was different.

B-52 bombers to be part of US forces sent to Middle East over Iran concerns

China has for the first time landed several bombers on an island in the&nbsp;disputed South China Sea, a move that could provoke renewed tensions between countries bordering the strategically vital maritime region.

Several bombers of various types -- including the long-range, nuclear strike capable H-6K -- carried out landing and take off drills at an unidentified island airfield after carrying out simulated strike training on targets at sea, the Chinese airforce said in a statement Friday.

Wang Mingliang, a defense expert cited in the statement, said the takeoff and landing exercises on islands in the South China Sea will help the air force "strengthen its combat capability to deal with martime security threats".

The move comes weeks after US network CNBC reported that China had installed anti-ship and air-to-air defences on outposts in the Spratly Islands that are also claimed by Vietnam and the Philippines, citing sources close to US intelligence.

Washington warned that Beijing would face unspecified "consequences" over its militarisation of the South China Sea, and said it had raised the issue with China.

"I believe this is the first time a bomber has landed in the #SouthChinaSea," Bonnieh Glaser, a China expert at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, tweeted.

In an analysis published on its website, CSIS said the location of the runway was believed to be Woody Island, China's largest base in the Paracel Islands, which is also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan.

The South China Sea issue has been brewing for years, with China, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam making competing claims in waters with vital global shipping routes and what are believed to be significant oil and natural gas deposits.

China has engaged in years of land-reclamation efforts on reefs it controls in the region and built both civilian and military facilities in the contested area.&nbsp;

Chinese military facilities include air bases, radar and communications systems, naval facilities and defensive weaponry including landing strips able to accommodate military planes.

Several bombers of various types -- including the long-range, nuclear strike capable H-6K -- carried out landing and take off drills at an unidentified island airfield after carrying out simulated strike training on targets at sea

China has for the first time landed several bombers on an island in the disputed South China Sea, a move that could provoke renewed tensions between countries bordering the strategically vital maritime region. Several bombers of various types -- including the long-range, nuclear strike capable H-6K -- carried out landing and take off drills at an unidentified island airfield after carrying out simulated strike training on targets at sea, the Chinese airforce said in a statement Friday. Wang Mingliang, a defense expert cited in the statement, said the takeoff and landing exercises on islands in the South China Sea will help the air force "strengthen its combat capability to deal with martime security threats". The move comes weeks after US network CNBC reported that China had installed anti-ship and air-to-air defences on outposts in the Spratly Islands that are also claimed by Vietnam and the Philippines, citing sources close to US intelligence. Washington warned that Beijing would face unspecified "consequences" over its militarisation of the South China Sea, and said it had raised the issue with China. "I believe this is the first time a bomber has landed in the #SouthChinaSea," Bonnieh Glaser, a China expert at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, tweeted. In an analysis published on its website, CSIS said the location of the runway was believed to be Woody Island, China's largest base in the Paracel Islands, which is also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan. The South China Sea issue has been brewing for years, with China, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam making competing claims in waters with vital global shipping routes and what are believed to be significant oil and natural gas deposits. China has engaged in years of land-reclamation efforts on reefs it controls in the region and built both civilian and military facilities in the contested area. Chinese military facilities include air bases, radar and communications systems, naval facilities and defensive weaponry including landing strips able to accommodate military planes.

Chinese bombers make debut landing on disputed South China Sea runway

The suicide attackers who launched a deadly Istanbul airport assault were planning to take dozens of passengers hostage, Turkish media reported today, as CCTV images of the bombers&#39; faces emerged. 
 
Turkish officials have pointed fingers at the Islamic State for Tuesday night&#39;s gun and bomb attack at Ataturk airport, which left 44 people dead including 19 foreigners. 
 
The private NTV network reported that Istanbul police had detained 11 suspected IS militants over the attack, in addition to 13 rounded up on Thursday and another nine arrested in the western port city of Izmir. 
 
Officials say the men behind the latest in a series of deadly attacks to hit Turkey were of Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz nationalities. 
 
Turkish media identified the mastermind of the airport attack as Akhmet Chatayev, a Chechen, adding that he had led an IS cell in Istanbul and found accommodation for the bombers.&nbsp; 
 
Chatayev allegedly organised two deadly bombings this year in the heart of the city&#39;s Sultanahmet tourist district and the busy Istiklal shopping street, the Hurriyet newspaper said. 
 
The pro-government Sabah newspaper reported that the attackers scouted the scene and planned to take dozens of passengers hostage before carrying out a massacre. 
 
However, they began the assault early after attracting suspicion, Sabah said. 
 
CCTV images released by the police show the three alleged attackers arriving in dark coats over their suicide vests - clothing that was much too heavy for a hot summer night. 
 
More images show a plainclothes police officer confronting one of the men by an elevator and asking to see his identification. The attacker pulls out a gun and shoots him. Turkey has been rocked by a series of attacks in the past year. IS jihadists or Kurdish rebels have been blamed. 
 
The attack sparked global condemnation, with consuls from a dozen countries around Europe and beyond gathering at the airport today to lay flowers in memory of the victims. 
 
Hundreds of mourners also gathered in Istanbul on Thursday for the funeral of popular 28-year-old teacher Huseyin Tunc, who was at the airport to welcome a friend. 
 
&quot;We still can&#39;t believe it,&quot; one of his pupils, Batuhan Karabey, said, adding, &quot;He was more than a teacher to us - he was like a big brother, helping us a lot. Really, I can&#39;t believe it&#39;s true.&quot; 
 
The Hurriyet newspaper reported that the bombers had rented a flat in Istanbul&#39;s Fatih district, home to many Syrians and other Arabs, and paid 24,000 Turkish Lira (7,500 Euros) in advance for a year&#39;s rent. 
 
The police raided the apartment after the attack, according to a neighbour, who said the bombers kept the curtains drawn. She never saw the attackers, but she heard them, and complained to local neighbourhood officials about a strange smell. 
 
&quot;A very weird, chemical smell,&quot; she told Hurriyet, adding, &quot;Police came after the bombing... I lived on top of the bomb.&quot; 
 
Hurriyet also quoted a local plumber, identified only by his initials ES, who says one of the attackers came to his shop to ask if he could fix their tap. 
 
&quot;He spoke in broken Turkish. He took me home,&quot; the plumber said. 
 
&quot;I changed the tap. I saw three people inside. They looked like bandits. One always stood by me. I left after changing the tap. They paid me 20 Turkish Lira,&quot; ES said. 
 
(AFP)

Turkish officials say the 3 bombers were a Russian, an Uzbek and a Kyrgyz national

The suicide attackers who launched a deadly Istanbul airport assault were planning to take dozens of passengers hostage, Turkish media reported today, as CCTV images of the bombers' faces emerged. Turkish officials have pointed fingers at the Islamic State for Tuesday night's gun and bomb attack at Ataturk airport, which left 44 people dead including 19 foreigners. The private NTV network reported that Istanbul police had detained 11 suspected IS militants over the attack, in addition to 13 rounded up on Thursday and another nine arrested in the western port city of Izmir. Officials say the men behind the latest in a series of deadly attacks to hit Turkey were of Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz nationalities. Turkish media identified the mastermind of the airport attack as Akhmet Chatayev, a Chechen, adding that he had led an IS cell in Istanbul and found accommodation for the bombers. Chatayev allegedly organised two deadly bombings this year in the heart of the city's Sultanahmet tourist district and the busy Istiklal shopping street, the Hurriyet newspaper said. The pro-government Sabah newspaper reported that the attackers scouted the scene and planned to take dozens of passengers hostage before carrying out a massacre. However, they began the assault early after attracting suspicion, Sabah said. CCTV images released by the police show the three alleged attackers arriving in dark coats over their suicide vests - clothing that was much too heavy for a hot summer night. More images show a plainclothes police officer confronting one of the men by an elevator and asking to see his identification. The attacker pulls out a gun and shoots him. Turkey has been rocked by a series of attacks in the past year. IS jihadists or Kurdish rebels have been blamed. The attack sparked global condemnation, with consuls from a dozen countries around Europe and beyond gathering at the airport today to lay flowers in memory of the victims. Hundreds of mourners also gathered in Istanbul on Thursday for the funeral of popular 28-year-old teacher Huseyin Tunc, who was at the airport to welcome a friend. "We still can't believe it," one of his pupils, Batuhan Karabey, said, adding, "He was more than a teacher to us - he was like a big brother, helping us a lot. Really, I can't believe it's true." The Hurriyet newspaper reported that the bombers had rented a flat in Istanbul's Fatih district, home to many Syrians and other Arabs, and paid 24,000 Turkish Lira (7,500 Euros) in advance for a year's rent. The police raided the apartment after the attack, according to a neighbour, who said the bombers kept the curtains drawn. She never saw the attackers, but she heard them, and complained to local neighbourhood officials about a strange smell. "A very weird, chemical smell," she told Hurriyet, adding, "Police came after the bombing... I lived on top of the bomb." Hurriyet also quoted a local plumber, identified only by his initials ES, who says one of the attackers came to his shop to ask if he could fix their tap. "He spoke in broken Turkish. He took me home," the plumber said. "I changed the tap. I saw three people inside. They looked like bandits. One always stood by me. I left after changing the tap. They paid me 20 Turkish Lira," ES said. (AFP)

Istanbul airport bombers planned to take hostages

Three suicide bombers opened fire before blowing themselves up in the main international airport in Istanbul on Tuesday night, killing 36 people and wounding close to 150, officials said. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said that initial indications point at Islamic State as being responsible for the attack. 
 
&quot;According to assessments so far, 36 people have lost their lives and there were also many wounded,&quot; Yildirim told reporters at the site of the attack on Europe&#39;s third-busiest airport. The attack took place shortly before 10 pm local time when two gunmen opened fire at a security checkpoint at Ataturk airport, The New York Times quoted officials. 
 
Police fired shots to try to stop two of the attackers just before they reached a security checkpoint at the arrivals hall at Ataturk airport, but they detonated their explosives, one of the officials said. 
 
Istanbul governor Vasip Sahin said authorities believed there were three suicide bombers, an account corroborated by witnesses. 
 
A Turkish official said the vast majority of those killed were Turkish nationals, but foreigners were also among the dead. 
 
&quot;There was a huge explosion, extremely loud. The roof came down. Inside the airport it is terrible, you can&#39;t recognise it, the damage is big,&quot; said Ali Tekin, who was at the arrivals hall waiting for a guest when the attack took place. 
 
A woman named Duygu, who was at passport control having just arrived from Germany, said she threw herself onto the floor with the sound of the explosion. Several witnesses also reported hearing gunfire shortly before the attacks. 
 
&quot;Everyone started running away. Everywhere was covered with blood and body parts. I saw bullet holes on the doors,&quot; she said outside the airport. 
 
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the latest in a string of suicide bombings in Turkey this year, but the Dogan news agency said initial indications suggested Islamic State may have been responsible, citing police sources. 
 
A Turkish official said it was too soon to assign blame. 
 
The attack bore some similarities to a suicide bombing by Islamic State militants at Brussels airport in March which killed 16 people. A coordinated attack also targeted a rush-hour metro train, killing a further 16 people in the Belgian capital. 
 
Paul Roos, 77, described seeing one of the attackers &quot;randomly shooting&quot; on the departures floor of the terminal. 
 
&quot;He was just firing at anyone coming in front of him. He was wearing all black. His face was not masked. I was 50 metres (55 yards) away from him,&quot; said Roos, a South African on his way back to Cape Town with his wife after a holiday in southern Turkey. 
 
&quot;We ducked behind a counter but I stood up and watched him. Two explosions went off shortly after one another. By that time he had stopped shooting,&quot; Roos told Reuters. 
 
&quot;He turned around and started coming towards us. He was holding his gun inside his jacket. He looked around anxiously to see if anyone was going to stop him and then went down the escalator ... We heard some more gunfire and then another explosion, and then it was over.&quot; 
 
&quot;Could have been anywhere&quot; 
 
President Tayyip Erdogan said the attack should serve as a turning point in the global fight against militant groups. 
 
&quot;The attack, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, shows that terrorism strikes with no regard for faith and values,&quot; he said in a statement. 
 
&quot;The bombs that exploded in Istanbul today could have gone off at any airport in any city around the world,&quot; he said, urging all governments to join forces against terrorism. 
 
Speaking in Parliament earlier, Turkish justice minister Bekir Bozdag said initial reports suggested one attacker had initially opened fire with a Kalashnikov then detonated explosives. 
 
Ataturk is Turkey&#39;s largest airport and a major transport hub for international travellers. Pictures posted on social media from the site showed wounded people lying on the ground inside and outside one of the terminal buildings. 
 
A helicopter buzzed overhead as police evacuated the building. Dozens of passengers walked back down access roads with their luggage, trying to hail cabs. The US embassy urged US citizens to avoid the area. 
 
Flights halted 
 
Authorities halted the take-off of scheduled flights from the airport and passengers were transferred to hotels, a Turkish Airlines official said. Earlier an airport official said some flights to the airport had been diverted. 
 
The airport will be closed for up to 48 hours, Turkey told one foreign government. 
 
In the United States, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reacted to the explosions by putting armed, high-visibility patrols at the three main airports in the New York metropolitan region. 
 
Turkey has suffered a spate of bombings this year, including two suicide attacks in tourist areas of Istanbul blamed on Islamic State, and two car bombings in the capital, Ankara, which were claimed by a Kurdish militant group. 
 
In the most recent attack, a car bomb ripped through a police bus in central Istanbul during the morning rush hour, killing 11 people and wounding 36 near the main tourist district, a major university and the mayor&#39;s office. 
 
Turkey, which is part of the US-led coalition against Islamic State, is also fighting Kurdish militants in its largely Kurdish southeast. 
 
One person was killed on December 23, 2015, when an explosion hit Istanbul&#39;s second airport, Sabiha Gokcen, located on the Asian side of the city. That attack was claimed by a Kurdish militant group. 
 
(Agencies)

Three gunmen with suspected links to IS fired indiscriminately in Turkey's international airport before blowing themselves up

Three suicide bombers opened fire before blowing themselves up in the main international airport in Istanbul on Tuesday night, killing 36 people and wounding close to 150, officials said. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said that initial indications point at Islamic State as being responsible for the attack. "According to assessments so far, 36 people have lost their lives and there were also many wounded," Yildirim told reporters at the site of the attack on Europe's third-busiest airport. The attack took place shortly before 10 pm local time when two gunmen opened fire at a security checkpoint at Ataturk airport, The New York Times quoted officials. Police fired shots to try to stop two of the attackers just before they reached a security checkpoint at the arrivals hall at Ataturk airport, but they detonated their explosives, one of the officials said. Istanbul governor Vasip Sahin said authorities believed there were three suicide bombers, an account corroborated by witnesses. A Turkish official said the vast majority of those killed were Turkish nationals, but foreigners were also among the dead. "There was a huge explosion, extremely loud. The roof came down. Inside the airport it is terrible, you can't recognise it, the damage is big," said Ali Tekin, who was at the arrivals hall waiting for a guest when the attack took place. A woman named Duygu, who was at passport control having just arrived from Germany, said she threw herself onto the floor with the sound of the explosion. Several witnesses also reported hearing gunfire shortly before the attacks. "Everyone started running away. Everywhere was covered with blood and body parts. I saw bullet holes on the doors," she said outside the airport. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the latest in a string of suicide bombings in Turkey this year, but the Dogan news agency said initial indications suggested Islamic State may have been responsible, citing police sources. A Turkish official said it was too soon to assign blame. The attack bore some similarities to a suicide bombing by Islamic State militants at Brussels airport in March which killed 16 people. A coordinated attack also targeted a rush-hour metro train, killing a further 16 people in the Belgian capital. Paul Roos, 77, described seeing one of the attackers "randomly shooting" on the departures floor of the terminal. "He was just firing at anyone coming in front of him. He was wearing all black. His face was not masked. I was 50 metres (55 yards) away from him," said Roos, a South African on his way back to Cape Town with his wife after a holiday in southern Turkey. "We ducked behind a counter but I stood up and watched him. Two explosions went off shortly after one another. By that time he had stopped shooting," Roos told Reuters. "He turned around and started coming towards us. He was holding his gun inside his jacket. He looked around anxiously to see if anyone was going to stop him and then went down the escalator ... We heard some more gunfire and then another explosion, and then it was over." "Could have been anywhere" President Tayyip Erdogan said the attack should serve as a turning point in the global fight against militant groups. "The attack, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, shows that terrorism strikes with no regard for faith and values," he said in a statement. "The bombs that exploded in Istanbul today could have gone off at any airport in any city around the world," he said, urging all governments to join forces against terrorism. Speaking in Parliament earlier, Turkish justice minister Bekir Bozdag said initial reports suggested one attacker had initially opened fire with a Kalashnikov then detonated explosives. Ataturk is Turkey's largest airport and a major transport hub for international travellers. Pictures posted on social media from the site showed wounded people lying on the ground inside and outside one of the terminal buildings. A helicopter buzzed overhead as police evacuated the building. Dozens of passengers walked back down access roads with their luggage, trying to hail cabs. The US embassy urged US citizens to avoid the area. Flights halted Authorities halted the take-off of scheduled flights from the airport and passengers were transferred to hotels, a Turkish Airlines official said. Earlier an airport official said some flights to the airport had been diverted. The airport will be closed for up to 48 hours, Turkey told one foreign government. In the United States, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reacted to the explosions by putting armed, high-visibility patrols at the three main airports in the New York metropolitan region. Turkey has suffered a spate of bombings this year, including two suicide attacks in tourist areas of Istanbul blamed on Islamic State, and two car bombings in the capital, Ankara, which were claimed by a Kurdish militant group. In the most recent attack, a car bomb ripped through a police bus in central Istanbul during the morning rush hour, killing 11 people and wounding 36 near the main tourist district, a major university and the mayor's office. Turkey, which is part of the US-led coalition against Islamic State, is also fighting Kurdish militants in its largely Kurdish southeast. One person was killed on December 23, 2015, when an explosion hit Istanbul's second airport, Sabiha Gokcen, located on the Asian side of the city. That attack was claimed by a Kurdish militant group. (Agencies)

Istanbul airport suicide attack: 41 dead, 239 wounded, Turkish PM says initial findings point to Islamic State

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