Russian attacks continue in Ukraine with its forces now targeting capital Kyiv again. In the latest, Kremlin fired multiple missiles into Kyiv on Thursday, the attacks took place while the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres was visiting Kyiv.

Russian missiles bombard Kyiv during United Nations chief Antonio Guterres visit

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a &nbsp;response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave.

AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties. Hamas claims to have staved off the attack using its “anti-aircraft defence” system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-police-palestinians-clash-in-al-aqsa-mosque-59-injured-471116">Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured</a>

Following the rocket firing by Islamist group Hamas, sirens were sounded in southern Israel. Reportedly, the projectile crashed into the sea off Tel Aviv.

In a statement the Israeli ministry said that the “rocket was intercepted by the Iron Dome Air Defense System," and hours later the Israeli air force announced that it has retaliated by targetting a Hamas weapon manufacturing site.

Last year, around the same time, a similar turmoil in Jerusalem had prompted multiple Hamas rocket fire into Israel, which later developed into an 11-day war.

Watch |&nbsp;Is Naftali government under threat after Al-Aqsa mosque storming?

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Tensions between Israel and Palestine have soared in recent days following violence around the Jerusalem holy site of Al-Aqsa Mosque that by some tallies left more than 150 Palestinians injured. As per a report by Al Jazeera, citing Palestinian sources this number can actually be as high as 400.

The fire&nbsp;in Gaza and the Al-Aqsa violence comes following a spike in violence in the Jewish state, which included four deadly attacks by Palestinians and Israeli Arabs since late March, killing 14 people, largely civilians.&nbsp;The surge in hostilities coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, and Passover, the Jewish festival.

According to an AFP tally, 23 Palestinians have been murdered in the unrest since March 22, including assailants who attacked Israelis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/game-changer-israel-successfully-tests-new-laser-missile-system-471087">‘Game changer’: Israel successfully tests new laser defence system</a>&nbsp;

The US has expressed&nbsp;deep&nbsp;concern&nbsp;about the tensions.&nbsp;According to State Department spokesman Ned Price&nbsp;top US officials have been in contact by phone with colleagues from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Arab countries.

He stated, "We have urged all sides to preserve the historic status quo" at the Al-Aqsa compound and avoid "provocative" actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave. AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties.

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave. AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties. Hamas claims to have staved off the attack using its “anti-aircraft defence” system. Also read | Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured Following the rocket firing by Islamist group Hamas, sirens were sounded in southern Israel. Reportedly, the projectile crashed into the sea off Tel Aviv. In a statement the Israeli ministry said that the “rocket was intercepted by the Iron Dome Air Defense System," and hours later the Israeli air force announced that it has retaliated by targetting a Hamas weapon manufacturing site. Last year, around the same time, a similar turmoil in Jerusalem had prompted multiple Hamas rocket fire into Israel, which later developed into an 11-day war. Watch | Is Naftali government under threat after Al-Aqsa mosque storming? Tensions between Israel and Palestine have soared in recent days following violence around the Jerusalem holy site of Al-Aqsa Mosque that by some tallies left more than 150 Palestinians injured. As per a report by Al Jazeera, citing Palestinian sources this number can actually be as high as 400. The fire in Gaza and the Al-Aqsa violence comes following a spike in violence in the Jewish state, which included four deadly attacks by Palestinians and Israeli Arabs since late March, killing 14 people, largely civilians. The surge in hostilities coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, and Passover, the Jewish festival. According to an AFP tally, 23 Palestinians have been murdered in the unrest since March 22, including assailants who attacked Israelis. Also read | ‘Game changer’: Israel successfully tests new laser defence system The US has expressed deep concern about the tensions. According to State Department spokesman Ned Price top US officials have been in contact by phone with colleagues from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Arab countries. He stated, "We have urged all sides to preserve the historic status quo" at the Al-Aqsa compound and avoid "provocative" actions. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: After rocket fire, Israel conducts airstrikes on Gaza

Russia has severely mounted an offensive targeting Ukrainian cities and military infrastructure. In the latest, Russia has launched a series of missiles from black sea attacking Ukraine as a part of what it calls special military operations.

Russia launches missiles from black sea, targets Ukrainian military convoy

Commanders of&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;elite Islamic&nbsp;Revolutionary&nbsp;Guard Corps (IRGC) drank tea, nibbled dates and displayed models of Iranian&nbsp;missiles at a defence show in Qatar, a Gulf Arab state that is home to the largest U.S. military base in the region.

Their presence was striking when other Sunni Muslim Gulf states and Israel are alarmed at the prospect of the United States removing its terrorist designation of the IRGC as part of efforts to revive a nuclear pact with Iran.

The Iran booth was organised by&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;Ministry of Defence and the commanders were part of a broader Iranian delegation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-iran-aligned-houthi-group-claim-responsibility-for-drone-attack-on-saudi-arabia-464007">Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group claims responsibility for drone attack on Saudi Arabia</a>

A Qatari official said in a statement to Reuters on Thursday no invitation had been sent to the IRGC.

"The participation in the event and pavilion was by the Iranian Ministry of Defence and there were no invitations sent to Iran’s&nbsp;Revolutionary&nbsp;Guard."

Iran's&nbsp;participation drew criticism from the United States.

"We reject the presence of Iran at a maritime defence exhibit, considering that it’s Iran that single-handedly is threatening maritime stability throughout the Gulf region," U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

The IRGC, which answers directly to&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;supreme leader, has expanded in the region via Shi'ite Muslim proxies including in Yemen, where the Houthi movement last weekend launched a barrage of strikes on Saudi oil facilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-close-tehran-frees-captives-as-obstacles-narrow-463055">Iran nuclear deal 'close', Tehran frees captives as obstacles narrow</a>

Riyadh accuses Iran of arming the Houthis and has blamed Tehran for a 2019 assault on Saudi Arabia's energy heartland and tanker attacks in Gulf waters. Iran denies the charges.

Washington is reportedly considering removing the IRGC from a terrorist organisation blacklist in return for Iranian assurances about reining in the elite force, which controls a business empire. Sources say this is among the last issues in indirect talks to revive the 2015 nuclear pact.

IRGC officials at the&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;defence show, from March 21-23, declined to speak to Reuters. While some huddled in meetings at the booth, which featured a giant poster of a fast boat filled with commandos, others explored the trade floor.

They passed the entourage surrounding the commander of the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, snapped cellphone photos of an Italian armoured personnel carrier and handled Turkish machine guns.

In a booth adjacent to&nbsp;Iran's, U.S. firm General Atomics showcased its MQ-9B predator drone, which is engineered to conduct anti-surface warfare, including maritime surveillance and precision-guided munitions.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-cargo-ship-carrying-30-crew-members-sink-off-coast-of-iran-463178">&nbsp;UAE cargo ship carrying 30 crew members sinks off Iran coast</a>

The U.S. State Department has authorised the company to sell 18 of the unmanned aircraft to the United Arab Emirates in a deal worth as much as $2.9 billion.

Qatar's DIMDEX&nbsp;exhibition&nbsp;drew international defence firms hoping to boost sales to wealthy Gulf states that are moving to expand the military capabilities of the energy-producing region.

Qatar has good ties with Iran, with which it shares a giant gas field. In contrast, Qatar's neighbour Saudi Arabia is locked in several proxy conflicts with Tehran in a struggle for regional dominance.

Watch |&nbsp;US says less optimistic about reaching nuclear deal with Iran

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Commanders of Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) drank tea, nibbled dates and displayed models of Iranian missiles at a defence show in Qatar, a Gulf Arab state that is home to the largest U.

Commanders of Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) drank tea, nibbled dates and displayed models of Iranian missiles at a defence show in Qatar, a Gulf Arab state that is home to the largest U.S. military base in the region. Their presence was striking when other Sunni Muslim Gulf states and Israel are alarmed at the prospect of the United States removing its terrorist designation of the IRGC as part of efforts to revive a nuclear pact with Iran. The Iran booth was organised by Iran's Ministry of Defence and the commanders were part of a broader Iranian delegation. Also read | Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group claims responsibility for drone attack on Saudi Arabia A Qatari official said in a statement to Reuters on Thursday no invitation had been sent to the IRGC. "The participation in the event and pavilion was by the Iranian Ministry of Defence and there were no invitations sent to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard." Iran's participation drew criticism from the United States. "We reject the presence of Iran at a maritime defence exhibit, considering that it’s Iran that single-handedly is threatening maritime stability throughout the Gulf region," U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement. The IRGC, which answers directly to Iran's supreme leader, has expanded in the region via Shi'ite Muslim proxies including in Yemen, where the Houthi movement last weekend launched a barrage of strikes on Saudi oil facilities. Also read | Iran nuclear deal 'close', Tehran frees captives as obstacles narrow Riyadh accuses Iran of arming the Houthis and has blamed Tehran for a 2019 assault on Saudi Arabia's energy heartland and tanker attacks in Gulf waters. Iran denies the charges. Washington is reportedly considering removing the IRGC from a terrorist organisation blacklist in return for Iranian assurances about reining in the elite force, which controls a business empire. Sources say this is among the last issues in indirect talks to revive the 2015 nuclear pact. IRGC officials at the Doha defence show, from March 21-23, declined to speak to Reuters. While some huddled in meetings at the booth, which featured a giant poster of a fast boat filled with commandos, others explored the trade floor. They passed the entourage surrounding the commander of the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, snapped cellphone photos of an Italian armoured personnel carrier and handled Turkish machine guns. In a booth adjacent to Iran's, U.S. firm General Atomics showcased its MQ-9B predator drone, which is engineered to conduct anti-surface warfare, including maritime surveillance and precision-guided munitions. Also read | UAE cargo ship carrying 30 crew members sinks off Iran coast The U.S. State Department has authorised the company to sell 18 of the unmanned aircraft to the United Arab Emirates in a deal worth as much as $2.9 billion. Qatar's DIMDEX exhibition drew international defence firms hoping to boost sales to wealthy Gulf states that are moving to expand the military capabilities of the energy-producing region. Qatar has good ties with Iran, with which it shares a giant gas field. In contrast, Qatar's neighbour Saudi Arabia is locked in several proxy conflicts with Tehran in a struggle for regional dominance. Watch | US says less optimistic about reaching nuclear deal with Iran

Iran's Revolutionary Guards tout missile prowess at Doha exhibition

Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to&nbsp;Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. &nbsp;

Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear. &nbsp;

At least 700 of the 2,700 'Strela' anti-aircraft missiles, which Germany has earmarked for Ukraine are inoperable, Der Spiegel reported. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a>

Ukrainian fighters are in dire need of advanced weapons to fend off the Russian invasion. But Germany is sending aging missiles, which are Soviet-made. They date from the era of pre-1990 East German National People's Army. &nbsp;

"The Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a turning point. It threatens our entire post-war order. In this situation, it is our duty to support Ukraine to the best of our ability in its defence against Vladimir Putin's invading army," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said last week while pledging arms to Ukraine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-south-koreas-polls-kim-jong-led-north-holds-2022s-ninth-missile-test-459144">Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s 9th missile test</a>

The handpieces necessary for firing the missiles are also missing, the report added. The relics are also not safe to use, the report said citing a classified military document. &nbsp;&nbsp;

No defective weapons would be sent to Ukraine, a spokesman for Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht told Der Spiegel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear.

Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear. At least 700 of the 2,700 'Strela' anti-aircraft missiles, which Germany has earmarked for Ukraine are inoperable, Der Spiegel reported. Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook Ukrainian fighters are in dire need of advanced weapons to fend off the Russian invasion. But Germany is sending aging missiles, which are Soviet-made. They date from the era of pre-1990 East German National People's Army. "The Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a turning point. It threatens our entire post-war order. In this situation, it is our duty to support Ukraine to the best of our ability in its defence against Vladimir Putin's invading army," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said last week while pledging arms to Ukraine. Also Read: Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s 9th missile test The handpieces necessary for firing the missiles are also missing, the report added. The relics are also not safe to use, the report said citing a classified military document. No defective weapons would be sent to Ukraine, a spokesman for Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht told Der Spiegel. (With inputs from agencies)

Useless Cold War relics? Hundreds of German anti-aircraft missiles pledged to Ukraine unsafe, says report

Months before Russia launched an all-out military attack against Ukraine, the United States started sending lethal military equipment and protective aid to Kyiv anticipating a multipronged invasion, the Washington Post reported citing declassified shipment list.

According to the report, the Pentagon had started sending arms as early as December. It had sent shotguns and specialized suits to safeguard soldiers handling unexploded ordnance.

The US newspaper further states that the volume of such exports increased dramatically in the last week with the Biden administration sending Stinger antiaircraft missile systems for the first time and supplying antitank Javelin missiles among other ammunition.

“This is a continuous process. We are always, always looking at what Ukraine needs, and we’ve been doing this for years now,” Washington Post quoted a senior defence official who was speaking to reporters on Friday on the condition of anonymity.

In February, US approved a $350 million in military assistance to Ukraine, of which $240 million has already been transferred, the official was quoted as saying said.

The United States, which is one of 14 countries that have delivered security assistance to Ukraine, committed about $3 billion in military aid to Ukraine since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-russia-declares-ceasefire-in-two-ukrainian-cities-for-evacuations-459179">Ukraine crisis: Russia declares ceasefire in 2 Ukrainian cities for evacuation</a>

The revelations come days after US President Joe Biden announced that US forces would not engage with the Russian forces in Ukraine.

Biden clarified that the US troops were deployed to Europe not to fight in Ukraine, "but to defend our NATO allies in the event that Putin decides to keep moving west."

"For that purpose, we have mobilised American ground forces, air squadrons, ship deployments to protect NATO countries, including Poland, Romania, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyber-armageddon-in-europe-thousands-go-offline-following-russia-ukraine-war-says-report-459113">Cyberattack: Thousands in Europe go offline after Russia-Ukraine war</a>

At least 331 civilians are confirmed killed and 675 injured in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began on February 24, but the real toll is likely much higher, the UN has said.

Russian troops have 'blockaded' Ukraine's strategic port city Mauripol, the city's mayor announced today (Saturday).

Located on the Sea of Azov, the city of 450,000 people has been bombarded by shelling and cut off without water or electricity in the depths of winter.

Watch |&nbsp;Aerial bombardments hit the Kyiv region as Russia intensifies attacks amid invasion of Ukraine

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(With inputs from agencies)

Months before Russia launched an all-out military attack against Ukraine, the United States started sending lethal military equipment and protective aid to Kyiv anticipating a multipronged invasion, the Washington Post reported citing declassified shipment list.

Months before Russia launched an all-out military attack against Ukraine, the United States started sending lethal military equipment and protective aid to Kyiv anticipating a multipronged invasion, the Washington Post reported citing declassified shipment list. According to the report, the Pentagon had started sending arms as early as December. It had sent shotguns and specialized suits to safeguard soldiers handling unexploded ordnance. The US newspaper further states that the volume of such exports increased dramatically in the last week with the Biden administration sending Stinger antiaircraft missile systems for the first time and supplying antitank Javelin missiles among other ammunition. “This is a continuous process. We are always, always looking at what Ukraine needs, and we’ve been doing this for years now,” Washington Post quoted a senior defence official who was speaking to reporters on Friday on the condition of anonymity. In February, US approved a $350 million in military assistance to Ukraine, of which $240 million has already been transferred, the official was quoted as saying said. The United States, which is one of 14 countries that have delivered security assistance to Ukraine, committed about $3 billion in military aid to Ukraine since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Russia declares ceasefire in 2 Ukrainian cities for evacuation The revelations come days after US President Joe Biden announced that US forces would not engage with the Russian forces in Ukraine. Biden clarified that the US troops were deployed to Europe not to fight in Ukraine, "but to defend our NATO allies in the event that Putin decides to keep moving west." "For that purpose, we have mobilised American ground forces, air squadrons, ship deployments to protect NATO countries, including Poland, Romania, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia," he added. Also read | Cyberattack: Thousands in Europe go offline after Russia-Ukraine war At least 331 civilians are confirmed killed and 675 injured in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began on February 24, but the real toll is likely much higher, the UN has said. Russian troops have 'blockaded' Ukraine's strategic port city Mauripol, the city's mayor announced today (Saturday). Located on the Sea of Azov, the city of 450,000 people has been bombarded by shelling and cut off without water or electricity in the depths of winter. Watch | Aerial bombardments hit the Kyiv region as Russia intensifies attacks amid invasion of Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

Months before Russian invasion, US started sending missiles, ammunition to Ukraine: Report

Russia-Ukraine tensions: In the latest, Washington has said that it is willing to discuss inspection of two of its NATO bases, this on the issue of the alleged deployment of the Tomahawk intermediate range cruise missiles in Poland and Romania by the NATO alliance.

United States aims to diffuse Ukraine tensions with Russia

The UAE intercepted two Houthi missiles in what was the second attack on Abu Dhabi in 7 days. With Arab nations in their corner, will the UAE rejoin the war in Yemen? What are Abu Dhabi's options? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: The Gulf is under attack

In a preliminary deal signed recently, South Korea will sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles to the UAE. It seems to be a step further towards deepening of defence cooperation between the two nations. &nbsp;

The deal was inked after South Korean President Moon Jae-in held talks with UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Dubai earlier on Sunday, reported Yonhap news agency, quoting the presidential office as saying. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-conducts-fourth-test-fires-missile-from-pyongyang-airport-says-south-korea-445282" hreflang="en">North Korea conducts fourth test, fires missile from Pyongyang airport, says South Korea</a>

Although the media reports indicated that the deal was worth $3.5 billion, the details of the memorandum of understanding were not shared immediately by the office. &nbsp;

During the talks, Moon and the UAE PM also discussed ways to expand cooperation in space, infrastructure and efforts to tackle climate change. The two leaders also discussed Korea's bid to host the Expo in 2030.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-upgrade-its-military-philippines-will-buy-32-new-black-hawk-helicopters-445223" hreflang="en">To upgrade its military, Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters</a> &nbsp;

The M-SAM system, which is also called Cheongung II, is a core element in multi-layered anti-missile programme of South Korea. Cheongung means heaven's bow in Korean language. &nbsp;

The missile employs "hit-to-kill" technology and has been designed to intercept hostile missiles coming in at altitudes below 40 km. &nbsp;

Moon is in Dubai for a three-day visit as part of his week-long trip to the Middle East. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a preliminary deal signed recently, South Korea will sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles to the UAE. It seems to be a step further towards deepening of defence cooperation between the two nations.

In a preliminary deal signed recently, South Korea will sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles to the UAE. It seems to be a step further towards deepening of defence cooperation between the two nations. The deal was inked after South Korean President Moon Jae-in held talks with UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Dubai earlier on Sunday, reported Yonhap news agency, quoting the presidential office as saying. Also Read: North Korea conducts fourth test, fires missile from Pyongyang airport, says South Korea Although the media reports indicated that the deal was worth $3.5 billion, the details of the memorandum of understanding were not shared immediately by the office. During the talks, Moon and the UAE PM also discussed ways to expand cooperation in space, infrastructure and efforts to tackle climate change. The two leaders also discussed Korea's bid to host the Expo in 2030. Also Read: To upgrade its military, Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters The M-SAM system, which is also called Cheongung II, is a core element in multi-layered anti-missile programme of South Korea. Cheongung means heaven's bow in Korean language. The missile employs "hit-to-kill" technology and has been designed to intercept hostile missiles coming in at altitudes below 40 km. Moon is in Dubai for a three-day visit as part of his week-long trip to the Middle East. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea inks deal with UAE to sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles

A Russian anti-satellite test has put the world on edge. Moscow destroyed a satellite that has disintegrated into thousands of pieces in space. The space junk could put several other satellites in peril. Palki Sharma tells you why anti-satellite tests are problematic.

Gravitas: Russia destroys satellite, releases big cloud of 'space junk'

The United States and NASA condemned Russia for launching a "dangerous and irresponsible" missile strike that blew up a Russian satellite and created a debris cloud that forced the crew of the International Space Station (ISS) to take evasive action.

The United States slams Russia for 'irresponsible' act

Days after saying it doesn't want war, North Korea launched a submarine-based missile into the Sea of Japan. Tokyo says all options - including enemy base strikes are on the table. Palki Sharma gets you the latest on the Korean arms race.

Gravitas: North Korea tests submarine-launched missiles

China has denied reports that it tested a hypersonic nuclear missile in August 2021. How does a hypersonic nuke change the power balance in the Indo-Pacific? Why is China keeping it under wraps? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Did China test hypersonic nuclear missiles?

North Korea has fired two Ballistic Missiles into the sea. It was the second launch in less than one week. Watch this video for more details.

North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country? &nbsp;

Let’s explore the Kim Jong-un-led North Korean government’s love for missiles. &nbsp;

For years, the country has been developing missile technology even after facing financial issues, which are being imposed by different organisations around the world due to this endeavour. &nbsp;

Watch | WION Live Broadcast: N Korea Missile Test 'threat To Neighbours'

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In a recent announcement, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has said it successfully test-fired new long-range cruise missiles over the weekend. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the report, the country's Academy of Defense Science test-fired the missiles on September 11 and 12. The development of the weapons was being done for two years. &nbsp;

“The weapons demonstrate another effective deterrence means for more reliably guaranteeing the security of our state and strongly containing the military maneuvers of the hostile forces against the DPRK," the agency said. It used the acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. &nbsp;

It is self-explanatory that the country deems them to be a guarantee of the security of the country against all odds. But the real question is that do only weapons safeguard a country? &nbsp;

The cruise missiles are propelled by jet engines. They stay closer to the ground like an aircraft, making them harder to detect. Several cruise missiles are generally not designed to carry nuclear warheads. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-may-have-staged-night-time-military-parade-report-411747" hreflang="en">North Korea may have staged night-time military parade: Report</a>

As per the KCNA, the new missiles travelled for 7,580 seconds along oval and figure-eight flight orbits in the air above the territorial land and waters of North Korea. It hit target 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away. &nbsp;

What makes it troublesome is that these missiles seem to be able to reach targets throughout Japan. Earlier this year, Pyongyang test-fired a missile that flew around 450 kilometers. &nbsp;

Over the last few years, North Korea has been showing off new and untested weaponry in its military parades. It seems to be a way to show strength of the country, which has been isolated in the region for a long time. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country?

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country? Let’s explore the Kim Jong-un-led North Korean government’s love for missiles. For years, the country has been developing missile technology even after facing financial issues, which are being imposed by different organisations around the world due to this endeavour. Watch | WION Live Broadcast: N Korea Missile Test 'threat To Neighbours' × In a recent announcement, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has said it successfully test-fired new long-range cruise missiles over the weekend. According to the report, the country's Academy of Defense Science test-fired the missiles on September 11 and 12. The development of the weapons was being done for two years. “The weapons demonstrate another effective deterrence means for more reliably guaranteeing the security of our state and strongly containing the military maneuvers of the hostile forces against the DPRK," the agency said. It used the acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It is self-explanatory that the country deems them to be a guarantee of the security of the country against all odds. But the real question is that do only weapons safeguard a country? The cruise missiles are propelled by jet engines. They stay closer to the ground like an aircraft, making them harder to detect. Several cruise missiles are generally not designed to carry nuclear warheads. Also Read | North Korea may have staged night-time military parade: Report As per the KCNA, the new missiles travelled for 7,580 seconds along oval and figure-eight flight orbits in the air above the territorial land and waters of North Korea. It hit target 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away. What makes it troublesome is that these missiles seem to be able to reach targets throughout Japan. Earlier this year, Pyongyang test-fired a missile that flew around 450 kilometers. Over the last few years, North Korea has been showing off new and untested weaponry in its military parades. It seems to be a way to show strength of the country, which has been isolated in the region for a long time. (With inputs from agencies)

Why is North Korea obsessed with missiles?  

Saudi&nbsp;authorities said Saturday they intercepted three ballistic missiles fired from neighbouring Yemen that had targeted civilians in the Eastern Province as well as the southern cities of Najran and Jazan.

Debris from the interception scattered across the eastern city Dammam, injuring two children and damaging 14 homes, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense.

The severity of the injuries was unclear.&nbsp;

"Saudi&nbsp;Air Defense has intercepted and destroyed (3) ballistic missiles and (3) bomb-laden drones launched by the Iran-backed Houthi militia," spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki said in a statement, calling it "brutal, irresponsible behavior" by the Huthi rebels in Yemen.

The&nbsp;Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels told state-run television it would take "strict measures" to protect civilians.

While there was no immediate comment from the Huthis, the Iran-allied insurgents have repeatedly targeted the kingdom in cross-border attacks.

In August, the rebels escalated operations using unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles, and Saturday's interception comes four days after a drone hit Abha International Airport in the south, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane.

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It also comes a few hours before Hans Grundberg, the UN's new envoy for Yemen, officially assumes his duties Sunday.

In Dammam, Twitter users reported hearing a loud explosion.

Eastern&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;is home to major oil infrastructure. A previous attack in September 2019 temporarily halted half of the kingdom's oil production.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;intervened in the Yemen war on behalf of the internationally recognised government in 2015, shortly after the Huthis seized the capital of Sanaa.

Yemen's grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, resulting in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

While the UN is pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the reopening of Sanaa airport, closed under a&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations.

Saudi authorities said Saturday they intercepted three ballistic missiles fired from neighbouring Yemen that had targeted civilians in the Eastern Province as well as the southern cities of Najran and Jazan.

Saudi authorities said Saturday they intercepted three ballistic missiles fired from neighbouring Yemen that had targeted civilians in the Eastern Province as well as the southern cities of Najran and Jazan. Debris from the interception scattered across the eastern city Dammam, injuring two children and damaging 14 homes, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense. The severity of the injuries was unclear. "Saudi Air Defense has intercepted and destroyed (3) ballistic missiles and (3) bomb-laden drones launched by the Iran-backed Houthi militia," spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki said in a statement, calling it "brutal, irresponsible behavior" by the Huthi rebels in Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels told state-run television it would take "strict measures" to protect civilians. While there was no immediate comment from the Huthis, the Iran-allied insurgents have repeatedly targeted the kingdom in cross-border attacks. In August, the rebels escalated operations using unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles, and Saturday's interception comes four days after a drone hit Abha International Airport in the south, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane. Also read | Bangladesh MP proposes ban on marriages for working couples It also comes a few hours before Hans Grundberg, the UN's new envoy for Yemen, officially assumes his duties Sunday. In Dammam, Twitter users reported hearing a loud explosion. Eastern Saudi Arabia is home to major oil infrastructure. A previous attack in September 2019 temporarily halted half of the kingdom's oil production. Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemen war on behalf of the internationally recognised government in 2015, shortly after the Huthis seized the capital of Sanaa. Yemen's grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, resulting in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. While the UN is pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the reopening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations.

Saudi Arabia intercepts missiles, drones fired from Yemen

Syria's air defences intercepted Israeli missiles over Homs province early Thursday, the second airstrike this week, Syrian state media reported.

A military source told Syrian state news agency SANA that the attack had caused no casualties, inflicting only material damage.

"At 01:13 am... the Israeli enemy carried out an aerial attack targeting several positions in the Qusayr region of Homs province," SANA reported, citing the source.

"Our air defences intercepted the missiles... shooting most of them down," the military source said.&nbsp;

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the missiles had targeted military positions of the Lebanese Hezbollah group, destroying weapons depots.

The Syrian army recaptured Qusayr, a rebel stronghold near the Lebanese border, in 2013 after a blistering 17-day assault led by Hezbollah fighters. The city was strategically vital for the regime because it links the capital Damascus to the coast.

Seizing the stronghold was a major victory for Hezbollah, which has fought alongside President Bashar al-Assad's forces.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-the-cost-of-10-years-of-devastating-war-in-syria-387504">Also read |&nbsp;Explainer | The cost of 10 years of devastating war in Syria</a>

Thursday's airstrikes were the second this week, after an Israeli attack on Monday killed five pro-Iran fighters allied with the regime, and destroyed the group's base and a nearby weapons depot in Aleppo, according to the Britain-based war monitor.&nbsp;

Since the Syrian civil war broke out in 2011, Israel has routinely carried out raids in Syria, mostly targeting government positions as well as allied Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces.

Israel rarely confirms strikes in Syria, but the Jewish state's army has said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country last year, without providing details.

Israel has said it is trying to prevent its arch-foe Iran from gaining a permanent military foothold on its doorstep.

Last month, Israeli airstrikes in central Syria killed at least 11 government troops and militiamen.

Syria's air defences intercepted Israeli missiles over Homs province early Thursday, the second airstrike this week, Syrian state media reported. A military source told Syrian state news agency SANA that the attack had caused no casualties, inflicting only material damage.

Syria's air defences intercepted Israeli missiles over Homs province early Thursday, the second airstrike this week, Syrian state media reported. A military source told Syrian state news agency SANA that the attack had caused no casualties, inflicting only material damage. "At 01:13 am... the Israeli enemy carried out an aerial attack targeting several positions in the Qusayr region of Homs province," SANA reported, citing the source. "Our air defences intercepted the missiles... shooting most of them down," the military source said. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the missiles had targeted military positions of the Lebanese Hezbollah group, destroying weapons depots. The Syrian army recaptured Qusayr, a rebel stronghold near the Lebanese border, in 2013 after a blistering 17-day assault led by Hezbollah fighters. The city was strategically vital for the regime because it links the capital Damascus to the coast. Seizing the stronghold was a major victory for Hezbollah, which has fought alongside President Bashar al-Assad's forces. Also read | Explainer | The cost of 10 years of devastating war in Syria Thursday's airstrikes were the second this week, after an Israeli attack on Monday killed five pro-Iran fighters allied with the regime, and destroyed the group's base and a nearby weapons depot in Aleppo, according to the Britain-based war monitor. Since the Syrian civil war broke out in 2011, Israel has routinely carried out raids in Syria, mostly targeting government positions as well as allied Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces. Israel rarely confirms strikes in Syria, but the Jewish state's army has said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country last year, without providing details. Israel has said it is trying to prevent its arch-foe Iran from gaining a permanent military foothold on its doorstep. Last month, Israeli airstrikes in central Syria killed at least 11 government troops and militiamen.

Israeli missiles shot down in Syria: state media

Asia is sliding into a dangerous arms race as smaller nations that once stayed on the sidelines build arsenals of advanced long-range missiles, following in the footsteps of powerhouses China and the United States, analysts say. 
 
China is mass producing its DF-26, a multipurpose weapon with a range of up to 4,000 kilometres, while the United States is developing new weapons aimed at countering Beijing in the Pacific. 
 
Other countries in the region are buying or developing their own new missiles, driven by security concerns over China and a desire to reduce their reliance on the United States. 
 
Before the decade is out, Asia will be bristling with conventional missiles that fly farther and faster, hit harder, and are more sophisticated than ever before - a stark and dangerous change from recent years, analysts, diplomats, and military officials say. 
 
"The missile landscape is changing in Asia, and it’s changing fast," said David Santoro, president of the Pacific Forum. 
 
Such weapons are increasingly affordable and accurate, and as some countries acquire them, their neighbours don't want to be left behind, analysts said. Missiles provide strategic benefits such as deterring enemies and boosting leverage with allies, and can be a lucrative export. 
 
The long-term implications are uncertain, and there is a slim chance that the new weapons could balance tensions and help maintain peace, Santoro said. 
 
"More likely is that missile proliferation will fuel suspicions, trigger arms races, increase tensions, and ultimately cause crises and even wars," he said.

Asia is sliding into a dangerous arms race as smaller nations that once stayed on the sidelines build arsenals of advanced long-range missiles, following in the footsteps of powerhouses China and the United States, analysts say.

Asia is sliding into a dangerous arms race as smaller nations that once stayed on the sidelines build arsenals of advanced long-range missiles, following in the footsteps of powerhouses China and the United States, analysts say. China is mass producing its DF-26, a multipurpose weapon with a range of up to 4,000 kilometres, while the United States is developing new weapons aimed at countering Beijing in the Pacific. Other countries in the region are buying or developing their own new missiles, driven by security concerns over China and a desire to reduce their reliance on the United States. Before the decade is out, Asia will be bristling with conventional missiles that fly farther and faster, hit harder, and are more sophisticated than ever before - a stark and dangerous change from recent years, analysts, diplomats, and military officials say. "The missile landscape is changing in Asia, and it’s changing fast," said David Santoro, president of the Pacific Forum. Such weapons are increasingly affordable and accurate, and as some countries acquire them, their neighbours don't want to be left behind, analysts said. Missiles provide strategic benefits such as deterring enemies and boosting leverage with allies, and can be a lucrative export. The long-term implications are uncertain, and there is a slim chance that the new weapons could balance tensions and help maintain peace, Santoro said. "More likely is that missile proliferation will fuel suspicions, trigger arms races, increase tensions, and ultimately cause crises and even wars," he said.

Caught between China and US, Asian countries stockpile powerful new missiles

Taiwan has decided to buy an upgraded version of Lockheed Martin Corp's Patriot surface-to-air missile, the air force said on Wednesday, as the island bolsters its forces to guard against a rising threat from China.&nbsp;

Chinese-claimed Taiwan has complained of repeated incursions by China's air force in recent months into the island's air defence identification zone, as Beijing seeks to pressure Taipei into accepting its sovereignty.&nbsp;

Taiwan's Air Force said it had decided to buy the Patriot Advanced Capability 3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles, with deliveries to start in 2025 and deployment the following year.&nbsp;

The Air Force did not disclose how many missiles Taiwan was planning to buy, citing the sensitivity of the matter.&nbsp;

"These purchase plans were made based on the threat from the enemy," an Air Force spokesman said, adding it will continue to 'boost defence capacity'.&nbsp;

The spokesman said the Air Force is 'cautiously optimistic' about the progress of the purchase.&nbsp;

Taiwan's Defence Ministry, in a report to parliament, said the decision to obtain the newer Patriots was made during a 2019 meeting with the United States during the previous administration of US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden's government has not announced any Taiwan arms sales since taking office in January, though it has pledged its 'rock solid' commitment to the democratically-governed island.&nbsp;

US arms sales to Taiwan always anger China, which has demanded they stop.&nbsp;

In July, China said it would put sanctions on Lockheed Martin for involvement in a $620 million upgrade package for existing Patriot missiles Taiwan operates.&nbsp;

China has announced similar sanctions before on US companies for Taiwan arms sales, though it is unclear what form they have taken.&nbsp;

The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but Washington is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.&nbsp;

Washington has been pushing Taiwan to modernise its military so it can become a 'porcupine', hard for China to attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taiwan has decided to buy an upgraded version of Lockheed Martin Corp's Patriot surface-to-air missile, the air force said on Wednesday, as the island bolsters its forces to guard against a rising threat from China.

Taiwan has decided to buy an upgraded version of Lockheed Martin Corp's Patriot surface-to-air missile, the air force said on Wednesday, as the island bolsters its forces to guard against a rising threat from China. Chinese-claimed Taiwan has complained of repeated incursions by China's air force in recent months into the island's air defence identification zone, as Beijing seeks to pressure Taipei into accepting its sovereignty. Taiwan's Air Force said it had decided to buy the Patriot Advanced Capability 3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles, with deliveries to start in 2025 and deployment the following year. The Air Force did not disclose how many missiles Taiwan was planning to buy, citing the sensitivity of the matter. "These purchase plans were made based on the threat from the enemy," an Air Force spokesman said, adding it will continue to 'boost defence capacity'. The spokesman said the Air Force is 'cautiously optimistic' about the progress of the purchase. Taiwan's Defence Ministry, in a report to parliament, said the decision to obtain the newer Patriots was made during a 2019 meeting with the United States during the previous administration of US President Donald Trump. US President Joe Biden's government has not announced any Taiwan arms sales since taking office in January, though it has pledged its 'rock solid' commitment to the democratically-governed island. US arms sales to Taiwan always anger China, which has demanded they stop. In July, China said it would put sanctions on Lockheed Martin for involvement in a $620 million upgrade package for existing Patriot missiles Taiwan operates. China has announced similar sanctions before on US companies for Taiwan arms sales, though it is unclear what form they have taken. The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but Washington is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. Washington has been pushing Taiwan to modernise its military so it can become a 'porcupine', hard for China to attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan to buy new US air defence missiles to deter Chinese aggression 

Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region.

Australian Prime Minister cited “changing global environment” and said that they&nbsp;would partner with a weapons manufacturer to produce the missiles, while hoping to generate thousands of jobs. The country intends to spend $761 (1 billion Australian dollars) million on the missiles - part of a huge 10-year investment in defence sectors.

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Morrison also claimed that creating “sovereign capability” remains important to protect Australians. Currently, Australia imports missiles from allies like the United States and has decoy rockets to stop incoming missiles.

China’s increasing aggression in the region continues to worry countries. Recently, a group called Quad - made of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met as China’s threats of invasion against Taiwan and other regions get more intense.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australian-pm-morrisons-approval-rating-falls-to-lowest-in-a-year-373986" hreflang="en">Australian PM Morrison's approval rating falls to lowest in a year</a>

Australia is a member of the “Five Eyes” alliance which includes US, Canada, Britain, and New Zealand.

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute had earlier said that Australia would need AU$100 billion over the next two decades on buying missiles and guided weapons.

In the case of conflict, Australia would now depend less on imports and more on domestic manufacturing. A series of frigates and submarines are also under production.

Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region.

Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region. Australian Prime Minister cited “changing global environment” and said that they would partner with a weapons manufacturer to produce the missiles, while hoping to generate thousands of jobs. The country intends to spend $761 (1 billion Australian dollars) million on the missiles - part of a huge 10-year investment in defence sectors. Also read: Australian Parliament sex scandal: Is cabinet reshuffle an eyewash? Morrison also claimed that creating “sovereign capability” remains important to protect Australians. Currently, Australia imports missiles from allies like the United States and has decoy rockets to stop incoming missiles. China’s increasing aggression in the region continues to worry countries. Recently, a group called Quad - made of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met as China’s threats of invasion against Taiwan and other regions get more intense. Also read: Australian PM Morrison's approval rating falls to lowest in a year Australia is a member of the “Five Eyes” alliance which includes US, Canada, Britain, and New Zealand. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute had earlier said that Australia would need AU$100 billion over the next two decades on buying missiles and guided weapons. In the case of conflict, Australia would now depend less on imports and more on domestic manufacturing. A series of frigates and submarines are also under production.

As China threat grows, Australia to build guided missiles with US

Do you know Iran has a city of Missiles? It's a never-ending underground corridor of scores of missile systems. The location is unknown, but the message is clear & is directed at the Joe Biden administration. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Iran unveils new city of Missiles

North Korea displayed what appeared to be a new submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) at a parade on Thursday night, state media reported, capping more than a week of political meetings with a show of military might.

North Korea shows off new submarine-launched missile

Japan said on Friday that it will develop longer-range anti-ship missiles that can target ships around its southwestern Okinawa island chain, including near disputed islets in East China Sea on which China also lays claim. Japanese Defence Minister said that security environment around the islands had "become harsh" and that Japan needed to "respond"

"The security environment around our southwestern islands has become harsh. We have to respond to that in an appropriate way," Japanese Minister of Defence Nobuo Kishi said at a press briefing.

The missiles will allow Japan to expand anti-access area denial (A2AD), a strategy meant to stop foreign forces from operating close to Japanese territory.

The first major defence policy decision by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga comes as Japan acquires air-launched missiles that could be used to hit missile sites in North Korea and is considering other strike weapons such as cruise missiles that could reach ground targets in China.

Japan has become concerned about Chinese activity in East China Sea. The incursions into Senkaku islands' waters has been a major worry as well. China calls these islands Diaoyu and has a dispute with Japan over them.

Japan said its new standoff missile will be based on a 200-km (124-mile) range truck-mounted anti-ship version already deployed on the Okinawa islands.

The ministry did not say what range it will have or when they will be deployed.

Japan also said on Friday it planned to put new powerful Aegis radars with at least three times the range of older Aegis systems on two new warships in order to reinforce defences against any ballistic missiles fired by North Korea.

"Defending Japan's southwestern islands requires longer-range systems because the islands cover a large area and Japan needs overlapping fields of fire," said Zack Cooper, a research fellow at the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute.

(With Reuters inputs)

Japan said on Friday that it will develop longer-range anti-ship missiles that can target ships around its southwestern Okinawa island chain, including near disputed islets in East China Sea on which China also lays claim.

Japan said on Friday that it will develop longer-range anti-ship missiles that can target ships around its southwestern Okinawa island chain, including near disputed islets in East China Sea on which China also lays claim. Japanese Defence Minister said that security environment around the islands had "become harsh" and that Japan needed to "respond" "The security environment around our southwestern islands has become harsh. We have to respond to that in an appropriate way," Japanese Minister of Defence Nobuo Kishi said at a press briefing. The missiles will allow Japan to expand anti-access area denial (A2AD), a strategy meant to stop foreign forces from operating close to Japanese territory. The first major defence policy decision by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga comes as Japan acquires air-launched missiles that could be used to hit missile sites in North Korea and is considering other strike weapons such as cruise missiles that could reach ground targets in China. Japan has become concerned about Chinese activity in East China Sea. The incursions into Senkaku islands' waters has been a major worry as well. China calls these islands Diaoyu and has a dispute with Japan over them. Japan said its new standoff missile will be based on a 200-km (124-mile) range truck-mounted anti-ship version already deployed on the Okinawa islands. The ministry did not say what range it will have or when they will be deployed. Japan also said on Friday it planned to put new powerful Aegis radars with at least three times the range of older Aegis systems on two new warships in order to reinforce defences against any ballistic missiles fired by North Korea. "Defending Japan's southwestern islands requires longer-range systems because the islands cover a large area and Japan needs overlapping fields of fire," said Zack Cooper, a research fellow at the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute. (With Reuters inputs)

With eye on China, Japan to develop longer-range anti-ship missiles

Serbia has bought a new generation of medium-range, radar-guided surface-to-air&nbsp;missiles from China in a new sign of deepening cooperation between Beijing and Belgrade.

The&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;of the FK-3&nbsp;missile&nbsp;defence&nbsp;system&nbsp;was included in state-run arms company Jugoimport SDPR's annual report, submitted to the state Business Registers Agency last week and seen by Reuters.

Jugoimport SDPR said it made 163 import deals with 31 countries for $620.3 million in 2019. The weapons&nbsp;purchases included armed drones from China and Europe's first known&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;of the FK-3.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/landslide-win-for-serbias-ruling-party-in-boycott-tainted-vote-307546" hreflang="en">Landslide win for Serbia's ruling party in boycott-tainted vote</a>

"The biggest part of imports is related to the modernisation of MIG-29 planes, the procurement of drone&nbsp;systems, ... (and) air-defence&nbsp;system&nbsp;FK-3," it said.&nbsp;

Beijing sees Serbia as part of its One Belt, One Road initiative, which is aimed at opening new foreign trade links for Chinese companies.&nbsp;

In 2018, the Jugoimport SDPR made 162 import deals with 32 countries, worth $482.7 million, including&nbsp;purchases of Russian-made helicopter gunships and transport helicopters.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/serbia-ruling-party-faces-split-opposition-in-post-virus-poll-307424" hreflang="en">Serbia ruling party faces split opposition in post-virus poll</a>

China has invested billions of euros in the Balkan country, mainly in soft loans, infrastructure and energy projects.&nbsp;

In late June, Serbia's air force received six CH-92A combat drones armed with laser-guided&nbsp;missiles, the first such deployment of Chinese unmanned aerial vehicles in Europe.

Serbia, which hopes to join the European Union, declared military neutrality in 2006 and joined NATO's Partnership for Peace program, though it does not seek full membership in the Western&nbsp;defence&nbsp;alliance.&nbsp;

Serbia's military is loosely based on former Soviet technology and in recent years Belgrade has procured MiG-29 fighter jets and&nbsp;missiles, helicopters, tanks and armoured personnel carriers from Russia.

Serbia has bought a new generation of medium-range, radar-guided surface-to-air missiles from China in a new sign of deepening cooperation between Beijing and Belgrade.

Serbia has bought a new generation of medium-range, radar-guided surface-to-air missiles from China in a new sign of deepening cooperation between Beijing and Belgrade. The purchase of the FK-3 missile defence system was included in state-run arms company Jugoimport SDPR's annual report, submitted to the state Business Registers Agency last week and seen by Reuters. Jugoimport SDPR said it made 163 import deals with 31 countries for $620.3 million in 2019. The weapons purchases included armed drones from China and Europe's first known purchase of the FK-3. Also read: Landslide win for Serbia's ruling party in boycott-tainted vote "The biggest part of imports is related to the modernisation of MIG-29 planes, the procurement of drone systems, ... (and) air-defence system FK-3," it said. Beijing sees Serbia as part of its One Belt, One Road initiative, which is aimed at opening new foreign trade links for Chinese companies. In 2018, the Jugoimport SDPR made 162 import deals with 32 countries, worth $482.7 million, including purchases of Russian-made helicopter gunships and transport helicopters. Also read: Serbia ruling party faces split opposition in post-virus poll China has invested billions of euros in the Balkan country, mainly in soft loans, infrastructure and energy projects. In late June, Serbia's air force received six CH-92A combat drones armed with laser-guided missiles, the first such deployment of Chinese unmanned aerial vehicles in Europe. Serbia, which hopes to join the European Union, declared military neutrality in 2006 and joined NATO's Partnership for Peace program, though it does not seek full membership in the Western defence alliance. Serbia's military is loosely based on former Soviet technology and in recent years Belgrade has procured MiG-29 fighter jets and missiles, helicopters, tanks and armoured personnel carriers from Russia.

Serbia's purchase of missile defence system from China shows deepening ties

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Two projectiles were fired eastwards from the port city of Wonsan and flew 230 kilometres (143 miles) into the Sea of Japan -- also known as the East Sea -- at a maximum altitude of 30 kilometres, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

"Such military action by North Korea is an extremely inappropriate act when the entire world is having difficulties due to the COVID-19 outbreak," they added.

Tokyo's defence ministry said the "ballistic missile-like objects" did not cross into Japanese waters or the country's exclusive economic zone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rips-into-lamestream-media-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-in-us-289147" hreflang="en">Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US</a>

The latest launch by Pyongyang comes as a prolonged hiatus in disarmament talks with the United States drags on.

A little over a week ago, the nuclear-armed North fired what were believed to be two short-range ballistic missile, describing them as a new "tactical guided weapon".

A day later, North Korean state media announced that US President Donald Trump had sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un detailing a plan to develop ties.

The report cited Kim's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong, who warned that the apparently good personal relationship between the two leaders would not be enough to foster broader relations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trump-requests-virus-test-kits-from-south-korea-seoul-288559" hreflang="en">Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul</a>

"In the letter, he... explained his plan to propel the relations between the two countries of the DPRK and the US and expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work," an apparent reference to the coronavirus pandemic, she said in the statement reported by the North's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

A senior US administration official confirmed Trump had sent a letter to Kim, "consistent with his efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic".

North Korea has one of the few remaining countries in the world yet to report a case of novel coronavirus infection.&nbsp;

But the outbreak has turned into a major international crisis, with more than 640,000 confirmed cases and 30,000 dead worldwide.

Negotiations deadlocked 
Analysts say the North has been continuing to refine its weapons capabilities more than a year after a summit between Kim and Trump broke down in Hanoi.&nbsp; 
 
Negotiations have since been deadlocked over sanctions relief and what the North would be willing to give up in return.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-ballistic-missiles-into-sea-287741" hreflang="en">North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea</a> 
 
Pyongyang set a unilateral end-2019 deadline for Washington to offer fresh concessions, and in late December, Kim declared his country no longer considered itself bound by moratoriums on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. 
 
North Korea is under multiple sets of United Nations, US and other sanctions over its weapons programmes. 
 
Heightened tensions in 2017 were followed by two years of nuclear diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington, including three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, but little tangible progress was made.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic.

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic. Two projectiles were fired eastwards from the port city of Wonsan and flew 230 kilometres (143 miles) into the Sea of Japan -- also known as the East Sea -- at a maximum altitude of 30 kilometres, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. "Such military action by North Korea is an extremely inappropriate act when the entire world is having difficulties due to the COVID-19 outbreak," they added. Tokyo's defence ministry said the "ballistic missile-like objects" did not cross into Japanese waters or the country's exclusive economic zone. Also read: Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US The latest launch by Pyongyang comes as a prolonged hiatus in disarmament talks with the United States drags on. A little over a week ago, the nuclear-armed North fired what were believed to be two short-range ballistic missile, describing them as a new "tactical guided weapon". A day later, North Korean state media announced that US President Donald Trump had sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un detailing a plan to develop ties. The report cited Kim's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong, who warned that the apparently good personal relationship between the two leaders would not be enough to foster broader relations. Also read: Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul "In the letter, he... explained his plan to propel the relations between the two countries of the DPRK and the US and expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work," an apparent reference to the coronavirus pandemic, she said in the statement reported by the North's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). A senior US administration official confirmed Trump had sent a letter to Kim, "consistent with his efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic". North Korea has one of the few remaining countries in the world yet to report a case of novel coronavirus infection. But the outbreak has turned into a major international crisis, with more than 640,000 confirmed cases and 30,000 dead worldwide. Negotiations deadlocked Analysts say the North has been continuing to refine its weapons capabilities more than a year after a summit between Kim and Trump broke down in Hanoi. Negotiations have since been deadlocked over sanctions relief and what the North would be willing to give up in return. Also read: North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea Pyongyang set a unilateral end-2019 deadline for Washington to offer fresh concessions, and in late December, Kim declared his country no longer considered itself bound by moratoriums on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. North Korea is under multiple sets of United Nations, US and other sanctions over its weapons programmes. Heightened tensions in 2017 were followed by two years of nuclear diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington, including three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, but little tangible progress was made.

North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea: Seoul

If North Korea returns to long-range missile launches or other weapons tests in 2020, its military could make valuable technical advances and gain experience alongside whatever political message is sent to Washington.

This week North Korean leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-skips-set-piece-new-years-speech-271374">Kim Jong Un</a> said that the world would soon see his country's "new strategic weapon" and that there was no longer reason for Pyongyang to be bound by a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests.

Kim's comments were the strongest indication that the North could resume some of the major tests it had suspended more than two years ago in the run-up to summit diplomacy with the United States.

After years of development, the weapons programmes of North Korea are now advanced enough that it is hard to predict what it might test, said Jeffrey Lewis, a researcher at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS).

US&nbsp;military officials have said they see a long-range missile launch as one of the most likely possibilities.

Other experts said North Korea could launch a satellite, deploy the new ballistic missile submarine it says it is developing, or field new domestically produced "transporter erector launcher" (TEL) vehicles for its largest missiles.

"Any tests or drills they run will not only allow them to develop weapons that are faster, longer-range, or more reliable, but they also give the people operating these systems more exposure to and practice using and deploying the weapons," said Grace Liu, a research associate at CNS.

Rocket engines

In December, North Korea said it had carried out two important tests at its Sohae satellite launch site, aimed at developing "another strategic weapon" to counter nuclear threats from the United States.

Although North Korean state media did not say exactly what was tested or what the new weapon might be, officials in Washington and Seoul said it appeared likely the North had tested rocket engines, possibly for ICBMs.

"They might work toward developing better liquid-propellant engines or revisit older engines that they've had trouble with in the past," said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the US-based Federation of American Scientists (FAS).

Analysts also speculated that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-says-north-korea-to-show-new-strategic-weapon-leaves-room-for-talks-271331">North Korea</a> could be developing better solid rocket motors (SRMs), which can offer some benefits like easier storage and transportation.

SRMs would also be important for North Korea's efforts to field an operational submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), similar to what was test-fired from a submerged barge in October.

Watch: Fineprint — US vows action if North Korea provokes

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"Every missile they've flight-tested in 2019 to date has used a solid rocket motor and they're clearly becoming more adept at casting these motors in different diameters," Panda said. "There are challenges associated with moving to ICBM-sized SRMs, but perhaps North Korea will demonstrate a breakthrough on that front."

Reentry vehicles and nuclear warheads

A warhead launched by an ICBM needs a protective reentry vehicle to help it survive the fiery descent through the atmosphere to hit its target.

After the November 2017 launch of its largest ICBM to date, the Hwasong-15, state media said the test confirmed "the safety of a warhead in the atmospheric re-entry environment."

US&nbsp;military officials later said North Korea had not demonstrated a survivable re-entry vehicle, though they did not discount the possibility.

During North Korea's last ICBM tests in 2017, its scientists may have gleaned useful data on how their reentry vehicles worked, Panda said.

However, the tests were conducted on a "lofted trajectory" high into space, potentially limiting the usefulness of some of the data, as the missile would take a much different trajectory during a war, he added.

A final card North Korea could play is an atmospheric test of a nuclear warhead, though many analysts say that is unlikely, as it could anger Pyongyang's backers in Beijing and Moscow.

But North Korea is believed to have continued producing material for nuclear weapons, and analysts said it is likely to continue stockpiling additional warheads while seeking to make them even smaller.

Korea National Defense University's Jeong Han-beom said North Korea could use computer simulations to develop smaller and lighter warheads without new nuclear tests.

Evading missile defences

In 2019, North Korea conducted several tests of new short-range missiles such as the KN-23, which experts said are designed to better evade missile defences.

This year, North Korea could seek to develop multiple reentry vehicles for large-diameter missiles like the Hwasong-15, Panda said.

"Adding more nuclear warheads to a single missile can better assure them of an ability to penetrate American missile defence and, if they're worried that their warheads might have reliability issues, more warheads increase the odds that one warhead will successfully detonate," he said.

North Korea often seems more focused on making a splash with new weapons rather than pragmatically building more of the weapons it already has, said Markus Schiller, a missile expert based in Europe who focuses on the way <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-discusses-strengthening-military-as-deadline-for-potential-us-concessions-approaches-269527">North Korea</a> has used outside help for its technology.

"This new stuff will again be something they have procured from somewhere else or some publicity event that our political scientists will interpret as a huge leap toward new technology," he said.

Schiller said one technology that could generate the buzz North Korea is looking for could be a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), which the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance defines as weapons that travel faster than Mach 5 (3,800mph/6,174kmh) and have the capability to manoeuvre during the entire flight.

"Perhaps they will display a design model of an HGV, or launch a KN-23 on top of a bigger missile and have it do some manoeuvring at reentry while claiming to have launched an HGV," Schiller said. "This way, they can save their limited resources, and play the same game they had over the past years."

If North Korea returns to long-range missile launches or other weapons tests in 2020, its military could make valuable technical advances and gain experience alongside whatever political message is sent to Washington.

If North Korea returns to long-range missile launches or other weapons tests in 2020, its military could make valuable technical advances and gain experience alongside whatever political message is sent to Washington. This week North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said that the world would soon see his country's "new strategic weapon" and that there was no longer reason for Pyongyang to be bound by a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests. Kim's comments were the strongest indication that the North could resume some of the major tests it had suspended more than two years ago in the run-up to summit diplomacy with the United States. After years of development, the weapons programmes of North Korea are now advanced enough that it is hard to predict what it might test, said Jeffrey Lewis, a researcher at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS). US military officials have said they see a long-range missile launch as one of the most likely possibilities. Other experts said North Korea could launch a satellite, deploy the new ballistic missile submarine it says it is developing, or field new domestically produced "transporter erector launcher" (TEL) vehicles for its largest missiles. "Any tests or drills they run will not only allow them to develop weapons that are faster, longer-range, or more reliable, but they also give the people operating these systems more exposure to and practice using and deploying the weapons," said Grace Liu, a research associate at CNS. Rocket engines In December, North Korea said it had carried out two important tests at its Sohae satellite launch site, aimed at developing "another strategic weapon" to counter nuclear threats from the United States. Although North Korean state media did not say exactly what was tested or what the new weapon might be, officials in Washington and Seoul said it appeared likely the North had tested rocket engines, possibly for ICBMs. "They might work toward developing better liquid-propellant engines or revisit older engines that they've had trouble with in the past," said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the US-based Federation of American Scientists (FAS). Analysts also speculated that North Korea could be developing better solid rocket motors (SRMs), which can offer some benefits like easier storage and transportation. SRMs would also be important for North Korea's efforts to field an operational submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), similar to what was test-fired from a submerged barge in October. Watch: Fineprint — US vows action if North Korea provokes × "Every missile they've flight-tested in 2019 to date has used a solid rocket motor and they're clearly becoming more adept at casting these motors in different diameters," Panda said. "There are challenges associated with moving to ICBM-sized SRMs, but perhaps North Korea will demonstrate a breakthrough on that front." Reentry vehicles and nuclear warheads A warhead launched by an ICBM needs a protective reentry vehicle to help it survive the fiery descent through the atmosphere to hit its target. After the November 2017 launch of its largest ICBM to date, the Hwasong-15, state media said the test confirmed "the safety of a warhead in the atmospheric re-entry environment." US military officials later said North Korea had not demonstrated a survivable re-entry vehicle, though they did not discount the possibility. During North Korea's last ICBM tests in 2017, its scientists may have gleaned useful data on how their reentry vehicles worked, Panda said. However, the tests were conducted on a "lofted trajectory" high into space, potentially limiting the usefulness of some of the data, as the missile would take a much different trajectory during a war, he added. A final card North Korea could play is an atmospheric test of a nuclear warhead, though many analysts say that is unlikely, as it could anger Pyongyang's backers in Beijing and Moscow. But North Korea is believed to have continued producing material for nuclear weapons, and analysts said it is likely to continue stockpiling additional warheads while seeking to make them even smaller. Korea National Defense University's Jeong Han-beom said North Korea could use computer simulations to develop smaller and lighter warheads without new nuclear tests. Evading missile defences In 2019, North Korea conducted several tests of new short-range missiles such as the KN-23, which experts said are designed to better evade missile defences. This year, North Korea could seek to develop multiple reentry vehicles for large-diameter missiles like the Hwasong-15, Panda said. "Adding more nuclear warheads to a single missile can better assure them of an ability to penetrate American missile defence and, if they're worried that their warheads might have reliability issues, more warheads increase the odds that one warhead will successfully detonate," he said. North Korea often seems more focused on making a splash with new weapons rather than pragmatically building more of the weapons it already has, said Markus Schiller, a missile expert based in Europe who focuses on the way North Korea has used outside help for its technology. "This new stuff will again be something they have procured from somewhere else or some publicity event that our political scientists will interpret as a huge leap toward new technology," he said. Schiller said one technology that could generate the buzz North Korea is looking for could be a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), which the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance defines as weapons that travel faster than Mach 5 (3,800mph/6,174kmh) and have the capability to manoeuvre during the entire flight. "Perhaps they will display a design model of an HGV, or launch a KN-23 on top of a bigger missile and have it do some manoeuvring at reentry while claiming to have launched an HGV," Schiller said. "This way, they can save their limited resources, and play the same game they had over the past years."

World would soon see North Korea's 'new strategic weapon': Kim Jong Un

Russia plans to establish an air defence "dome" across its polar region by arming all of its Northern Fleet's Arctic divisions with S-400 missile batteries, a Russian naval commander said on Monday.

Russia has been stepping up its military presence in the Arctic, building new infrastructure and overhauling its ports as it vies for dominance in a region with huge untapped mineral wealth amid warmer climate cycles.

Other countries have also scrambled to boost their Arctic presence, stoking fears of intensifying geopolitical rivalry. In May, Washington accused Russia of aggressive behaviour in the polar region and said China's actions must be watched closely.

Russia in September deployed its S-400 air defence systems to the Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the far north, and the commander of Russia's Northern Fleet said on Monday that similar deployments would be made across the region.

"The plan is for all our Arctic divisions to be supplied with such complexes in the coming years and there will effectively be an air defence dome created over the Russian part of the Arctic," Vice-Admiral Alexei Moiseyev said.

"This means that the Arctic will be protected from any kind of enemy aerial attack, whether from planes, cruise or ballistic missiles," Moiseyev said in an interview with the Russian Defence Ministry's Zvezda TV channel.

Russia plans to establish an air defence "dome" across its polar region by arming all of its Northern Fleet's Arctic divisions with S-400 missile batteries, a Russian naval commander said on Monday.

Russia plans to establish an air defence "dome" across its polar region by arming all of its Northern Fleet's Arctic divisions with S-400 missile batteries, a Russian naval commander said on Monday. Russia has been stepping up its military presence in the Arctic, building new infrastructure and overhauling its ports as it vies for dominance in a region with huge untapped mineral wealth amid warmer climate cycles. Other countries have also scrambled to boost their Arctic presence, stoking fears of intensifying geopolitical rivalry. In May, Washington accused Russia of aggressive behaviour in the polar region and said China's actions must be watched closely. Russia in September deployed its S-400 air defence systems to the Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the far north, and the commander of Russia's Northern Fleet said on Monday that similar deployments would be made across the region. "The plan is for all our Arctic divisions to be supplied with such complexes in the coming years and there will effectively be an air defence dome created over the Russian part of the Arctic," Vice-Admiral Alexei Moiseyev said. "This means that the Arctic will be protected from any kind of enemy aerial attack, whether from planes, cruise or ballistic missiles," Moiseyev said in an interview with the Russian Defence Ministry's Zvezda TV channel.

Russia plans to set up Arctic air defence 'dome' with S-400 missiles

Despite decades of sanctions, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-unblock-internet-once-abuse-stops-government-263177">Iran</a> has succeeded in developing its missile arsenal, which is larger than that of any other Middle Eastern country including Israel, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagons-esper-says-it-is-crucial-south-korea-pays-more-for-us-troops-262466">Pentagon</a> study said Tuesday.

"Iran has an extensive missile development program, and the size and sophistication of its missile force continues to grow despite decades of counterproliferation efforts aimed at curbing its advancement," the Defense Intelligence Agency said.

The study said Iran considered missiles to be a strategic necessity due to the limitations of its air force, which still has some US planes ordered by the pro-Western shah, who was toppled in 1979.

"Lacking a modern air force, Iran has embraced ballistic missiles as a long-range strike capability to dissuade its adversaries in the region particularly the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia&nbsp;from attacking Iran," the report said.

Iran has "the largest missile force in the Middle East," the report said. A US intelligence official said on condition of anonymity that the assessment included Israel.

The report said that Iran had developed a series of missiles that could strike at a distance of 2,000 kilometres&nbsp;capable of reaching Israel or Saudi Arabia.

Iran in 2017 showcased the 1,250-mile-range Khoramshahr missile, which can carry multiple warheads. The Pentagon study, in line with a tweet at the time by President Donald Trump, said the missile appeared to use technology from North Korea.

But the Pentagon study said that Iran was spending slightly less on its military, with $20.7 billion budgeted in 2017.&nbsp;

Iran's economy has come under growing pressure since Trump last year withdrew from a denuclearization accord and reimposed sweeping sanctions.

Christian Saunders, an expert on Iran at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-report-to-say-north-korea-has-miniaturised-nuclear-warheads-244550">Defense Intelligence Agency</a>, warned of the impact of an arms embargo is lifted on Iran next year.

"These restrictions are set to expire in October 2020, providing Tehran with an opportunity to acquire some advanced capabilities that have been beyond its reach for decades," Saunders told reporters.

The Islamic republic has faced UN-mandated sanctions on importing most weapons since 2006, but the embargo is set to expire five years after the implementation of the nuclear deal.

The accord, which Iran reached in 2015 with former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-white-house-race-who-is-obamas-political-heir-262635">President Barack Obama's</a> administration as well as Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, is on life support after Trump left it and as Tehran takes steps to end compliance as a protest over continued sanctions.

A US intelligence official expected Iran to concentrate on procuring fighter jets and battle tanks, with Russia and China the most likely suppliers.

Iran argues that it must keep up its defences, pointing to Western support for Saddam Hussein during the Iran-Iraq war and Israel's undeclared nuclear program.

Despite decades of sanctions, Iran has succeeded in developing its missile arsenal, which is larger than that of any other Middle Eastern country including Israel, a Pentagon study said Tuesday.

Despite decades of sanctions, Iran has succeeded in developing its missile arsenal, which is larger than that of any other Middle Eastern country including Israel, a Pentagon study said Tuesday. "Iran has an extensive missile development program, and the size and sophistication of its missile force continues to grow despite decades of counterproliferation efforts aimed at curbing its advancement," the Defense Intelligence Agency said. The study said Iran considered missiles to be a strategic necessity due to the limitations of its air force, which still has some US planes ordered by the pro-Western shah, who was toppled in 1979. "Lacking a modern air force, Iran has embraced ballistic missiles as a long-range strike capability to dissuade its adversaries in the region particularly the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia from attacking Iran," the report said. Iran has "the largest missile force in the Middle East," the report said. A US intelligence official said on condition of anonymity that the assessment included Israel. The report said that Iran had developed a series of missiles that could strike at a distance of 2,000 kilometres capable of reaching Israel or Saudi Arabia. Iran in 2017 showcased the 1,250-mile-range Khoramshahr missile, which can carry multiple warheads. The Pentagon study, in line with a tweet at the time by President Donald Trump, said the missile appeared to use technology from North Korea. But the Pentagon study said that Iran was spending slightly less on its military, with $20.7 billion budgeted in 2017. Iran's economy has come under growing pressure since Trump last year withdrew from a denuclearization accord and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Christian Saunders, an expert on Iran at the Defense Intelligence Agency, warned of the impact of an arms embargo is lifted on Iran next year. "These restrictions are set to expire in October 2020, providing Tehran with an opportunity to acquire some advanced capabilities that have been beyond its reach for decades," Saunders told reporters. The Islamic republic has faced UN-mandated sanctions on importing most weapons since 2006, but the embargo is set to expire five years after the implementation of the nuclear deal. The accord, which Iran reached in 2015 with former President Barack Obama's administration as well as Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, is on life support after Trump left it and as Tehran takes steps to end compliance as a protest over continued sanctions. A US intelligence official expected Iran to concentrate on procuring fighter jets and battle tanks, with Russia and China the most likely suppliers. Iran argues that it must keep up its defences, pointing to Western support for Saddam Hussein during the Iran-Iraq war and Israel's undeclared nuclear program.

Pentagon says Iran's missiles unrivaled in Middle East

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks.

The defence acquisition council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved three projects to design, develop and manufacture defence equipment by private companies in India in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi government`s flagship initiative -- `Make in India`.

The projects include manufacturing of the third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for T-72 and T-90 Tanks. The third project pertains to discrete Electronic Warfare (EW) systems for the mountain and high altitude terrain.

The EW system would be designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by a design-cum-production partner from the Indian industry, the government said.

While the third-generation ATGM would provide "fire and forget" and "top attack" capabilities to the troops in an armoured battle, the APUs would enable the incorporation of various upgrades to Fire Control System and Night Fighting capabilities of the Tanks.

"Both the projects will be progressed under the `Make-II` Category and will provide a boost to indigenous research and development in the private sector," according to an official release.

The Ministry of Defence, the release said, has offered complex military equipment to be designed, developed and manufactured by the Indian private industry for the first time.

Last month, the council approved proposals for capital procurement of approximately Rs 2,000 crore including indigenous production of special ammunition for T-72/T-90 tanks to increase the capacity of the Army to penetrate enemy armour.&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks.

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks. The defence acquisition council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved three projects to design, develop and manufacture defence equipment by private companies in India in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi government`s flagship initiative -- `Make in India`. The projects include manufacturing of the third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for T-72 and T-90 Tanks. The third project pertains to discrete Electronic Warfare (EW) systems for the mountain and high altitude terrain. The EW system would be designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by a design-cum-production partner from the Indian industry, the government said. While the third-generation ATGM would provide "fire and forget" and "top attack" capabilities to the troops in an armoured battle, the APUs would enable the incorporation of various upgrades to Fire Control System and Night Fighting capabilities of the Tanks. "Both the projects will be progressed under the `Make-II` Category and will provide a boost to indigenous research and development in the private sector," according to an official release. The Ministry of Defence, the release said, has offered complex military equipment to be designed, developed and manufactured by the Indian private industry for the first time. Last month, the council approved proposals for capital procurement of approximately Rs 2,000 crore including indigenous production of special ammunition for T-72/T-90 tanks to increase the capacity of the Army to penetrate enemy armour.

Defence Ministry clears Rs 3,300 crore acquisitions including anti-tank missiles

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air. 
 
"The proposal for the acquisition of 21 MiG-29s would be placed before the Defence Acquisition Council soon. The IAF wants the MiG-29s to be of the upgraded MiG-29s that are already in service," defence sources told ANI. 
 
"The IAF also wants that the aircraft should be equipped with the Indian weapon systems including the Astra missiles," they said. 
 
The sources said there are other indigenous equipment and weapons which would be integrated with the aircraft once the deal comes through. 
 
The MiG-29s now have a new airframe and had been lying unused in Russia. 
 
The push for promoting indigenous weapons has come at a time when IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria has made it clear that the force will fully back indigenisation efforts such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and the fifth Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. 
 
The IAF had carried out a study to check if the airframes of the MiG-29s on offer were good enough for it to operate for a long time. 
 
MiG-29s are flown by the IAF and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. 
 
The Indian Navy also operates the MiG-29 'K' and is the only operator of this version of the plane. It is having a rough experience with the planes which are difficult to maintain and their settings change immediately after they land on the aircraft carrier. 
 
The IAF has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered to be very good planes in the air defence roles.

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air.

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air. "The proposal for the acquisition of 21 MiG-29s would be placed before the Defence Acquisition Council soon. The IAF wants the MiG-29s to be of the upgraded MiG-29s that are already in service," defence sources told ANI. "The IAF also wants that the aircraft should be equipped with the Indian weapon systems including the Astra missiles," they said. The sources said there are other indigenous equipment and weapons which would be integrated with the aircraft once the deal comes through. The MiG-29s now have a new airframe and had been lying unused in Russia. The push for promoting indigenous weapons has come at a time when IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria has made it clear that the force will fully back indigenisation efforts such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and the fifth Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. The IAF had carried out a study to check if the airframes of the MiG-29s on offer were good enough for it to operate for a long time. MiG-29s are flown by the IAF and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. The Indian Navy also operates the MiG-29 'K' and is the only operator of this version of the plane. It is having a rough experience with the planes which are difficult to maintain and their settings change immediately after they land on the aircraft carrier. The IAF has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered to be very good planes in the air defence roles.

IAF wants new MiG-29s to be equipped with indigenous weapons

An Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander said on Sunday that US bases and aircraft carriers in the region were within range of Iranian missiles after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-blames-iran-for-saudi-attacks-pretend-diplomacy-249751">US&nbsp;accused Iran of leading attacks on Saudi oil plants</a>, raising tensions in the Middle East.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group said it <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-attack-at-saudi-arabias-oil-refinery-massive-fire-broke-out-249565">attacked two Saudi Aramco oil plants</a> on Saturday at the heart of Saudi Arabia's oil industry, knocking out more than half the Kingdom`s output.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of being behind the attacks, ruling out Yemeni involvement and denouncing Tehran for engaging in false diplomacy.

Pompeo, said on Twitter on Saturday that there was no evidence the attacks came from Yemen.

“Everybody should know that all American bases and their aircraft carriers in a distance of up to 2,000 kilometres around Iran are within the range of our missiles,” the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps Aerospace Force Amirali Hajizadeh said on Sunday.

The semi-official Tasnim news agency also quoted him saying that "Iran has always been ready for a "full-fledged" war", without mentioning Saturday's attacks in Saudi Arabia.

One of the plants attacked is the world’s biggest petroleum processing facility.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump told Saudi de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Washington was ready to work with the kingdom to guarantee its security, according to the White House.

An Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander said on Sunday that US bases and aircraft carriers in the region were within range of Iranian missiles after the US accused Iran of leading attacks on Saudi oil plants, raising tensions in the Middle East.

An Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander said on Sunday that US bases and aircraft carriers in the region were within range of Iranian missiles after the US accused Iran of leading attacks on Saudi oil plants, raising tensions in the Middle East. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group said it attacked two Saudi Aramco oil plants on Saturday at the heart of Saudi Arabia's oil industry, knocking out more than half the Kingdom`s output. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of being behind the attacks, ruling out Yemeni involvement and denouncing Tehran for engaging in false diplomacy. Pompeo, said on Twitter on Saturday that there was no evidence the attacks came from Yemen. “Everybody should know that all American bases and their aircraft carriers in a distance of up to 2,000 kilometres around Iran are within the range of our missiles,” the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps Aerospace Force Amirali Hajizadeh said on Sunday. The semi-official Tasnim news agency also quoted him saying that "Iran has always been ready for a "full-fledged" war", without mentioning Saturday's attacks in Saudi Arabia. One of the plants attacked is the world’s biggest petroleum processing facility. US President Donald Trump told Saudi de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Washington was ready to work with the kingdom to guarantee its security, according to the White House.

'US bases, aircraft carriers within our missiles range,' says Iran after Washington blames it for Saudi oil plants attacks

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