The late General Bipin Rawat once said that if the Indian textile sector can invent and manufacture the apparel required to maintain its soldiers in harsh temperatures across the country, the Indian armed forces will fully restrict the import of such clothing.

Armed with indigenous clothing systems developed by AROO, India's first military start-up specialising in defence apparel, soldiers are no longer reliant on imports for extreme cold-weather clothing systems (ECWCS).

ECWCS is a three-layer modular clothing system meant to keep the body warm in temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius when worn simultaneously. Soldiers wear it in high-altitude environments, including the world's highest battleground, the Siachen Glacier.

In the second half of 2021, the first set of around 41,000 ECWCS was delivered.

Because the Army is confidence in the product, it has reordered the indigenous ECWCS rather than importing it from Switzerland, Vietnam, or even Sri Lanka, as it had previously done.

While AROO conducts product research, manufacturing is done by another company with which it has a partnership. AROO began delivering the next set of ECWCS last week, through its Bengaluru-based manufacturing partner – the third since completing field trials in 2017.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The late General Bipin Rawat once said that if the Indian textile sector can invent and manufacture the apparel required to maintain its soldiers in harsh temperatures across the country, the Indian armed forces will fully restrict the import of such clothing.

The late General Bipin Rawat once said that if the Indian textile sector can invent and manufacture the apparel required to maintain its soldiers in harsh temperatures across the country, the Indian armed forces will fully restrict the import of such clothing. Armed with indigenous clothing systems developed by AROO, India's first military start-up specialising in defence apparel, soldiers are no longer reliant on imports for extreme cold-weather clothing systems (ECWCS). ECWCS is a three-layer modular clothing system meant to keep the body warm in temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius when worn simultaneously. Soldiers wear it in high-altitude environments, including the world's highest battleground, the Siachen Glacier. In the second half of 2021, the first set of around 41,000 ECWCS was delivered. Because the Army is confidence in the product, it has reordered the indigenous ECWCS rather than importing it from Switzerland, Vietnam, or even Sri Lanka, as it had previously done. While AROO conducts product research, manufacturing is done by another company with which it has a partnership. AROO began delivering the next set of ECWCS last week, through its Bengaluru-based manufacturing partner – the third since completing field trials in 2017. 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.

No more imported cold weather gear: Indian start-up's solution for Army

In the opening hours of its military campaign in Ukraine, Russia had specifically targeted Ukraine's air defence.

In dogfight, can Ukraine Air Force resist Russian fighter jets?

China will spend 7.1% more on defence this year, outpacing last year's hike and the government's modest economic growth forecast as Premier Li Keqiang seeks to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security and development interests.

Li pledged to enhance military training and combat readiness for the People's Liberation Army, which is developing an array of weapons from stealth fighters to aircraft carriers.

The spending figure, set at 1.45 trillion yuan ($229.47 billion) in the national budget released on Saturday, is closely watched by China's neighbours and in Washington as a barometer of how aggressively the country will beef up its military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-chinese-broadcaster-censors-call-for-peace-at-paralympic-games-opening-ceremony-459155">Russia-Ukraine war: Chinese broadcaster 'censors' call for peace at Paralympic Games opening ceremony</a>

This year's 7.1% hike marks the seventh consecutive single-digit increase, but is the fastest pace since the 7.5% proposed for 2019.

It also comes in above targeted slower economic growth of around 5.5% amid domestic headwinds for the world's second largest economy, including a downturn in the country's vast real estate sector and lacklustre consumption.

China is nervous about challenges on several fronts, ranging from Chinese-claimed Taiwan to U.S. naval and air missions in the disputed South China Sea near Chinese-occupied islands and a festering border dispute with India.

Li, in his state-of-the-nation address to the largely rubber-stamp legislature, said this year the government would move faster to modernise the military's logistics and asset management systems, and build a modern weaponry and equipment management system.

"We will continue the reform of national defence and the military and step up innovations in defence science and technology," he added.

"Government at all levels must give strong support to the development of national defence and the armed forces, so unity between the military and government and between the military and the people will remain rock solid."

The budget gives only a raw figure for military expenditure, with no breakdown. Many diplomats and foreign experts believe Beijing under-reports the real number.

China's reported defence budget in 2022 is less than a third of proposed U.S. spending.

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Arms race

Takashi Kawakami, a professor at Japan's Takushoku University, said the spending increase was "significant."

"We will see how the U.S. responds to the increase in the defence budget, and how much China will increase its defence budget next year, but it looks like it will result in an arms race."

President Joe Biden is expected to ask Congress for a U.S. defence budget exceeding $770 billion for the next fiscal year as the Pentagon seeks to modernize the military, sources told Reuters last month.

China has long argued that it needs to close the gap with the United States. China, for example, has two aircraft carriers, compared with 11 in active service for the United States.

Beijing routinely says that spending for defensive purposes is a comparatively low percentage of its GDP and that critics want to demonize it as a threat to world peace.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Has Russia lost China's support?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-has-russia-lost-chinas-support-458718/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kuo Yu-jen, a security expert at Taiwan's National Sun Yat-sen University's Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies, said Beijing was being forced to spend more on research and development in light of the China-U.S. technology war.

"Costs for China's third and fourth aircraft carriers are going up, too," he added.

China will spend 7.1% more on defence this year, outpacing last year's hike and the government's modest economic growth forecast as Premier Li Keqiang seeks to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security and development interests.

China will spend 7.1% more on defence this year, outpacing last year's hike and the government's modest economic growth forecast as Premier Li Keqiang seeks to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security and development interests. Li pledged to enhance military training and combat readiness for the People's Liberation Army, which is developing an array of weapons from stealth fighters to aircraft carriers. The spending figure, set at 1.45 trillion yuan ($229.47 billion) in the national budget released on Saturday, is closely watched by China's neighbours and in Washington as a barometer of how aggressively the country will beef up its military. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Chinese broadcaster 'censors' call for peace at Paralympic Games opening ceremony This year's 7.1% hike marks the seventh consecutive single-digit increase, but is the fastest pace since the 7.5% proposed for 2019. It also comes in above targeted slower economic growth of around 5.5% amid domestic headwinds for the world's second largest economy, including a downturn in the country's vast real estate sector and lacklustre consumption. China is nervous about challenges on several fronts, ranging from Chinese-claimed Taiwan to U.S. naval and air missions in the disputed South China Sea near Chinese-occupied islands and a festering border dispute with India. Li, in his state-of-the-nation address to the largely rubber-stamp legislature, said this year the government would move faster to modernise the military's logistics and asset management systems, and build a modern weaponry and equipment management system. "We will continue the reform of national defence and the military and step up innovations in defence science and technology," he added. "Government at all levels must give strong support to the development of national defence and the armed forces, so unity between the military and government and between the military and the people will remain rock solid." The budget gives only a raw figure for military expenditure, with no breakdown. Many diplomats and foreign experts believe Beijing under-reports the real number. China's reported defence budget in 2022 is less than a third of proposed U.S. spending. Also read | Aiming to diminish Uyghur culture, China orders closure of 160 organisations Arms race Takashi Kawakami, a professor at Japan's Takushoku University, said the spending increase was "significant." "We will see how the U.S. responds to the increase in the defence budget, and how much China will increase its defence budget next year, but it looks like it will result in an arms race." President Joe Biden is expected to ask Congress for a U.S. defence budget exceeding $770 billion for the next fiscal year as the Pentagon seeks to modernize the military, sources told Reuters last month. China has long argued that it needs to close the gap with the United States. China, for example, has two aircraft carriers, compared with 11 in active service for the United States. Beijing routinely says that spending for defensive purposes is a comparatively low percentage of its GDP and that critics want to demonize it as a threat to world peace. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Has Russia lost China's support? Kuo Yu-jen, a security expert at Taiwan's National Sun Yat-sen University's Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies, said Beijing was being forced to spend more on research and development in light of the China-U.S. technology war. "Costs for China's third and fourth aircraft carriers are going up, too," he added.

China plans 7.1% defence spending rise this year, outpacing GDP target

Antonio Conte praised his Tottenham Hotspur side's ability to turn defence into attack as they shrugged off a dreadful recent run to stun Premier League leaders Manchester City with a Harry Kane-inspired 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

After three successive league defeats, Tottenham's top-four ambitions were fading and Conte's honeymoon period since taking charge in November was well and truly over.

But the Italian, who has been under the spotlight all week after an interview in which he appeared to suggest Tottenham had been left weakened in the transfer window, masterminded the "perfect game" to stop the Man City juggernaut.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hakim-ziyech-scores-a-late-winner-as-chelsea-beat-crystal-palace-1-0-in-premier-league-454671">Hakim Ziyech scores a late winner as Chelsea beat Crystal Palace 1-0 in Premier League</a>

Tottenham only had 28% of possession against City, but defended diligently and somehow always looked a threat on the counter-attack with Kane, who scored twice including the 96th minute winner, linking superbly with Son Heung-min.

City had made it 2-2 in stoppage time through Riyad Mahrez's penalty, and it looked likely that the leaders would even snatch a last-gasp win, but Tottenham had other ideas as they revived their hopes of challenging for the top four.

"You know when you play Manchester City you will concede 70% of possession. But I say to my players that when you are defending, in your mind you must always be attacking. In your mind you want to win the ball and attack," Conte, who had not lost three league games in a row as manager for 12 years, said.

"To have this thought, in the final minutes, their goal could have killed you. Instead my players wanted to win.

"I think in every moment of the game my team wanted to attack them. Every time we had the ball I was thinking we could hurt them."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-responds-to-reports-of-power-struggle-between-him-and-cristiano-ronaldo-at-man-utd-454424">Harry Maguire responds to reports of power struggle between him and Cristiano Ronaldo at Man Utd</a>

The surprise win lifted Tottenham back into seventh spot and with games in hand over the likes of West Ham United and Manchester United, they are back in the hunt for the top four.

But Conte knows that one big result will be pointless unless they can produce a much higher level of consistency.

"This win has to give us confidence, to trust the work we are doing together," the former Juventus, Chelsea and Inter Milan boss said. "But this is a process."

January signing Dejan Kulusevski, handed his first Premier League start, scored Tottenham's opening goal and impressed along with fellow new signing Rodrigo Bentancur.

But it was the old combo of Kane and Son Heung-min which really tormented City. Son set up Kane's first goal, the 36th time they have combined for a Premier League goal, equalling the record of Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard for Chelsea.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/out-of-all-the-problems-i-have-the-smallest-one-is-man-city-says-liverpool-manager-jurgen-klopp-454403">Out of all the problems I have, the smallest one is Man City, says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp</a>

"To speak about only one player is difficult for me. They made a fantastic performance," Conte said.

"Sonny was fantastic today. Harry I think to speak about performance of Harry what I have to tell, he was outstanding, but the two midfielders, the defensive line, the keeper, the players who came in from the bench.

"When you win against Manchester City, you've played a perfect game."

Antonio Conte praised his Tottenham Hotspur side's ability to turn defence into attack as they shrugged off a dreadful recent run to stun Premier League leaders Manchester City with a Harry Kane-inspired 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Antonio Conte praised his Tottenham Hotspur side's ability to turn defence into attack as they shrugged off a dreadful recent run to stun Premier League leaders Manchester City with a Harry Kane-inspired 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. After three successive league defeats, Tottenham's top-four ambitions were fading and Conte's honeymoon period since taking charge in November was well and truly over. But the Italian, who has been under the spotlight all week after an interview in which he appeared to suggest Tottenham had been left weakened in the transfer window, masterminded the "perfect game" to stop the Man City juggernaut. ALSO READ: Hakim Ziyech scores a late winner as Chelsea beat Crystal Palace 1-0 in Premier League Tottenham only had 28% of possession against City, but defended diligently and somehow always looked a threat on the counter-attack with Kane, who scored twice including the 96th minute winner, linking superbly with Son Heung-min. City had made it 2-2 in stoppage time through Riyad Mahrez's penalty, and it looked likely that the leaders would even snatch a last-gasp win, but Tottenham had other ideas as they revived their hopes of challenging for the top four. "You know when you play Manchester City you will concede 70% of possession. But I say to my players that when you are defending, in your mind you must always be attacking. In your mind you want to win the ball and attack," Conte, who had not lost three league games in a row as manager for 12 years, said. "To have this thought, in the final minutes, their goal could have killed you. Instead my players wanted to win. "I think in every moment of the game my team wanted to attack them. Every time we had the ball I was thinking we could hurt them." ALSO READ: Harry Maguire responds to reports of power struggle between him and Cristiano Ronaldo at Man Utd The surprise win lifted Tottenham back into seventh spot and with games in hand over the likes of West Ham United and Manchester United, they are back in the hunt for the top four. But Conte knows that one big result will be pointless unless they can produce a much higher level of consistency. "This win has to give us confidence, to trust the work we are doing together," the former Juventus, Chelsea and Inter Milan boss said. "But this is a process." January signing Dejan Kulusevski, handed his first Premier League start, scored Tottenham's opening goal and impressed along with fellow new signing Rodrigo Bentancur. But it was the old combo of Kane and Son Heung-min which really tormented City. Son set up Kane's first goal, the 36th time they have combined for a Premier League goal, equalling the record of Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard for Chelsea. ALSO READ: Out of all the problems I have, the smallest one is Man City, says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp "To speak about only one player is difficult for me. They made a fantastic performance," Conte said. "Sonny was fantastic today. Harry I think to speak about performance of Harry what I have to tell, he was outstanding, but the two midfielders, the defensive line, the keeper, the players who came in from the bench. "When you win against Manchester City, you've played a perfect game."

Turn defence into attack: Antonio Conte masterminds brilliant win against Manchester City

The Russian government will not send any representatives to this year's Munich security conference, said chairman of the event Wolfgang Ischinger.&nbsp;Known as "Davos for defence," the conference brings together the world's defence and security elite in Germany.

This year, the conference comes at a time when the US has warned of an approaching Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, an official from European Union has said that talks between US and Russia were "not yielding a lot but that dialogue with President Vladimir Putin was still open via the leaders of Germany and France."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-eu-preparing-but-unsure-about-russias-next-move-453236">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move&nbsp;</a>

The official spoke under the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

He said that the harsher the EU sanctions against Russia would be in case of a military invasion, the biggest hit for the bloc should Moscow retaliate.

Russia continues to maintain military presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine. Even though it claims that it did not have an invasion in mind, several statements from the Russian camps are being taken to be an effort towards creating a pre-text.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian government will not send any representatives to this year's Munich security conference, said chairman of the event Wolfgang Ischinger. Known as "Davos for defence," the conference brings together the world's defence and security elite in Germany.

The Russian government will not send any representatives to this year's Munich security conference, said chairman of the event Wolfgang Ischinger. Known as "Davos for defence," the conference brings together the world's defence and security elite in Germany. This year, the conference comes at a time when the US has warned of an approaching Russian invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, an official from European Union has said that talks between US and Russia were "not yielding a lot but that dialogue with President Vladimir Putin was still open via the leaders of Germany and France." Also read | Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move The official spoke under the condition of anonymity. He said that the harsher the EU sanctions against Russia would be in case of a military invasion, the biggest hit for the bloc should Moscow retaliate. Russia continues to maintain military presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine. Even though it claims that it did not have an invasion in mind, several statements from the Russian camps are being taken to be an effort towards creating a pre-text. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to not attend 'Davos for defence' conference this year

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the temporary repositioning of Florida National Guard troops out of Ukraine, said Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby in a statement on Saturday.Kirby reiterated US` commitment to the Ukrainian armed forces amid the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Taking to Twitter, he said, "@SecDef has ordered the temporary repositioning of @FLGuard troops out of Ukraine. Abundance of caution, safety and security of our personnel his paramount concern.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-a-series-of-houthi-attacks-us-f-22-fighter-jets-arrive-in-uae-452828">After a series of Houthi attacks, US F-22 fighter jets arrive in UAE</a>

We remain committed to our relationship with the Ukrainian armed forces."Earlier in the day, the US State Department has told non-emergency personnel at its embassy in Ukraine to leave due to reports of Russian troop build-up near the border with Ukraine and "potential for significant military action," the US embassy in Kyiv said Saturday."

Today, the @StateDept ordered non-emergency US employees at the Embassy to depart due to continued reports of a Russian military build-up on the border with Ukraine, indicating the potential for significant military action," the embassy tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-detains-29-women-and-their-families-in-kabul-claims-us-diplomat-452857">Taliban detains 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat</a>

The core team of US diplomats will stay in Ukraine, however, the embassy said.The US and several NATO countries have been pumping Kyiv with weapons in recent weeks, alleging that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine, which Moscow denied.

&nbsp;

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the temporary repositioning of Florida National Guard troops out of Ukraine, said Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby in a statement on Saturday.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the temporary repositioning of Florida National Guard troops out of Ukraine, said Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby in a statement on Saturday.Kirby reiterated US` commitment to the Ukrainian armed forces amid the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine. Taking to Twitter, he said, "@SecDef has ordered the temporary repositioning of @FLGuard troops out of Ukraine. Abundance of caution, safety and security of our personnel his paramount concern. Also read | After a series of Houthi attacks, US F-22 fighter jets arrive in UAE We remain committed to our relationship with the Ukrainian armed forces."Earlier in the day, the US State Department has told non-emergency personnel at its embassy in Ukraine to leave due to reports of Russian troop build-up near the border with Ukraine and "potential for significant military action," the US embassy in Kyiv said Saturday." Today, the @StateDept ordered non-emergency US employees at the Embassy to depart due to continued reports of a Russian military build-up on the border with Ukraine, indicating the potential for significant military action," the embassy tweeted. Also read | Taliban detains 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat The core team of US diplomats will stay in Ukraine, however, the embassy said.The US and several NATO countries have been pumping Kyiv with weapons in recent weeks, alleging that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine, which Moscow denied.

US Defence Secretary orders Florida National Guard troops to reposition out of Ukraine

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific.

The agreement was announced as Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto met his French counterpart Florence Parly in Jakarta.&nbsp;

"We agreed on the purchase of 42 Rafale. The contract signed today is for the first six, which will be followed by 36 others," said Subianto.

It is the latest sign of warming ties between Jakarta and Paris, as France rethinks its alliances in the region following the collapse in September of a multibillion-dollar Australian submarine deal.

Paris was left furious by the debacle, saying it had been given no warning that Canberra was negotiating a new defence pact with the United States and Britain.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/in-indonesia-brave-islanders-free-croc-caught-in-a-tyre-for-the-last-six-years-451631">In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years&nbsp;</a>

Australia is now obtaining nuclear-powered submarines as part of the new defence alliance, named AUKUS, with Washington and London to counter a rising China.

In November, France and Indonesia strengthened a strategic partnership agreement during a two-day visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to the vast Southeast Asian archipelago.

Indonesia's first order for French warplanes comes as Jakarta replaces an ageing fleet -- consisting mainly of American F-16s and Russian Sukhois --&nbsp;as concerns grow about rising US-China tensions in Asia.

'Technical excellence'&nbsp;

In Jakarta, Parly told reporters that Indonesia had chosen a warplane known for its "technical excellence", which had demonstrated its "operational capabilities on numerous occasions".

Indonesia is also reportedly&nbsp;in negotiations to buy about 30 American F-15s, and is participating in a South Korean programme to develop a warplane.

Since the Australian submarine deal collapsed, France has been bolstering ties with long-time partners including Japan and India, as well as turning to Southeast Asian nations such as Indonesia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-munich-paris-india-australia-france-fms-trilateral-on-anvil-452012">EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil</a>

Indonesia is one of several Asian countries that expressed concerns about the AUKUS pact, with Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi warning it could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region.&nbsp;

The Dassault Aviation Rafale aircraft, which entered service in 2004, has proved popular in the international market despite&nbsp;competition from American and other&nbsp;European manufacturers.&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates signed the biggest ever order for the jets in December, with a deal to buy 80 for 14 billion euros.&nbsp;

Other foreign clients include Qatar, India, Egypt, Greece and Croatia.

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific.

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific. The agreement was announced as Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto met his French counterpart Florence Parly in Jakarta. "We agreed on the purchase of 42 Rafale. The contract signed today is for the first six, which will be followed by 36 others," said Subianto. It is the latest sign of warming ties between Jakarta and Paris, as France rethinks its alliances in the region following the collapse in September of a multibillion-dollar Australian submarine deal. Paris was left furious by the debacle, saying it had been given no warning that Canberra was negotiating a new defence pact with the United States and Britain. Also read | In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years Australia is now obtaining nuclear-powered submarines as part of the new defence alliance, named AUKUS, with Washington and London to counter a rising China. In November, France and Indonesia strengthened a strategic partnership agreement during a two-day visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to the vast Southeast Asian archipelago. Indonesia's first order for French warplanes comes as Jakarta replaces an ageing fleet -- consisting mainly of American F-16s and Russian Sukhois -- as concerns grow about rising US-China tensions in Asia. 'Technical excellence' In Jakarta, Parly told reporters that Indonesia had chosen a warplane known for its "technical excellence", which had demonstrated its "operational capabilities on numerous occasions". Indonesia is also reportedly in negotiations to buy about 30 American F-15s, and is participating in a South Korean programme to develop a warplane. Since the Australian submarine deal collapsed, France has been bolstering ties with long-time partners including Japan and India, as well as turning to Southeast Asian nations such as Indonesia. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil Indonesia is one of several Asian countries that expressed concerns about the AUKUS pact, with Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi warning it could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region. The Dassault Aviation Rafale aircraft, which entered service in 2004, has proved popular in the international market despite competition from American and other European manufacturers. The United Arab Emirates signed the biggest ever order for the jets in December, with a deal to buy 80 for 14 billion euros. Other foreign clients include Qatar, India, Egypt, Greece and Croatia.

Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances

In what comes as a move to enhance&nbsp;defence, NATO on Monday said that it will be sending extra force, including ships and fighter jets, to eastern Europe as Russia continues to build up its troops near Ukraine. Several member countries of NATO have offered troops and equipment.

While Denmark is sending a frigate to the Baltic Sea and deploying F-16 warplanes to Lithuania, Spain will be sending ships to join NATO's standing maritime force, said NATO.&nbsp;

France is also ready to send its troops to Bulgaria.&nbsp;

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement said that the 30-country military organization is all set to take all the required measures to protect and defend the allies. This includes reinforcing the eastern part of the Alliance.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-of-very-serious-consequences-if-it-installs-puppet-regime-in-ukraine-447008">Also read |&nbsp;UK warns Russia of 'very serious consequences' if it installs 'puppet regime' in Ukraine</a>

Earlier, a senior British minister said that Russia would face severe economic sanctions if it installs a puppet regime in Ukraine.

"There'll be very serious consequences if Russia takes this move to try and invade, but also install a puppet regime," British Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab told Sky News.

US and NATO have repeatedly voiced concerns over Russia’s plan to invade Ukraine, a charge that Kremlin denies. However, there have been various reports, citing satellite images, indicating that Russia has amassed thousands of troops near the Ukrainian borders.

Earlier, Blinked had slammed Russia for justifying its troop build near Ukrainian borders. He also said that the NATO alliance is prepared to respond forcefully to any Russian aggression.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a move to enhance defence, NATO on Monday said that it will be sending extra force, including ships and fighter jets, to eastern Europe as Russia continues to build up its troops near Ukraine.

In what comes as a move to enhance defence, NATO on Monday said that it will be sending extra force, including ships and fighter jets, to eastern Europe as Russia continues to build up its troops near Ukraine. Several member countries of NATO have offered troops and equipment. While Denmark is sending a frigate to the Baltic Sea and deploying F-16 warplanes to Lithuania, Spain will be sending ships to join NATO's standing maritime force, said NATO. France is also ready to send its troops to Bulgaria. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement said that the 30-country military organization is all set to take all the required measures to protect and defend the allies. This includes reinforcing the eastern part of the Alliance. Also read | UK warns Russia of 'very serious consequences' if it installs 'puppet regime' in Ukraine Earlier, a senior British minister said that Russia would face severe economic sanctions if it installs a puppet regime in Ukraine. "There'll be very serious consequences if Russia takes this move to try and invade, but also install a puppet regime," British Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab told Sky News. US and NATO have repeatedly voiced concerns over Russia’s plan to invade Ukraine, a charge that Kremlin denies. However, there have been various reports, citing satellite images, indicating that Russia has amassed thousands of troops near the Ukrainian borders. Earlier, Blinked had slammed Russia for justifying its troop build near Ukrainian borders. He also said that the NATO alliance is prepared to respond forcefully to any Russian aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

In a move to enhance defence, NATO sends extra force to eastern Europe

Taiwanese parliament on Tuesday cleared an extra defence funding bill of USD 8.6 billion in its latest attempt to boost its defence capabilities. This is likely to draw sharper reaction from China which has been viewed as being increasingly aggressive towards Taiwan.

China does not recognise Taiwan as a separate country and considers it as its own province.

The Taiwan government proposed a five-year special defence budget of around TW$237.3 billion from 2022 as Chinese warplanes breached its air defence zone at unprecedented levels last year.&nbsp;

Democratic Taiwan lives under constant threat of an invasion by authoritarian China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory to be seized one day -- by force if necessary.&nbsp;

Beijing's sabre-rattling towards the island has increased considerably since President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016, as she regards the island as a sovereign nation and not part of "one China."

Last year, Taiwan recorded incursions by around 970 Chinese warplanes into its air defence zone, according to a database compiled by AFP, more than double the roughly 380 carried out in 2020.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Taiwanese lawmakers agreed unanimously to pass the special budget, although cut it by TW$310 million. The package comes on top of a record annual defence budget of TW$471.7 billion set for 2022.&nbsp;

It aims to acquire various precision missiles and mass-manufacture high-efficiency naval ships "in the shortest period of time" to boost the island's sea and air capabilities, the government said.&nbsp;

J Michael Cole, a Taipei-based political and military analyst, called the special budget "an encouraging and much-needed development" as Taiwan prioritises "asymmetrical" capabilities, such as unmanned vehicles, anti-ship missiles and air-to-ground cruise missiles.&nbsp;

"Many of those are 'counterforce' capabilities, with ranges that are long enough to hit targets along China’s coastline" in line with the direction Taiwan's defence ministry has taken in recent years, said Cole, a senior fellow for Canadian think tank Macdonald-Laurier Institute.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwanese parliament on Tuesday cleared an extra defence funding bill of USD 8.6 billion in its latest attempt to boost its defence capabilities. This is likely to draw sharper reaction from China which has been viewed as being increasingly aggressive towards Taiwan.

Taiwanese parliament on Tuesday cleared an extra defence funding bill of USD 8.6 billion in its latest attempt to boost its defence capabilities. This is likely to draw sharper reaction from China which has been viewed as being increasingly aggressive towards Taiwan. China does not recognise Taiwan as a separate country and considers it as its own province. The Taiwan government proposed a five-year special defence budget of around TW$237.3 billion from 2022 as Chinese warplanes breached its air defence zone at unprecedented levels last year. Democratic Taiwan lives under constant threat of an invasion by authoritarian China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory to be seized one day -- by force if necessary. Beijing's sabre-rattling towards the island has increased considerably since President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016, as she regards the island as a sovereign nation and not part of "one China." Last year, Taiwan recorded incursions by around 970 Chinese warplanes into its air defence zone, according to a database compiled by AFP, more than double the roughly 380 carried out in 2020. On Tuesday, Taiwanese lawmakers agreed unanimously to pass the special budget, although cut it by TW$310 million. The package comes on top of a record annual defence budget of TW$471.7 billion set for 2022. It aims to acquire various precision missiles and mass-manufacture high-efficiency naval ships "in the shortest period of time" to boost the island's sea and air capabilities, the government said. J Michael Cole, a Taipei-based political and military analyst, called the special budget "an encouraging and much-needed development" as Taiwan prioritises "asymmetrical" capabilities, such as unmanned vehicles, anti-ship missiles and air-to-ground cruise missiles. "Many of those are 'counterforce' capabilities, with ranges that are long enough to hit targets along China’s coastline" in line with the direction Taiwan's defence ministry has taken in recent years, said Cole, a senior fellow for Canadian think tank Macdonald-Laurier Institute. (With inputs from agencies)

Eye on China: Taiwan to spend extra USD 8.6 billion on defence

In a bit to deepen defence cooperation, the United States and Japan have agreed to collaborate on several new ventures. This includes developing hypersonic and space-based weaponry and a new deal on sharing the cost of US troops in Japan.

US, Japan collaborate on new ventures, including developing hypersonic & space-based weaponry

US & Japan strengthen defence ties by signing 2 new defence deals

Ukraine's secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, Oleksiy Danilov has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is determined to destroy Ukraine.

Ukraine's secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, Oleksiy Danilov has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is determined to destroy Ukraine. However, he further added that there is no risk of an approaching invasion. While speaking to AFP, he said that Moscow's invasion could destabilise Ukraine. "Putin wants to destroy our country. Will he succeed? No, he will not," said Danillov. Our citizens will protect our country. We are going to protect our country. Full stop." As per Kiev's latest estimates, Russian troops along Ukraine's borders have surged from around 93,000 to 104,000 in a span of two months. As per Danilov, this is not a big surge. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalated in mid-November after Washington warned of a massive Russian troop build-up on Ukraine's border. Putin was also accused of planning an invasion. Also read | Amid row with Ukraine, Russia tests Tsirkon hypersonic missile system Meanwhile, amid these tensions, Putin recently announced that the country's defence forces had test-launched the Tsirkon hypersonic missile system. "This morning, the Tsirkon hypersonic system was salvo-launched. This is our latest missile that can strike both naval and ground targets," President Putin said. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had offered to start talks with Russian officials year next year without setting a date to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Earlier, Russia had submitted a document on security guarantying to NATO and the US highlighting its concerns. It further emphasised how the Western military alliance should not extend its influence in the east. (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin wants to destroy our country', says Ukrainian senior security official

In a major boost to India-Russia defence ties, India may potentially become the S-500 anti-aircraft missile defence system's first global buyer.

India may become the first buyer of Russia's S-500 anti-aircraft missile defence system

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh is currently speaking at the India-Russia meeting, the top agenda for both nations include discussing political and defence issues of mutual interests.

India-Russia defence ministries hold talks, focus on strengthening political and defence ties

Israel and Morocco have signed a landmark defence agreement that aims to lay the foundation for security cooperation, intelligence sharing and arms sales in the future.

Israel and Morocco to deepen intelligence and military cooperation

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons.

“More of the Army will be deployed across the globe, more of the time. Greater forward deployment will improve our ability to anticipate crises and be ready to compete beneath the threshold of open conflict. It will prevent conflict by reassuring allies and partners and deterring adversaries,” the Future Soldier modernisation plan, which was released on Thursday, read.

The defence ministry also announced an additional investment in the military equipment&nbsp;worth 8.6 billion pounds ($11.46 billion), during the next decade. This will raise the total investment to 41.3 billion pounds for the same period.

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The total of over 100,000 soldiers will serve in the British Army by 2025, according to estimates of the ministry, as the UK regular army is expected to include 73,000 soldiers, and the number of reservists will stand at 30,000.

&nbsp;“Future Soldier is reinforced by the ambition outlined in the Defence Command Paper to transform the Army into a more agile, integrated, lethal, expeditionary force,” UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.

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“We have underpinned this generational work with an extra £8.6bn for Army equipment, bringing the total investment to £41.3bn,” he added.

A new Ranger Regiment, which will go into operation on December 1, 2021, is one of the most significant improvements. The regiment will regularly deploy alongside partner troops throughout the world to counter extremist organisations and hostile state threats&nbsp;as part of the Army Special Operations Brigade.

&nbsp;Wallace also said that their&nbsp;Army will operate around the world and will be&nbsp;able to tackle a variety of threats ranging from cyber warfare to battlefield conflict.

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons.

In an effort to step up its military presence in the world, the United Kingdom unveiled its ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan, detailing about its plans to improve manpower serving the military and future investments in weapons. “More of the Army will be deployed across the globe, more of the time. Greater forward deployment will improve our ability to anticipate crises and be ready to compete beneath the threshold of open conflict. It will prevent conflict by reassuring allies and partners and deterring adversaries,” the Future Soldier modernisation plan, which was released on Thursday, read. The defence ministry also announced an additional investment in the military equipment worth 8.6 billion pounds ($11.46 billion), during the next decade. This will raise the total investment to 41.3 billion pounds for the same period. Also read | British spy agencies sign deal with Amazon to host ‘top secret data’ for espionage: Report The total of over 100,000 soldiers will serve in the British Army by 2025, according to estimates of the ministry, as the UK regular army is expected to include 73,000 soldiers, and the number of reservists will stand at 30,000. “Future Soldier is reinforced by the ambition outlined in the Defence Command Paper to transform the Army into a more agile, integrated, lethal, expeditionary force,” UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said. Also read | In UK, new bill empowers British govt to remove citizenship without notice “We have underpinned this generational work with an extra £8.6bn for Army equipment, bringing the total investment to £41.3bn,” he added. A new Ranger Regiment, which will go into operation on December 1, 2021, is one of the most significant improvements. The regiment will regularly deploy alongside partner troops throughout the world to counter extremist organisations and hostile state threats as part of the Army Special Operations Brigade. Wallace also said that their Army will operate around the world and will be able to tackle a variety of threats ranging from cyber warfare to battlefield conflict.

UK unveils ‘Future Soldier’ modernisation plan to expand military footprint across globe

French prosecutors have opened an inquiry to investigate allegations of a female soldier who was part of President Emmanuel Macron’s defence staff.

According to French media, the woman was allegedly raped by a colleague at a party at the president's Élysée Palace in July.

According to reports, Macron was present at the farewell party, but shortly left after giving a brief speech.

Some of the guests later went on to the premises of the president's personal military staff in an annex to the palace, which is where the sexual attack allegedly took place.

The young woman immediately went to a nearby police station after the alleged assault and reported the rape that night.

The alleged victim and attacker were colleagues and deployed at the high-security office at the Élysée Palace dealing with sensitive government matters.

A presidential official told the AFP news agency that “as soon as the authorities were aware of these claims, measures were immediately taken” to support the alleged victim.

Both the woman and the accused have been moved to other duties, the palace has said.

Macron’s office would await judicial investigations before deciding on any further action, an official told news agencies.

Macron has vowed to tackle the problem of violence against women, and his government introduced&nbsp;a new law setting the age of consent at 15&nbsp;in response to the scandals this March.

He is expected to stand for a second term as president in elections scheduled for April 2022, although he has yet to declare his candidacy.

(With inputs from agencies)

French prosecutors have opened an inquiry to investigate allegations of a female soldier who was part of President Emmanuel Macron’s defence staff. According to French media, the woman was allegedly raped by a colleague at a party at the president's Élysée Palace in July.

French prosecutors have opened an inquiry to investigate allegations of a female soldier who was part of President Emmanuel Macron’s defence staff. According to French media, the woman was allegedly raped by a colleague at a party at the president's Élysée Palace in July. According to reports, Macron was present at the farewell party, but shortly left after giving a brief speech. Some of the guests later went on to the premises of the president's personal military staff in an annex to the palace, which is where the sexual attack allegedly took place. The young woman immediately went to a nearby police station after the alleged assault and reported the rape that night. The alleged victim and attacker were colleagues and deployed at the high-security office at the Élysée Palace dealing with sensitive government matters. A presidential official told the AFP news agency that “as soon as the authorities were aware of these claims, measures were immediately taken” to support the alleged victim. Both the woman and the accused have been moved to other duties, the palace has said. Macron’s office would await judicial investigations before deciding on any further action, an official told news agencies. Macron has vowed to tackle the problem of violence against women, and his government introduced a new law setting the age of consent at 15 in response to the scandals this March. He is expected to stand for a second term as president in elections scheduled for April 2022, although he has yet to declare his candidacy. (With inputs from agencies)

French authorities probe rape allegations of woman who was part of President Macron’s military staff

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. &nbsp;

This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week.&nbsp;

If left unchecked, the giant Asian hornets can completely destroy a honeybee hive in hours. In what scientists call a “slaughter phase”, they feed on larvae and decapitate bees. The hornets later also feed severed body parts to their young.

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As per the research, the bees release a “rallying call for collective defence” against the hornets. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The signal, which was previously undiscovered, is now known as an “anti-predator pipe, shares acoustic traits with alarm shrieks, fear screams and panic calls of primates, birds and meerkats,” said the study. &nbsp;

The bees produce the sound by vibrating their wings or thorax. It also elevates their abdomens and exposes a gland to release a pheromone. &nbsp;

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Heather Mattila, a co-author of the study, told Gizmodo, “It’s alarming to hear. It’s characterised by rapid bursts of high-pitched sounds that change unpredictably in frequency – they’re quite harsh and noisy.” &nbsp;

During a hornet attack, signal rates increase seven- to eight-fold, shared the study. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week.

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week. If left unchecked, the giant Asian hornets can completely destroy a honeybee hive in hours. In what scientists call a “slaughter phase”, they feed on larvae and decapitate bees. The hornets later also feed severed body parts to their young. Also Read: Sharks spotted! London's River Thames no longer 'biologically dead' As per the research, the bees release a “rallying call for collective defence” against the hornets. The signal, which was previously undiscovered, is now known as an “anti-predator pipe, shares acoustic traits with alarm shrieks, fear screams and panic calls of primates, birds and meerkats,” said the study. The bees produce the sound by vibrating their wings or thorax. It also elevates their abdomens and exposes a gland to release a pheromone. Also Read: Night out? Grizzly bear, four cubs take a stroll through Wyoming town in US Heather Mattila, a co-author of the study, told Gizmodo, “It’s alarming to hear. It’s characterised by rapid bursts of high-pitched sounds that change unpredictably in frequency – they’re quite harsh and noisy.” During a hornet attack, signal rates increase seven- to eight-fold, shared the study. (With inputs from agencies)

Under attack by giant hornets, bees scream as rallying call for defence, reveals study 

An unprecedented election pledge by Japan's ruling party to double defence spending underscores the nation's haste to acquire missiles, stealth fighters, drones and other weapons to deter China's military in the disputed East China Sea.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) included a goal of spending 2% of GDP - about $100 billion - or more on the military for the first time in its policy platform ahead of a national election this month.

Experts don't expect new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to double spending anytime soon, given Japan's debt-saddled public finances and a pandemic-stricken economy. But it is a sign that the pacifist nation could over time abandon a commitment to keep military budgets within 1% of GDP - a number that for decades has eased concern at home and abroad about any revival of the militarism that led Japan into World War Two.

"LDP conservative leaders want the party to give it up," said Yoichiro Sato, an international relations professor at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, referring to the de facto spending cap, which he called "sacrosanct for Japanese liberals."

"They are setting the direction, that is what conservatives want to do," he added.

The United States has been pushing key allies to spend more on defence; an increase to 2% of GDP would put Japan in line with pledges by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members.

The hawkish notes from the LDP come as Japanese public sentiment shifts away from concerns about rearming to growing alarm over China's military assertiveness in Asia, particularly toward Taiwan.

In a survey of 1,696 people conducted by the Nikkei business daily at the end of last year, 86% of respondents said China posed a threat to Japan, more than the 82% who expressed concern about nuclear-armed North Korea.

"Putting this in the manifesto is a recognition of the need to garner public support for required defence policy changes," said Robert Ward, a London-based researcher at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "The direction of travel is now set."

SOUTHWEST THEATRE

Japan's military strategy is focused on defending territory along the edge of the East China Sea, where Tokyo is locked in a dispute with Beijing over a group of uninhabited islands.

The Okinawan chain, Taiwan, and islands stretching down through the Philippines form what military planners dub the First Island Chain, a natural barrier to Chinese operations in the Western Pacific.

With an additional $50 billion a year, Japan could buy more American equipment, including F-35 stealth fighters, Osprey tilt-rotor utility aircraft and surveillance drones, as well as domestically made equipment such as amphibious landing craft, compact warships, aircraft carriers, submarines, satellites and communications gear to fight a protracted war.

"The Self Defence Force is well trained and well equipped, but its sustainability and resilience is one of the most serious problems," former Maritime Self Defense Force admiral and fleet commander Yoji Koda told Reuters.

Japan's defence ministry also wants money for an indigenous stealth fighter, and missiles that can strike enemy ships and land bases more than 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) away. The country is also building up cyber, space and electromagnetic warfare capabilities.

"Japan wants to acquire very sophisticated capabilities in a variety of areas," Thomas Reich, the country manager for BAE Systems PLC, said during a briefing on Tuesday. "What's in the budget and where it's going are the things that really attract us."

Britain's biggest defence company is part of the consortium led by Lockheed Martin Corp that builds the F-35 fighter.

CARRYING ABE'S TORCH

The speed at which once-dovish Kishida has fallen in line with the national security agenda of conservatives has surprised some observers. But he is carrying on policies pursued by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and supported by conservative lawmakers who helped him https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-shadow-shogun-abe-assured-clout-over-next-pm-kishida-2021-09-30 win the party leadership election last month.

By pursuing a policy of similar small steps, Abe enacted security laws to allow Japanese troops to fight on foreign soil, ended a ban on military exports and reinterpreted the country's war-renouncing constitution to allow missile strikes on enemy territory.

For now, however, the LDP defence spending pledge does not say how any extra money would be spent or indicate when the 2% goal would be reached.

"The real question is whether Japan can absorb another $50 billion in a way that measurably improves Japan's defence," said Chuck Jones, a former defence industry executive familiar with Japan's military policy. "The concern is that large sums will be wasted on programs and projects doomed to failure or irrelevance."

The lack of detail gives the ruling group room to alter course, analysts say.

"There is opposition even inside the LDP," said Tetsuo Kotani, a senior research fellow at the Japan Institute of International Affairs. "We are going to have an election and we will see if the general public supports the LDP's proposal."

An unprecedented election pledge by Japan's ruling party to double defence spending underscores the nation's haste to acquire missiles, stealth fighters, drones and other weapons to deter China's military in the disputed East China Sea.

An unprecedented election pledge by Japan's ruling party to double defence spending underscores the nation's haste to acquire missiles, stealth fighters, drones and other weapons to deter China's military in the disputed East China Sea. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) included a goal of spending 2% of GDP - about $100 billion - or more on the military for the first time in its policy platform ahead of a national election this month. Experts don't expect new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to double spending anytime soon, given Japan's debt-saddled public finances and a pandemic-stricken economy. But it is a sign that the pacifist nation could over time abandon a commitment to keep military budgets within 1% of GDP - a number that for decades has eased concern at home and abroad about any revival of the militarism that led Japan into World War Two. "LDP conservative leaders want the party to give it up," said Yoichiro Sato, an international relations professor at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, referring to the de facto spending cap, which he called "sacrosanct for Japanese liberals." "They are setting the direction, that is what conservatives want to do," he added. The United States has been pushing key allies to spend more on defence; an increase to 2% of GDP would put Japan in line with pledges by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members. The hawkish notes from the LDP come as Japanese public sentiment shifts away from concerns about rearming to growing alarm over China's military assertiveness in Asia, particularly toward Taiwan. In a survey of 1,696 people conducted by the Nikkei business daily at the end of last year, 86% of respondents said China posed a threat to Japan, more than the 82% who expressed concern about nuclear-armed North Korea. "Putting this in the manifesto is a recognition of the need to garner public support for required defence policy changes," said Robert Ward, a London-based researcher at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "The direction of travel is now set." SOUTHWEST THEATRE Japan's military strategy is focused on defending territory along the edge of the East China Sea, where Tokyo is locked in a dispute with Beijing over a group of uninhabited islands. The Okinawan chain, Taiwan, and islands stretching down through the Philippines form what military planners dub the First Island Chain, a natural barrier to Chinese operations in the Western Pacific. With an additional $50 billion a year, Japan could buy more American equipment, including F-35 stealth fighters, Osprey tilt-rotor utility aircraft and surveillance drones, as well as domestically made equipment such as amphibious landing craft, compact warships, aircraft carriers, submarines, satellites and communications gear to fight a protracted war. "The Self Defence Force is well trained and well equipped, but its sustainability and resilience is one of the most serious problems," former Maritime Self Defense Force admiral and fleet commander Yoji Koda told Reuters. Japan's defence ministry also wants money for an indigenous stealth fighter, and missiles that can strike enemy ships and land bases more than 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) away. The country is also building up cyber, space and electromagnetic warfare capabilities. "Japan wants to acquire very sophisticated capabilities in a variety of areas," Thomas Reich, the country manager for BAE Systems PLC, said during a briefing on Tuesday. "What's in the budget and where it's going are the things that really attract us." Britain's biggest defence company is part of the consortium led by Lockheed Martin Corp that builds the F-35 fighter. CARRYING ABE'S TORCH The speed at which once-dovish Kishida has fallen in line with the national security agenda of conservatives has surprised some observers. But he is carrying on policies pursued by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and supported by conservative lawmakers who helped him https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-shadow-shogun-abe-assured-clout-over-next-pm-kishida-2021-09-30 win the party leadership election last month. By pursuing a policy of similar small steps, Abe enacted security laws to allow Japanese troops to fight on foreign soil, ended a ban on military exports and reinterpreted the country's war-renouncing constitution to allow missile strikes on enemy territory. For now, however, the LDP defence spending pledge does not say how any extra money would be spent or indicate when the 2% goal would be reached. "The real question is whether Japan can absorb another $50 billion in a way that measurably improves Japan's defence," said Chuck Jones, a former defence industry executive familiar with Japan's military policy. "The concern is that large sums will be wasted on programs and projects doomed to failure or irrelevance." The lack of detail gives the ruling group room to alter course, analysts say. "There is opposition even inside the LDP," said Tetsuo Kotani, a senior research fellow at the Japan Institute of International Affairs. "We are going to have an election and we will see if the general public supports the LDP's proposal."

Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge

There is more transparency, trust and technology-driven approach in India's defence sector now than ever before and major reforms are taking place for the first time since Independence while discarding stagnant policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

In an address at an event to dedicate seven&nbsp;new defence companies to the nation, Modi, referring to the self-reliant India campaign, said the goal is to make the country the world's biggest military power on its own.

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In a major reform initiative, the seven state-run defence companies were created after dissolving the over 200-year-old Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). The assets of the OFB including its 41 ordnance factories were transferred to the seven new firms.

Modi mentioned that the target should be that the companies not only establish expertise in their products but also become global brands. He urged that while competitive cost is India's strength, quality and reliability should be its identity.

He said the world saw the strength of India's ordnance factories at the time of World War I and that they used to have better resources and world-class skills, but the companies were ignored in the post-Independence period, leading to the country's dependence on foreign supplies.

"After Independence, we needed to upgrade these factories, adopt new-age technology. But it was not given much attention. Over time, India became dependent on foreign countries for its strategic needs. These new seven defence companies will play a big role in bringing change in this situation," he said in his video address.

Modi said that as India entered 75 years of Independence, projects are being completed that were stuck for a long time.

"Today, there is more transparency, trust, and technology-driven approach in the defence sector of the country than ever before. For the first time after Independence, so many major reforms are happening in our defence sector and instead of stagnant policies, a single-window system has been arranged," he said.

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"These seven defence companies will play a major role in changing this situation," he said.

The prime minister hoped that the new companies would play an important role in import substitution. An order book of more than Rs 65,000 crore reflects the increasing confidence of the country in these companies, he added.

Noting that the decision on reform of the OFB was pending for the last 15-20 years, Modi said works stuck for decades are being completed and India is taking new resolutions to build a new future.

"In the 21st century, whether a country or a company, its growth and brand value is determined by its research and innovation. From software to the space sector, India's growth, India's new identity is the biggest example of this," he said.

"Therefore, I also make a special request to all the seven companies that research and innovation should be a part of your work culture. You not only have to match the world's biggest companies, but also take the lead in future technology," he added.

Modi said the government has given full functional autonomy along with giving a better production environment to all the companies, adding it has also been ensured that the interests of the workers of these factories are fully protected.

The prime minister also underlines the need for giving maximum opportunity to research-oriented youth and give them full freedom to think.

"I will also tell the start-ups of the country, through these seven companies, the new beginning that the country has started today, you should also be a part of it," he said.

"You should think about your research, how your products can benefit from each other's capabilities in conjunction with these companies," he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and representatives from the defence industry associations were present on the occasion.

Singh has already clarified that there will be no change in service conditions of nearly 70,000 employees of the erstwhile organisation and the decision to corporatise the OFB is driven by efforts to boost India's defence manufacturing sector.

The new defence companies are Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVANI), Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWE India), Troop Comforts Limited (TCL), Yantra India Limited (YIL), India Optel Limited (IOL) and Gliders India Limited (GIL).&nbsp;

There is more transparency, trust and technology-driven approach in India's defence sector now than ever before and major reforms are taking place for the first time since Independence while discarding stagnant policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

There is more transparency, trust and technology-driven approach in India's defence sector now than ever before and major reforms are taking place for the first time since Independence while discarding stagnant policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday. In an address at an event to dedicate seven new defence companies to the nation, Modi, referring to the self-reliant India campaign, said the goal is to make the country the world's biggest military power on its own. Also Read | PM Modi to participate in G20 leaders' summit on Afghanistan on Tuesday In a major reform initiative, the seven state-run defence companies were created after dissolving the over 200-year-old Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). The assets of the OFB including its 41 ordnance factories were transferred to the seven new firms. Modi mentioned that the target should be that the companies not only establish expertise in their products but also become global brands. He urged that while competitive cost is India's strength, quality and reliability should be its identity. He said the world saw the strength of India's ordnance factories at the time of World War I and that they used to have better resources and world-class skills, but the companies were ignored in the post-Independence period, leading to the country's dependence on foreign supplies. "After Independence, we needed to upgrade these factories, adopt new-age technology. But it was not given much attention. Over time, India became dependent on foreign countries for its strategic needs. These new seven defence companies will play a big role in bringing change in this situation," he said in his video address. Modi said that as India entered 75 years of Independence, projects are being completed that were stuck for a long time. "Today, there is more transparency, trust, and technology-driven approach in the defence sector of the country than ever before. For the first time after Independence, so many major reforms are happening in our defence sector and instead of stagnant policies, a single-window system has been arranged," he said. Also Read | Indian agriculture witnessing golden period under PM Modi, says MoS Jitendra Singh "These seven defence companies will play a major role in changing this situation," he said. The prime minister hoped that the new companies would play an important role in import substitution. An order book of more than Rs 65,000 crore reflects the increasing confidence of the country in these companies, he added. Noting that the decision on reform of the OFB was pending for the last 15-20 years, Modi said works stuck for decades are being completed and India is taking new resolutions to build a new future. "In the 21st century, whether a country or a company, its growth and brand value is determined by its research and innovation. From software to the space sector, India's growth, India's new identity is the biggest example of this," he said. "Therefore, I also make a special request to all the seven companies that research and innovation should be a part of your work culture. You not only have to match the world's biggest companies, but also take the lead in future technology," he added. Modi said the government has given full functional autonomy along with giving a better production environment to all the companies, adding it has also been ensured that the interests of the workers of these factories are fully protected. The prime minister also underlines the need for giving maximum opportunity to research-oriented youth and give them full freedom to think. "I will also tell the start-ups of the country, through these seven companies, the new beginning that the country has started today, you should also be a part of it," he said. "You should think about your research, how your products can benefit from each other's capabilities in conjunction with these companies," he added. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and representatives from the defence industry associations were present on the occasion. Singh has already clarified that there will be no change in service conditions of nearly 70,000 employees of the erstwhile organisation and the decision to corporatise the OFB is driven by efforts to boost India's defence manufacturing sector. The new defence companies are Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVANI), Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWE India), Troop Comforts Limited (TCL), Yantra India Limited (YIL), India Optel Limited (IOL) and Gliders India Limited (GIL).

Make India the world's biggest military power: PM Modi inaugurates seven new State-run defence firms

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate.

ICC judges authorised in September a full-blown investigation into Duterte's anti-narcotics campaign, which rights groups estimate has killed tens of thousands of people, saying it resembled an illegitimate and systematic attack on civilians.

"I will prepare for my defence in the ICC," Duterte said in a pre-recorded speech released Monday, in his first public comments on the probe.

"Just stick to the facts because there are records of it. I am not threatening you -- just don't cheat me on the evidence," Duterte said in the speech, which came two days after he declared he would retire from politics.

Duterte has repeatedly attacked the world's only permanent war crimes court and insisted it has no jurisdiction in the Philippines.

The authoritarian firebrand pulled Manila out of the ICC after it launched a preliminary probe, but the Hague-based court says it has jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member.

Duterte has repeatedly said there is no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches have included incitements to violence and he previously told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger.

- 'It's on me' -

Duterte said in the Monday speech he would protect officers carrying out the war on drugs "as long as you obey the law".

"It's on me, not on you," Duterte said.

"I will answer for it and if someone should go to prison, I will be the one to go to prison."

Three Philippine policemen were sentenced in 2018 to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first and only conviction so far against officers carrying out Duterte's war on drugs.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Sunday a review of 52 anti-drug operations carried out by police had identified around 154 officers for "possible criminal liability".

The cases will be further investigated and criminal charges filed "if warranted by the evidence", Guevarra said.

Carlos Conde, Human Rights Watch senior researcher for the Philippines, said Duterte sounded like "a really scared man".

"He knows he will be held accountable and the ICC presents the best opportunity for that to happen," Conde told AFP.

"He's scared of an ICC conviction and, perhaps worse, losing... face (with) police officers who followed his murderous orders but are now realising that they, too, are accountable."

- Upcoming election -

Duterte, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a second term as president, declared in August he would run for the vice-presidency.

But in a surprise announcement Saturday, he said he would retire -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts.

Duterte made a similar announcement in September 2015, saying he "will retire from public life for good", only to declare his presidential bid two months later.

Duterte has not named a successor, but indicated his daughter Sara would run alongside his longtime aide Senator Christopher Go.

Analysts say she would likely protect Duterte from criminal charges in the Philippines, and ICC prosecutors.

So far, she has denied plans to run for president.

Surveys have shown Sara Duterte, boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso are the front runners, along with the son and namesake of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate. ICC judges authorised in September a full-blown investigation into Duterte's anti-narcotics campaign, which rights groups estimate has killed tens of thousands of people, saying it resembled an illegitimate and systematic attack on civilians. "I will prepare for my defence in the ICC," Duterte said in a pre-recorded speech released Monday, in his first public comments on the probe. "Just stick to the facts because there are records of it. I am not threatening you -- just don't cheat me on the evidence," Duterte said in the speech, which came two days after he declared he would retire from politics. Duterte has repeatedly attacked the world's only permanent war crimes court and insisted it has no jurisdiction in the Philippines. The authoritarian firebrand pulled Manila out of the ICC after it launched a preliminary probe, but the Hague-based court says it has jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member. Duterte has repeatedly said there is no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches have included incitements to violence and he previously told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger. - 'It's on me' - Duterte said in the Monday speech he would protect officers carrying out the war on drugs "as long as you obey the law". "It's on me, not on you," Duterte said. "I will answer for it and if someone should go to prison, I will be the one to go to prison." Three Philippine policemen were sentenced in 2018 to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first and only conviction so far against officers carrying out Duterte's war on drugs. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Sunday a review of 52 anti-drug operations carried out by police had identified around 154 officers for "possible criminal liability". The cases will be further investigated and criminal charges filed "if warranted by the evidence", Guevarra said. Carlos Conde, Human Rights Watch senior researcher for the Philippines, said Duterte sounded like "a really scared man". "He knows he will be held accountable and the ICC presents the best opportunity for that to happen," Conde told AFP. "He's scared of an ICC conviction and, perhaps worse, losing... face (with) police officers who followed his murderous orders but are now realising that they, too, are accountable." - Upcoming election - Duterte, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a second term as president, declared in August he would run for the vice-presidency. But in a surprise announcement Saturday, he said he would retire -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts. Duterte made a similar announcement in September 2015, saying he "will retire from public life for good", only to declare his presidential bid two months later. Duterte has not named a successor, but indicated his daughter Sara would run alongside his longtime aide Senator Christopher Go. Analysts say she would likely protect Duterte from criminal charges in the Philippines, and ICC prosecutors. So far, she has denied plans to run for president. Surveys have shown Sara Duterte, boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso are the front runners, along with the son and namesake of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Philippines' Duterte to prepare defence against ICC probe

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January.

In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development.

The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France.

The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement.

But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation".

"Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name.

"I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency.

North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives.

On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors.

Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb". Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January. In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development. The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France. The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement. But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation". "Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name. "I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency. North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives. On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors. Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea slams UN over its meeting on missile test

The defence ministry on Wednesday approved the procurement of military platforms and hardware worth Rs 13,165 crore ( approximately $1.77 billion)&nbsp; that includes 25 indigenously-developed ALH Mark-III helicopters.

The procurement proposals were approved at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) that was chaired by India's defence minister Rajnath Singh. Out of the total procurements, equipment and platforms worth Rs 11,486 crore&nbsp;(approximately $1.54 billion) will be sourced from domestic entities.

"The DAC accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisitions proposals for modernisation and operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces amounting to approximately Rs 13,165 crore.

"Of the total amount approved, procurement worth Rs 11,486 crore (87 per cent) is from the domestic sources," the ministry said in a statement.

In addition, the DAC also approved a few amendments to the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 as a part of "business process re-engineering to ensure further ease of doing business for the industry as well as measures to enhance procurement efficiency and reducing timelines", the ministry said. 
&nbsp;

The defence ministry on Wednesday approved the procurement of military platforms and hardware worth Rs 13,165 crore ( approximately $1.77 billion) that includes 25 indigenously-developed ALH Mark-III helicopters.

The defence ministry on Wednesday approved the procurement of military platforms and hardware worth Rs 13,165 crore ( approximately $1.77 billion) that includes 25 indigenously-developed ALH Mark-III helicopters. The procurement proposals were approved at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) that was chaired by India's defence minister Rajnath Singh. Out of the total procurements, equipment and platforms worth Rs 11,486 crore (approximately $1.54 billion) will be sourced from domestic entities. "The DAC accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisitions proposals for modernisation and operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces amounting to approximately Rs 13,165 crore. "Of the total amount approved, procurement worth Rs 11,486 crore (87 per cent) is from the domestic sources," the ministry said in a statement. In addition, the DAC also approved a few amendments to the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 as a part of "business process re-engineering to ensure further ease of doing business for the industry as well as measures to enhance procurement efficiency and reducing timelines", the ministry said.

India's defence ministry approves procurement of military hardware worth $1.7 billion

Greece&nbsp;and the US are in talks to extend their&nbsp;defence&nbsp;deals by five years, instead of one-year renewals now in force, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday.

"We are discussing a five-year extension to the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;cooperation agreement, so that we don't have to renew it on an annual basis," Mitsotakis told a news conference at the Thessaloniki International Fair.&nbsp;

There would be a "more important US presence in our country, possibly in areas where they currently do not have a presence," he said, without elaborating.

Mitsotakis added that Greek-US strategic cooperation "is at its best level ever".

In 2019, Athens and Washington signed a&nbsp;defence&nbsp;agreement allowing US forces a broader use of Greek military facilities during a visit by then US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

This however "does not shut the door to other strategic agreements", the premier said on Sunday, citing an ongoing "very close" relationship with France.

Greece&nbsp;and France in January signed a 2.5-billion-euro ($3 billion)&nbsp;deal&nbsp;for 18 Rafale jets,&nbsp;12 used and six new as part of a burgeoning arms programme to counter Turkish challenges in the eastern Mediterranean.

On Saturday, Mitsotakis said&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;would "soon" purchase an additional six Rafales.

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"The first among them will be flying in Greek skies before the end of the year," the&nbsp;PM&nbsp;said, without giving further detail.

The announcement was welcomed Sunday by French&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Florence Parly, who tweeted: "Together, we are making progress in constructing true European autonomy."

Athens also supports efforts by French President Emmanuel Macron to improve the EU's independent operational capabilities, Mitsotakis said on Sunday.

Macron will visit Athens on Friday for a meeting of the Med7&nbsp;summit of southern EU countries.

Greece&nbsp;spends more than two percent of its national output on&nbsp;defence, the&nbsp;PM&nbsp;said.

Mitsotakis last year announced&nbsp;Greece's most ambitious arms spending programme in two decades, including 15,000 additional troops, frigates, missiles and warplanes.

Greece and the US are in talks to extend their defence deals by five years, instead of one-year renewals now in force, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday.

Greece and the US are in talks to extend their defence deals by five years, instead of one-year renewals now in force, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday. "We are discussing a five-year extension to the defence cooperation agreement, so that we don't have to renew it on an annual basis," Mitsotakis told a news conference at the Thessaloniki International Fair. There would be a "more important US presence in our country, possibly in areas where they currently do not have a presence," he said, without elaborating. Mitsotakis added that Greek-US strategic cooperation "is at its best level ever". In 2019, Athens and Washington signed a defence agreement allowing US forces a broader use of Greek military facilities during a visit by then US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. This however "does not shut the door to other strategic agreements", the premier said on Sunday, citing an ongoing "very close" relationship with France. Greece and France in January signed a 2.5-billion-euro ($3 billion) deal for 18 Rafale jets, 12 used and six new as part of a burgeoning arms programme to counter Turkish challenges in the eastern Mediterranean. On Saturday, Mitsotakis said Greece would "soon" purchase an additional six Rafales. Also read | People in Madrid protest against rise in homophobic attacks "The first among them will be flying in Greek skies before the end of the year," the PM said, without giving further detail. The announcement was welcomed Sunday by French Defence Minister Florence Parly, who tweeted: "Together, we are making progress in constructing true European autonomy." Athens also supports efforts by French President Emmanuel Macron to improve the EU's independent operational capabilities, Mitsotakis said on Sunday. Macron will visit Athens on Friday for a meeting of the Med7 summit of southern EU countries. Greece spends more than two percent of its national output on defence, the PM said. Mitsotakis last year announced Greece's most ambitious arms spending programme in two decades, including 15,000 additional troops, frigates, missiles and warplanes.

Greece to discuss 5-year US defence deal: PM

France&nbsp;on Sunday confirmed that&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;had agreed to buy&nbsp;six&nbsp;more&nbsp;of its&nbsp;Rafale&nbsp;jets, bringing to 24 the number of French&nbsp;fighters&nbsp;sold to Athens for billions of euros.

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"Excellent news:&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;has just announced its intention to acquire&nbsp;six&nbsp;additional Rafales. Together, we are working to build true European autonomy," French&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Florence Parly tweeted.

France on Sunday confirmed that Greece had agreed to buy six more of its Rafale jets, bringing to 24 the number of French fighters sold to Athens for billions of euros.

France on Sunday confirmed that Greece had agreed to buy six more of its Rafale jets, bringing to 24 the number of French fighters sold to Athens for billions of euros. Also read | People in Madrid protest against rise in homophobic attacks "Excellent news: Greece has just announced its intention to acquire six additional Rafales. Together, we are working to build true European autonomy," French Defence Minister Florence Parly tweeted.

France confirms deal with Greece for six more Rafale fighters: Defence ministry

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

Taipei has been complaining for more than a year about repeated missions by China's air force near the island.

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Taiwan's defence ministry said Sunday's mission by the Chinese air force involved four H-6 bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons, as well as an anti-submarine aircraft.

On the other hand, China sees democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province, but Taiwan sees itself as a sovereign state.

An air defence identification zone is an area outside of a country's territory and national airspace.

However, the foreign aircraft here are still identified, monitored, and controlled in the interest of national security.

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ). Taipei has been complaining for more than a year about repeated missions by China's air force near the island. Also read | Panjshir: Afghan resistance leader Ahmad Shah Massoud calls for a ‘national uprising’ Taiwan's defence ministry said Sunday's mission by the Chinese air force involved four H-6 bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons, as well as an anti-submarine aircraft. On the other hand, China sees democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province, but Taiwan sees itself as a sovereign state. An air defence identification zone is an area outside of a country's territory and national airspace. However, the foreign aircraft here are still identified, monitored, and controlled in the interest of national security.

Taiwan says 19 Chinese warplanes entered air defence zone

Israeli&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Benny Gantz met&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;president&nbsp;Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official&nbsp;Israeli-Palestinian&nbsp;talks&nbsp;since Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Naftali Bennett took office in June.

Gantz travelled to the West Bank city of Ramallah for security and economic discussions with the 85-year-old&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;leader, officials said on Monday.

They came hours after&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;premier Bennett returned from Washington where he met with US&nbsp;President&nbsp;Joe Biden at the White House.

"Defence&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Benny Gantz met with&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;Authority Chairman Mahmud Abbas (Sunday) evening to discuss security policy, civilian and economic issues," Israel's&nbsp;defence&nbsp;ministry said in a statement. &nbsp;

Gantz, head of a centrist party in Israel's government coalition, told Abbas "that Israel seeks to take measures that will strengthen the PA's economy. They also discussed shaping the security and economic situations in the West Bank and in Gaza," it added.&nbsp;

"They agreed to continue communicating further."

The meeting included the head of the&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military branch responsible for civil affairs in the&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;territories, Ghasan Alyan,&nbsp;senior PA official Hussein Al Sheikh and&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;intelligence chief Majid Faraj.&nbsp;

Al Sheikh confirmed the meeting on Twitter. Gantz's office said the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister&nbsp;and Abbas held "a one-on-one meeting" after the larger&nbsp;talks.&nbsp;

Relations between Israel and the PA, which is based in the&nbsp;Israeli-occupied West Bank, have deteriorated substantially in recent years.&nbsp;

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Former&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;prime&nbsp;minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu, in power from 2009 to 2021, was derided by Palestinians.&nbsp;

He made no substantive efforts towards resolving the decades-old conflict while overseeing a steady expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, communities regarded as illegal under international law.&nbsp;

Bennett is a hardline nationalist who opposes&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;statehood and previously led a powerful settler lobbying council.&nbsp;

His office has made clear that Israel's ideologically disparate coalition, which includes left-wingers and hawks like the premier, has no plans to initiate a new round of peace&nbsp;talks.&nbsp;

But top&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;officials have indicated a desire to boost the PA amid concern over a fresh conflict with Hamas Islamists who control Gaza, an&nbsp;Israeli-blockaded&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;territory that is separate from the West Bank.&nbsp;

Eleven days of conflict between Israel and&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;militants in Gaza in May marked the worst hostilities in the area since 2014 and unrest has persisted despite an Egypt-brokered ceasefire.&nbsp;

Abbas's PA has also come under mounting global criticism over an alleged crackdown on key rights following the death in&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;custody of a prominent activist.&nbsp;

The United Nations and European Union last week expressed alarm over a spate of arrests targeting leading critics of Abbas and the PA.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official Israeli-Palestinian talks since Prime Minister Naftali Bennett took office in June.

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official Israeli-Palestinian talks since Prime Minister Naftali Bennett took office in June. Gantz travelled to the West Bank city of Ramallah for security and economic discussions with the 85-year-old Palestinian leader, officials said on Monday. They came hours after Israeli premier Bennett returned from Washington where he met with US President Joe Biden at the White House. "Defence Minister Benny Gantz met with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmud Abbas (Sunday) evening to discuss security policy, civilian and economic issues," Israel's defence ministry said in a statement. Gantz, head of a centrist party in Israel's government coalition, told Abbas "that Israel seeks to take measures that will strengthen the PA's economy. They also discussed shaping the security and economic situations in the West Bank and in Gaza," it added. "They agreed to continue communicating further." The meeting included the head of the Israeli military branch responsible for civil affairs in the Palestinian territories, Ghasan Alyan, senior PA official Hussein Al Sheikh and Palestinian intelligence chief Majid Faraj. Al Sheikh confirmed the meeting on Twitter. Gantz's office said the defence minister and Abbas held "a one-on-one meeting" after the larger talks. Relations between Israel and the PA, which is based in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, have deteriorated substantially in recent years. Also read | Attacks on LGBTQ+ community across UK sparks fear Former Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in power from 2009 to 2021, was derided by Palestinians. He made no substantive efforts towards resolving the decades-old conflict while overseeing a steady expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, communities regarded as illegal under international law. Bennett is a hardline nationalist who opposes Palestinian statehood and previously led a powerful settler lobbying council. His office has made clear that Israel's ideologically disparate coalition, which includes left-wingers and hawks like the premier, has no plans to initiate a new round of peace talks. But top Israeli officials have indicated a desire to boost the PA amid concern over a fresh conflict with Hamas Islamists who control Gaza, an Israeli-blockaded Palestinian territory that is separate from the West Bank. Eleven days of conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza in May marked the worst hostilities in the area since 2014 and unrest has persisted despite an Egypt-brokered ceasefire. Abbas's PA has also come under mounting global criticism over an alleged crackdown on key rights following the death in Palestinian custody of a prominent activist. The United Nations and European Union last week expressed alarm over a spate of arrests targeting leading critics of Abbas and the PA.

Palestinian president, Israeli defence minister hold rare talks

Syria's air defence system engaged "hostile targets" over the capital Damascus late Thursday, state news agency SANA reported, with a military source claiming they were Israeli missiles.

"The Israeli enemy launched an aerial attack... targeting positions near Damascus and around the city of Homs," the military source told SANA.

"Our air defence responded to the missiles and shot most of them down," it added.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said that "Israeli missiles targeted arms depots and military positions of" Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah, between Damascus and Homs.

Neither SANA nor the Observatory reported any damage or casualties.

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Lebanese media also reported two missiles fell in the Qalamoun region bordering Lebanon.

The Israeli army rarely acknowledges its strikes in Syria and a spokesperson told AFP it did "not comment on foreign media information".&nbsp;

However, since the start of the war in Syria ten years ago, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian territory, targeting regime positions as well as allied Iranian forces and members of Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Israel regularly underlines that it will not allow Syria to become a stronghold of its sworn enemy Iran.

The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011 with the regime's repression of pro-democracy protests, has grown increasingly complex over the past decade, drawing in more and more parties.&nbsp;

According to the Observatory, the war has left nearly half a million people dead.

Syria's air defence system engaged "hostile targets" over the capital Damascus late Thursday, state news agency SANA reported, with a military source claiming they were Israeli missiles.

Syria's air defence system engaged "hostile targets" over the capital Damascus late Thursday, state news agency SANA reported, with a military source claiming they were Israeli missiles. "The Israeli enemy launched an aerial attack... targeting positions near Damascus and around the city of Homs," the military source told SANA. "Our air defence responded to the missiles and shot most of them down," it added. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said that "Israeli missiles targeted arms depots and military positions of" Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah, between Damascus and Homs. Neither SANA nor the Observatory reported any damage or casualties. Also read | More than 2,200 people have died in deadly Haiti earthquake, locals claim Lebanese media also reported two missiles fell in the Qalamoun region bordering Lebanon. The Israeli army rarely acknowledges its strikes in Syria and a spokesperson told AFP it did "not comment on foreign media information". However, since the start of the war in Syria ten years ago, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian territory, targeting regime positions as well as allied Iranian forces and members of Iran-backed Hezbollah. Israel regularly underlines that it will not allow Syria to become a stronghold of its sworn enemy Iran. The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011 with the regime's repression of pro-democracy protests, has grown increasingly complex over the past decade, drawing in more and more parties. According to the Observatory, the war has left nearly half a million people dead.

Syria says air defence shot down Israeli missiles

India's&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Rajnath Singh will be on a visit to the union territory of Ladakh from Sunday.&nbsp;In this&nbsp;more than one day&nbsp;visit, BRO infrastructure&nbsp;programmes&nbsp;will be&nbsp;the key focus. While&nbsp;being&nbsp;in Ladakh, his visit to the Line of actual control (LAC) can’t&nbsp;be ruled out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The visit comes even as the Chinese still have not disengaged from other areas of the LAC like Gogra and hot springs.&nbsp;Over the last year,&nbsp;the Chinese forces at the LAC&nbsp;had been growing continuously, raising&nbsp;tensions in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Refusing to defuse the&nbsp;tense&nbsp;situation, the Chinese foreign ministry blamed India for&nbsp;it&nbsp;last week. India was quick to rebut&nbsp;it&nbsp;with the ministry of external affairs,&nbsp;saying, "It is well&nbsp;recognised&nbsp;that it has been the Chinese actions over the last year, including amassing of a large number of troops close to border areas in the western sector and trying to unilaterally alter the status quo along the LAC, which have seriously disturbed peace and&nbsp;tranquillity&nbsp;in the border areas."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile,&nbsp;Friday saw the 22nd round of diplomatic level talks,&nbsp;the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation&nbsp;and&nbsp;Coordination. During the talks, both sides decided to hold the 12th round of military-level talks,&nbsp;which the MEA said should be focused on achieving&nbsp;'complete disengagement from all the friction points along the LAC in the western&nbsp;sector in accordance with the existing bilateral agreements and protocols.'&nbsp;

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be on a visit to the union territory of Ladakh from Sunday. In this more than one day visit, BRO infrastructure programmes will be the key focus.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be on a visit to the union territory of Ladakh from Sunday. In this more than one day visit, BRO infrastructure programmes will be the key focus. While being in Ladakh, his visit to the Line of actual control (LAC) can’t be ruled out. The visit comes even as the Chinese still have not disengaged from other areas of the LAC like Gogra and hot springs. Over the last year, the Chinese forces at the LAC had been growing continuously, raising tensions in the region. Refusing to defuse the tense situation, the Chinese foreign ministry blamed India for it last week. India was quick to rebut it with the ministry of external affairs, saying, "It is well recognised that it has been the Chinese actions over the last year, including amassing of a large number of troops close to border areas in the western sector and trying to unilaterally alter the status quo along the LAC, which have seriously disturbed peace and tranquillity in the border areas." Meanwhile, Friday saw the 22nd round of diplomatic level talks, the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination. During the talks, both sides decided to hold the 12th round of military-level talks, which the MEA said should be focused on achieving 'complete disengagement from all the friction points along the LAC in the western sector in accordance with the existing bilateral agreements and protocols.'

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Ladakh 

With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries. So far India has this mechanism with only three countries, United States, Japan, and Australia. But is significant is Russia is the first non-Quad member country with which New Delhi will now have this mechanism. &nbsp;

The development came after a telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks focused primarily on the ongoing Covid crisis in India with Russia sending assistance for New Delhi later on Wednesday. Russia is sending 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors and 200,000 packs of medicine.&nbsp;

The PMO statement on the talks said, "Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin and noted that the prompt Russian support to India was a symbol of our enduring partnership". The Russian readout of the talks highlighted how President Vladimir Putin supported Narendra Modi during this difficult period of combatting the spread of the coronavirus and informed him of the decision to send emergency humanitarian aid to India.&nbsp;

During the talks, the focus was also on Russia's Covid vaccine Sputnik V whose first batch will arrive in India later this month. It is the third vaccine India has given approval to after Covishield and Covaxin. Indian companies will be producing 850 million doses of the vaccine, which not only be used in India, Russia but also other countries.&nbsp;

PMO release said, "Approval for emergency use of Sputnik-V vaccine in India was appreciated by President Putin. The leaders noted that the Russian vaccine will be manufactured in India for use in India, Russia and other countries."&nbsp;

Later this year, Russian President Putin will visit India for the annual India Russia bilateral summit that alternates between the two countries. 2020 was the first time the summit could not happen due to the Covid pandemic. Indian PM Modi had visited Russia' far eastern city of Vladivostok in September of 2019 for the summit. While defence being the key pillar of a partnership between the two countries, Russia trained four Indian astronauts, who are part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned mission to space.&nbsp;

With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries.

With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries. So far India has this mechanism with only three countries, United States, Japan, and Australia. But is significant is Russia is the first non-Quad member country with which New Delhi will now have this mechanism. The development came after a telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks focused primarily on the ongoing Covid crisis in India with Russia sending assistance for New Delhi later on Wednesday. Russia is sending 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors and 200,000 packs of medicine. The PMO statement on the talks said, "Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin and noted that the prompt Russian support to India was a symbol of our enduring partnership". The Russian readout of the talks highlighted how President Vladimir Putin supported Narendra Modi during this difficult period of combatting the spread of the coronavirus and informed him of the decision to send emergency humanitarian aid to India. During the talks, the focus was also on Russia's Covid vaccine Sputnik V whose first batch will arrive in India later this month. It is the third vaccine India has given approval to after Covishield and Covaxin. Indian companies will be producing 850 million doses of the vaccine, which not only be used in India, Russia but also other countries. PMO release said, "Approval for emergency use of Sputnik-V vaccine in India was appreciated by President Putin. The leaders noted that the Russian vaccine will be manufactured in India for use in India, Russia and other countries." Later this year, Russian President Putin will visit India for the annual India Russia bilateral summit that alternates between the two countries. 2020 was the first time the summit could not happen due to the Covid pandemic. Indian PM Modi had visited Russia' far eastern city of Vladivostok in September of 2019 for the summit. While defence being the key pillar of a partnership between the two countries, Russia trained four Indian astronauts, who are part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned mission to space.

India, Russia to establish a '2+2 ministerial dialogue' between foreign, defence ministers 

Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday called on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and discussed ways to further cement bilateral ties, including defence cooperation and post-pandemic economic recovery.&nbsp;

The Chinese defence minister arrived here along with a high-level delegation on Tuesday on a two-day official visit after he made a brief trip to Bangladesh.&nbsp;

"Had a fruitful discussion with #china defense minister General Wei Fenghe this morning. This visit will further strengthen the ties between two countries," the president tweeted along with photographs of their meeting.&nbsp;

The Chinese defence minister also called on President Gotabaya's brother and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

"I conveyed my gratitude to the Govt Of China for the generous donation of Sinopharm vaccines and PPE kits since the outbreak of the #COVID19 pandemic," the Prime Minister tweeted.&nbsp;

"We also discussed post-pandemic economic recovery and steps to be taken to ensure economic stability. Assistance in rebuilding investor confidence and attracting investments- I explained is a key priority for #SriLanka and essential in the path to economic growth of the country," Mahinda Rajapaksa said in another tweet.&nbsp;

Earlier, a Sri Lankan delegation led by Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) had a fruitful discussion with the visiting Chinese delegation led by General Wei, the Sri Lankan defence ministry said in a press release.&nbsp;

Recalling the long existed bilateral ties between two countries, General Gunaratne said China had been a 'historical ally' of Sri Lanka across a multitude of avenues including Buddhism, trade, infrastructure development and global connectivity.&nbsp;

He also appreciated the recent supportive measure extended by Beijing during the UN Human Rights Council resolution tabled against Sri Lanka, the statement said.&nbsp;

The UN body passed a strong resolution, which establishes a new accountability process to collect, analyse and preserve evidence of international crimes allegedly committed in Sri Lanka for use in future prosecutions. &nbsp;

"We are looking forward to work together with Sri Lanka to enhance practical cooperation and to promote bilateral relations to a greater extent,” said Wei, while highlighting the existing military ties between two countries.&nbsp;

The Chinese defence minister also launched the official website of the Chinese National Defence University Alumni Association of Sri Lanka, the statement said. &nbsp;

The two sides also signed a military assistance protocol, it said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday called on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and discussed ways to further cement bilateral ties, including defence cooperation and post-pandemic economic recovery.

Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday called on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and discussed ways to further cement bilateral ties, including defence cooperation and post-pandemic economic recovery. The Chinese defence minister arrived here along with a high-level delegation on Tuesday on a two-day official visit after he made a brief trip to Bangladesh. "Had a fruitful discussion with #china defense minister General Wei Fenghe this morning. This visit will further strengthen the ties between two countries," the president tweeted along with photographs of their meeting. The Chinese defence minister also called on President Gotabaya's brother and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. "I conveyed my gratitude to the Govt Of China for the generous donation of Sinopharm vaccines and PPE kits since the outbreak of the #COVID19 pandemic," the Prime Minister tweeted. "We also discussed post-pandemic economic recovery and steps to be taken to ensure economic stability. Assistance in rebuilding investor confidence and attracting investments- I explained is a key priority for #SriLanka and essential in the path to economic growth of the country," Mahinda Rajapaksa said in another tweet. Earlier, a Sri Lankan delegation led by Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) had a fruitful discussion with the visiting Chinese delegation led by General Wei, the Sri Lankan defence ministry said in a press release. Recalling the long existed bilateral ties between two countries, General Gunaratne said China had been a 'historical ally' of Sri Lanka across a multitude of avenues including Buddhism, trade, infrastructure development and global connectivity. He also appreciated the recent supportive measure extended by Beijing during the UN Human Rights Council resolution tabled against Sri Lanka, the statement said. The UN body passed a strong resolution, which establishes a new accountability process to collect, analyse and preserve evidence of international crimes allegedly committed in Sri Lanka for use in future prosecutions. "We are looking forward to work together with Sri Lanka to enhance practical cooperation and to promote bilateral relations to a greater extent,” said Wei, while highlighting the existing military ties between two countries. The Chinese defence minister also launched the official website of the Chinese National Defence University Alumni Association of Sri Lanka, the statement said. The two sides also signed a military assistance protocol, it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese def minister calls on Lanka's leaders; discusses steps to boost ties

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