The United States aims to test a ground-launched cruise missile with a range of about 1,000 km (620 miles) in August, a Pentagon official said on Wednesday, after Washington announced last month it plans to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.

Last month, the United States said it would withdraw from the INF treaty in six months unless Moscow ends what Washington says are violations of the 1987 pact.

Russia announced it was suspending the treaty. Moscow denies flouting the accord and has accused Washington of breaking the accord itself, allegations rejected by the United States.

"We`re going to test a ground-launched cruise missile in August," said a senior defence official, who declined to be named.&nbsp;

If the testing is successful, the missile could be deployed in about 18 months.

The official said the United States was also looking to test an intermediate-range ballistic missile in November, adding that both would be conventional and not nuclear.

The INF treaty, negotiated by then-President Ronald Reagan and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and ratified by the US Senate, eliminated the medium-range missile arsenals of the world’s two biggest nuclear powers and reduced their ability to launch a nuclear strike at short notice.

The INF treaty required the parties to destroy ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of between 500 and 5,500 km (310 to 3,420 miles).

The United Nations has urged the United States and Russia to preserve the treaty, saying its loss would make the world more insecure and unstable.

Kingston Reif, an analyst with the Arms Control Association, a non-profit group that seeks to promote public understanding of and support for arms control, said the US move could be "a signal" to nudge Russia to return to compliance with the treaty.&nbsp;

But he thought it was more likely that the Trump administration was simply planning for the treaty’s demise.

"I think this particular White House and this particular national security adviser (John Bolton) are intent on the treaty coming to an end, so they have designs on a post-INF world in which the fielding of these capabilities is no longer prohibited either in Europe or in the Asia-Pacific," Reif said.

Last month Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is militarily ready for a Cuban Missile-style crisis if the United States wanted one and threatened to place hypersonic nuclear missiles on ships or submarines near US territorial waters.

The Cuban Missile Crisis erupted in 1962 when Moscow responded to a US missile deployment in Turkey by sending ballistic missiles to Cuba, sparking a standoff that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

More than five decades on, tensions are rising again over Russian fears that the United States might deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe.

"We haven`t engaged any of our allies about forward deployment," the US defence official said. "Honestly, we haven`t been thinking about this because we have been scrupulously abiding by the treaty."

The United States aims to test a ground-launched cruise missile with a range of about 1,000 km (620 miles) in August, a Pentagon official said on Wednesday, after Washington announced last month it plans to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.

The United States aims to test a ground-launched cruise missile with a range of about 1,000 km (620 miles) in August, a Pentagon official said on Wednesday, after Washington announced last month it plans to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Last month, the United States said it would withdraw from the INF treaty in six months unless Moscow ends what Washington says are violations of the 1987 pact. Russia announced it was suspending the treaty. Moscow denies flouting the accord and has accused Washington of breaking the accord itself, allegations rejected by the United States. "We`re going to test a ground-launched cruise missile in August," said a senior defence official, who declined to be named. If the testing is successful, the missile could be deployed in about 18 months. The official said the United States was also looking to test an intermediate-range ballistic missile in November, adding that both would be conventional and not nuclear. The INF treaty, negotiated by then-President Ronald Reagan and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and ratified by the US Senate, eliminated the medium-range missile arsenals of the world’s two biggest nuclear powers and reduced their ability to launch a nuclear strike at short notice. The INF treaty required the parties to destroy ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of between 500 and 5,500 km (310 to 3,420 miles). The United Nations has urged the United States and Russia to preserve the treaty, saying its loss would make the world more insecure and unstable. Kingston Reif, an analyst with the Arms Control Association, a non-profit group that seeks to promote public understanding of and support for arms control, said the US move could be "a signal" to nudge Russia to return to compliance with the treaty. But he thought it was more likely that the Trump administration was simply planning for the treaty’s demise. "I think this particular White House and this particular national security adviser (John Bolton) are intent on the treaty coming to an end, so they have designs on a post-INF world in which the fielding of these capabilities is no longer prohibited either in Europe or in the Asia-Pacific," Reif said. Last month Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is militarily ready for a Cuban Missile-style crisis if the United States wanted one and threatened to place hypersonic nuclear missiles on ships or submarines near US territorial waters. The Cuban Missile Crisis erupted in 1962 when Moscow responded to a US missile deployment in Turkey by sending ballistic missiles to Cuba, sparking a standoff that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. More than five decades on, tensions are rising again over Russian fears that the United States might deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe. "We haven`t engaged any of our allies about forward deployment," the US defence official said. "Honestly, we haven`t been thinking about this because we have been scrupulously abiding by the treaty."

US looks to test ground-launched cruise missile in August

Just when it looks like North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may restart his ballistic missile testing program, US President Donald Trump has proposed trimming the missile defense budget, as one set of deterrents is delayed by two years.&nbsp;

The US Missile Defense Agency - charged with developing, testing and fielding a ballistic missile defense system - will delay the expansion of the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system by two years because of a delay in the redesign of the Raytheon Co-made "kill vehicle" the system uses.

A "kill vehicle" pops off the top of the defending missile above the Earth`s atmosphere and seeks out and destroys the attacking missile`s warhead.

The GMD is a network of radars, anti-ballistic missiles based in Alaska and California, and other equipment designed to protect the United States from intercontinental ballistic missiles, or ICBMS.

The expansion of the field of interceptors in Alaska from 44 ground-based interceptors, or GBIs, to 64 had been slated for completion in 2023. But the delay, due to technical issues and not connected to the cut in the agency`s budget, now means that the placement of the additional 20 interceptors will not be operational until 2025, the MDA said on Tuesday.

"The important thing is to get it right, and if we`re going to build more GBI`s, we want to put the best kill vehicle on the top of it," said Tom Karako, a missile defense expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

At the same time, North Korea has been pushing ahead with its nuclear weapons program after a summit meeting between Kim and Trump in Hanoi ended abruptly on February 28 without an agreement on denuclearisation.

New activity has been detected at a North Korean ICBM plant, South Korean media said on Thursday, as Trump said he would be "very disappointed" if Pyongyang rebuilt a rocket site.

In the budget, the Missile Defense Agency, or MDA, saw its appropriation cut by $1 billion to $9.4 billion.

Michelle Atkinson, chief financial officer of the MDA, told reporters, "What you are seeing in `20 actually looks like a decrease, but it`s really just the declining funding," as the agency comes off recent financial injections.

Trump`s smaller request comes on the heels of a significant budget boost last year after several North Korean missile tests.

The MDA projected a budget of $9.2 billion in 2021, and $9.1 billion in 2022, continuing the trend of declining funding.

One Pentagon-wide effort in lasers that could be used to defeat missiles saw investment slow dramatically. After nearly doubling just the MDA`s budget for directed energy from $109 million in 2018 to $224 million in 2019, the Pentagon as a whole plans to invest only $235 million in the technology in fiscal 2020.

Among other proposals included in a recently published Missile Defense Review is one involving lasers mounted on drones - aimed at stopping missiles just after takeoff in what is called the boost phase.

During this portion of the flight the missile is most vulnerable, flying at its slowest speed, easily detected by the heat from its engines and incapable of evading interceptors as it accelerates to break out of the Earth`s atmosphere.

Just when it looks like North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may restart his ballistic missile testing program, US President Donald Trump has proposed trimming the missile defense budget, as one set of deterrents is delayed by two years.

Just when it looks like North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may restart his ballistic missile testing program, US President Donald Trump has proposed trimming the missile defense budget, as one set of deterrents is delayed by two years. The US Missile Defense Agency - charged with developing, testing and fielding a ballistic missile defense system - will delay the expansion of the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system by two years because of a delay in the redesign of the Raytheon Co-made "kill vehicle" the system uses. A "kill vehicle" pops off the top of the defending missile above the Earth`s atmosphere and seeks out and destroys the attacking missile`s warhead. The GMD is a network of radars, anti-ballistic missiles based in Alaska and California, and other equipment designed to protect the United States from intercontinental ballistic missiles, or ICBMS. The expansion of the field of interceptors in Alaska from 44 ground-based interceptors, or GBIs, to 64 had been slated for completion in 2023. But the delay, due to technical issues and not connected to the cut in the agency`s budget, now means that the placement of the additional 20 interceptors will not be operational until 2025, the MDA said on Tuesday. "The important thing is to get it right, and if we`re going to build more GBI`s, we want to put the best kill vehicle on the top of it," said Tom Karako, a missile defense expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. At the same time, North Korea has been pushing ahead with its nuclear weapons program after a summit meeting between Kim and Trump in Hanoi ended abruptly on February 28 without an agreement on denuclearisation. New activity has been detected at a North Korean ICBM plant, South Korean media said on Thursday, as Trump said he would be "very disappointed" if Pyongyang rebuilt a rocket site. In the budget, the Missile Defense Agency, or MDA, saw its appropriation cut by $1 billion to $9.4 billion. Michelle Atkinson, chief financial officer of the MDA, told reporters, "What you are seeing in `20 actually looks like a decrease, but it`s really just the declining funding," as the agency comes off recent financial injections. Trump`s smaller request comes on the heels of a significant budget boost last year after several North Korean missile tests. The MDA projected a budget of $9.2 billion in 2021, and $9.1 billion in 2022, continuing the trend of declining funding. One Pentagon-wide effort in lasers that could be used to defeat missiles saw investment slow dramatically. After nearly doubling just the MDA`s budget for directed energy from $109 million in 2018 to $224 million in 2019, the Pentagon as a whole plans to invest only $235 million in the technology in fiscal 2020. Among other proposals included in a recently published Missile Defense Review is one involving lasers mounted on drones - aimed at stopping missiles just after takeoff in what is called the boost phase. During this portion of the flight the missile is most vulnerable, flying at its slowest speed, easily detected by the heat from its engines and incapable of evading interceptors as it accelerates to break out of the Earth`s atmosphere.

US missile defense budget cut as North Korea pushes ahead

How Pakistan's Ghauri compares with India's Agni missiles

Air Vice Marshal Ravi Kapoor on Thursday in a<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/one-pakistani-f-16-was-shot-down-by-mig-21-bison-says-air-vice-marshal-kapoor-during-armed-forces-joint-press-conference-200333"> joint press conference</a> confirmed that <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/south-asia/as-a-peace-gesture-we-are-releasing-captured-pilot-tomorrow-pm-imran-khan-200295">India’s MiG-21 </a>Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16.

He also displayed an <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-presents-evidence-of-aaram-missile-fired-from-pakistani-f-16-aircraft-200341">AMRAAM missile </a>casing used by F-16 as material evidence of their involvement. Electronic signatures and photographs were also recorded as further proof of the US made aircraft’s involvement.

Parts of AMRAAM, an air to air missile which is carried only on the Pakistani F-16s, was recovered east of Rajouri within the Indian territory.

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Visuals of cover of AARAM missile fired from Pakistani F-16 aircraft found near the LoC in India <a href="https://t.co/qHdOm5cDqN">pic.twitter.com/qHdOm5cDqN</a>
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Here is all you need to know about AMRAAM:&nbsp;

The AIM-120 AMRAAM is a modern American beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) capable of all-weather day-and-night operations.&nbsp;

Procured by 37 countries including the US, the combat-proven AMRAAM missile has been integrated onto the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, Typhoon, Gripen, Tornado and Harrier.&nbsp;

The AIM-120C5 and AIM-120C7 missiles are fully integrated onto the F-35 and support the US Marine Corp’s F-35B initial operational capability as the only air-to-air missile qualified on the F-35.

Designed with a 7-inch (180mm) diameter form-and-fit factor, and employing active transmit-receive radar guidance instead of semi-active receive-only radar guidance, it has the advantage of being a fire-and-forget weapon when compared to the previous generation Sparrow missiles.&nbsp;

The AMRAAM is the world's most popular beyond-visual-range missile, and more than 14,000 have been produced for the United States Air Force, the United States Navy, and 33 international customers. The AMRAAM has been used in several engagements and is credited with ten air-to-air kills.

In early 2006, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) ordered 500 AIM-120C-5 AMRAAM missiles as part of a $650 million F-16 ammunition deal to equip its F-16C/D Block 50/52+ and F-16A/B Block 15 MLU fighters.&nbsp;

The PAF got the first three F-16C/D Block 50/52+ aircraft on July 3, 2010, and the first batch of AMRAAMs on July 26, 2010.

Air Vice Marshal Ravi Kapoor on Thursday in a joint press conference confirmed that India’s MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16. He also displayed an AMRAAM missile casing used by F-16 as material evidence of their involvement.

Air Vice Marshal Ravi Kapoor on Thursday in a joint press conference confirmed that India’s MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16. He also displayed an AMRAAM missile casing used by F-16 as material evidence of their involvement. Electronic signatures and photographs were also recorded as further proof of the US made aircraft’s involvement. Parts of AMRAAM, an air to air missile which is carried only on the Pakistani F-16s, was recovered east of Rajouri within the Indian territory. Visuals of cover of AARAM missile fired from Pakistani F-16 aircraft found near the LoC in India pic.twitter.com/qHdOm5cDqN — ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2019 × Here is all you need to know about AMRAAM: The AIM-120 AMRAAM is a modern American beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) capable of all-weather day-and-night operations. Procured by 37 countries including the US, the combat-proven AMRAAM missile has been integrated onto the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, Typhoon, Gripen, Tornado and Harrier. The AIM-120C5 and AIM-120C7 missiles are fully integrated onto the F-35 and support the US Marine Corp’s F-35B initial operational capability as the only air-to-air missile qualified on the F-35. Designed with a 7-inch (180mm) diameter form-and-fit factor, and employing active transmit-receive radar guidance instead of semi-active receive-only radar guidance, it has the advantage of being a fire-and-forget weapon when compared to the previous generation Sparrow missiles. The AMRAAM is the world's most popular beyond-visual-range missile, and more than 14,000 have been produced for the United States Air Force, the United States Navy, and 33 international customers. The AMRAAM has been used in several engagements and is credited with ten air-to-air kills. In early 2006, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) ordered 500 AIM-120C-5 AMRAAM missiles as part of a $650 million F-16 ammunition deal to equip its F-16C/D Block 50/52+ and F-16A/B Block 15 MLU fighters. The PAF got the first three F-16C/D Block 50/52+ aircraft on July 3, 2010, and the first batch of AMRAAMs on July 26, 2010.

What is AMRAAM missile and why it's an important evidence against Pakistan

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran Tuesday that Israeli missiles can travel "very far", on the eve of a conference in Poland about peace and security in the Middle East.

Speaking during a visit to a naval base in the northern port of Haifa, Netanyahu said, "The missiles you see behind me can go very far, against any enemy, including Iran's proxies in our region" -- an apparent reference to Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah movement.

"We are constantly working according to our u

nderstanding and the need to prevent Iran and its proxies from entrenching on our northern border and in our region in general," Netanyahu added.

"We are doing everything necessary," said Netanyahu, as he inspected Israel's Iron Dome aerial defence system.

Netanyahu has repeatedly said Israel would not allow Iran and its ally Hezbollah to entrench themselves in neighbouring Syria where they are backing the Damascus regime against rebels and jihadists.

Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria in the past few years against Iranian and Hezbollah targets.

On Wednesday the Israeli prime minister is set to take part in an international conference in Warsaw co-organised by the United States and Poland.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo last month announced the two-day conference saying it would focus on the "destabilising influence" of Iran in the Middle East.

But with few RSVPs coming, Poland and the US have toned down the agenda to focus on ways of promoting peace and security in the Middle East.

During the conference, US President Donald Trump son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner, who has been putting final touches on a "deal of the century" for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, will make a rare speaking appearance.

Kushner may offer hints of the US peace proposal but is not expected to unveil the full deal until after the April 9 election in Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran Tuesday that Israeli missiles can travel "very far", on the eve of a conference in Poland about peace and security in the Middle East.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran Tuesday that Israeli missiles can travel "very far", on the eve of a conference in Poland about peace and security in the Middle East. Speaking during a visit to a naval base in the northern port of Haifa, Netanyahu said, "The missiles you see behind me can go very far, against any enemy, including Iran's proxies in our region" -- an apparent reference to Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah movement. "We are constantly working according to our u nderstanding and the need to prevent Iran and its proxies from entrenching on our northern border and in our region in general," Netanyahu added. "We are doing everything necessary," said Netanyahu, as he inspected Israel's Iron Dome aerial defence system. Netanyahu has repeatedly said Israel would not allow Iran and its ally Hezbollah to entrench themselves in neighbouring Syria where they are backing the Damascus regime against rebels and jihadists. Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria in the past few years against Iranian and Hezbollah targets. On Wednesday the Israeli prime minister is set to take part in an international conference in Warsaw co-organised by the United States and Poland. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo last month announced the two-day conference saying it would focus on the "destabilising influence" of Iran in the Middle East. But with few RSVPs coming, Poland and the US have toned down the agenda to focus on ways of promoting peace and security in the Middle East. During the conference, US President Donald Trump son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner, who has been putting final touches on a "deal of the century" for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, will make a rare speaking appearance. Kushner may offer hints of the US peace proposal but is not expected to unveil the full deal until after the April 9 election in Israel.

Israel warns Iran that its missiles can travel 'very far'

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has no intention of deploying new ground-based nuclear missiles in Europe in the event that a Soviet-era treaty aimed at eliminating short- and medium-range missiles is abandoned, the head of the Alliance said Tuesday.

Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Brussels ahead of a meeting with NATO defence ministers that Russia's "violation" of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) would be one of the topics on the agenda.

"We do not intend to deploy new ground-based nuclear missiles in Europe," Stoltenberg said. "At the same time, we remain committed to meaningful arms control and non-proliferation efforts."&nbsp;

"NATO does not want a new arms race, because that would be in nobody's interest," added Stoltenberg.

The NATO chief said the United States and other allies had called on Moscow to abide by the treaty "over many years," and that was why the US recently announced its intention to abandon the treaty within six months.&nbsp;

"We all know that a treaty that is only respected by one side cannot keep us safe," said the politician.

He urged Russia to "take the responsible path" and "return to compliance and save the INF Treaty," something that was being offered as a "last opportunity."

The Norwegian politician acknowledged, however, that NATO allies were "planning for a world without the INF Treaty."

NATO defence ministers were to meet in the Belgian capital on Wednesday and Thursday.

Stoltenberg said other topics on the agenda would be NATO missions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo.

Ministers would also attend a session on NATO-European Union cooperation and EU defence efforts, the head of the Alliance said.

"Of course, EU efforts on defence cannot replace NATO," he said, adding that any EU efforts must complement and not compete with existing ones.

The chief ended his speech by welcoming the defence minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Radmila Sekerinska, whose country joined a NATO meeting for the first time after member states last week signed an accession protocol for the eastern European nation.&nbsp;

The INF Treaty was signed on December 8, 1987, between the US and Soviet Union, an agreement aimed to eliminate short-range missiles (covering a range of up to 1,000 kilometres; 620 miles) and intermediate ones (up to 5,500 km; 3,420 miles). 
&nbsp;

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has no intention of deploying new ground-based nuclear missiles in Europe in the event that a Soviet-era treaty aimed at eliminating short- and medium-range missiles is abandoned, the head of the Alliance said Tuesday.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has no intention of deploying new ground-based nuclear missiles in Europe in the event that a Soviet-era treaty aimed at eliminating short- and medium-range missiles is abandoned, the head of the Alliance said Tuesday. Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Brussels ahead of a meeting with NATO defence ministers that Russia's "violation" of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) would be one of the topics on the agenda. "We do not intend to deploy new ground-based nuclear missiles in Europe," Stoltenberg said. "At the same time, we remain committed to meaningful arms control and non-proliferation efforts." "NATO does not want a new arms race, because that would be in nobody's interest," added Stoltenberg. The NATO chief said the United States and other allies had called on Moscow to abide by the treaty "over many years," and that was why the US recently announced its intention to abandon the treaty within six months. "We all know that a treaty that is only respected by one side cannot keep us safe," said the politician. He urged Russia to "take the responsible path" and "return to compliance and save the INF Treaty," something that was being offered as a "last opportunity." The Norwegian politician acknowledged, however, that NATO allies were "planning for a world without the INF Treaty." NATO defence ministers were to meet in the Belgian capital on Wednesday and Thursday. Stoltenberg said other topics on the agenda would be NATO missions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo. Ministers would also attend a session on NATO-European Union cooperation and EU defence efforts, the head of the Alliance said. "Of course, EU efforts on defence cannot replace NATO," he said, adding that any EU efforts must complement and not compete with existing ones. The chief ended his speech by welcoming the defence minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Radmila Sekerinska, whose country joined a NATO meeting for the first time after member states last week signed an accession protocol for the eastern European nation. The INF Treaty was signed on December 8, 1987, between the US and Soviet Union, an agreement aimed to eliminate short-range missiles (covering a range of up to 1,000 kilometres; 620 miles) and intermediate ones (up to 5,500 km; 3,420 miles).

NATO rules out new missiles in Europe, says it does not want arms race

Iranian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-launch-two-satellites-in-coming-days-190236">President Hassan Rouhani</a> said on Monday that Iran was determined to expand its military power and ballistic missile programme despite mounting pressure from hostile countries to curb Iran's defensive work, state TV reported.

"We have not asked and will not ask for permission to develop different types of ... missiles and will continue our path and our military power," Rouhani said in a speech at Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) square, where tens of thousands gathered to mark the 40th anniversary of Iran's Islamic revolution.

Rouhani also vowed Iran would defeat US&nbsp;sanctions, reimposed after President Donald Trump withdrew from Tehran's nuclear accord with world powers last year.

"The Iranian people have and will have some economic difficulties (due to the sanctions) but we will overcome the problems by helping each other," Rouhani said.

&nbsp;

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that Iran was determined to expand its military power and ballistic missile programme despite mounting pressure from hostile countries to curb Iran's defensive work, state TV reported.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that Iran was determined to expand its military power and ballistic missile programme despite mounting pressure from hostile countries to curb Iran's defensive work, state TV reported. "We have not asked and will not ask for permission to develop different types of ... missiles and will continue our path and our military power," Rouhani said in a speech at Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) square, where tens of thousands gathered to mark the 40th anniversary of Iran's Islamic revolution. Rouhani also vowed Iran would defeat US sanctions, reimposed after President Donald Trump withdrew from Tehran's nuclear accord with world powers last year. "The Iranian people have and will have some economic difficulties (due to the sanctions) but we will overcome the problems by helping each other," Rouhani said.

Iran to continue expanding military might, missile work: President Hassan Rouhani

President Donald Trump vowed Tuesday that the United States would outspend Russia on missiles without a fresh international accord after he ditched a landmark <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-withdraw-from-inf-missile-treaty-unless-russia-complies-trump-194448">Cold War treaty</a>.

Trump's warning during his annual State of the Union address cemented fears of an emerging arms race, with Russia hours earlier pledging to design new missiles over the next two years.

The United States last week started the process of exiting the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/inf-treaty-with-russia-has-been-invalidated-germany-194404"> Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty</a>, saying that Russia has been violating the pact through a new missile system and ignored repeated complaints.

"Under my administration, we will never apologize for advancing America's interests," Trump told US lawmakers assembled in the House chamber.

"Perhaps we can negotiate a different agreement, adding China and others. Or perhaps we can't -&nbsp;in which case, we will outspend and out-innovate all others by far," Trump said.

While pointing the finger at <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-range-of-disputed-missile-is-allowed-under-inf-treaty-192316">Russia</a>, US officials have voiced concern that the 1987 treaty does not constrain China, whose rapidly growing military relies on medium-range missiles as a core part of its defence strategy.

The INF treaty banned all missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,400 miles), a legacy of the end of the Cold War as last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and US president Ronald Reagan sought to ease European fears of an arms race that would destroy their cities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin -&nbsp;who has sought a warm relationship with Trump but is widely reviled by the US establishment -- responded Saturday by saying Moscow would also leave the INF treaty.

Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said earlier Tuesday that Putin had approved plans for new missiles.

"During 2019-2020 we have to develop a land-based version of the seaborne Kalibr system equipped with a long range cruise missile which showed good results in Syria," Shoigu told defence officials.

"Over the same period we will also have to create a land-based missile system with a long-range hypersonic missile," he said.

Latvia urges international pact

Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics of Latvia -&nbsp;for which former ruler Russia looms large as a threat - voiced hope that Washington and Moscow would work with other powers on a new agreement.

"I would advocate -&nbsp;even if it is going to take a very long period of time, even if it may be a very, sometimes, complex and disappointing, from time to time, process - it would be good to try to find a way forward on a multilateral arms control agreement in this area," Rinkevics told AFP.

"It needs to be more than the United States and Russia because there are more countries that can produce such weapons than 30 years ago," he said in an interview in Washington, where he is taking part in a 79-member conference Wednesday on the fight against the Islamic State group.

Latvia, like other members of the NATO alliance, has backed the United States which has charged since the administration of former president Barack Obama that Russia is infringing on the INF treaty with the range of its new 9M729 missile system.

But Rinkevics played down the immediate impact of the INF treaty's demise, saying that Russia had already been stepping up military movements since Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea.

He acknowledged that a future pact was unlikely to be as sweeping as the INF treaty. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump vowed Tuesday that the United States would outspend Russia on missiles without a fresh international accord after he ditched a landmark Cold War treaty.

President Donald Trump vowed Tuesday that the United States would outspend Russia on missiles without a fresh international accord after he ditched a landmark Cold War treaty. Trump's warning during his annual State of the Union address cemented fears of an emerging arms race, with Russia hours earlier pledging to design new missiles over the next two years. The United States last week started the process of exiting the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, saying that Russia has been violating the pact through a new missile system and ignored repeated complaints. "Under my administration, we will never apologize for advancing America's interests," Trump told US lawmakers assembled in the House chamber. "Perhaps we can negotiate a different agreement, adding China and others. Or perhaps we can't - in which case, we will outspend and out-innovate all others by far," Trump said. While pointing the finger at Russia, US officials have voiced concern that the 1987 treaty does not constrain China, whose rapidly growing military relies on medium-range missiles as a core part of its defence strategy. The INF treaty banned all missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,400 miles), a legacy of the end of the Cold War as last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and US president Ronald Reagan sought to ease European fears of an arms race that would destroy their cities. Russian President Vladimir Putin - who has sought a warm relationship with Trump but is widely reviled by the US establishment -- responded Saturday by saying Moscow would also leave the INF treaty. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said earlier Tuesday that Putin had approved plans for new missiles. "During 2019-2020 we have to develop a land-based version of the seaborne Kalibr system equipped with a long range cruise missile which showed good results in Syria," Shoigu told defence officials. "Over the same period we will also have to create a land-based missile system with a long-range hypersonic missile," he said. Latvia urges international pact Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics of Latvia - for which former ruler Russia looms large as a threat - voiced hope that Washington and Moscow would work with other powers on a new agreement. "I would advocate - even if it is going to take a very long period of time, even if it may be a very, sometimes, complex and disappointing, from time to time, process - it would be good to try to find a way forward on a multilateral arms control agreement in this area," Rinkevics told AFP. "It needs to be more than the United States and Russia because there are more countries that can produce such weapons than 30 years ago," he said in an interview in Washington, where he is taking part in a 79-member conference Wednesday on the fight against the Islamic State group. Latvia, like other members of the NATO alliance, has backed the United States which has charged since the administration of former president Barack Obama that Russia is infringing on the INF treaty with the range of its new 9M729 missile system. But Rinkevics played down the immediate impact of the INF treaty's demise, saying that Russia had already been stepping up military movements since Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea. He acknowledged that a future pact was unlikely to be as sweeping as the INF treaty.

Russia on mind: Will develop long range cruise missile, says Trump

The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development.

"If the Europeans, or anyone else, want to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-unveils-long-range-cruise-missile-on-revolution-anniversary-194571">conspire to disarm Iran of missiles</a>, we will be forced to make a strategic leap," the guards' deputy commander Brigadier-General Hossein Salami said on state TV on Saturday.

"All that hear me today, come to terms with the new reality of Iran's missile might: there are no obstacles or technical limitations to us increasing (their) range," he added.

The Islamic Republic develops its missile technology according to a "defensive strategy" which changes according to need, he said.

Earlier Saturday, Iran announced the "successful test" of a new cruise missile with a range of over 1,350 kilometres (840 miles), coinciding with the anniversary of the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Defence Minister Amir Hatami said the Hoveizeh cruise missile had successfully hit its targets, calling it the "long arm of the Islamic Republic of Iran".

Iran reined in most of its nuclear programme under a landmark 2015 deal with major powers but has kept up development of its ballistic missile technology.

Washington withdrew from the accord in May and reimposed sanctions against Iran, citing the missile programme among its reasons.

European governments have stuck by the agreement, although some have demanded a new section to address Iran's ballistic missile programme and its intervention in regional conflicts including Yemen.

Iran has voluntarily limited the range of its missiles to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles), but that is still enough to hit its arch-enemy Israel and US bases in the Middle East.

Washington and its allies have accused Tehran of pursuing enhanced missile capabilities that also threaten Europe.

Tehran denies this, insisting its missile programme is "purely defensive."

The weapon tested Saturday takes its name from a city in the southwestern province of Khuzestan that was devastated in the 1980-1988 war against Saddam Hussein's Iraq.

Salami on Saturday warned world powers "not to seek (new) negotiations or make recommendations or requests on Iran's missile power".

"Our enemies only understand the language of force," he said.&nbsp;

"If you cannot talk to them in that language, they will use it to talk to you."

The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development.

The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development. "If the Europeans, or anyone else, want to conspire to disarm Iran of missiles, we will be forced to make a strategic leap," the guards' deputy commander Brigadier-General Hossein Salami said on state TV on Saturday. "All that hear me today, come to terms with the new reality of Iran's missile might: there are no obstacles or technical limitations to us increasing (their) range," he added. The Islamic Republic develops its missile technology according to a "defensive strategy" which changes according to need, he said. Earlier Saturday, Iran announced the "successful test" of a new cruise missile with a range of over 1,350 kilometres (840 miles), coinciding with the anniversary of the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Defence Minister Amir Hatami said the Hoveizeh cruise missile had successfully hit its targets, calling it the "long arm of the Islamic Republic of Iran". Iran reined in most of its nuclear programme under a landmark 2015 deal with major powers but has kept up development of its ballistic missile technology. Washington withdrew from the accord in May and reimposed sanctions against Iran, citing the missile programme among its reasons. European governments have stuck by the agreement, although some have demanded a new section to address Iran's ballistic missile programme and its intervention in regional conflicts including Yemen. Iran has voluntarily limited the range of its missiles to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles), but that is still enough to hit its arch-enemy Israel and US bases in the Middle East. Washington and its allies have accused Tehran of pursuing enhanced missile capabilities that also threaten Europe. Tehran denies this, insisting its missile programme is "purely defensive." The weapon tested Saturday takes its name from a city in the southwestern province of Khuzestan that was devastated in the 1980-1988 war against Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Salami on Saturday warned world powers "not to seek (new) negotiations or make recommendations or requests on Iran's missile power". "Our enemies only understand the language of force," he said. "If you cannot talk to them in that language, they will use it to talk to you."

Do not thwart our missile development or we 'will be forced to make strategic leap': Iran

President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-withdraw-from-inf-missile-treaty-unless-russia-complies-trump-194448">a mirror response to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-withdraw-from-inf-missile-treaty-unless-russia-complies-trump-194448">a US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-withdraw-from-inf-missile-treaty-unless-russia-complies-trump-194448"> move the day before</a>.&nbsp;

"Our American partners have announced they are suspending their participation in the deal, and we are also suspending our participation," he said of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.

Putin said during a televised meeting with foreign and defence ministers Sergei Lavrov and Sergei Shoigu that Russia would no longer initiate talks with the US on disarmament.&nbsp;

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<h5>'We will wait until our partners have matured enough to conduct an equal, meaningful dialogue with us on this important topic,' Putin said</h5>
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"We will wait until our partners have matured enough to conduct an equal, meaningful dialogue with us on this important topic," the president said.

President Donald Trump said Friday that Washington was suspending its obligations under the INF treaty and starting a process to withdraw in six months.

Washington says a Russian medium-range missile system breaches the INF deal.

But Moscow has long insisted it does not violate the agreement, and last month invited reporters and foreign military attaches to a briefing on the disputed weapons system.&nbsp;

Lavrov on Saturday repeated Russian accusations that Washington itself has been in violation of the deal for many years.&nbsp;

At the meeting, Putin said Russia would seek to develop medium-range missiles in response to what he said were similar projects in the US.&nbsp;

But he told the ministers that Russia would "not be drawn into a costly new arms race".

Russia would only deploy intermediate- and short-range missiles in Europe or elsewhere in answer to similar moves from the US, he added.&nbsp;

Putin has previously threatened to develop nuclear missiles banned under the INF treaty if it is scrapped.&nbsp;

European leaders have voiced fears over the consequences of the treaty's demise and called on Russia to address concerns before the United States formally leaves in August.

Signed towards the end of the Cold War by then US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, the treaty bans ground-launched missiles with a range of between 500 and 5,500 kilometres.&nbsp;

The deal resolved a crisis over Soviet nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles targeting Western capitals, but put no restrictions on other major military actors such as China.&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in a mirror response to a US move the day before.

President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in a mirror response to a US move the day before. "Our American partners have announced they are suspending their participation in the deal, and we are also suspending our participation," he said of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Putin said during a televised meeting with foreign and defence ministers Sergei Lavrov and Sergei Shoigu that Russia would no longer initiate talks with the US on disarmament. 'We will wait until our partners have matured enough to conduct an equal, meaningful dialogue with us on this important topic,' Putin said × "We will wait until our partners have matured enough to conduct an equal, meaningful dialogue with us on this important topic," the president said. President Donald Trump said Friday that Washington was suspending its obligations under the INF treaty and starting a process to withdraw in six months. Washington says a Russian medium-range missile system breaches the INF deal. But Moscow has long insisted it does not violate the agreement, and last month invited reporters and foreign military attaches to a briefing on the disputed weapons system. Lavrov on Saturday repeated Russian accusations that Washington itself has been in violation of the deal for many years. At the meeting, Putin said Russia would seek to develop medium-range missiles in response to what he said were similar projects in the US. But he told the ministers that Russia would "not be drawn into a costly new arms race". Russia would only deploy intermediate- and short-range missiles in Europe or elsewhere in answer to similar moves from the US, he added. Putin has previously threatened to develop nuclear missiles banned under the INF treaty if it is scrapped. European leaders have voiced fears over the consequences of the treaty's demise and called on Russia to address concerns before the United States formally leaves in August. Signed towards the end of the Cold War by then US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, the treaty bans ground-launched missiles with a range of between 500 and 5,500 kilometres. The deal resolved a crisis over Soviet nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles targeting Western capitals, but put no restrictions on other major military actors such as China.

Following US move, Putin says Russia is pulling out of nuclear missile treaty

Iran has accused France of being a destabilising force in the region after its foreign minister threatened new sanctions against Tehran over its missile programme.

"The Islamic republic has always called for the strengthening of peace and stability in the region," the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement released overnight Friday.

As such Iran "considers the mass sales of sophisticated and offensive weapons by... <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/toxic-substances-found-in-nappies-in-france-government-agency-192222&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjkweTArIvgAhVEso8KHcE-DiYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1J7LEUap-sSNRHTRqWSxXG">France</a> as a factor in destabilising the balance of the region," the statement said.

It came after French <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-targets-us-national-security-advisor-john-bolton-with-10-year-challenge-calls-him-bully-191334&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjh44SrrIvgAhWLq48KHaCdCr4QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw32_1enKeTq3Oms04jePMkl">Foreign Minister </a>Jean-Yves Le Drian on Friday said Paris was ready to impose new sanctions on Tehran if talks on its missile programme and its regional influence fail to make progress.

"We have begun a difficult dialogue with Iran... and unless progress is made we are ready to apply sanctions, firmly, and they know it," Le Drian said.

Le Drian also demanded that Iran change its behaviour in the region, specifically regarding its military presence in Syria.

The Iranian foreign ministry responded saying "Iran's missile programme is not negotiable" and warned that "any new sanction by European countries will lead to a review of our relations with them".

Iran reined in most of its nuclear programme under a landmark 2015 deal with major powers — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States — that lifted sanctions on Iran.

But in May the United States withdrew from the deal and re-imposed sanctions on Tehran.

The EU has been trying to set up a special payment mechanism to maintain trade and business ties with Iran and circumvent the US sanctions.

Tehran has continued to develop its ballistic missile technology but says it has no intention of acquiring atomic weapons and that its missile development programmes are purely defensive.

Iran has accused France of being a destabilising force in the region after its foreign minister threatened new sanctions against Tehran over its missile programme.

Iran has accused France of being a destabilising force in the region after its foreign minister threatened new sanctions against Tehran over its missile programme. "The Islamic republic has always called for the strengthening of peace and stability in the region," the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement released overnight Friday. As such Iran "considers the mass sales of sophisticated and offensive weapons by... France as a factor in destabilising the balance of the region," the statement said. It came after French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Friday said Paris was ready to impose new sanctions on Tehran if talks on its missile programme and its regional influence fail to make progress. "We have begun a difficult dialogue with Iran... and unless progress is made we are ready to apply sanctions, firmly, and they know it," Le Drian said. Le Drian also demanded that Iran change its behaviour in the region, specifically regarding its military presence in Syria. The Iranian foreign ministry responded saying "Iran's missile programme is not negotiable" and warned that "any new sanction by European countries will lead to a review of our relations with them". Iran reined in most of its nuclear programme under a landmark 2015 deal with major powers — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States — that lifted sanctions on Iran. But in May the United States withdrew from the deal and re-imposed sanctions on Tehran. The EU has been trying to set up a special payment mechanism to maintain trade and business ties with Iran and circumvent the US sanctions. Tehran has continued to develop its ballistic missile technology but says it has no intention of acquiring atomic weapons and that its missile development programmes are purely defensive.

Iran accuses France of 'destabilising' region after French foreign minister threatens sanctions

The long-range surface-to-air missile — LRSAM — was Thursday "successfully" test-fired from a warship off the coast of Odisha against an aerial target, a significant milestone in enhancing the Navy's anti-air warfare capability.

"Ship launched Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) has been successfully testing fired from INS Chennai against an incoming aerial target flying at low altitude, today," the defence ministry said.

It said the missile destroyed the target with a direct hit and that all the mission objectives have been met during the test-firing.

LRSAM has been jointly developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India and M/s Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the Indian Navy.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman congratulated DRDO, Indian Navy and associated team members on the successful test-fire of the missile.

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India achieves a significant milestone with successful flight test of LRSAM on board INS Chennai. The missile direcly hit a low flying aerial target. 
 
Smt <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> congratulates <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DRDO_India</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a> , the industry and other stakeholders for this landmark achievement.
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"India achieves a significant milestone with successful flight test of LRSAM on board INS Chennai. The missile directly hit a low flying aerial target," Sitharaman tweeted.

The long-range surface-to-air missile — LRSAM — was Thursday "successfully" test-fired from a warship off the coast of Odisha against an aerial target, a significant milestone in enhancing the Navy's anti-air warfare capability.

The long-range surface-to-air missile — LRSAM — was Thursday "successfully" test-fired from a warship off the coast of Odisha against an aerial target, a significant milestone in enhancing the Navy's anti-air warfare capability. "Ship launched Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) has been successfully testing fired from INS Chennai against an incoming aerial target flying at low altitude, today," the defence ministry said. It said the missile destroyed the target with a direct hit and that all the mission objectives have been met during the test-firing. LRSAM has been jointly developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India and M/s Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the Indian Navy. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman congratulated DRDO, Indian Navy and associated team members on the successful test-fire of the missile. India achieves a significant milestone with successful flight test of LRSAM on board INS Chennai. The missile direcly hit a low flying aerial target. Smt @nsitharaman congratulates @DRDO_India, @indiannavy , the industry and other stakeholders for this landmark achievement. — Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) January 24, 2019 × "India achieves a significant milestone with successful flight test of LRSAM on board INS Chennai. The missile directly hit a low flying aerial target," Sitharaman tweeted.

LRSAM missile successfully test-fired; defence minister calls it a major milestone

One of 20 undeclared ballistic missile operating bases in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-north-korea-to-stop-missile-tests-tells-us-and-south-to-seek-talks-13161?amp">North Korea</a> serves as a missile headquarters, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) published on Monday.

"The Sino-ri missile operating base and the Nodong missiles deployed at this location fit into North Korea's presumed nuclear military strategy by providing an operational-level nuclear or conventional first strike capability," the report said.

The discovery of an undeclared missile headquarters comes three days after US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he "looks forward" to another summit to discuss denuclearization with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in late February.

CSIS, which last reported on the 20 undeclared bases in November, said the Sino-ri base has never been declared by North Korea and as a result "does not appear to be the subject of denuclearization negotiations."

The report noted that missile operating bases would presumably be subject to declaration, verification, and dismantlement in any denuclearization deal.

"The North Koreans are not going to negotiate over things they don't disclose," said Victor Cha, one of the authors of the report. "It looks like they're playing a game. They're still going to have all this operational capability," even if they destroy their disclosed nuclear facilities.

Located 132 miles (212 kilometers) north of the demilitarized zone, the Sino-ri complex is a seven-square-mile (18-square-km) base that plays a key role in developing ballistic missiles capable of reaching South Korea, Japan, and even the US territory of Guam in the Western Pacific, the report said.

It houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with Nodong-1 medium-range ballistic missiles, the report added.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Satellite images of the base from December 27, 2018 show an entrance to an underground bunker, reinforced shelters and a headquarters, the report said.

One of 20 undeclared ballistic missile operating bases in North Korea serves as a missile headquarters, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) published on Monday.

One of 20 undeclared ballistic missile operating bases in North Korea serves as a missile headquarters, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) published on Monday. "The Sino-ri missile operating base and the Nodong missiles deployed at this location fit into North Korea's presumed nuclear military strategy by providing an operational-level nuclear or conventional first strike capability," the report said. The discovery of an undeclared missile headquarters comes three days after US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he "looks forward" to another summit to discuss denuclearization with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in late February. CSIS, which last reported on the 20 undeclared bases in November, said the Sino-ri base has never been declared by North Korea and as a result "does not appear to be the subject of denuclearization negotiations." The report noted that missile operating bases would presumably be subject to declaration, verification, and dismantlement in any denuclearization deal. "The North Koreans are not going to negotiate over things they don't disclose," said Victor Cha, one of the authors of the report. "It looks like they're playing a game. They're still going to have all this operational capability," even if they destroy their disclosed nuclear facilities. Located 132 miles (212 kilometers) north of the demilitarized zone, the Sino-ri complex is a seven-square-mile (18-square-km) base that plays a key role in developing ballistic missiles capable of reaching South Korea, Japan, and even the US territory of Guam in the Western Pacific, the report said. It houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with Nodong-1 medium-range ballistic missiles, the report added. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Satellite images of the base from December 27, 2018 show an entrance to an underground bunker, reinforced shelters and a headquarters, the report said.

Report reveals undeclared North Korean missile base headquarters

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-record-long-government-shutdown-could-be-resolved-in-15-minutes-189918&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjKgMqX-PPfAhWLq48KHXyuCvYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1yApEN-FzcRkC040UDwpmM">US President Donald Trump</a> is due to unveil a revamped US missile defence strategy on Thursday that looks at ways to boost America's security, including by possibly deploying a new layer of space-based sensors to detect and track enemy missiles.

The Missile Defense Review will also recommend studying experimental technologies, including prospects for space-based weaponry that might be able to shoot down enemy missiles - a throwback to Ronald Reagan's so-called "Star Wars" initiative in the 1980s.

"Space, I think, is the key to the next step of missile defence," a senior Trump administration official told reporters ahead of the document's release on Thursday, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"A space-based layer of sensors is something we are looking at to help get early warning and tracking and discrimination of missiles when they are launched."

The official stressed that the viability of space-based missile defence weaponry was only being studied and no decisions had been made.&nbsp;

The investments come on top of previously announced the US plans to increase the number of ground-based interceptors over the next several years, hiking the number positioned at Fort Greely, Alaska to 64 from 44.&nbsp;

US military officials have long stressed that America's missile defences are primarily designed to counter attacks from countries with more limited arsenals, like North Korea, which US&nbsp;intelligence officials believe is still advancing its nuclear program despite a halt to missile launches last year.

For Trump, who is trying to revive efforts to persuade <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/east-asia/north-korean-official-heads-for-talks-in-sweden-report-190463&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjbn_ir-PPfAhWPT30KHWQMDSEQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3m8cjV8utF4hWoBessNdOc">North Korea</a> to abandon its nuclear arsenal, the report's release comes at an awkward moment.

Three North Korean officials, including the top envoy involved in talks with the United States, are booked on a flight to Washington, suggesting possible movement toward a second summit between Trump and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-seeks-to-up-ante-with-xi-summit-analysts-189006&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjslurg-PPfAhWHLY8KHT30AEYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0aG8cXAzGcB-SLTdFoIDPl">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un</a>, according to South Korean media.

It was unclear to what extent the report would single out North Korea. But the senior Trump administration official suggested it would at least be mentioned.

Trump, who is due to speak at the Pentagon, declared in June that the North no longer posed a nuclear threat, buoyed by optimism following his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore.

Pentagon officials contend that US missiles defences are too few to be able to counter a first-strike on the US homeland by a major nuclear power, like Russia or China. Washington hopes those countries will instead be deterred from attacks by America's nuclear arsenal.

Still, Russia views US missile defence advances as a threat and Trump's report is likely to stoke tensions with Moscow.

China, in turn, has also alarmed the Pentagon with advances in super-fast "hypersonic" technology, which could allow Beijing to field missiles that are far harder to detect.

In a report earlier this week that singled out the hypersonic threat, the Pentagon warned China's military was "on the verge of fielding some of the most modern weapon systems in the world."

"In some areas, it already leads the world," the report said.

US officials, including Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Michael Griffin, believe a space-based sensor layer could help detect missiles moving at hypersonic speeds. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is due to unveil a revamped US missile defence strategy on Thursday that looks at ways to boost America's security, including by possibly deploying a new layer of space-based sensors to detect and track enemy missiles.

US President Donald Trump is due to unveil a revamped US missile defence strategy on Thursday that looks at ways to boost America's security, including by possibly deploying a new layer of space-based sensors to detect and track enemy missiles. The Missile Defense Review will also recommend studying experimental technologies, including prospects for space-based weaponry that might be able to shoot down enemy missiles - a throwback to Ronald Reagan's so-called "Star Wars" initiative in the 1980s. "Space, I think, is the key to the next step of missile defence," a senior Trump administration official told reporters ahead of the document's release on Thursday, speaking on condition of anonymity. "A space-based layer of sensors is something we are looking at to help get early warning and tracking and discrimination of missiles when they are launched." The official stressed that the viability of space-based missile defence weaponry was only being studied and no decisions had been made. The investments come on top of previously announced the US plans to increase the number of ground-based interceptors over the next several years, hiking the number positioned at Fort Greely, Alaska to 64 from 44. US military officials have long stressed that America's missile defences are primarily designed to counter attacks from countries with more limited arsenals, like North Korea, which US intelligence officials believe is still advancing its nuclear program despite a halt to missile launches last year. For Trump, who is trying to revive efforts to persuade North Korea to abandon its nuclear arsenal, the report's release comes at an awkward moment. Three North Korean officials, including the top envoy involved in talks with the United States, are booked on a flight to Washington, suggesting possible movement toward a second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to South Korean media. It was unclear to what extent the report would single out North Korea. But the senior Trump administration official suggested it would at least be mentioned. Trump, who is due to speak at the Pentagon, declared in June that the North no longer posed a nuclear threat, buoyed by optimism following his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore. Pentagon officials contend that US missiles defences are too few to be able to counter a first-strike on the US homeland by a major nuclear power, like Russia or China. Washington hopes those countries will instead be deterred from attacks by America's nuclear arsenal. Still, Russia views US missile defence advances as a threat and Trump's report is likely to stoke tensions with Moscow. China, in turn, has also alarmed the Pentagon with advances in super-fast "hypersonic" technology, which could allow Beijing to field missiles that are far harder to detect. In a report earlier this week that singled out the hypersonic threat, the Pentagon warned China's military was "on the verge of fielding some of the most modern weapon systems in the world." "In some areas, it already leads the world," the report said. US officials, including Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Michael Griffin, believe a space-based sensor layer could help detect missiles moving at hypersonic speeds.

Trump's new missile defence strategy eyes space-based sensors

The US&nbsp;government has approved integration of the US&nbsp;Patriot PAC-3 MSE missile into a next-generation German missile defence system, a spokesman said on Friday, a key step toward completion of a long-delayed multibillion-dollar arms sale.

The decision followed high-level talks by German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen and US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Jim Mattis this summer, two sources familiar with the issue said.

Germany selected the Medium Extended Air Defence System (MEADS) built by Lockheed Martin Corp and European missile maker MBDA over Raytheon's Patriot air and missile defence system in 2015, but it has taken years to move forward on the new defensive system called TLVS.

US&nbsp;Air Force Colonel&nbsp;Mike Andrews, the Pentagon spokesman, confirmed the use of the MSE missile had been approved for use in the German programme, but gave no further details.

"This is a significant step forward. The impasse has been solved," said one of the sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly.

Lockheed, the top US&nbsp;weapons maker, and MBDA gave no details, but said they were upbeat that the programme was moving forward. MBDA is jointly owned by Airbus, Britain's BAE Systems and Italy's Leonardo.

A spokesman at the German defence ministry gave no details, but said both the US&nbsp;and German sides were committed to signing a contract. "There is new momentum. Both sides are clearly committed to successful completion of the TLVS programme," the spokesman said.

Germany's defence ministry in August asked Lockheed and MBDA to submit a best and final offer for the programme, but that required US&nbsp;government approval of the integration of the PAC-3 MSE missile, one of the sources said.

Lockheed, which developed the MEADS programme together with MBDA, also builds the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement missile, but needed approval for its integration into German programme since the missile was developed separately from MEADS.

The MEADS system was developed with US $4 billion in funding from Germany, Italy and the United States, although the US&nbsp;Army later ended its participation in the programme.

Germany hopes to sign a contract for TLVS in 2019 and field the system in 2025.

MBDA and Lockheed executives have said progress on the German deal could fuel interest by other countries in the system, which will offer the ability to knit together a variety of different systems, including Patriot.

Initially slated to cost about 4 billion euros ($4.56 billion), sources say the final cost of the TLVS system is likely to be several billion euros higher.

The US government has approved integration of the US Patriot PAC-3 MSE missile into a next-generation German missile defence system, a spokesman said on Friday, a key step toward completion of a long-delayed multibillion-dollar arms sale.

The US government has approved integration of the US Patriot PAC-3 MSE missile into a next-generation German missile defence system, a spokesman said on Friday, a key step toward completion of a long-delayed multibillion-dollar arms sale. The decision followed high-level talks by German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen and US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis this summer, two sources familiar with the issue said. Germany selected the Medium Extended Air Defence System (MEADS) built by Lockheed Martin Corp and European missile maker MBDA over Raytheon's Patriot air and missile defence system in 2015, but it has taken years to move forward on the new defensive system called TLVS. US Air Force Colonel Mike Andrews, the Pentagon spokesman, confirmed the use of the MSE missile had been approved for use in the German programme, but gave no further details. "This is a significant step forward. The impasse has been solved," said one of the sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly. Lockheed, the top US weapons maker, and MBDA gave no details, but said they were upbeat that the programme was moving forward. MBDA is jointly owned by Airbus, Britain's BAE Systems and Italy's Leonardo. A spokesman at the German defence ministry gave no details, but said both the US and German sides were committed to signing a contract. "There is new momentum. Both sides are clearly committed to successful completion of the TLVS programme," the spokesman said. Germany's defence ministry in August asked Lockheed and MBDA to submit a best and final offer for the programme, but that required US government approval of the integration of the PAC-3 MSE missile, one of the sources said. Lockheed, which developed the MEADS programme together with MBDA, also builds the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement missile, but needed approval for its integration into German programme since the missile was developed separately from MEADS. The MEADS system was developed with US $4 billion in funding from Germany, Italy and the United States, although the US Army later ended its participation in the programme. Germany hopes to sign a contract for TLVS in 2019 and field the system in 2025. MBDA and Lockheed executives have said progress on the German deal could fuel interest by other countries in the system, which will offer the ability to knit together a variety of different systems, including Patriot. Initially slated to cost about 4 billion euros ($4.56 billion), sources say the final cost of the TLVS system is likely to be several billion euros higher.

US approves key step towards German missile defence deal

South Korea's spy agency has observed preparations by North Korea for international inspections at several of its nuclear and missile test sites, the Yonhap news agency said on Wednesday, citing a South Korean lawmaker.

US officials declined to confirm the observations, but Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in Washington he planned to meet his North Korean negotiating counterpart next week and would speak to him about inspections.

Pompeo said in a radio interview that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had committed to allowing US inspectors at two "significant" sites when he met him in Pyongyang this month.

"We hope to get them there before too long," he told the Laura Ingraham show. Pompeo did not identify the sites.

Kim Min-ki of South Korea's ruling Democratic Party told reporters earlier that the country's National Intelligence Service observed North Koreans "conducting preparation and intelligence activities that seem to be in preparation for foreign inspectors’ visit" at Punggye-ri nuclear test site and the Sohae Satellite launching ground.

The lawmaker added that no major movements had been seen at Yongbyon, the North's main nuclear complex.

North Korea has stopped nuclear and missile tests in the past year, but it did not allow international inspections of its dismantling of Punggye-ri in May, drawing criticism that the action was merely for show and could be reversed.

In September, Kim Jong Un also pledged at a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in to close Sohae and allow experts to observe the dismantling of the missile engine-testing site and a launch pad.

At the time, Moon said North Korea agreed to let international inspectors observe a "permanent dismantlement" of key missile facilities, and take further steps, such as closing Yongbyon, in return for reciprocal moves by the United States.

Washington has demanded steps such as a full disclosure of the North’s nuclear and missile facilities, before agreeing to Pyongyang’s key goals.

American officials have been skeptical of Kim's commitment to giving up nuclear weapons, but the North’s pledge at the summit with the South drew an enthusiastic response from President Donald Trump, who met Kim in an unprecedented summit in June and has been keen on a second meeting.&nbsp;

During an inspection of a large construction project at a tourism resort in Wonsan, Kim told workers that such economic projects are a new "decisive battle" for supporting the ruling party and pushing back against international sanctions over the nuclear program, North Korean state media reported on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The hostile forces are foolishly keen on vicious sanctions to stand in our way towards promotion of people`s wellbeing and development and to lead us to change and submission, but they will be made to clearly see over time how our country that has built its strength hundreds of times defying hardship build its own country as a powerful nation by its own strength, technology and efforts," he said on Korean Central News Agency.

Pompeo told Laura Ingraham Washington hoped the second summit would take place early next year "where we can make a substantial breakthrough in taking down the nuclear threat from North Korea."

"There’s a lot of work which remains, and Chairman Kim has made clear to me - just as plain as I’m speaking to you, Laura - that he has the intention to denuclearise and we’ll do everything we can to assist him in following through on that commitment."

Pompeo did not name his counterpart, but Kim Yong Chol, a close aide to Kim Jong Un, has led past negotiating sessions with him.

The State Department declined to provide details, but the meeting is expected to take place in New York.&nbsp;

Also in Washington, South Korean Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said the United States and South Korea would make a decision by December on major joint military exercises for 2019.

Earlier this month, the two countries suspended Vigilant Ace, one of several exercises that have been halted to encourage dialogue.

"We are not right now concerned with a loss of combat capability," US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told reporters after the meeting with his South Korean counterpart.

"Clearly as we go forward, we`ll have to make adaptations to ensure we don't lose that capability. But right now, again this is not a total suspension of all collaboration and military exercises," Mattis added.

South Korea's spy agency has observed preparations by North Korea for international inspections at several of its nuclear and missile test sites, the Yonhap news agency said on Wednesday, citing a South Korean lawmaker.

South Korea's spy agency has observed preparations by North Korea for international inspections at several of its nuclear and missile test sites, the Yonhap news agency said on Wednesday, citing a South Korean lawmaker. US officials declined to confirm the observations, but Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in Washington he planned to meet his North Korean negotiating counterpart next week and would speak to him about inspections. Pompeo said in a radio interview that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had committed to allowing US inspectors at two "significant" sites when he met him in Pyongyang this month. "We hope to get them there before too long," he told the Laura Ingraham show. Pompeo did not identify the sites. Kim Min-ki of South Korea's ruling Democratic Party told reporters earlier that the country's National Intelligence Service observed North Koreans "conducting preparation and intelligence activities that seem to be in preparation for foreign inspectors’ visit" at Punggye-ri nuclear test site and the Sohae Satellite launching ground. The lawmaker added that no major movements had been seen at Yongbyon, the North's main nuclear complex. North Korea has stopped nuclear and missile tests in the past year, but it did not allow international inspections of its dismantling of Punggye-ri in May, drawing criticism that the action was merely for show and could be reversed. In September, Kim Jong Un also pledged at a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in to close Sohae and allow experts to observe the dismantling of the missile engine-testing site and a launch pad. At the time, Moon said North Korea agreed to let international inspectors observe a "permanent dismantlement" of key missile facilities, and take further steps, such as closing Yongbyon, in return for reciprocal moves by the United States. Washington has demanded steps such as a full disclosure of the North’s nuclear and missile facilities, before agreeing to Pyongyang’s key goals. American officials have been skeptical of Kim's commitment to giving up nuclear weapons, but the North’s pledge at the summit with the South drew an enthusiastic response from President Donald Trump, who met Kim in an unprecedented summit in June and has been keen on a second meeting. During an inspection of a large construction project at a tourism resort in Wonsan, Kim told workers that such economic projects are a new "decisive battle" for supporting the ruling party and pushing back against international sanctions over the nuclear program, North Korean state media reported on Thursday. "The hostile forces are foolishly keen on vicious sanctions to stand in our way towards promotion of people`s wellbeing and development and to lead us to change and submission, but they will be made to clearly see over time how our country that has built its strength hundreds of times defying hardship build its own country as a powerful nation by its own strength, technology and efforts," he said on Korean Central News Agency. Pompeo told Laura Ingraham Washington hoped the second summit would take place early next year "where we can make a substantial breakthrough in taking down the nuclear threat from North Korea." "There’s a lot of work which remains, and Chairman Kim has made clear to me - just as plain as I’m speaking to you, Laura - that he has the intention to denuclearise and we’ll do everything we can to assist him in following through on that commitment." Pompeo did not name his counterpart, but Kim Yong Chol, a close aide to Kim Jong Un, has led past negotiating sessions with him. The State Department declined to provide details, but the meeting is expected to take place in New York. Also in Washington, South Korean Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said the United States and South Korea would make a decision by December on major joint military exercises for 2019. Earlier this month, the two countries suspended Vigilant Ace, one of several exercises that have been halted to encourage dialogue. "We are not right now concerned with a loss of combat capability," US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told reporters after the meeting with his South Korean counterpart. "Clearly as we go forward, we`ll have to make adaptations to ensure we don't lose that capability. But right now, again this is not a total suspension of all collaboration and military exercises," Mattis added.

North Korea readies nuclear, missile sites for international inspectors: Report

A Chinese mining company has claimed to have successfully test-fired a supersonic missile, touted as a potential competitor to the Indo-Russian joint venture BrahMos missile, according to the Chinese state media.

The test conducted on Monday at a discreet location in North China verified the launch, power and flight control systems, state-run Global Times reported while indicating that Beijing's all-weather ally, Pakistan could be one of its buyers.

All parameters for the supersonic flight of the HD-1 missile achieved their estimated values, it quoted a statement released by Guangdong Hongda Blasting Company located in southern China.

"The test flight shows that the HD-1's core components are now mature, with its aerodynamic design, materials and overall structure already proven viable," Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military analyst, told the daily.

Hongda independently invested in and developed the HD-1 missile, the statement said.

Wei said the mining company's move to build and test a supersonic missile is an excellent example of military-civilian integration.

Established in 1988, Hongda is a mining company based in Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong Province that also manufactures blasting and military equipment.

The HD-1's advanced solid fuel ramjet needs less fuel than its competitors, rendering the lighter missile able to fly faster and farther, Wei said.

After governmental approval, Hongda intends to sign deals and mass-produce the HD-1 for export, the report said.

There are not many such supersonic missiles available on the international defence market, Wei said.

Pakistan and Middle Eastern countries are likely to show interest given the weapon's potential to break anti-missile systems at supersonic speeds, he said, claiming that the new missile could be cheaper than the BrahMos.

"The BrahMos missile is a more expensive, less useful supersonic cruise missile developed by India and Russia," Wei claimed.

Hongda will participate in Airshow China 2018 in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province next month, a company spokesperson said.

The HD-1 is a comprehensive weapon system consisting of missile, launch, command and control, target indication and comprehensive support systems, Hongda had said in a separate statement released earlier.

The HD-1 can be adapted to aircraft and ships as well as the basic ground-based vehicle version, the company said.

The total investment in HD-1 is expected to top 1.3 billion yuan (about USD 188 million).

A Chinese mining company has claimed to have successfully test-fired a supersonic missile, touted as a potential competitor to the Indo-Russian joint venture BrahMos missile, according to the Chinese state media.

A Chinese mining company has claimed to have successfully test-fired a supersonic missile, touted as a potential competitor to the Indo-Russian joint venture BrahMos missile, according to the Chinese state media. The test conducted on Monday at a discreet location in North China verified the launch, power and flight control systems, state-run Global Times reported while indicating that Beijing's all-weather ally, Pakistan could be one of its buyers. All parameters for the supersonic flight of the HD-1 missile achieved their estimated values, it quoted a statement released by Guangdong Hongda Blasting Company located in southern China. "The test flight shows that the HD-1's core components are now mature, with its aerodynamic design, materials and overall structure already proven viable," Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military analyst, told the daily. Hongda independently invested in and developed the HD-1 missile, the statement said. Wei said the mining company's move to build and test a supersonic missile is an excellent example of military-civilian integration. Established in 1988, Hongda is a mining company based in Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong Province that also manufactures blasting and military equipment. The HD-1's advanced solid fuel ramjet needs less fuel than its competitors, rendering the lighter missile able to fly faster and farther, Wei said. After governmental approval, Hongda intends to sign deals and mass-produce the HD-1 for export, the report said. There are not many such supersonic missiles available on the international defence market, Wei said. Pakistan and Middle Eastern countries are likely to show interest given the weapon's potential to break anti-missile systems at supersonic speeds, he said, claiming that the new missile could be cheaper than the BrahMos. "The BrahMos missile is a more expensive, less useful supersonic cruise missile developed by India and Russia," Wei claimed. Hongda will participate in Airshow China 2018 in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province next month, a company spokesperson said. The HD-1 is a comprehensive weapon system consisting of missile, launch, command and control, target indication and comprehensive support systems, Hongda had said in a separate statement released earlier. The HD-1 can be adapted to aircraft and ships as well as the basic ground-based vehicle version, the company said. The total investment in HD-1 is expected to top 1.3 billion yuan (about USD 188 million).

Pakistan may buy China's supersonic missile that's 'better than' BrahMos: Report

The air-superiority fighter jet MiG-29 has gained in strength and ferocity after the latest upgrade, giving the Air Force that has been battling a shortage of warplanes a much-needed boost, officials have said.

The Russian origin aircraft is now capable of mid-air refuelling, compatible with the latest missiles and can launch multi-dimensional attacks, said Flight Lieutenant Karan Kohli, who is deployed at Adampur Air Force Station.

Even in the previous legacy version, the aircraft played an important role as the Air Force stamped its supremacy over the Pakistani Air Force during the Kargil War in 1999.

Last week, the upgraded MiG-29 showcased its combat capabilities at Admapur Air Force Station. The country will celebrate the Air Force Day on Monday.

"With the upgrade, as compared to previous legacy version of the MiG-29 bought under emergency clause in early 1980s, the fighter jets are capable of giving a befitting response," said an official, asking not to be named, on how the warplane would perform in the event of a two-front war.

Flight Lieutenant Kohli said the upgraded MiG-29 also has multi-functional display or MFD, which shows critical flight details on a glass screen in front of the pilot.

On September 12, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said the force was reeling under a severe shortage of fighter aircraft. The IAF chief had said it currently has 31 squadrons of fighter jets against the sanctioned strength of 42.

"Even when we do have 42 squadrons, we will be below the combined numbers of two of our regional adversaries," he had said.

The strategically important Adampur Air Force Station, 100 km from Pakistan and 250 km from the border with China, is now home to the upgraded MiG-29s.

The Air Force has three squadrons of MiG-29s, two of them at Adampur Air Force Station. One squadron comprises 16-18 aircraft.

Flight Lieutenant Kohli said the MiG-29 is a flexible aircraft and can take off almost vertically in full power. The upgraded MiG-29 can take off within five minutes of spotting a hostile jet trying to enter the Indian airspace and destroy it, he said.

"With air-to-air refuelling feature, the upgraded MiG-29 can cover larger distance as compared to the previous legacy aircraft and destroy the enemy," said another IAF officer, who did not wish to be named.

"With the upgraded version, the range of the aircraft has improved a lot. Moreover, in the legacy aircraft, we were restricted to the certain dimension, but we can now do air-to-air, air-to-ground and anti-shipping operation," said a pilot who flies the MiG aircraft.

The air-superiority fighter jet MiG-29 has gained in strength and ferocity after the latest upgrade, giving the Air Force that has been battling a shortage of warplanes a much-needed boost, officials have said.

The air-superiority fighter jet MiG-29 has gained in strength and ferocity after the latest upgrade, giving the Air Force that has been battling a shortage of warplanes a much-needed boost, officials have said. The Russian origin aircraft is now capable of mid-air refuelling, compatible with the latest missiles and can launch multi-dimensional attacks, said Flight Lieutenant Karan Kohli, who is deployed at Adampur Air Force Station. Even in the previous legacy version, the aircraft played an important role as the Air Force stamped its supremacy over the Pakistani Air Force during the Kargil War in 1999. Last week, the upgraded MiG-29 showcased its combat capabilities at Admapur Air Force Station. The country will celebrate the Air Force Day on Monday. "With the upgrade, as compared to previous legacy version of the MiG-29 bought under emergency clause in early 1980s, the fighter jets are capable of giving a befitting response," said an official, asking not to be named, on how the warplane would perform in the event of a two-front war. Flight Lieutenant Kohli said the upgraded MiG-29 also has multi-functional display or MFD, which shows critical flight details on a glass screen in front of the pilot. On September 12, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said the force was reeling under a severe shortage of fighter aircraft. The IAF chief had said it currently has 31 squadrons of fighter jets against the sanctioned strength of 42. "Even when we do have 42 squadrons, we will be below the combined numbers of two of our regional adversaries," he had said. The strategically important Adampur Air Force Station, 100 km from Pakistan and 250 km from the border with China, is now home to the upgraded MiG-29s. The Air Force has three squadrons of MiG-29s, two of them at Adampur Air Force Station. One squadron comprises 16-18 aircraft. Flight Lieutenant Kohli said the MiG-29 is a flexible aircraft and can take off almost vertically in full power. The upgraded MiG-29 can take off within five minutes of spotting a hostile jet trying to enter the Indian airspace and destroy it, he said. "With air-to-air refuelling feature, the upgraded MiG-29 can cover larger distance as compared to the previous legacy aircraft and destroy the enemy," said another IAF officer, who did not wish to be named. "With the upgraded version, the range of the aircraft has improved a lot. Moreover, in the legacy aircraft, we were restricted to the certain dimension, but we can now do air-to-air, air-to-ground and anti-shipping operation," said a pilot who flies the MiG aircraft.

After upgrade, decades-old MiG-29s ready to strike in modern warfare

Russia delivers new Anti-Aircraft missiles to Syria

Russia has delivered an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, it said on Tuesday, in defiance of Israeli and US concerns that the arms sale would embolden Iran and escalate the Syrian war.

Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin during a meeting broadcast by Rossiya 24 TV: "The work was finished a day ago," adding that the system would improve the security of Russian military personnel in Syria.

Russia decided to supply the system after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet near Syria in September.

Israel voiced regret at the deaths of 15 Russian aircrew while saying Syrian incompetence was at fault and that it was compelled to continue taking action against suspected deployments of Iranian-backed forces across its northern border.

"We have not changed our strategic line on Iran," Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet, said on Tuesday.

"We will not allow Iran to open up a third front against us. We will take actions as required," he told Israel Radio.

In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert could not confirm reports that the S-300 had been delivered.

"I cannot confirm that that is accurate. I hope that they did not," she told a press briefing. "That would be, I think, sort of a serious escalation in concerns and issues going on in Syria, but I just can't confirm it."

Russia has delivered an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, it said on Tuesday, in defiance of Israeli and US concerns that the arms sale would embolden Iran and escalate the Syrian war.

Russia has delivered an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, it said on Tuesday, in defiance of Israeli and US concerns that the arms sale would embolden Iran and escalate the Syrian war. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin during a meeting broadcast by Rossiya 24 TV: "The work was finished a day ago," adding that the system would improve the security of Russian military personnel in Syria. Russia decided to supply the system after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet near Syria in September. Israel voiced regret at the deaths of 15 Russian aircrew while saying Syrian incompetence was at fault and that it was compelled to continue taking action against suspected deployments of Iranian-backed forces across its northern border. "We have not changed our strategic line on Iran," Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet, said on Tuesday. "We will not allow Iran to open up a third front against us. We will take actions as required," he told Israel Radio. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert could not confirm reports that the S-300 had been delivered. "I cannot confirm that that is accurate. I hope that they did not," she told a press briefing. "That would be, I think, sort of a serious escalation in concerns and issues going on in Syria, but I just can't confirm it."

Russia completes delivery of S-300 system to Syria

India on Sunday successfully test-fired nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-5 from Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha coast.

The missile was tested early in the morning at 9.48 am from launch pad number four.

The intercontinental ballistic missile was fired with a strike range of 5,000 km that can reach several parts of China.

This was the sixth successful test launch of the longest range nuclear capable missile. It was last tested on January 18 this year.

Agni-5 is part of the Agni series of missiles, one of the missile systems under the original Integrated Guided Missile Development Program.&nbsp

This was the sixth successful test launch of the longest range nuclear capable missile. It was last tested on January 18 this year

India on Sunday successfully test-fired nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-5 from Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha coast. The missile was tested early in the morning at 9.48 am from launch pad number four. The intercontinental ballistic missile was fired with a strike range of 5,000 km that can reach several parts of China. This was the sixth successful test launch of the longest range nuclear capable missile. It was last tested on January 18 this year. Agni-5 is part of the Agni series of missiles, one of the missile systems under the original Integrated Guided Missile Development Program.

Nuclear-capable Agni-5 missile test-fired successfully

&nbsp;Prosecutors investigating the&nbsp;downing&nbsp;of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014 said on Thursday they had identified the missile used to shoot down the plane as coming from a&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;military&nbsp;unit.

The airliner was hit by a&nbsp;Russian-made missile on July 17, 2014, with 298 people on board, two-thirds of them Dutch, over territory held by pro-Russian&nbsp;separatists. All aboard died.

Wilbert Paulissen, head of the crime squad of the Netherlands' national police, said the missile had been fired from a carrier belonging to Russia's 53rd Anti-Aircraft Brigade.

"All the vehicles in a convoy carrying the missile were part of the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;armed forces," he told a televised news conference.

Russia has denied involvement in the incident. There was no immediate comment from Moscow on the investigative development.

In an interim update on their investigation, prosecutors said they had trimmed their list of possible suspects from more than a hundred to several dozen.

"We have a lot of proof and a lot of evidence, but we are not finished," said chief prosecutor Fred Westerbeke. "There is still a lot of work to do."

He said&nbsp;investigators&nbsp;were not yet ready to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;individual suspects publicly or to issue indictments. The question of whether members of the 53rd Brigade were actively involved in the downing&nbsp;of the plane remains under investigation, he said.

Westerbeke called on witnesses, including members of the public, to help&nbsp;identify&nbsp;members of the crew that was operating the missile system. He also asked for tip-offs in determining what their orders were and in&nbsp;identifying the officials in charge of the brigade.

A Joint Investigation Team, drawn from Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine, is gathering evidence for a criminal prosecution in the&nbsp;downing&nbsp;of the plane.

The Dutch Safety Board concluded in an October 2015 report that the Boeing 777 was struck by a Russian-made Buk missile.

Dutch prosecutors said in September 2016 that 100 "persons of interest" had been identified in the investigation, while Australian and Malaysian officials had initially expressed hope that suspects' names would be made public in 2017.

Eventual suspects are likely to be tried in absentia in the Netherlands after Russia used its veto to block a UN Security Council resolution seeking to create an international tribunal to oversee criminal complaints stemming from the incident.

The airliner was hit by a Russian-made missile on July 17, 2014, with 298 people on board, two-thirds of them Dutch, over territory held by pro-Russian separatists

Prosecutors investigating the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014 said on Thursday they had identified the missile used to shoot down the plane as coming from a Russian military unit. The airliner was hit by a Russian-made missile on July 17, 2014, with 298 people on board, two-thirds of them Dutch, over territory held by pro-Russian separatists. All aboard died. Wilbert Paulissen, head of the crime squad of the Netherlands' national police, said the missile had been fired from a carrier belonging to Russia's 53rd Anti-Aircraft Brigade. "All the vehicles in a convoy carrying the missile were part of the Russian armed forces," he told a televised news conference. Russia has denied involvement in the incident. There was no immediate comment from Moscow on the investigative development. In an interim update on their investigation, prosecutors said they had trimmed their list of possible suspects from more than a hundred to several dozen. "We have a lot of proof and a lot of evidence, but we are not finished," said chief prosecutor Fred Westerbeke. "There is still a lot of work to do." He said investigators were not yet ready to identify individual suspects publicly or to issue indictments. The question of whether members of the 53rd Brigade were actively involved in the downing of the plane remains under investigation, he said. Westerbeke called on witnesses, including members of the public, to help identify members of the crew that was operating the missile system. He also asked for tip-offs in determining what their orders were and in identifying the officials in charge of the brigade. A Joint Investigation Team, drawn from Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine, is gathering evidence for a criminal prosecution in the downing of the plane. The Dutch Safety Board concluded in an October 2015 report that the Boeing 777 was struck by a Russian-made Buk missile. Dutch prosecutors said in September 2016 that 100 "persons of interest" had been identified in the investigation, while Australian and Malaysian officials had initially expressed hope that suspects' names would be made public in 2017. Eventual suspects are likely to be tried in absentia in the Netherlands after Russia used its veto to block a UN Security Council resolution seeking to create an international tribunal to oversee criminal complaints stemming from the incident.

Investigators identify Russian military unit in downing of MH17

North Korea will suspend nuclear and missile tests effectively immediately and abolish a nuclear test site in a bid to pursue economic growth and peace on the Korean peninsula, the North`s state media said on Saturday, ahead of planned summits with South Korea and the United States.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-meaningful-progress-towards-denuclearization-south-korea-131748">North Korea meaningful progress towards denuclearization says South Korea</a>

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un said his country no longer needed to conduct nuclear tests or intercontinental ballistic missile tests because it has completed its goal of developing nuclear weapons, state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

“To guarantee suspension of nuclear tests in a transparent manner, the republic’s northern nuclear test site will be abolished," the KCNA said after Kim convened this year`s first plenary session of the Central Committee of the ruling Worker`s Party on Friday.

“The overall projects of the party and the country will be geared towards building of a socialist economy, and all our efforts will be made towards it,” the KCNA said.

North Korea also said it would engage in talks with the international community, paving the way for the summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in planned for next week and a meeting with US President Donald Trump in late May or early June.

<img alt="ani.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/news/ani.jpg" width="770" />

Trump on Friday welcomed the statement and said he looked forward to a summit with Kim.

"North Korea has agreed to suspend all Nuclear Tests and close up a major test site. This is very good news for North Korea and the World - big progress! Look forward to our Summit," Trump said on Twitter.

North Korea has defended its nuclear and missile programmes in the face of worldwide condemnation and sanctions as a necessary deterrent against perceived US hostility.&nbsp;

Tensions eased significantly after North Korea`s Kim called in a New Year`s speech for lower military tensions and improved ties with South Korea.&nbsp;

It sent a delegation to the Winter Olympics held in South Korea and agreed to meet with Moon and Trump to discuss denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

The ruling party`s plenary meeting on Friday was convened to discuss "policy issues of a new stage" to meet the demands of the current "important historic period," the KCNA said.

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un said his country no longer needed to conduct nuclear tests or intercontinental ballistic missile tests because it has completed its goal of developing nuclear weapons, state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

North Korea will suspend nuclear and missile tests effectively immediately and abolish a nuclear test site in a bid to pursue economic growth and peace on the Korean peninsula, the North`s state media said on Saturday, ahead of planned summits with South Korea and the United States. Also read: North Korea meaningful progress towards denuclearization says South Korea North Korea leader Kim Jong Un said his country no longer needed to conduct nuclear tests or intercontinental ballistic missile tests because it has completed its goal of developing nuclear weapons, state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. “To guarantee suspension of nuclear tests in a transparent manner, the republic’s northern nuclear test site will be abolished," the KCNA said after Kim convened this year`s first plenary session of the Central Committee of the ruling Worker`s Party on Friday. “The overall projects of the party and the country will be geared towards building of a socialist economy, and all our efforts will be made towards it,” the KCNA said. North Korea also said it would engage in talks with the international community, paving the way for the summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in planned for next week and a meeting with US President Donald Trump in late May or early June. Trump on Friday welcomed the statement and said he looked forward to a summit with Kim. "North Korea has agreed to suspend all Nuclear Tests and close up a major test site. This is very good news for North Korea and the World - big progress! Look forward to our Summit," Trump said on Twitter. North Korea has defended its nuclear and missile programmes in the face of worldwide condemnation and sanctions as a necessary deterrent against perceived US hostility. Tensions eased significantly after North Korea`s Kim called in a New Year`s speech for lower military tensions and improved ties with South Korea. It sent a delegation to the Winter Olympics held in South Korea and agreed to meet with Moon and Trump to discuss denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula. The ruling party`s plenary meeting on Friday was convened to discuss "policy issues of a new stage" to meet the demands of the current "important historic period," the KCNA said.

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un says his country will suspend nuclear, missile tests and abolish test site

North Korea's announcement of a halt in its nuclear and missile tests was met with scepticism by many South Koreans on Saturday, highlighting political risk for the South's president as he embarks on the latest push for peace on the peninsula.

North Korea will immediately suspend nuclear and missile tests and scrap its nuclear test site, instead pursuing economic growth and peace, the North's state media said.

But in South Korea, which is still technically in a state of war with its unpredictable, isolated neighbour, many ordinary people expressed scepticism about the sincerity of the announcement and stressed the need for caution.

"A declaration is just a declaration," student Kim Han-nuri, 23, told Reuters in downtown Seoul on a sunny spring morning.

"Unless there's a change in its dictatorial system, I don't think we can completely trust anything North Korea says as it isn't a normal country ... I don't believe we can build normal diplomatic relations and our safety can't be guaranteed."

South Koreans have lived for decades under the threat of war with their hostile and now nuclear-armed neighbour.

They've also seen several earlier pushes for reconciliation that raised hopes of peace only to end in a return to acrimony.

Polls suggest South Koreans have become increasingly indifferent to the threat of war, with bigger concerns being more mundane issues like jobs and the pressures that have accompanied South Korea’s rapid development since the 1950s.

Liberal politician Moon Jae-in won a presidential election last year, promising a moderate approach to North Korea with the aim of reviving a "sunshine policy" of engagement.

But no one anticipated the speed with which relations have improved since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a conciliatory New Year's address at the end of last year, following months of sharply rising tension over his weapons.

Back to square one?

Moon, who is preparing for a summit with Kim this month, remains popular but voters are suspicious of North Korea's intentions and some would certainly judge him harshly if he was seen to be rushing blindly into North Korea's embrace.

Yeo Young-ju, 44, said North Korea had developed nuclear bombs despite decades of efforts to engage it, and this time it should get no economic benefits until its promises were proven to be true.

"This will be the third inter-Korean summit. North Korea looked as if it would denuclearize during the two previous summits and then we were back to square one," Yeo said.

"We need to verify if they indeed get rid of their nuclear material," Yeo said.

Lee Jeong-hyoo, 72, said South Korea should learn from a history of broken promises.

"We must not be deceived," Lee said. "We have to watch this really carefully."

In Japan, which until recent months North Korea regularly threatened to destroy in a sea of fire, people were also doubtful.

"I can’t believe what the North has just announced," said IT worker Sayuri Nakata, 27, referring to North Korea's promise to give up its nuclear weapons tests.

"They’ll just probably just do them anyway."

South Koreans have lived for decades under the threat of war with their hostile and now nuclear-armed neighbour

North Korea's announcement of a halt in its nuclear and missile tests was met with scepticism by many South Koreans on Saturday, highlighting political risk for the South's president as he embarks on the latest push for peace on the peninsula. North Korea will immediately suspend nuclear and missile tests and scrap its nuclear test site, instead pursuing economic growth and peace, the North's state media said. But in South Korea, which is still technically in a state of war with its unpredictable, isolated neighbour, many ordinary people expressed scepticism about the sincerity of the announcement and stressed the need for caution. "A declaration is just a declaration," student Kim Han-nuri, 23, told Reuters in downtown Seoul on a sunny spring morning. "Unless there's a change in its dictatorial system, I don't think we can completely trust anything North Korea says as it isn't a normal country ... I don't believe we can build normal diplomatic relations and our safety can't be guaranteed." South Koreans have lived for decades under the threat of war with their hostile and now nuclear-armed neighbour. They've also seen several earlier pushes for reconciliation that raised hopes of peace only to end in a return to acrimony. Polls suggest South Koreans have become increasingly indifferent to the threat of war, with bigger concerns being more mundane issues like jobs and the pressures that have accompanied South Korea’s rapid development since the 1950s. Liberal politician Moon Jae-in won a presidential election last year, promising a moderate approach to North Korea with the aim of reviving a "sunshine policy" of engagement. But no one anticipated the speed with which relations have improved since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a conciliatory New Year's address at the end of last year, following months of sharply rising tension over his weapons. Back to square one? Moon, who is preparing for a summit with Kim this month, remains popular but voters are suspicious of North Korea's intentions and some would certainly judge him harshly if he was seen to be rushing blindly into North Korea's embrace. Yeo Young-ju, 44, said North Korea had developed nuclear bombs despite decades of efforts to engage it, and this time it should get no economic benefits until its promises were proven to be true. "This will be the third inter-Korean summit. North Korea looked as if it would denuclearize during the two previous summits and then we were back to square one," Yeo said. "We need to verify if they indeed get rid of their nuclear material," Yeo said. Lee Jeong-hyoo, 72, said South Korea should learn from a history of broken promises. "We must not be deceived," Lee said. "We have to watch this really carefully." In Japan, which until recent months North Korea regularly threatened to destroy in a sea of fire, people were also doubtful. "I can’t believe what the North has just announced," said IT worker Sayuri Nakata, 27, referring to North Korea's promise to give up its nuclear weapons tests. "They’ll just probably just do them anyway."

South Korean is sceptical of North Korea's 'nuclear' promises

The planned delivery of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries to Turkey has been brought forward to July 2019, the Turkish undersecretary for defence industries said, from the first quarter of 2020.

Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin.

The deal, reportedly worth some $2.5 billion, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO's military architecture.

"We brought forward the delivery date in the accord signed with Russia to provide the S-400 system and got a date of July 2019," Turkish Undersecretary for Defence Industries Ismail Demir wrote on Twitter overnight.

His comment came after the two countries' presidents held talks&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;and marked the official start of work to build Turkey's $20 billion first nuclear power station at Akkuyu on its Mediterranean coast.

Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin

The planned delivery of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries to Turkey has been brought forward to July 2019, the Turkish undersecretary for defence industries said, from the first quarter of 2020. Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin. The deal, reportedly worth some $2.5 billion, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO's military architecture. "We brought forward the delivery date in the accord signed with Russia to provide the S-400 system and got a date of July 2019," Turkish Undersecretary for Defence Industries Ismail Demir wrote on Twitter overnight. His comment came after the two countries' presidents held talks on Tuesday and marked the official start of work to build Turkey's $20 billion first nuclear power station at Akkuyu on its Mediterranean coast.

Turkey says Russian S-400 missile delivery brought forward to July 2019

Russia said Sunday it successfully launched a hypersonic missile which President Vladimir Putin called &quot;an ideal weapon&quot; as he unveiled a new array of next-generation arms earlier this month.

The high-precision Kinzhal (Dagger) missile was launched from a MiG-31 supersonic interceptor jet that took off from an airfield in the South Military District in Russia&#39;s southwest, the defence ministry said.

&quot;The launch went according to plan, the hypersonic missile hit its target,&quot; the ministry added.

The ministry released video footage showing two pilots gearing up for a flight and then running towards a jet with a large missile slung beneath its underbelly.&nbsp;

Set to rousing, patriotic music, the video then shows a missile detaching from the airborne plane and gliding across the dark sky, leaving a fiery trail behind.

The Kinzhal missile was one of an array of new weapons Putin unveiled in his state-of-the-nation address earlier this month, ahead of a presidential election on March 18 that he is all but guaranteed to win.

Putin said the missile flies at 10 times the speed of the sound and can overcome air-defence systems.&nbsp;

The missile has been deployed in the Southern Military District since December 1, he added.

Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Facebook that work had also been done to modernise the &quot;unique&quot; MiG-31 supersonic jet that will carry the missile.&nbsp;

Since the start of the year, more than 250 sorties have been carried out by the aircraft to perfect the work of the missile systems, the defence ministry said.

The high-precision Kinzhal (Dagger) missile was launched from a MiG-31 supersonic interceptor jet that took off from an airfield in the South Military District in Russia's southwest

Russia said Sunday it successfully launched a hypersonic missile which President Vladimir Putin called "an ideal weapon" as he unveiled a new array of next-generation arms earlier this month. The high-precision Kinzhal (Dagger) missile was launched from a MiG-31 supersonic interceptor jet that took off from an airfield in the South Military District in Russia's southwest, the defence ministry said. "The launch went according to plan, the hypersonic missile hit its target," the ministry added. The ministry released video footage showing two pilots gearing up for a flight and then running towards a jet with a large missile slung beneath its underbelly. Set to rousing, patriotic music, the video then shows a missile detaching from the airborne plane and gliding across the dark sky, leaving a fiery trail behind. The Kinzhal missile was one of an array of new weapons Putin unveiled in his state-of-the-nation address earlier this month, ahead of a presidential election on March 18 that he is all but guaranteed to win. Putin said the missile flies at 10 times the speed of the sound and can overcome air-defence systems. The missile has been deployed in the Southern Military District since December 1, he added. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Facebook that work had also been done to modernise the "unique" MiG-31 supersonic jet that will carry the missile. Since the start of the year, more than 250 sorties have been carried out by the aircraft to perfect the work of the missile systems, the defence ministry said.

Russia test-fires 'ideal' hypersonic missile

Russia is working on developing a long-range unmanned strike system, built by&nbsp;Zvezda, media reports have informed on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Alexander Nemov, deputy chief of the research department at the 30th Central Scientific Research Institute outside Moscow said that the large unnamed aircraft would come out next year which will infiltrate far into an enemy&#39;s territory.&nbsp;

The system will consist of both guided and unguided munitions, media reports stated. Nemov further said that the work is currently underway and the system will be &quot;capable of carrying out unmanned low-altitude supersonic flights and striking both stationary and mobile targets at operational-strategic depth.&quot;

According to Zvezda, the aircraft will not only be capable of performing low-attitude flights but will also fly faster than the speed of sound, thereby providing a massive boost for the Russian military with fundamentally new strategic capabilities, not currently enjoyed by any other military in the world.

The 30th Central Scientific Research Institute&#39;s other projects include plans to create a new strike chopper, combining the capabilities of the Kamov Ka-52 and the Mil Mi-28. The new aircraft will have an extra set of wings and will be capable of flying over 400 km per hour

The institute is also working on unmanned helicopter systems, which will interact with conventional rotary-winged&nbsp;

Alexander Nemov, deputy chief of the research department at the 30th Central Scientific Research Institute outside Moscow said that the large unnamed aircraft would come out next year which will infiltrate far into an enemy's territory

Russia is working on developing a long-range unmanned strike system, built by Zvezda, media reports have informed on Tuesday. Alexander Nemov, deputy chief of the research department at the 30th Central Scientific Research Institute outside Moscow said that the large unnamed aircraft would come out next year which will infiltrate far into an enemy's territory. The system will consist of both guided and unguided munitions, media reports stated. Nemov further said that the work is currently underway and the system will be "capable of carrying out unmanned low-altitude supersonic flights and striking both stationary and mobile targets at operational-strategic depth." According to Zvezda, the aircraft will not only be capable of performing low-attitude flights but will also fly faster than the speed of sound, thereby providing a massive boost for the Russian military with fundamentally new strategic capabilities, not currently enjoyed by any other military in the world. The 30th Central Scientific Research Institute's other projects include plans to create a new strike chopper, combining the capabilities of the Kamov Ka-52 and the Mil Mi-28. The new aircraft will have an extra set of wings and will be capable of flying over 400 km per hour The institute is also working on unmanned helicopter systems, which will interact with conventional rotary-winged

Russia working towards developing long-range unmanned strike system

China today announced that it has successfully carried out a mid-course ground-based missile interception test within its own territory, on a day when India test fired its short-range nuclear-capable Agni-1 ballistic missile.

The test of interception technology was conducted yesterday within China&#39;s territory and achieved the &quot;preset goal&quot;, China&#39;s Ministry of National Defence said.

The test is defensive and does not target any country, China&#39;s state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

A ground-based interceptor missile was used to knock out a ballistic missile during the &quot;mid-course&quot; of its flight outside the earth&#39;s atmosphere, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported.

The test was in a location in China, but no other details were given.

The test comes amid months of international tension over North Korea&#39;s nuclear weapons and missiles programme and Beijing&#39;s firm opposition to the deployment of US interceptor missiles, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence or THAAD in South Korea to ward off ward off any missile attacks from North Korea.

China apprehends that the powerful radars of the THAAD missiles can monitor the movement of its missiles in the country.

Beijing has also rapidly expanded its military presence on man-made islands in the South China Sea, which it claims in its entirety, despite countering claims from other nations.

It has also repeatedly sent coast guard vessels into waters controlled by Japan around uninhabited islands in the East China Sea that China claims as its own.

China first tested a ground-based mid-course missile interception in 2010. A second test was conducted in 2013.

China says such technology is needed for its own national defence and security.

Interestingly, the announcement by China comes on a day when India successfully test-fired its short-range nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-1 with a strike range of over 700 km from a test range off the Odisha coast.

Weighing around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-1 can carry payloads up to 1,000 kg and is capable of hitting a target beyond 700 km.

The test is defensive and does not target any country, China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported

China today announced that it has successfully carried out a mid-course ground-based missile interception test within its own territory, on a day when India test fired its short-range nuclear-capable Agni-1 ballistic missile. The test of interception technology was conducted yesterday within China's territory and achieved the "preset goal", China's Ministry of National Defence said. The test is defensive and does not target any country, China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported. A ground-based interceptor missile was used to knock out a ballistic missile during the "mid-course" of its flight outside the earth's atmosphere, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported. The test was in a location in China, but no other details were given. The test comes amid months of international tension over North Korea's nuclear weapons and missiles programme and Beijing's firm opposition to the deployment of US interceptor missiles, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence or THAAD in South Korea to ward off ward off any missile attacks from North Korea. China apprehends that the powerful radars of the THAAD missiles can monitor the movement of its missiles in the country. Beijing has also rapidly expanded its military presence on man-made islands in the South China Sea, which it claims in its entirety, despite countering claims from other nations. It has also repeatedly sent coast guard vessels into waters controlled by Japan around uninhabited islands in the East China Sea that China claims as its own. China first tested a ground-based mid-course missile interception in 2010. A second test was conducted in 2013. China says such technology is needed for its own national defence and security. Interestingly, the announcement by China comes on a day when India successfully test-fired its short-range nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-1 with a strike range of over 700 km from a test range off the Odisha coast. Weighing around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-1 can carry payloads up to 1,000 kg and is capable of hitting a target beyond 700 km.

China intercepts missile outside earth's atmosphere

Shortly after North Korea test-fired its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launched-missile-may-have-landed-in-japans-exclusive-economic-zone-pm-shinzo-abe-18367">intercontinental ballistic missile</a> (ICBM) -- that dived into the sea near Japan&#39;s economic zone -- Japan a gave nod to the introduction of the US military&#39;s land-based Aegis missile interceptor system during a cabinet meeting.

The move aimed at bolstering the country&#39;s defence against &quot;serious&quot; and &quot;imminent&quot; threats from North Korea.

Japan is reportedly planning a record $46 billion defence budget for the next fiscal year in the wake of the North Korean threat.

The Aegis Ashore system shall be introduced at two locations, covering the entire nation with powerful radars. However, it will take years before the Aegis Ashore system is operational, noted Japanese officials.

North Korea&#39;s intercontinental ballistic stunt garnered condemnation from leaders all across the globe.

The Pyongyang regime also fired two missiles over Japan previously this year, threatening to &quot;sink&quot; the country into the sea.&nbsp;

The Japanese government is yet to sign the contract with the US that could cost a total of 200 billion yen ($1.8 billion), inclusive of building new facilities.

Japan is also in talks with the US to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles), noted Japan&#39;s Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Aegis Ashore system shall be introduced at two locations

Shortly after North Korea test-fired its intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) -- that dived into the sea near Japan's economic zone -- Japan a gave nod to the introduction of the US military's land-based Aegis missile interceptor system during a cabinet meeting. The move aimed at bolstering the country's defence against "serious" and "imminent" threats from North Korea. Japan is reportedly planning a record $46 billion defence budget for the next fiscal year in the wake of the North Korean threat. The Aegis Ashore system shall be introduced at two locations, covering the entire nation with powerful radars. However, it will take years before the Aegis Ashore system is operational, noted Japanese officials. North Korea's intercontinental ballistic stunt garnered condemnation from leaders all across the globe. The Pyongyang regime also fired two missiles over Japan previously this year, threatening to "sink" the country into the sea. The Japanese government is yet to sign the contract with the US that could cost a total of 200 billion yen ($1.8 billion), inclusive of building new facilities. Japan is also in talks with the US to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles), noted Japan's Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera. (With inputs from AFP)

Japan to bolster missile defence system against North Korea's 'threats'

Saudi Arabia intercepted a Yemeni rebel missile over Riyadh on Tuesday, state media said,

The rebels said the target was Yamamah palace, the official residence of King Salman.

An AFP correspondent heard a loud explosion at 10:50 GMT, shortly before the scheduled unveiling of the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;budget.

The Saudi budget&nbsp;is usually announced from the Yamamah palace by the king.

The rebels said the target was Yamamah palace, the official residence of King Salman

Saudi Arabia intercepted a Yemeni rebel missile over Riyadh on Tuesday, state media said, The rebels said the target was Yamamah palace, the official residence of King Salman. An AFP correspondent heard a loud explosion at 10:50 GMT, shortly before the scheduled unveiling of the Saudi budget. The Saudi budget is usually announced from the Yamamah palace by the king.

Saudi Arabia intercepts Yemen rebel missile over Riyadh: State media

China&#39;s next-generation multi- nuclear warhead intercontinental ballistic missile with a proclaimed ability to hit targets &quot;anywhere in the world&quot; may be inducted into the PLA early next year, a media report said today.

The new missile -- the Dongfeng-41 -- also has a speed of more than Mach 10 and can use decoy devices and chaff to pierce its way through the enemy&#39;s missile warning and defence systems.

The missile which underwent another test -- the eighth since it was first announced in 2012 -- could be in the People Liberation Army&#39;s line-up as early as the first half of 2018, state-run Global Times said.

The missile must have matured considerably if it is to start serving in the PLA, Xu Guangyu, a senior adviser to the China Arms Control and Disarmament Association said.

The Dongfeng-41 is a three-stage solid-fuel missile with a range of at least 12,000 km, meaning it could strike anywhere in the world from a mainland site, Xu told the Global Times, adding that, &quot;it can carry up to 10 nuclear warheads, each of which can target separately.&quot;

The South China Morning Post reported that China had possibly tested the ICBM in its Western desert area in early November, but it did not give the exact location or date of the test.

Another report on the seventh test-firing of the Dongfeng-41 came from a US satellite tracking system and appeared in the Washington Free Beacon in April 2016.

Song Zhongping, a Phoenix TV commentator and former member of the PLA&#39;s Second Artillery Corps (Rocket Force), is of the view that the Dongfeng-41 is very likely already in service, since tests and other checks of missiles can be conducted after deployment as well.

Song said that the deployment of the missile certainly demonstrates China&#39;s nuclear deterrence abilities...

&quot;Once the Dongfeng-41 goes into service, China&#39;s ability to protect its own safety and to prevent wars would greatly increase,&quot; Xu said.

Russian experts feel that the missile deployment aimed at the US as they could reach most of America and Europe.

A commentary in Global Times at that time said the deployment of the DF-41 was a &quot;strategic deterrence tool&quot; and Beijing would &quot;ready itself for pressures&quot; imposed by the new US government headed by President Donald Trump.

The People&#39;s Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force&nbsp;on Sunday&nbsp;showed five models of China&#39;s homemade conventional and nuclear missiles.

China has a range of missiles which included the Dongfeng-26 ballistic missile, the Dongfeng-21D land-based anti-ship ballistic missile described as a &quot;carrier killer,&quot; and the Dongfeng-16G conventional missile designed for precision strikes against key enemy targets.&nbsp;

China's next-generation multi- nuclear warhead intercontinental ballistic missile with a proclaimed ability to hit targets "anywhere in the world" may be inducted into the PLA early next year

China's next-generation multi- nuclear warhead intercontinental ballistic missile with a proclaimed ability to hit targets "anywhere in the world" may be inducted into the PLA early next year, a media report said today. The new missile -- the Dongfeng-41 -- also has a speed of more than Mach 10 and can use decoy devices and chaff to pierce its way through the enemy's missile warning and defence systems. The missile which underwent another test -- the eighth since it was first announced in 2012 -- could be in the People Liberation Army's line-up as early as the first half of 2018, state-run Global Times said. The missile must have matured considerably if it is to start serving in the PLA, Xu Guangyu, a senior adviser to the China Arms Control and Disarmament Association said. The Dongfeng-41 is a three-stage solid-fuel missile with a range of at least 12,000 km, meaning it could strike anywhere in the world from a mainland site, Xu told the Global Times, adding that, "it can carry up to 10 nuclear warheads, each of which can target separately." The South China Morning Post reported that China had possibly tested the ICBM in its Western desert area in early November, but it did not give the exact location or date of the test. Another report on the seventh test-firing of the Dongfeng-41 came from a US satellite tracking system and appeared in the Washington Free Beacon in April 2016. Song Zhongping, a Phoenix TV commentator and former member of the PLA's Second Artillery Corps (Rocket Force), is of the view that the Dongfeng-41 is very likely already in service, since tests and other checks of missiles can be conducted after deployment as well. Song said that the deployment of the missile certainly demonstrates China's nuclear deterrence abilities... "Once the Dongfeng-41 goes into service, China's ability to protect its own safety and to prevent wars would greatly increase," Xu said. Russian experts feel that the missile deployment aimed at the US as they could reach most of America and Europe. A commentary in Global Times at that time said the deployment of the DF-41 was a "strategic deterrence tool" and Beijing would "ready itself for pressures" imposed by the new US government headed by President Donald Trump. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force on Sunday showed five models of China's homemade conventional and nuclear missiles. China has a range of missiles which included the Dongfeng-26 ballistic missile, the Dongfeng-21D land-based anti-ship ballistic missile described as a "carrier killer," and the Dongfeng-16G conventional missile designed for precision strikes against key enemy targets.

New long-range missile may be inducted into PLA next year: Report

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