The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks.

Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued.

"In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said.

She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding.

A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women.

The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request.

So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban.

Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks.

"The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said.

Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US&nbsp;forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire.

US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan.

The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington.

"The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week.

"If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war. Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks. Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued. "In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said. She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding. A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women. The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request. So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban. Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks. "The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said. Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire. US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan. The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington. "The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week. "If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

Pentagon seeks to use funds to transport, lodge Taliban members in search of ceasefires

Proposal by Pentagon officials suggests deployment nearing Gulf War levels if Iran were to expedite nuclear program or targets US forces.

White House said to review plan to send up to 120,000 troops to Middle East

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Saturday he has asked his envoy to the United States to meet with Pentagon officials to "cooperate" on a solution to the South American country's political crisis.

Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, added he had received word from China that the country would join a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela, to negotiate an end to the crisis.

In January, Guaido invoked the OPEC nation's constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing President Nicolas Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognized by most Western and Latin American countries, but Maduro has retained the support of allies China, Russia and Cuba.

Guaido's effort to oust Maduro so he can take power and call new elections has stalled in recent weeks, after an attempted military uprising on April 30 was put down. Guaido told an Italian newspaper this week that he would "probably" accept a US military intervention if the United States proposed it.

"We have instructed our ambassador Carlos Vecchio to meet immediately ... with the Southern Command and its admiral to establish a direct relationship," Guaido said at a rally in Caracas on Saturday. "We have said from the beginning that we will use all the resources at our disposal to build pressure."

Representatives of the US Southern Command and Vecchio did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Trump administration officials have repeatedly said that "all options are on the table" to oust Maduro, who calls Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup.

The Southern Command said in a tweet on Thursday that it was prepared to discuss "how we can support the future role" of Venezuelan armed forces leaders who "restore constitutional order," when invited by Guaido.

Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino separately said on Saturday that a US Coast Guard ship had entered Venezuelan territorial waters, which he said "we will not accept."

A Southern Command spokesman had said on Friday that a US Coast Guard vessel was conducting a "counterdrug detection and monitoring mission" in "international waters" in the Caribbean Sea on May 9.

Guaido was speaking at a rally in support of opposition lawmakers who have been arrested, taken refuge at foreign embassies in Caracas, and been threatened in recent days amid a broad crackdown by Maduro against congress after the April 30 uprising.

Most Latin American countries, as well as the European Union, have expressed opposition to potential military intervention in Venezuela. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said last week the contact group is prepared to begin a "mission at the political level" in Caracas.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Saturday he has asked his envoy to the United States to meet with Pentagon officials to "cooperate" on a solution to the South American country's political crisis.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Saturday he has asked his envoy to the United States to meet with Pentagon officials to "cooperate" on a solution to the South American country's political crisis. Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, added he had received word from China that the country would join a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela, to negotiate an end to the crisis. In January, Guaido invoked the OPEC nation's constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing President Nicolas Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognized by most Western and Latin American countries, but Maduro has retained the support of allies China, Russia and Cuba. Guaido's effort to oust Maduro so he can take power and call new elections has stalled in recent weeks, after an attempted military uprising on April 30 was put down. Guaido told an Italian newspaper this week that he would "probably" accept a US military intervention if the United States proposed it. "We have instructed our ambassador Carlos Vecchio to meet immediately ... with the Southern Command and its admiral to establish a direct relationship," Guaido said at a rally in Caracas on Saturday. "We have said from the beginning that we will use all the resources at our disposal to build pressure." Representatives of the US Southern Command and Vecchio did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Trump administration officials have repeatedly said that "all options are on the table" to oust Maduro, who calls Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup. The Southern Command said in a tweet on Thursday that it was prepared to discuss "how we can support the future role" of Venezuelan armed forces leaders who "restore constitutional order," when invited by Guaido. Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino separately said on Saturday that a US Coast Guard ship had entered Venezuelan territorial waters, which he said "we will not accept." A Southern Command spokesman had said on Friday that a US Coast Guard vessel was conducting a "counterdrug detection and monitoring mission" in "international waters" in the Caribbean Sea on May 9. Guaido was speaking at a rally in support of opposition lawmakers who have been arrested, taken refuge at foreign embassies in Caracas, and been threatened in recent days amid a broad crackdown by Maduro against congress after the April 30 uprising. Most Latin American countries, as well as the European Union, have expressed opposition to potential military intervention in Venezuela. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said last week the contact group is prepared to begin a "mission at the political level" in Caracas.

Venezuela's Guaido seeks US Pentagon cooperation to solve political crisis

Acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan made his second trip to the US-Mexico border on Saturday as the Pentagon looks to develop a longer-term plan to support President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Shanahan travelled to McAllen, Texas, to meet with officials and visit a migrant processing facility and Border Patrol station, two days after the White House announced Trump's intention to nominate the former Boeing Co executive as defence secretary.

"We're not going to leave until the border is secure," Shanahan told about two dozen border patrol officials as hundreds of detained migrants waited in tents to be processed.&nbsp;

Shanahan was accompanied by another acting secretary, Kevin McAleenan, who leads the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after a shake-up instigated by Trump, whose hard-line immigration policies have not stemmed a rising tide of migrants.

On Friday, the Pentagon said Shanahan approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build more than 80 miles (130 km) of barriers on the border, part of a patchwork project after Trump failed to secure funding from Congress for a complete border wall.

Trump has been eager to have the US military play a larger role on the border and, despite some criticism from lawmakers, Pentagon officials say they are looking to create a long-term plan for assistance.

Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him that military assistance would not continue "indefinitely," but that it would be in place longer than months.

The Pentagon has tapped a two-star Army general to work with DHS to look at what military support will be needed in the future. Shanahan said he expected a plan from the general in the next few weeks.

"(It is about) getting us out of this à la carte tasking where, 'Hey, we need 50 guys to do this, 50 guys to do that,'" a senior defence official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official said the idea was to look out over a timeline of at least two years.

The official added that the Pentagon was reviewing a recent request from DHS to provide housing for detained migrants.

"What we're hopful&nbsp;to do is have, in fairly short order for the secretary of Homeland Security, a much more predictable, comprehensive plan for the next couple of years," the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Joseph Dunford, said earlier this week.

There are currently about 4,500 US service members on the border, and they are authorized to be there until through September.

Democratic criticism

The decision to transfer the $1.5 billion for border funding came on top of a March transfer of $1 billion in military money to fund the wall, which Democratic lawmakers criticized sharply.

Lawmakers have hinted they may respond by putting new restrictions on the Pentagon's authority to move money around.

Shanahan said he understood Congress could take that authority away from the Pentagon and said he was unsure how to ease concerns. "I don't have a good answer for how we're going to balance it. It is a predicament," he said.

The Pentagon is weighing which projects from the military construction budget will be affected to help pay up to $3.6 billion for the wall and whether there is a military need for it.

Acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan made his second trip to the US-Mexico border on Saturday as the Pentagon looks to develop a longer-term plan to support President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan made his second trip to the US-Mexico border on Saturday as the Pentagon looks to develop a longer-term plan to support President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Shanahan travelled to McAllen, Texas, to meet with officials and visit a migrant processing facility and Border Patrol station, two days after the White House announced Trump's intention to nominate the former Boeing Co executive as defence secretary. "We're not going to leave until the border is secure," Shanahan told about two dozen border patrol officials as hundreds of detained migrants waited in tents to be processed. Shanahan was accompanied by another acting secretary, Kevin McAleenan, who leads the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after a shake-up instigated by Trump, whose hard-line immigration policies have not stemmed a rising tide of migrants. On Friday, the Pentagon said Shanahan approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build more than 80 miles (130 km) of barriers on the border, part of a patchwork project after Trump failed to secure funding from Congress for a complete border wall. Trump has been eager to have the US military play a larger role on the border and, despite some criticism from lawmakers, Pentagon officials say they are looking to create a long-term plan for assistance. Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him that military assistance would not continue "indefinitely," but that it would be in place longer than months. The Pentagon has tapped a two-star Army general to work with DHS to look at what military support will be needed in the future. Shanahan said he expected a plan from the general in the next few weeks. "(It is about) getting us out of this à la carte tasking where, 'Hey, we need 50 guys to do this, 50 guys to do that,'" a senior defence official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official said the idea was to look out over a timeline of at least two years. The official added that the Pentagon was reviewing a recent request from DHS to provide housing for detained migrants. "What we're hopful to do is have, in fairly short order for the secretary of Homeland Security, a much more predictable, comprehensive plan for the next couple of years," the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Joseph Dunford, said earlier this week. There are currently about 4,500 US service members on the border, and they are authorized to be there until through September. Democratic criticism The decision to transfer the $1.5 billion for border funding came on top of a March transfer of $1 billion in military money to fund the wall, which Democratic lawmakers criticized sharply. Lawmakers have hinted they may respond by putting new restrictions on the Pentagon's authority to move money around. Shanahan said he understood Congress could take that authority away from the Pentagon and said he was unsure how to ease concerns. "I don't have a good answer for how we're going to balance it. It is a predicament," he said. The Pentagon is weighing which projects from the military construction budget will be affected to help pay up to $3.6 billion for the wall and whether there is a military need for it.

US defence secretary visits US-Mexico border as Pentagon eyes longer-term plan to support Trump's immigration policy

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

The USS Arlington, which transports marines, amphibious vehicles, conventional landing craft and rotary aircraft, and the Patriot air defence system will join the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/b-52-bombers-to-be-part-of-us-forces-sent-to-middle-east-over-iran-concerns-216934"> B-52 bomber task force</a> headed toward the Gulf after intelligence reports suggested Iran was planning some sort of attack in the region.

The deployment is "in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests," the Pentagon said in a statement.

"The Department of Defense continues to closely monitor the activities of the Iranian regime, their military and proxies," it said.

"The United States does not seek conflict with Iran, but we are postured and ready to defend US forces and interests in the region."

On Sunday US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton announced the deployment of the Lincoln group and bombers saying he wanted to send a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran about any attack against the US or its partners in the region.&nbsp;

Washington though has not elaborated on the alleged threat, drawing criticism that it is overreacting and unnecessarily driving up tensions in the region.

Iran dismissed the deployment of the Lincoln as old news but followed it with an announcement that it would suspend some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year.

Amid the rising tensions, Trump said Thursday he is open to talks with Tehran's leadership.

"What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran. The USS Arlington, which transports marines, amphibious vehicles, conventional landing craft and rotary aircraft, and the Patriot air defence system will join the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a B-52 bomber task force headed toward the Gulf after intelligence reports suggested Iran was planning some sort of attack in the region. The deployment is "in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests," the Pentagon said in a statement. "The Department of Defense continues to closely monitor the activities of the Iranian regime, their military and proxies," it said. "The United States does not seek conflict with Iran, but we are postured and ready to defend US forces and interests in the region." On Sunday US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton announced the deployment of the Lincoln group and bombers saying he wanted to send a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran about any attack against the US or its partners in the region. Washington though has not elaborated on the alleged threat, drawing criticism that it is overreacting and unnecessarily driving up tensions in the region. Iran dismissed the deployment of the Lincoln as old news but followed it with an announcement that it would suspend some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year. Amid the rising tensions, Trump said Thursday he is open to talks with Tehran's leadership. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House.

US builds deterrent force against possible Iranian attack; sends assault ship, missiles to Mideast

President Donald Trump plans to nominate Patrick Shanahan, a former<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/wall-street-falls-as-white-house-plans-to-raise-china-tariffs-216536&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVgJjsq5DiAhUQ63MBHQPmDr04FBAWMAF6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw30tEi3Z-dFj6kb01bknfo3"> Boeing Co executive</a>, as his defence secretary, the White House said on Thursday, breaking with tradition by choosing someone who made a career at a top defence company as Pentagon chief.&nbsp;

Shanahan had been under investigation by the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-preparing-to-move-f-35-manufacturing-work-out-of-turkey-215777&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiP1t76q5DiAhWI63MBHSuTBLMQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RfVJO3oZ_OXM1PSEXkCp8"> Pentagon</a> inspector general for allegedly seeking preferential treatment of Boeing while at the Defence Department but he was cleared of wrongdoing in April. He has been acting defence secretary since January, the longest in Pentagon history.

"Based upon his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-plays-important-role-in-afghan-peace-process-acting-us-defence-secretary-217162&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYopOMrJDiAhXR7HMBHQr2DvMQFjACegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Y3Uknh9v8Ni71efCGGM5h">Patrick M. Shanahan </a>to be the secretary of defence," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

Early tests for Shanahan will include handling growing tensions with Iran, renewed missile tests by North Korea and questions about how the United States should handle the political and economic crisis in Venezuela.

Shanahan said in a statement that he was committed to modernising US&nbsp;military forces and if confirmed would aggressively implement Trump`s national defence strategy which prioritises competition with China and Russia over the counterinsurgency wars that have consumed the Pentagon for much of the past two decades.

Shanahan, 56, was thrust into the role in an acting capacity in January after Jim Mattis abruptly resigned over policy differences with Trump.&nbsp;

On his first day as acting Pentagon chief in January, Shanahan told civilian leaders of the US&nbsp;military to focus on "China, China, China."&nbsp;

The Trump administration has announced its intention to withdraw most US&nbsp;troops from Syria and diplomatic efforts are underway to bring an end to the 17-year-old war Afghanistan.

But the most pressing short-term issue is likely to be Iran. Earlier this week the Pentagon said it was sending a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East after US&nbsp;intelligence signalled possible preparations by Tehran to stage attacks against US&nbsp;forces or interests.

Shanahan is expected to be confirmed by senators, though he could face a tough confirmation process because of his tenure at Boeing.

Lawmakers have previously expressed concern about undue influence on the Pentagon from defence companies.&nbsp;

Ties between Boeing and the Trump administration run deep, with Trump using the company`s products and sites as a backdrop for major announcements.

Boeing, the world`s largest planemaker, is facing one of the biggest crises in its 103-year history following the disasters on Lion Air in Indonesia last year and another on Ethiopian Airlines in March, which together killed all 346 on board.

The Pentagon inspector general started the investigation of Shanahan in March for allegedly promoting Boeing in Pentagon meetings and disparaging competitors. But a report published on April 25 said none of the allegations was substantiated.

Defence secretaries have traditionally come from a political or policy background, serving as a counterweight to the military brass in decision making. Mattis, a retired Marine general, was one of the few former military leaders to become the secretary.&nbsp;

Mattis implicitly criticised Trump in his resignation letter for failing to value allies who fight alongside the United States, including in places like Syria.

Shanahan is unlikely to be an effective counterweight to Trump`s often impulsive decision making. He toured the US border with Mexico in February in what was seen as a show of support for Trump`s planned border wall.&nbsp;

BOEING TIES

Shanahan has been serving in an acting capacity since the start of the year, making him the longest acting defence secretary ever. He joined Boeing in 1986 and spent more than three decades there, working on the 737 and 787 Dreamliner commercial aeroplanes.&nbsp;

Shanahan was also the president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems and worked on the Apache, Chinook and Osprey military aircraft.&nbsp;

Trump himself has been a strong proponent of military products made by US&nbsp;defence companies. In phone calls and public appearances with world leaders, Trump has gone further than any of his predecessors to act as a salesman for the US defence industry.

A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Shanahan believed that he was answerable to Trump and it was his job to implement decisions made by the president.&nbsp;

In February, the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator James Inhofe, said he did not think Trump would nominate Shanahan. But since then, officials say Inhofe has privately told Shanahan he would back him.&nbsp;

"We need a confirmed leader at the Department and, after working with him closely over the last few months, I welcome his selection," Inhofe said in a statement on Thursday.

During Shanahan`s Senate confirmation hearing to be deputy defence secretary in 2017, the committee`s then-chairman, John McCain, voiced deep concern about giving the deputy job to an executive from one of the five corporations accounting for the lion’s share of US&nbsp;defence spending.

"I have to have confidence that the fox is not going to be put back into the henhouse," said McCain, who died in August.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

President Donald Trump plans to nominate Patrick Shanahan, a former Boeing Co executive, as his defence secretary, the White House said on Thursday, breaking with tradition by choosing someone who made a career at a top defence company as Pentagon chief.

President Donald Trump plans to nominate Patrick Shanahan, a former Boeing Co executive, as his defence secretary, the White House said on Thursday, breaking with tradition by choosing someone who made a career at a top defence company as Pentagon chief. Shanahan had been under investigation by the Pentagon inspector general for allegedly seeking preferential treatment of Boeing while at the Defence Department but he was cleared of wrongdoing in April. He has been acting defence secretary since January, the longest in Pentagon history. "Based upon his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be the secretary of defence," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement. Early tests for Shanahan will include handling growing tensions with Iran, renewed missile tests by North Korea and questions about how the United States should handle the political and economic crisis in Venezuela. Shanahan said in a statement that he was committed to modernising US military forces and if confirmed would aggressively implement Trump`s national defence strategy which prioritises competition with China and Russia over the counterinsurgency wars that have consumed the Pentagon for much of the past two decades. Shanahan, 56, was thrust into the role in an acting capacity in January after Jim Mattis abruptly resigned over policy differences with Trump. On his first day as acting Pentagon chief in January, Shanahan told civilian leaders of the US military to focus on "China, China, China." The Trump administration has announced its intention to withdraw most US troops from Syria and diplomatic efforts are underway to bring an end to the 17-year-old war Afghanistan. But the most pressing short-term issue is likely to be Iran. Earlier this week the Pentagon said it was sending a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East after US intelligence signalled possible preparations by Tehran to stage attacks against US forces or interests. Shanahan is expected to be confirmed by senators, though he could face a tough confirmation process because of his tenure at Boeing. Lawmakers have previously expressed concern about undue influence on the Pentagon from defence companies. Ties between Boeing and the Trump administration run deep, with Trump using the company`s products and sites as a backdrop for major announcements. Boeing, the world`s largest planemaker, is facing one of the biggest crises in its 103-year history following the disasters on Lion Air in Indonesia last year and another on Ethiopian Airlines in March, which together killed all 346 on board. The Pentagon inspector general started the investigation of Shanahan in March for allegedly promoting Boeing in Pentagon meetings and disparaging competitors. But a report published on April 25 said none of the allegations was substantiated. Defence secretaries have traditionally come from a political or policy background, serving as a counterweight to the military brass in decision making. Mattis, a retired Marine general, was one of the few former military leaders to become the secretary. Mattis implicitly criticised Trump in his resignation letter for failing to value allies who fight alongside the United States, including in places like Syria. Shanahan is unlikely to be an effective counterweight to Trump`s often impulsive decision making. He toured the US border with Mexico in February in what was seen as a show of support for Trump`s planned border wall. BOEING TIES Shanahan has been serving in an acting capacity since the start of the year, making him the longest acting defence secretary ever. He joined Boeing in 1986 and spent more than three decades there, working on the 737 and 787 Dreamliner commercial aeroplanes. Shanahan was also the president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems and worked on the Apache, Chinook and Osprey military aircraft. Trump himself has been a strong proponent of military products made by US defence companies. In phone calls and public appearances with world leaders, Trump has gone further than any of his predecessors to act as a salesman for the US defence industry. A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Shanahan believed that he was answerable to Trump and it was his job to implement decisions made by the president. In February, the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator James Inhofe, said he did not think Trump would nominate Shanahan. But since then, officials say Inhofe has privately told Shanahan he would back him. "We need a confirmed leader at the Department and, after working with him closely over the last few months, I welcome his selection," Inhofe said in a statement on Thursday. During Shanahan`s Senate confirmation hearing to be deputy defence secretary in 2017, the committee`s then-chairman, John McCain, voiced deep concern about giving the deputy job to an executive from one of the five corporations accounting for the lion’s share of US defence spending. "I have to have confidence that the fox is not going to be put back into the henhouse," said McCain, who died in August.

Trump picks ex-Boeing executive Shanahan as defence secretary

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-preparing-to-move-f-35-manufacturing-work-out-of-turkey-215777">Pentagon's acting US Defense Secretary</a> Patrick Shanahan has approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build more than 80 miles of barriers on the border with Mexico, US official said on Friday, including taking about $600 million in savings from an account meant for Afghan security forces.

The latest move comes on top of a March transfer of $1 billion in military money to fund President Donald Trump's wall, something lawmakers were highly critical of.

"The funds were drawn from a variety of sources, including cost savings, programmatic changes and revised requirements, and therefore will have minimal impact on force readiness," Shanahan said in a statement.

Shanahan said that the US military had more than 4,000 service members on the border along with 19 aircraft.

A US&nbsp;official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the latest transfer would include $604 million from funds for the Afghan security forces, which are struggling to hold territory against Taliban militants.

The United States had appropriated $4.9 billion in support for Afghan security forces for fiscal year 2019. The official said the money was taken from that account because they found savings in contracts.

"It is not reflective of anything related to our commitment ... It took less money to meet the policy commitment than we thought," another US official said, adding that this was not the first time the United States had reprogrammed money from the account.

The move comes as the United States is in talks with the Taliban to end the more than 17-year-old war. US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan.

But there is a concern that the over-stretched Afghan forces could crumble if US troops leave the country.

Pentagon's acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build more than 80 miles of barriers on the border with Mexico, US official said on Friday, including taking about $600 million in savings from an account meant for Afghan security forces.

Pentagon's acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build more than 80 miles of barriers on the border with Mexico, US official said on Friday, including taking about $600 million in savings from an account meant for Afghan security forces. The latest move comes on top of a March transfer of $1 billion in military money to fund President Donald Trump's wall, something lawmakers were highly critical of. "The funds were drawn from a variety of sources, including cost savings, programmatic changes and revised requirements, and therefore will have minimal impact on force readiness," Shanahan said in a statement. Shanahan said that the US military had more than 4,000 service members on the border along with 19 aircraft. A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the latest transfer would include $604 million from funds for the Afghan security forces, which are struggling to hold territory against Taliban militants. The United States had appropriated $4.9 billion in support for Afghan security forces for fiscal year 2019. The official said the money was taken from that account because they found savings in contracts. "It is not reflective of anything related to our commitment ... It took less money to meet the policy commitment than we thought," another US official said, adding that this was not the first time the United States had reprogrammed money from the account. The move comes as the United States is in talks with the Taliban to end the more than 17-year-old war. US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan. But there is a concern that the over-stretched Afghan forces could crumble if US troops leave the country.

Pentagon to transfer $1.5 billion from Afghan forces, other areas for border wall construction

The US will strengthen its Arctic presence to keep in check the "aggressive behaviour" of China and Russia in the resource-rich region, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Monday.

Speaking ahead of talks in Finland between the eight Arctic states, Pompeo warned that "the region has become an arena of global power and competition" thanks to its vast reserves of oil, gas, minerals and fish stocks.

He denounced attempts by China, which has observer status on the Arctic Council, to style itself as a "near-Arctic" state, citing Pentagon fears that China is seeking to establish a permanent security presence in the polar region, including by deploying submarines as a deterrent against nuclear attacks.

"There are only Arctic States and Non-Arctic States. No third category exists, and claiming otherwise entitles China to exactly nothing," he said, adding that China's activities in the region must be closely monitored.

"China's pattern of aggressive behaviour elsewhere will inform how it treats the Arctic," he said.

Pompeo also slammed Russian territorial claims on new, faster trade routes opening up through the region due to melting sea ice.

"In the Northern Sea Route, Moscow already illegally demands that other nations request permission to pass, requires Russian maritime pilots to be aboard foreign ships, and threatens to use military force to sink any that fail to comply," Pompeo said.

"These provocative actions are part of a pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour in the Arctic."

Pompeo said the US would strengthen its security and diplomatic presence in the Arctic, in part through military exercises, an increased military presence, and by rebuilding the US's icebreaker fleet.

"Just because the Arctic is a place of wilderness does not mean it should become a place of lawlessness," he said.

Russia has previously insisted that Moscow's drive for military and economic development in the Arctic is not a threat to other countries.&nbsp;

"We are not doing anything else besides ensuring security of the country. All we're doing in the Arctic is geared toward this and only this. We are not threatening anyone," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at an Arctic forum in St Petersburg last month.

On the sidelines of the Arctic Council, Pompeo will also meet Lavrov to discuss Venezuela, where the United States is trying to oust President Nicolas Maduro, an ally of Moscow.

The US Secretary of State will then continue his European tour with visits to Britain, Germany and Greenland.

The US will strengthen its Arctic presence to keep in check the "aggressive behaviour" of China and Russia in the resource-rich region, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Monday.

The US will strengthen its Arctic presence to keep in check the "aggressive behaviour" of China and Russia in the resource-rich region, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Monday. Speaking ahead of talks in Finland between the eight Arctic states, Pompeo warned that "the region has become an arena of global power and competition" thanks to its vast reserves of oil, gas, minerals and fish stocks. He denounced attempts by China, which has observer status on the Arctic Council, to style itself as a "near-Arctic" state, citing Pentagon fears that China is seeking to establish a permanent security presence in the polar region, including by deploying submarines as a deterrent against nuclear attacks. "There are only Arctic States and Non-Arctic States. No third category exists, and claiming otherwise entitles China to exactly nothing," he said, adding that China's activities in the region must be closely monitored. "China's pattern of aggressive behaviour elsewhere will inform how it treats the Arctic," he said. Pompeo also slammed Russian territorial claims on new, faster trade routes opening up through the region due to melting sea ice. "In the Northern Sea Route, Moscow already illegally demands that other nations request permission to pass, requires Russian maritime pilots to be aboard foreign ships, and threatens to use military force to sink any that fail to comply," Pompeo said. "These provocative actions are part of a pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour in the Arctic." Pompeo said the US would strengthen its security and diplomatic presence in the Arctic, in part through military exercises, an increased military presence, and by rebuilding the US's icebreaker fleet. "Just because the Arctic is a place of wilderness does not mean it should become a place of lawlessness," he said. Russia has previously insisted that Moscow's drive for military and economic development in the Arctic is not a threat to other countries. "We are not doing anything else besides ensuring security of the country. All we're doing in the Arctic is geared toward this and only this. We are not threatening anyone," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at an Arctic forum in St Petersburg last month. On the sidelines of the Arctic Council, Pompeo will also meet Lavrov to discuss Venezuela, where the United States is trying to oust President Nicolas Maduro, an ally of Moscow. The US Secretary of State will then continue his European tour with visits to Britain, Germany and Greenland.

Pompeo slams China, Russia 'aggressive behaviour' in the Arctic

Even as China increases its presence in Pakistan through China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that crosses the south-Asian country and gives China crucial connectivity to West Asia, it is Islamabad that could be in the receiving end.

Instances of brides being trafficked by Chinese men has come to the forefront with New York-based international NGO Human Rights Watch has raised the concern of Pakistani girls being trafficked by Chinese men. The NGO in a release said, "Pakistan’s government should be alarmed by recent reports of trafficking of women and girls to China. These allegations are disturbingly similar to the pattern of trafficking of “brides” to China from at least five other Asian countries."

The NGO stated, "Pakistan government has also acknowledged that bride trafficking is occurring and pledged to work with China to combat the trade."

Pakistan media channels have been exposing a number of cases in which Chinese men have married Pakistani girls with their families being given money and sometimes even visa for the male members. Media reports from the country suggest they are taken to China and forced into nefarious activities. Most of the cases belong to the minority Christian community and the underprivileged ones. &nbsp;

The Chinese embassy has reacted to the local media reports saying "We remind both Chinese and Pakistani citizens to remain vigilant and not to be cheated. We also welcome valuable clues to combat such offences."

Meanwhile, the Pentagon in its report has said, China plans to establish a military base in Pakistan.

In its annual report to US Congress on Military and security developments involving China in 2019, the Pentagon said, "China will seek to establish additional military bases in countries with which it has a longstanding friendly relationship and similar strategic interests, such as Pakistan".

In August of 2017, China officially opened its first overseas military base in Djibouti.

Even as China increases its presence in Pakistan through China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that crosses the south-Asian country and gives China crucial connectivity to West Asia, it is Islamabad that could be in the receiving end.

Even as China increases its presence in Pakistan through China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that crosses the south-Asian country and gives China crucial connectivity to West Asia, it is Islamabad that could be in the receiving end. Instances of brides being trafficked by Chinese men has come to the forefront with New York-based international NGO Human Rights Watch has raised the concern of Pakistani girls being trafficked by Chinese men. The NGO in a release said, "Pakistan’s government should be alarmed by recent reports of trafficking of women and girls to China. These allegations are disturbingly similar to the pattern of trafficking of “brides” to China from at least five other Asian countries." The NGO stated, "Pakistan government has also acknowledged that bride trafficking is occurring and pledged to work with China to combat the trade." Pakistan media channels have been exposing a number of cases in which Chinese men have married Pakistani girls with their families being given money and sometimes even visa for the male members. Media reports from the country suggest they are taken to China and forced into nefarious activities. Most of the cases belong to the minority Christian community and the underprivileged ones. The Chinese embassy has reacted to the local media reports saying "We remind both Chinese and Pakistani citizens to remain vigilant and not to be cheated. We also welcome valuable clues to combat such offences." Meanwhile, the Pentagon in its report has said, China plans to establish a military base in Pakistan. In its annual report to US Congress on Military and security developments involving China in 2019, the Pentagon said, "China will seek to establish additional military bases in countries with which it has a longstanding friendly relationship and similar strategic interests, such as Pakistan". In August of 2017, China officially opened its first overseas military base in Djibouti.

China's omnipresence in Pakistan increases 

US Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned Friday that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 in Turkey if Ankara buys a Russian missile defence system.

Shanahan told journalists the government remained steadfast in its opposition to Turkey's adoption of the S-400 anti-aircraft technology.

"If Turkey decides that the S-400 is a decision they want to go forward with, then we have to move work out of Turkey," he said.

Shanahan noted that he had met with delegations from US aerospace manufacturers Lockheed Martin and United Technologies to discuss options if Turkey refuses to forego the S-400.

Washington has warned for months that Turkey's adoption of Russian missile technology alongside US fighter jets would pose a threat to the F-35 and endanger Western defence.

As a member of NATO, Turkey is taking part in the production of the fighter jet for use by members of the treaty and has plans to buy 100 of the jets itself.

A number of Turkish manufacturers are making parts and equipment for the F-35, including internally carried Stand-off Missiles, airframe assemblies and wiring, leaving the NATO program partially dependent on them.

Washington has placed a freeze on the joint manufacturing operations with Turkey and has suggested that Turkey might be able to obtain a US missile defence system if it forgoes the one on offer from Moscow.

But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has insisted he will buy the Russian system.

US Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned Friday that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 in Turkey if Ankara buys a Russian missile defence system.

US Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned Friday that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 in Turkey if Ankara buys a Russian missile defence system. Shanahan told journalists the government remained steadfast in its opposition to Turkey's adoption of the S-400 anti-aircraft technology. "If Turkey decides that the S-400 is a decision they want to go forward with, then we have to move work out of Turkey," he said. Shanahan noted that he had met with delegations from US aerospace manufacturers Lockheed Martin and United Technologies to discuss options if Turkey refuses to forego the S-400. Washington has warned for months that Turkey's adoption of Russian missile technology alongside US fighter jets would pose a threat to the F-35 and endanger Western defence. As a member of NATO, Turkey is taking part in the production of the fighter jet for use by members of the treaty and has plans to buy 100 of the jets itself. A number of Turkish manufacturers are making parts and equipment for the F-35, including internally carried Stand-off Missiles, airframe assemblies and wiring, leaving the NATO program partially dependent on them. Washington has placed a freeze on the joint manufacturing operations with Turkey and has suggested that Turkey might be able to obtain a US missile defence system if it forgoes the one on offer from Moscow. But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has insisted he will buy the Russian system.

Pentagon preparing to move F-35 manufacturing work out of Turkey

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-oversees-new-guided-weapon-test-state-media-211283">tested a new type of tactical weapon</a>.

Wednesday's weapons test, which was supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was the first one carried since a February summit with US president Donald Trump in Hanoi ended without an agreement on the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program.

"I'm not going to go into the detail of the intelligence but the way I'd characterize it is, it's not like a ballistic missile, okay?" Shanahan said before welcoming the Albanian Minister of Defense, Olta Xhacka, to the Pentagon.

"There's no change to our posture or our operations," towards North Korea, Shanahan added.

"The test or the launch - depending on how you want to characterize it - was not a ballistic missile," he insisted.

A ballistic missile, which can carry nuclear warheads, follows a predefined trajectory after launching before falling unguided and under gravity onto its target.

The North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced on Thursday that Kim Jong-un had overseen the testing of a new tactical guided weapon - a short-range battlefield weapon designed for use in combat scenarios.

As is usual for the North Korean regime, the location of the test was not specified, and the report merely said that it was a "new type of guided tactical weapon" and that "the design indexes of the ... weapon whose advantages are appreciated for the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead were perfectly verified at the test-fire."

News of Wednesday's test raised concerns around the world due to the fact that Pyongyang announced last month that it was considering breaking off negotiations with Washington and resuming its ballistic missiles tests after 15 months.

On March&nbsp;15, North Korea's Vice-Foreign Minister, Choe Son-Hui, said that her country has "no intention to yield to the US demands (at the Hanoi summit) in any form" nor are they willing " to engage in negotiations of this kind" and noted that it was up to Kim to end the moratorium on weapons testing.

US President Donald Trump and Kim have met on two occasions, and although both leaders have stressed how amicable their relationship is, their last meeting in Hanoi ended abruptly without a deal.

The failure to reach an agreement at the summit revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would lift in return.

Washington wanted North Korea to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting any concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of most of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient.

On Thursday, Pyongyang also urged Washington to replace secretary of state Mike Pompeo with a "more careful and mature" negotiator, foreign ministry official Kwon Jong-gun said, according to KCNA.

He said talks could become complicated if Pompeo was involved in the discussions, adding that whenever he "pokes his nose in, talks between the two countries go wrong, without any results."&nbsp;

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly tested a new type of tactical weapon.

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly tested a new type of tactical weapon. Wednesday's weapons test, which was supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was the first one carried since a February summit with US president Donald Trump in Hanoi ended without an agreement on the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program. "I'm not going to go into the detail of the intelligence but the way I'd characterize it is, it's not like a ballistic missile, okay?" Shanahan said before welcoming the Albanian Minister of Defense, Olta Xhacka, to the Pentagon. "There's no change to our posture or our operations," towards North Korea, Shanahan added. "The test or the launch - depending on how you want to characterize it - was not a ballistic missile," he insisted. A ballistic missile, which can carry nuclear warheads, follows a predefined trajectory after launching before falling unguided and under gravity onto its target. The North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced on Thursday that Kim Jong-un had overseen the testing of a new tactical guided weapon - a short-range battlefield weapon designed for use in combat scenarios. As is usual for the North Korean regime, the location of the test was not specified, and the report merely said that it was a "new type of guided tactical weapon" and that "the design indexes of the ... weapon whose advantages are appreciated for the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead were perfectly verified at the test-fire." News of Wednesday's test raised concerns around the world due to the fact that Pyongyang announced last month that it was considering breaking off negotiations with Washington and resuming its ballistic missiles tests after 15 months. On March 15, North Korea's Vice-Foreign Minister, Choe Son-Hui, said that her country has "no intention to yield to the US demands (at the Hanoi summit) in any form" nor are they willing " to engage in negotiations of this kind" and noted that it was up to Kim to end the moratorium on weapons testing. US President Donald Trump and Kim have met on two occasions, and although both leaders have stressed how amicable their relationship is, their last meeting in Hanoi ended abruptly without a deal. The failure to reach an agreement at the summit revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would lift in return. Washington wanted North Korea to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting any concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of most of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient. On Thursday, Pyongyang also urged Washington to replace secretary of state Mike Pompeo with a "more careful and mature" negotiator, foreign ministry official Kwon Jong-gun said, according to KCNA. He said talks could become complicated if Pompeo was involved in the discussions, adding that whenever he "pokes his nose in, talks between the two countries go wrong, without any results."

No change to US stance on North Korea after new weapons test: Pentagon

Pentagon defends India’s anti-satellite test, says country concerned about threats in space. Watch full video to know more.

Pentagon defends India's ASAT test

India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-continue-to-collaborate-with-india-on-security-and-safety-in-space-us-on-asat-test-207649">the Pentagon has said</a>, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities.

On March 27, India achieved a historic feat by shooting down its own <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-tracking-250-270-objects-from-indian-asat-test-debris-iss-not-at-risk-pentagon-206638">low-orbit satellite with a ground-to-space</a> missile, making the country a space power.

The test made India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to have the ASAT capabilities.

"The first lesson from the Indian ASAT is just the simple question of why did they do that. And the answer should be, I think to all the committee looking at it, is that they did that because they are concerned about threats to their nation from space," US Strategic Command Commander General John E Hyten told members of the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday.

"And therefore, they feel they have to have a capability to defend themselves in space," Hyten told Senate Armed Services Committee while responding to a question from Senators on the need for India to do anti-satellite missile test, and the debris it generated in the space.

After India's test, NASA had termed as a "terrible thing" the country's shooting down of one of its satellites, saying it created about 400 pieces of orbital debris, endangering the&nbsp;International Space Station (ISS).

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine had said about 60 pieces were tracked and out of which 24 are going above the apogee of the ISS.

Hyten advocated for the development of some kind of international norms of behaviour in space.

"And where those norms of behaviour should begin, from my opinion, is with debris, because as the combatant commander responsible for space today, I don't want more debris," said the top Pentagon commander.

Raising the issue, Senator Tim Kaine said India announced last month that it had successfully conducted a test of an anti-satellite weapon.

"So, they had something in low earth orbit. They used an anti-satellite weapon to down, and it resulted in - the estimate's right now 400 pieces of debris, 24 which are large enough to potentially pose a threat to the International Space Station," he said.

"There have been other instances like this. There was a Chinese - a similar effort in 2007 that led to the catalogued 100,000 pieces of debris, many of which are still observing in debris fields that pose danger to other assets in space," he said.

There was a collision in '09 between a working US satellite and a sort of defunct Soviet-era satellite that - kind of a fender bender that produced debris. Then this debris causes challenges, he added.

"If we think that space is going to be more of a traffic jam, more satellites for all kinds of purposes up there, what should we be thinking about as a Senate in this committee or in Foreign Relations about sort of the rules?" he asked.

"What should the rules environment be, and what should we be doing to try to promote rules? India is an ally. We're not talking about an adversary doing something. We're talking about them testing some capacity, but then that creates challenges for all kinds of uses of space. How should we be solving problems like that?" Kaine asked.&nbsp;

India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, the Pentagon has said, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities.

India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, the Pentagon has said, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities. On March 27, India achieved a historic feat by shooting down its own low-orbit satellite with a ground-to-space missile, making the country a space power. The test made India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to have the ASAT capabilities. "The first lesson from the Indian ASAT is just the simple question of why did they do that. And the answer should be, I think to all the committee looking at it, is that they did that because they are concerned about threats to their nation from space," US Strategic Command Commander General John E Hyten told members of the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday. "And therefore, they feel they have to have a capability to defend themselves in space," Hyten told Senate Armed Services Committee while responding to a question from Senators on the need for India to do anti-satellite missile test, and the debris it generated in the space. After India's test, NASA had termed as a "terrible thing" the country's shooting down of one of its satellites, saying it created about 400 pieces of orbital debris, endangering the International Space Station (ISS). NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine had said about 60 pieces were tracked and out of which 24 are going above the apogee of the ISS. Hyten advocated for the development of some kind of international norms of behaviour in space. "And where those norms of behaviour should begin, from my opinion, is with debris, because as the combatant commander responsible for space today, I don't want more debris," said the top Pentagon commander. Raising the issue, Senator Tim Kaine said India announced last month that it had successfully conducted a test of an anti-satellite weapon. "So, they had something in low earth orbit. They used an anti-satellite weapon to down, and it resulted in - the estimate's right now 400 pieces of debris, 24 which are large enough to potentially pose a threat to the International Space Station," he said. "There have been other instances like this. There was a Chinese - a similar effort in 2007 that led to the catalogued 100,000 pieces of debris, many of which are still observing in debris fields that pose danger to other assets in space," he said. There was a collision in '09 between a working US satellite and a sort of defunct Soviet-era satellite that - kind of a fender bender that produced debris. Then this debris causes challenges, he added. "If we think that space is going to be more of a traffic jam, more satellites for all kinds of purposes up there, what should we be thinking about as a Senate in this committee or in Foreign Relations about sort of the rules?" he asked. "What should the rules environment be, and what should we be doing to try to promote rules? India is an ally. We're not talking about an adversary doing something. We're talking about them testing some capacity, but then that creates challenges for all kinds of uses of space. How should we be solving problems like that?" Kaine asked.

India conducted ASAT test because they face threats from other nations in space: US commander to Senate committee

The Pentagon said on Thursday that the space debris from India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-important-message-to-nation-modi-says-india-shot-down-low-earth-orbit-satellite-with-anti-satellite-missile-pm-modi-205973">A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile test</a> would burn up in the atmosphere.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said it stood by Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan's assessment last week that the debris would eventually burn up in the atmosphere.

Asked on Thursday whether the Pentagon stood by Shanahan's earlier assessment, spokesman Charlie Summers said: "Yes."

NASA had had a slightly different outlook.&nbsp;

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine had said on Monday that more than 400 pieces of orbital debris from the test had been identified — including debris that was travelling above the International Space Station.&nbsp;

Bridenstine said that was a "terrible, terrible thing".&nbsp;

India had conducted its A-Sat test on March 27, shooting down a satellite 300 kms up in space.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announcing the successful completion of the test which had been dubbed "Mission Shakti"&nbsp;or Strength, said the entire operation had taken three minutes.&nbsp;

He added then that India was now an elite space power. And that after the successful completion of the test, only three other countries — the US, Russia and China — had that capability.&nbsp;

India was the fourth.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Pentagon said on Thursday that the space debris from India's A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile test would burn up in the atmosphere. The Pentagon said it stood by Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan's assessment last week that the debris would eventually burn up in the atmosphere.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that the space debris from India's A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile test would burn up in the atmosphere. The Pentagon said it stood by Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan's assessment last week that the debris would eventually burn up in the atmosphere. Asked on Thursday whether the Pentagon stood by Shanahan's earlier assessment, spokesman Charlie Summers said: "Yes." NASA had had a slightly different outlook. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine had said on Monday that more than 400 pieces of orbital debris from the test had been identified — including debris that was travelling above the International Space Station. Bridenstine said that was a "terrible, terrible thing". India had conducted its A-Sat test on March 27, shooting down a satellite 300 kms up in space. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announcing the successful completion of the test which had been dubbed "Mission Shakti" or Strength, said the entire operation had taken three minutes. He added then that India was now an elite space power. And that after the successful completion of the test, only three other countries — the US, Russia and China — had that capability. India was the fourth. (With inputs from Reuters)

Mission Shakti: Pentagon says space debris from anti-satellite test will burn up in atmosphere

The Pentagon has strongly denied the reports that the US spied on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/asat-test-russia-welcomes-new-delhis-efforts-to-prevent-arms-race-in-outer-space-206424">India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test</a> by sending a reconnaissance aircraft from its base in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean to monitor the development.

It, however, said the United States was aware of India's first test-fire of an anti-satellite missile.

"No US assets were spying on India. In fact, the US continues to expand its enduring partnership with India, resulting in enhanced interoperability and stronger economic ties," US Defense Department spokesperson Lt Col David W Eastburn told PTI.

Aircraft Spots, which monitors military air movements, had said that a US Air Force's reconnaissance aircraft from its base in Diego Garcia went "for a mission in the Bay of Bengal to monitor India's anti-satellite missile test".

This was interpreted by many that the US spied on Indian ASAT test.

"I don't think that it implies coordination between India and the US," astronomer Jonathan McDowell from the prestigious Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics told PTI on the Aircraft Spots report.

"This implies that the US intelligence community were aware of the test in advance because to some extent they're spying on India," he alleged.

"Everybody spies on their friends as well as their enemies. That's the way the world works these days. It would be surprising if the US were not detecting or observing the launch site and aware of activities preparing for the test. So one assumes that they knew it was coming," he claimed.

McDowell, who is a staff member at the Chandra X-ray Center and author and editor of Jonathan's Space Report, an e-mail-distributed newsletter documenting satellite launches, said he has not looked into the issue of the aircraft, but it is certainly not surprising that the US would fly a sensor aircraft to try and observe the test.

The Pentagon, however, strongly denied the spying allegation.

"It's a relationship so strong that no topic is off limits," Eastburn said.

"Both nations enjoy shared principles regarding our respect of sovereignty, free and fair trade, adherence to international norms, and peaceful resolution of disputes," he said.

Air Force Space Command Commander Lt Gen David D Thompson told lawmakers Thursday that the US was aware that India's ASAT test was coming.

"First of all, we knew it was coming because of flight bans that India had announced and information they published previously. The launch occurred at 1.39 AM EST," he told members of the powerful Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces during a Congressional hearing.

"First of all, it was detected, characterised and reported by Air Force Missile Warning systems and Airmen at Buckley AFB. Immediately after the test (it struck the target vehicle), the Joint Space Ops Center and USAF 18 Space control Squadron began collecting information about the breakup of the vehicle," Thompson said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Wednesday announced that India successfully test-fired an anti-satellite missile by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space super powers.

The test made India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to acquire the strategic capability to shoot down enemy satellites.

The Pentagon has strongly denied the reports that the US spied on India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test by sending a reconnaissance aircraft from its base in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean to monitor the development.

The Pentagon has strongly denied the reports that the US spied on India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test by sending a reconnaissance aircraft from its base in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean to monitor the development. It, however, said the United States was aware of India's first test-fire of an anti-satellite missile. "No US assets were spying on India. In fact, the US continues to expand its enduring partnership with India, resulting in enhanced interoperability and stronger economic ties," US Defense Department spokesperson Lt Col David W Eastburn told PTI. Aircraft Spots, which monitors military air movements, had said that a US Air Force's reconnaissance aircraft from its base in Diego Garcia went "for a mission in the Bay of Bengal to monitor India's anti-satellite missile test". This was interpreted by many that the US spied on Indian ASAT test. "I don't think that it implies coordination between India and the US," astronomer Jonathan McDowell from the prestigious Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics told PTI on the Aircraft Spots report. "This implies that the US intelligence community were aware of the test in advance because to some extent they're spying on India," he alleged. "Everybody spies on their friends as well as their enemies. That's the way the world works these days. It would be surprising if the US were not detecting or observing the launch site and aware of activities preparing for the test. So one assumes that they knew it was coming," he claimed. McDowell, who is a staff member at the Chandra X-ray Center and author and editor of Jonathan's Space Report, an e-mail-distributed newsletter documenting satellite launches, said he has not looked into the issue of the aircraft, but it is certainly not surprising that the US would fly a sensor aircraft to try and observe the test. The Pentagon, however, strongly denied the spying allegation. "It's a relationship so strong that no topic is off limits," Eastburn said. "Both nations enjoy shared principles regarding our respect of sovereignty, free and fair trade, adherence to international norms, and peaceful resolution of disputes," he said. Air Force Space Command Commander Lt Gen David D Thompson told lawmakers Thursday that the US was aware that India's ASAT test was coming. "First of all, we knew it was coming because of flight bans that India had announced and information they published previously. The launch occurred at 1.39 AM EST," he told members of the powerful Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces during a Congressional hearing. "First of all, it was detected, characterised and reported by Air Force Missile Warning systems and Airmen at Buckley AFB. Immediately after the test (it struck the target vehicle), the Joint Space Ops Center and USAF 18 Space control Squadron began collecting information about the breakup of the vehicle," Thompson said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Wednesday announced that India successfully test-fired an anti-satellite missile by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space super powers. The test made India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to acquire the strategic capability to shoot down enemy satellites.

US didn't spy on India's ASAT test: Pentagon

The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-will-not-reopen-until-we-have-the-mexican-border-wall-trump-to-us-troops-186467">US President's Donald Trump's wall</a> along the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan.&nbsp;

Shanahan "authorized the commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers to begin planning and executing up to $1 billion in support to the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Patrol," a Pentagon statement read.&nbsp;

The statement was released just hours before Shanahan was due to testify in Congress to present and defend the Pentagon's draft budget.&nbsp;

The acting defence secretary defended the move by citing a federal law that he said "gives the Department of Defense the authority to construct roads and fences and to install lighting to block drug-smuggling corridors across international boundaries of the United States in support of counter-narcotic activities of federal law enforcement agencies."

The $1 billion will go towards building 92 kilometres of 18-foot-high fencing, building and improving roads, and installing lighting along sections of the border.&nbsp;

The border wall with Mexico was one of Trump's central campaign promises. He had said then that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-will-pay-for-border-wall-trump-5838">Mexico would pay for the wall</a>.&nbsp;

Trump had in December last year shut down the US government for 35 days — the longest in US history — after the Democrats refused to sign off on a funding bill giving him $5.7 billion for his wall.&nbsp;

In February, Trump declared a national emergency at the border — he said illegal immigration from Mexico was an "invasion" — which would allow the government to route funds meant for emergencies towards building the border wall.&nbsp;Trump is looking to unlock as much as $8 billion via the emergency funding route.

The move drew condemnation from both the president's rival Democrats and fellow Republicans, who warned it was an abuse of presidential powers and created a dangerous precedent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

 
&nbsp;

The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan.

The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan. Shanahan "authorized the commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers to begin planning and executing up to $1 billion in support to the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Patrol," a Pentagon statement read. The statement was released just hours before Shanahan was due to testify in Congress to present and defend the Pentagon's draft budget. The acting defence secretary defended the move by citing a federal law that he said "gives the Department of Defense the authority to construct roads and fences and to install lighting to block drug-smuggling corridors across international boundaries of the United States in support of counter-narcotic activities of federal law enforcement agencies." The $1 billion will go towards building 92 kilometres of 18-foot-high fencing, building and improving roads, and installing lighting along sections of the border. The border wall with Mexico was one of Trump's central campaign promises. He had said then that Mexico would pay for the wall. Trump had in December last year shut down the US government for 35 days — the longest in US history — after the Democrats refused to sign off on a funding bill giving him $5.7 billion for his wall. In February, Trump declared a national emergency at the border — he said illegal immigration from Mexico was an "invasion" — which would allow the government to route funds meant for emergencies towards building the border wall. Trump is looking to unlock as much as $8 billion via the emergency funding route. The move drew condemnation from both the president's rival Democrats and fellow Republicans, who warned it was an abuse of presidential powers and created a dangerous precedent. (With inputs from AFP)

Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-authorises-1-bn-for-trumps-border-wall-205641">Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall</a>

The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day</a>

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/55-indians-happy-with-way-things-are-going-in-the-country-public-satisfaction-dips-15-points-us-survey-205636">55</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/55-indians-happy-with-way-things-are-going-in-the-country-public-satisfaction-dips-15-points-us-survey-205636">%</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/55-indians-happy-with-way-things-are-going-in-the-country-public-satisfaction-dips-15-points-us-survey-205636"> Indians happy with way things are going in the country, public satisfaction dips 15 points: US survey</a>

Fifty-five per cent of Indians are happy with the way things are going in the country even as the public satisfaction level has gone down by 15 points to 70 per cent, according to a Pew survey released late Monday night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stormy-daniels-lawyer-charged-with-trying-to-extort-20-million-from-nike-205631">Stormy Daniels' lawyer charged with trying to extort $20 million from Nike</a>

Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represented adult film star Stormy Daniels in her legal battles with US President Donald Trump, was charged on Monday with what prosecutors said was an attempt to "shakedown" Nike Inc for over $20 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-unveils-apple-tv-streaming-service-credit-card-205624">Apple starts streaming service to take on Netflix, Amazon</a>

Apple unveiled a new streaming-video service with original TV-series content called Apple TV+ on Monday, aiming to join the audiovisual streaming market mainly dominated by Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.

Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan.

Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan. British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again. 55% Indians happy with way things are going in the country, public satisfaction dips 15 points: US survey Fifty-five per cent of Indians are happy with the way things are going in the country even as the public satisfaction level has gone down by 15 points to 70 per cent, according to a Pew survey released late Monday night. Stormy Daniels' lawyer charged with trying to extort $20 million from Nike Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represented adult film star Stormy Daniels in her legal battles with US President Donald Trump, was charged on Monday with what prosecutors said was an attempt to "shakedown" Nike Inc for over $20 million. Apple starts streaming service to take on Netflix, Amazon Apple unveiled a new streaming-video service with original TV-series content called Apple TV+ on Monday, aiming to join the audiovisual streaming market mainly dominated by Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Missile defence milestone for pentagon

India and the US have identified small air launch unmanned aerial vehicles and a lightweight small arms technology project along with aircraft maintenance for defence collaboration, a top Pentagon official has said.

The US statement came as defence officials from the two countries held their latest round of Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) talks in Washington.

The India-US DTTI meeting focused on encouraging the US and Indian industry to work together and develop next-generation technologies.

"One project we're looking at is small air launch UAVs," US Undersecretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment Ellen Lord told a media round table at the Pentagon on Friday.

Lord, who co-chaired the meeting along with Secretary of Defence Production Ajay Kumar, said the teams are looking at very specific deliverables on the specific dates with key individuals having responsibility.

"Overall, we look at this as a cost-efficient, cost-effective way to provide additional capability to the warfighter. There are three proposed mission scenarios, humanitarian assistance/disaster relief, cross border operations and cave tunnel inspection," Lord said.

On the drones, the discussions are mainly between the US Air Force Research Laboratory and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation. In April, the two sides will write the technical planning document.

"We plan to sign that sometimes in September timeframe," she said, adding that the potential exists to involve the Indian industry in its co-development.

The two sides also talked about virtual, augmented mixed reality for aircraft maintenance, which she stressed can deliver very significant potential to the two countries.

"What we want to do is take both the US and Indian technology and translate that into a warfighting capability that both the US and the Indians can use. This is very much a collaboration in terms of our governments, our industries and our overall know-how. The beneficiaries will be both the US as well as the Indians," Lord said.

The next meeting will be held in India in September.

With some of these systems, whether it be launching UAVs or virtual, augmented mixed reality, they are trying to focus on bolstering capabilities of platforms the two countries can share, she said.

"There is lightweight, small arms technology project," Lord said. The key is the combined weapons and ammunition offer a 40 per cent weight reduction and improved accuracy.

The ammunition uses full polymer casings that significantly reduced weight and give less heat transfer and recoil.

"This is an area where there's co-development as well as co-production opportunity. What we're interested in technologies, where the US has brought them to a certain level and there's an appetite for more investment and for whatever reason we're not able to get to that in the US right now," the top Pentagon official said.

Under the DTTI, the two countries have a number of joint working groups to identify areas for co-development and co-production. These are a joint working group in aircraft carrier technology, land systems, naval systems, air systems, and other systems.

It all started in 2012 when then Defence Secretary Leon Panetta directed Deputy Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter to undertake an initiative to provide increased US senior level oversight and engagement to get beyond these obstacles.

The DTTI's aim is to transform the bilateral defence relationship into one that is limited only by independent strategic decisions, rather than bureaucratic obstacles or inefficient procedures; and strengthen India's defence industrial base by moving away from the traditional "buyer-seller" dynamic toward a more collaborative approach.

It also aims at exploring new areas of technological collaboration from science and technology cooperation through co-development and co-production and expands US-Indian business ties.

"These interactions really form the basis of a very, very strong industry interaction as well," Lord said.

The DTTI meeting included updates on ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities in land, naval, air, and aircraft carrier technologies; a meeting with the US and Indian industry representatives; a visit to Norfolk Naval Station to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyer USS Bainbridge; and a visit to a US defence company.

"The DTTI is really delivering some opportunities, for both of our industrial bases to both better interact, as well as to bring the best of technology and innovation," Lord added.

India and the US have identified small air launch unmanned aerial vehicles and a lightweight small arms technology project along with aircraft maintenance for defence collaboration, a top Pentagon official has said.

India and the US have identified small air launch unmanned aerial vehicles and a lightweight small arms technology project along with aircraft maintenance for defence collaboration, a top Pentagon official has said. The US statement came as defence officials from the two countries held their latest round of Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) talks in Washington. The India-US DTTI meeting focused on encouraging the US and Indian industry to work together and develop next-generation technologies. "One project we're looking at is small air launch UAVs," US Undersecretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment Ellen Lord told a media round table at the Pentagon on Friday. Lord, who co-chaired the meeting along with Secretary of Defence Production Ajay Kumar, said the teams are looking at very specific deliverables on the specific dates with key individuals having responsibility. "Overall, we look at this as a cost-efficient, cost-effective way to provide additional capability to the warfighter. There are three proposed mission scenarios, humanitarian assistance/disaster relief, cross border operations and cave tunnel inspection," Lord said. On the drones, the discussions are mainly between the US Air Force Research Laboratory and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation. In April, the two sides will write the technical planning document. "We plan to sign that sometimes in September timeframe," she said, adding that the potential exists to involve the Indian industry in its co-development. The two sides also talked about virtual, augmented mixed reality for aircraft maintenance, which she stressed can deliver very significant potential to the two countries. "What we want to do is take both the US and Indian technology and translate that into a warfighting capability that both the US and the Indians can use. This is very much a collaboration in terms of our governments, our industries and our overall know-how. The beneficiaries will be both the US as well as the Indians," Lord said. The next meeting will be held in India in September. With some of these systems, whether it be launching UAVs or virtual, augmented mixed reality, they are trying to focus on bolstering capabilities of platforms the two countries can share, she said. "There is lightweight, small arms technology project," Lord said. The key is the combined weapons and ammunition offer a 40 per cent weight reduction and improved accuracy. The ammunition uses full polymer casings that significantly reduced weight and give less heat transfer and recoil. "This is an area where there's co-development as well as co-production opportunity. What we're interested in technologies, where the US has brought them to a certain level and there's an appetite for more investment and for whatever reason we're not able to get to that in the US right now," the top Pentagon official said. Under the DTTI, the two countries have a number of joint working groups to identify areas for co-development and co-production. These are a joint working group in aircraft carrier technology, land systems, naval systems, air systems, and other systems. It all started in 2012 when then Defence Secretary Leon Panetta directed Deputy Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter to undertake an initiative to provide increased US senior level oversight and engagement to get beyond these obstacles. The DTTI's aim is to transform the bilateral defence relationship into one that is limited only by independent strategic decisions, rather than bureaucratic obstacles or inefficient procedures; and strengthen India's defence industrial base by moving away from the traditional "buyer-seller" dynamic toward a more collaborative approach. It also aims at exploring new areas of technological collaboration from science and technology cooperation through co-development and co-production and expands US-Indian business ties. "These interactions really form the basis of a very, very strong industry interaction as well," Lord said. The DTTI meeting included updates on ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities in land, naval, air, and aircraft carrier technologies; a meeting with the US and Indian industry representatives; a visit to Norfolk Naval Station to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyer USS Bainbridge; and a visit to a US defence company. "The DTTI is really delivering some opportunities, for both of our industrial bases to both better interact, as well as to bring the best of technology and innovation," Lord added.

India-US looking to co-develop small air launch drones: Pentagon

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges.

The policy will take effect on April 12 and will bar most transgender individuals from serving if they require hormone treatments or transition surgery.

The memo, signed by David Norquist, currently the No. 2 official at the Pentagon, will allow service secretaries to issue waivers on a case-by-case basis.

President Donald Trump announced in July 2017 a ban on transgender people serving in the military. He later accepted Pentagon recommendations to limit the ban to individuals with a history of gender dysphoria, defined as "those who may require substantial medical treatment," and allowing some exceptions.

A series of court challenges had put the policy on hold. But the US Supreme Court in January lifted lower-court rulings that had blocked the policy, allowing it to go into effect.

Trump`s decision to bar many transgender troops reversed a landmark 2016 policy of his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, to let transgender people for the first time serve openly in the armed forces and receive medical care to transition genders.

Trump cited military focus and medical costs for rolling back the policy.

A 2016 Pentagon-commissioned study found that any impact on cost or military readiness from having transgender troops would be marginal. It estimated there were around 2,450 transgender troops at the time.

Advocates for transgender people criticised the Trump policy. "The Trump administration is determined to bring back `don’t ask, don`t tell,` a policy that forced service members to choose between serving their country and telling the truth about who they were," Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center LGBT-rights think tank, said in a statement.&nbsp;

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges.

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges. The policy will take effect on April 12 and will bar most transgender individuals from serving if they require hormone treatments or transition surgery. The memo, signed by David Norquist, currently the No. 2 official at the Pentagon, will allow service secretaries to issue waivers on a case-by-case basis. President Donald Trump announced in July 2017 a ban on transgender people serving in the military. He later accepted Pentagon recommendations to limit the ban to individuals with a history of gender dysphoria, defined as "those who may require substantial medical treatment," and allowing some exceptions. A series of court challenges had put the policy on hold. But the US Supreme Court in January lifted lower-court rulings that had blocked the policy, allowing it to go into effect. Trump`s decision to bar many transgender troops reversed a landmark 2016 policy of his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, to let transgender people for the first time serve openly in the armed forces and receive medical care to transition genders. Trump cited military focus and medical costs for rolling back the policy. A 2016 Pentagon-commissioned study found that any impact on cost or military readiness from having transgender troops would be marginal. It estimated there were around 2,450 transgender troops at the time. Advocates for transgender people criticised the Trump policy. "The Trump administration is determined to bring back `don’t ask, don`t tell,` a policy that forced service members to choose between serving their country and telling the truth about who they were," Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center LGBT-rights think tank, said in a statement.

Pentagon sets limits on transgender troops

The Pentagon has not received any order from President Donald Trump to withdraw troops from war-torn Afghanistan, a top US commander said Thursday.

"We've not--congressman, we've not been directed to withdraw (troops from Afghanistan), and there are no orders to withdraw anything," Commander of the US Central Command, General Joseph Votel told members of the House Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing.

Trump had in December last year announced that the US would pull troops from Afghanistan.

General Votel said his advice is that any decision to reduce forces in Afghanistan should be done in full consultation with its coalition partners, and of course the government of Afghanistan.

"It should pivot off political progress and the reconciliation process," he said, responding to questions from lawmakers on news reports about a timeline of withdrawal of troops from this war-ravaged country.

The US General said any drawdown or withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan should be based on conditions on the ground and the progress in the political process as well.&nbsp;

A high-level US team led by Special Representatives Zalmay Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban representatives in Qatar's capital, Doha.

"Khalilzad's efforts are really focused on developing a framework that can lead to inter-Afghan discussions," Gen Votel said, adding that this involves overcoming some obstacles that, right now, are preventing the Taliban from talking to the government of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"But Khalilzad is working through those issues. Once those inter-Afghan discussions are commenced, then I think we will have the opportunity to address the issues that you are talking about directly," he said when Congresswoman Debra Haaland asked if he can tell how the framework addresses the rights of women in Afghanistan and how women were being included in the negotiation process.&nbsp;

The US Commander said that the US and the Taliban are in the very early in the process of talks.&nbsp;

"There have been no agreements from either side. We have not given anything up and they have not given anything up," he said, adding that the US and Special Representatives Khalilzad is not leaving out the democratically-elected government of Afghanistan in the process.

Winning in Afghanistan, the general described means a negotiated settlement between the government of Afghanistan and the Taliban, and safeguarding US national interests.

"Particularly ensuring that this country, this region can't be used to attack our homeland. So that would have to be satisfied as part of an overall agreement here in terms of that and I think is a lot of the nuance of the ongoing discussions that are taking are taking place right now," Gen Votel said.

He also advocated the need to have a sustained presence of the US in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"I think we have to ensure that there, either through our own presence or through whatever other arrangements we can make, that we can address that particular threat," he said.&nbsp;

The Pentagon has not received any order from President Donald Trump to withdraw troops from war-torn Afghanistan, a top US commander said Thursday. "We've not--congressman, we've not been directed to withdraw (troops from Afghanistan), and there are no orders to withdraw anything," Commander of the US Central Command, General Joseph Votel told members of the House Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing.

The Pentagon has not received any order from President Donald Trump to withdraw troops from war-torn Afghanistan, a top US commander said Thursday. "We've not--congressman, we've not been directed to withdraw (troops from Afghanistan), and there are no orders to withdraw anything," Commander of the US Central Command, General Joseph Votel told members of the House Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing. Trump had in December last year announced that the US would pull troops from Afghanistan. General Votel said his advice is that any decision to reduce forces in Afghanistan should be done in full consultation with its coalition partners, and of course the government of Afghanistan. "It should pivot off political progress and the reconciliation process," he said, responding to questions from lawmakers on news reports about a timeline of withdrawal of troops from this war-ravaged country. The US General said any drawdown or withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan should be based on conditions on the ground and the progress in the political process as well. A high-level US team led by Special Representatives Zalmay Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban representatives in Qatar's capital, Doha. "Khalilzad's efforts are really focused on developing a framework that can lead to inter-Afghan discussions," Gen Votel said, adding that this involves overcoming some obstacles that, right now, are preventing the Taliban from talking to the government of Afghanistan. "But Khalilzad is working through those issues. Once those inter-Afghan discussions are commenced, then I think we will have the opportunity to address the issues that you are talking about directly," he said when Congresswoman Debra Haaland asked if he can tell how the framework addresses the rights of women in Afghanistan and how women were being included in the negotiation process. The US Commander said that the US and the Taliban are in the very early in the process of talks. "There have been no agreements from either side. We have not given anything up and they have not given anything up," he said, adding that the US and Special Representatives Khalilzad is not leaving out the democratically-elected government of Afghanistan in the process. Winning in Afghanistan, the general described means a negotiated settlement between the government of Afghanistan and the Taliban, and safeguarding US national interests. "Particularly ensuring that this country, this region can't be used to attack our homeland. So that would have to be satisfied as part of an overall agreement here in terms of that and I think is a lot of the nuance of the ongoing discussions that are taking are taking place right now," Gen Votel said. He also advocated the need to have a sustained presence of the US in Afghanistan. "I think we have to ensure that there, either through our own presence or through whatever other arrangements we can make, that we can address that particular threat," he said.

No direction to withdraw troops from Afghanistan: US general

The administration of US President Donald Trump has asked the Department of Defense to prepare to house up to 5,000 unaccompanied migrant children amid what it calls a mounting "crisis" at the US-Mexico border, the Pentagon said Thursday.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) "requested DoD support to identify space to house up to 5,000 unaccompanied alien children on DoD installations, if needed, through September 30, 2019," said Pentagon spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jamie Davis.

"DoD will work with the military services to identify potential locations for such support, and will work with HHS to assess any DoD facilities or suitable DoD land for potential use to provide temporary shelter for unaccompanied alien children," he said.&nbsp;

The request for beds is preventative -- they will not definitely be used.

But it comes amid a surge in the number of families and unaccompanied children crossing the US border from Mexico illegally, most of them fleeing poverty and violence in Central America. Most request asylum.

According to the Customs and Border Protection Agency (CBP), the number of minors apprehended after entering the country illegally without family in February hit 6,825, up from 5,119 in January and 4,968 in October.

CBP hands the children over to HHS's Administration for Children and Families, which seeks to place them with relatives or other families in the United States while their requests to remain in the country are processed, which can take two years.

The Administration for Children and Families said Thursday that they currently have about 11,500 such children in custody.

The figure changes daily, they said, because of new referrals from Homeland Security and releases of children to sponsors.

Customs and Border Patrol Commissioner Kevin McAleenan said Tuesday that illegal immigration in February surged to the highest level in years, with 76,000 people stopped or apprehended, and was straining government facilities.

"We are currently facing a humanitarian and national security crisis along our southwest border," he said.

"The vast increases in families and children coming across our border, in larger groups and in more remote areas, presents a unique challenge to our operations and facilities, and those of our partners."

On Wednesday Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said they were expecting the numbers to grow in the coming months.

Nielsen though said in many cases the children were being used as "pawns" to get into our country, and even "recycled" by smuggling rings to help multiple groups cross the border and get a foothold on US soil.

She said she sympathized with the migrants but insisted that, as Trump formally declared last month, "It is an emergency."

The administration of US President Donald Trump has asked the Department of Defense to prepare to house up to 5,000 unaccompanied migrant children amid what it calls a mounting "crisis" at the US-Mexico border, the Pentagon said Thursday.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has asked the Department of Defense to prepare to house up to 5,000 unaccompanied migrant children amid what it calls a mounting "crisis" at the US-Mexico border, the Pentagon said Thursday. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) "requested DoD support to identify space to house up to 5,000 unaccompanied alien children on DoD installations, if needed, through September 30, 2019," said Pentagon spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jamie Davis. "DoD will work with the military services to identify potential locations for such support, and will work with HHS to assess any DoD facilities or suitable DoD land for potential use to provide temporary shelter for unaccompanied alien children," he said. The request for beds is preventative -- they will not definitely be used. But it comes amid a surge in the number of families and unaccompanied children crossing the US border from Mexico illegally, most of them fleeing poverty and violence in Central America. Most request asylum. According to the Customs and Border Protection Agency (CBP), the number of minors apprehended after entering the country illegally without family in February hit 6,825, up from 5,119 in January and 4,968 in October. CBP hands the children over to HHS's Administration for Children and Families, which seeks to place them with relatives or other families in the United States while their requests to remain in the country are processed, which can take two years. The Administration for Children and Families said Thursday that they currently have about 11,500 such children in custody. The figure changes daily, they said, because of new referrals from Homeland Security and releases of children to sponsors. Customs and Border Patrol Commissioner Kevin McAleenan said Tuesday that illegal immigration in February surged to the highest level in years, with 76,000 people stopped or apprehended, and was straining government facilities. "We are currently facing a humanitarian and national security crisis along our southwest border," he said. "The vast increases in families and children coming across our border, in larger groups and in more remote areas, presents a unique challenge to our operations and facilities, and those of our partners." On Wednesday Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said they were expecting the numbers to grow in the coming months. Nielsen though said in many cases the children were being used as "pawns" to get into our country, and even "recycled" by smuggling rings to help multiple groups cross the border and get a foothold on US soil. She said she sympathized with the migrants but insisted that, as Trump formally declared last month, "It is an emergency."

US military asked to house 5,000 child migrants: Pentagon

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that North Korea does not have any economic future with nuclear weapons as the Pentagon confirmed the United States and South Korea had agreed to end joint large scale spring military exercises.

"North Korea has an incredible, brilliant economic future if they make a deal, but they don't have any economic future if they have nuclear weapons," Trump said at a Conservative Political Action Conference.

He added that the relationship with North Korea seemed to be "very, very strong."

According to a statement, acting Pentagon Chief Patrick Shanahan spoke with his South Korea counterpart on Saturday and they agreed to adapt their training programs.

The two "made clear that the Alliance decision to adapt our training program reflected our desire to reduce tension and support our diplomatic efforts to achieve complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula in a final, fully verified manner," the Pentagon said.

South Korea's military issued a similar statement also confirming plans to end the spring joint military exercises. Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs Lee Do-hoon is planning on visiting the United States in the coming week to meet with US officials to discuss the second US-North Korea summit as well as the future agenda, according to a South Korean official.

The Pentagon said the US and South Korea had agreed to "newly designed Command Post exercises and revised field training programs." US officials have long said the scope of the spring exercises, known as Foal Eagle and Key Resolve, would be reduced.

Reuters and others reported on Friday that such an announcement would take place. To encourage talks, the United States and South Korea have suspended a number of military exercises since the first summit last year between Kim and Trump.

In Vietnam this week, the second meeting between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended without a deal on sanctions relief North Korea would get in exchange for steps to give up its nuclear program.

Trump on Saturday addressed criticism from the parents of Otto Warmbier, an American student who died after 17 months in a North Korean prison. They had complained when Trump said at a Hanoi news conference that he believed Kim had nothing to do with Warmbier's death.

Trump said he was trying to maintain "a delicate balance" to coax the North Koreans into giving up their nuclear program.

The United States and North Korea have said they intend to continue talks, but have not specified when.

Some observers credited Trump for refusing to be drawn into a bad deal. Others criticised him for praising Kim's leadership and accepting his assertion that he had been unaware of Warmbier's treatment.

Analysts believe North Korea has 20 to 60 nuclear warheads which could threaten the US mainland if fitted to its intercontinental ballistic missiles. The United Nations and the United States ratcheted up sanctions when North Korea conducted nuclear and ballistic missile tests in 2017. Washington has demanded complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation before sanctions can be lifted, a position Pyongyang has denounced as "gangster-like."

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that North Korea does not have any economic future with nuclear weapons as the Pentagon confirmed the United States and South Korea had agreed to end joint large scale spring military exercises.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that North Korea does not have any economic future with nuclear weapons as the Pentagon confirmed the United States and South Korea had agreed to end joint large scale spring military exercises. "North Korea has an incredible, brilliant economic future if they make a deal, but they don't have any economic future if they have nuclear weapons," Trump said at a Conservative Political Action Conference. He added that the relationship with North Korea seemed to be "very, very strong." According to a statement, acting Pentagon Chief Patrick Shanahan spoke with his South Korea counterpart on Saturday and they agreed to adapt their training programs. The two "made clear that the Alliance decision to adapt our training program reflected our desire to reduce tension and support our diplomatic efforts to achieve complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula in a final, fully verified manner," the Pentagon said. South Korea's military issued a similar statement also confirming plans to end the spring joint military exercises. Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs Lee Do-hoon is planning on visiting the United States in the coming week to meet with US officials to discuss the second US-North Korea summit as well as the future agenda, according to a South Korean official. The Pentagon said the US and South Korea had agreed to "newly designed Command Post exercises and revised field training programs." US officials have long said the scope of the spring exercises, known as Foal Eagle and Key Resolve, would be reduced. Reuters and others reported on Friday that such an announcement would take place. To encourage talks, the United States and South Korea have suspended a number of military exercises since the first summit last year between Kim and Trump. In Vietnam this week, the second meeting between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended without a deal on sanctions relief North Korea would get in exchange for steps to give up its nuclear program. Trump on Saturday addressed criticism from the parents of Otto Warmbier, an American student who died after 17 months in a North Korean prison. They had complained when Trump said at a Hanoi news conference that he believed Kim had nothing to do with Warmbier's death. Trump said he was trying to maintain "a delicate balance" to coax the North Koreans into giving up their nuclear program. The United States and North Korea have said they intend to continue talks, but have not specified when. Some observers credited Trump for refusing to be drawn into a bad deal. Others criticised him for praising Kim's leadership and accepting his assertion that he had been unaware of Warmbier's treatment. Analysts believe North Korea has 20 to 60 nuclear warheads which could threaten the US mainland if fitted to its intercontinental ballistic missiles. The United Nations and the United States ratcheted up sanctions when North Korea conducted nuclear and ballistic missile tests in 2017. Washington has demanded complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation before sanctions can be lifted, a position Pyongyang has denounced as "gangster-like."

North Korea has no economic future if it has nuclear weapons: Donald Trump

The Pentagon has submitted a proposal to Congress that, if approved, would see the creation of a new "Space Force," officials said Friday.

The move comes at the request of President Donald Trump, who has insisted that a separate branch of military is needed to focus on protecting satellites and tackling vulnerabilities in space.

"Our approach follows President Trump's bold vision for space and commits resources to deliver more capability faster, ensuring the United States can compete, deter, and, if needed, win in a complex domain," Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said.&nbsp;

In its current form, the Space Force would be established as its own branch of the military but would fall under the Air Force, similar to how the Navy oversees the Marine Corps.

Not since the Air Force was stood up in 1947 has the Pentagon created a new military branch&nbsp;Space Force would be the sixth, with the others being the Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard.

But the creation of Space Force is by no means a done deal, as it must be vetted and approved by Congress.&nbsp;

Lawmakers and defence officials have reacted with scepticism -- they are wary of the cost, added bureaucracy and duplication of work currently done by the Air Force.

Space plays a vital role in just about every aspect of modern warfare, with many military technologies reliant on a network of orbiting sensors and satellites, and the Pentagon has warned that countries such as Russia and China are working to build anti-satellite capabilities.

The Pentagon has submitted a proposal to Congress that, if approved, would see the creation of a new "Space Force," officials said Friday. The move comes at the request of President Donald Trump, who has insisted that a separate branch of military is needed to focus on protecting satellites and tackling vulnerabilities in space.

The Pentagon has submitted a proposal to Congress that, if approved, would see the creation of a new "Space Force," officials said Friday. The move comes at the request of President Donald Trump, who has insisted that a separate branch of military is needed to focus on protecting satellites and tackling vulnerabilities in space. "Our approach follows President Trump's bold vision for space and commits resources to deliver more capability faster, ensuring the United States can compete, deter, and, if needed, win in a complex domain," Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said. In its current form, the Space Force would be established as its own branch of the military but would fall under the Air Force, similar to how the Navy oversees the Marine Corps. Not since the Air Force was stood up in 1947 has the Pentagon created a new military branch Space Force would be the sixth, with the others being the Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. But the creation of Space Force is by no means a done deal, as it must be vetted and approved by Congress. Lawmakers and defence officials have reacted with scepticism -- they are wary of the cost, added bureaucracy and duplication of work currently done by the Air Force. Space plays a vital role in just about every aspect of modern warfare, with many military technologies reliant on a network of orbiting sensors and satellites, and the Pentagon has warned that countries such as Russia and China are working to build anti-satellite capabilities.

Pentagon submits Space Force proposal to Congress

The US is seeking more information on the potential misuse of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-pakistani-f-16-was-shot-down-by-mig-21-bison-says-air-vice-marshal-kapoor-during-armed-forces-joint-press-conference-200333">American-made F-16 fighter jets</a> by Pakistan against India in violation of the end-user agreement, the State Department has said.

The Indian Air Force on Thursday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-presents-evidence-of-aaram-missile-fired-from-pakistani-f-16-aircraft-200341">displayed parts of an AMRAAM beyond visual range air-to-air missile as evidence </a>to "conclusively" prove that Pakistan deployed US-manufactured F-16 fighter jets during an aerial raid targeting Indian military installations in Kashmir after India's anti-terror operation in Balakot.

Pakistan on Wednesday categorically said that no F-16 fighter jets were used and denied that one of its planes had been downed by the Indian Air Force.&nbsp;

"We are aware of these reports and are seeking more information," a State Department spokesperson told PTI when asked about a report that Pakistan has violated an end-user agreement with the United States in this week's border clash with India.&nbsp;

"Due to non-disclosure agreements in Foreign Military Sales contracts, we cannot discuss the specifics of end user-agreements contained within," Lt Col Kone Faulkner, a Defense Department spokesperson told PTI.&nbsp;

The United States, which is the largest seller of high-tech defence equipment globally, and has a strong end-user monitoring agreement, as a matter of practice takes all allegations of misuse of defence articles very seriously.

But before making any judgement or arriving at any conclusion, it needs to establish some facts on the ground, if there has been any violation by Pakistan to the F-16 end-user agreement it signed by the United States.

According to Pentagon's Defense Security and Cooperation Agency (DSCA) F-16 jets were meant to be used to "enhance Pakistan's ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations".

Publicly available documents reveal that the US has imposed nearly a dozen restriction on Pakistan related to its use of F-16.

During a Congressional hearing on July 20, 2006, John Miller the then Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs, had told lawmakers that the United States has "very carefully considered" the potential risks of the diversion of US technology and equipment."

While the exact details of the restrictions were discussed in a closed-door session and thus remains classified, Miller then broadly outlined some of the restrictions, which he said were over a "dozen new and unprecedented elements" of the security plan for Pakistan.

Miller then told lawmakers that the security provisions also include semi-annual inventories of all F-16 aircraft equipment and munitions, including related technical data, and more frequent inventories for other systems.

"There is a two-man rule, so to speak, for access to this equipment and restricted areas, and F-16 flights outside of Pakistan or participation in exercises and operations with third nations must be approved in advance by the United States government," the then top State Department official said, according to the transcripts of the hearing.

The US is seeking more information on the potential misuse of American-made F-16 fighter jets by Pakistan against India in violation of the end-user agreement, the State Department has said.

The US is seeking more information on the potential misuse of American-made F-16 fighter jets by Pakistan against India in violation of the end-user agreement, the State Department has said. The Indian Air Force on Thursday displayed parts of an AMRAAM beyond visual range air-to-air missile as evidence to "conclusively" prove that Pakistan deployed US-manufactured F-16 fighter jets during an aerial raid targeting Indian military installations in Kashmir after India's anti-terror operation in Balakot. Pakistan on Wednesday categorically said that no F-16 fighter jets were used and denied that one of its planes had been downed by the Indian Air Force. "We are aware of these reports and are seeking more information," a State Department spokesperson told PTI when asked about a report that Pakistan has violated an end-user agreement with the United States in this week's border clash with India. "Due to non-disclosure agreements in Foreign Military Sales contracts, we cannot discuss the specifics of end user-agreements contained within," Lt Col Kone Faulkner, a Defense Department spokesperson told PTI. The United States, which is the largest seller of high-tech defence equipment globally, and has a strong end-user monitoring agreement, as a matter of practice takes all allegations of misuse of defence articles very seriously. But before making any judgement or arriving at any conclusion, it needs to establish some facts on the ground, if there has been any violation by Pakistan to the F-16 end-user agreement it signed by the United States. According to Pentagon's Defense Security and Cooperation Agency (DSCA) F-16 jets were meant to be used to "enhance Pakistan's ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations". Publicly available documents reveal that the US has imposed nearly a dozen restriction on Pakistan related to its use of F-16. During a Congressional hearing on July 20, 2006, John Miller the then Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs, had told lawmakers that the United States has "very carefully considered" the potential risks of the diversion of US technology and equipment." While the exact details of the restrictions were discussed in a closed-door session and thus remains classified, Miller then broadly outlined some of the restrictions, which he said were over a "dozen new and unprecedented elements" of the security plan for Pakistan. Miller then told lawmakers that the security provisions also include semi-annual inventories of all F-16 aircraft equipment and munitions, including related technical data, and more frequent inventories for other systems. "There is a two-man rule, so to speak, for access to this equipment and restricted areas, and F-16 flights outside of Pakistan or participation in exercises and operations with third nations must be approved in advance by the United States government," the then top State Department official said, according to the transcripts of the hearing.

US seeks information on potential misuse of F-16 by Pakistan

General Joseph Dunford Jr, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Tuesday spoke to his Pakistani counterpart General Zubair Mahmood Hayat to discuss the current security environment in the country, the Pentagon said.

This is the highest level of contact between the two armies a day after India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC) early Tuesday, killing a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.

The strike was the first by the Indian Air Force (IAF) inside Pakistan after the 1971 war.

Ramping up the rhetoric, Pakistan has threatened retaliation.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph F Dunford, Jr spoke today with Pakistan Chief of Defence Gen Zubair Mahmood Hayat. The senior leaders discussed the current security environment in Pakistan, Joint Staff Spokesperson Col Patrick S Ryder said in a brief statement.

No other details were immediately available.&nbsp;

Over the years, despite a deterioration in bilateral ties, Gen Dunford has maintained a working good relationship with both his Pakistani counterpart Gen Hayat and Pak Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

General Joseph Dunford Jr, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Tuesday spoke to his Pakistani counterpart General Zubair Mahmood Hayat to discuss the current security environment in the country, the Pentagon said.

General Joseph Dunford Jr, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Tuesday spoke to his Pakistani counterpart General Zubair Mahmood Hayat to discuss the current security environment in the country, the Pentagon said. This is the highest level of contact between the two armies a day after India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC) early Tuesday, killing a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. The strike was the first by the Indian Air Force (IAF) inside Pakistan after the 1971 war. Ramping up the rhetoric, Pakistan has threatened retaliation. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph F Dunford, Jr spoke today with Pakistan Chief of Defence Gen Zubair Mahmood Hayat. The senior leaders discussed the current security environment in Pakistan, Joint Staff Spokesperson Col Patrick S Ryder said in a brief statement. No other details were immediately available. Over the years, despite a deterioration in bilateral ties, Gen Dunford has maintained a working good relationship with both his Pakistani counterpart Gen Hayat and Pak Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

General Dunford calls his Pakistan counterpart, discusses current security environment: Pentagon

Russian state television has listed US military facilities that Moscow would target in the event of a nuclear strike, and said that a hypersonic missile Russia is developing would be able to hit them in less than five minutes.

The targets included the Pentagon and the presidential retreat in Camp David, Maryland.

The report, unusual even by the sometimes bellicose standards of Russian state TV, was broadcast on Sunday evening, days after President Vladimir Putin said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/well-target-us-if-washington-deploys-missiles-in-europe-putin-198553">Moscow was militarily ready</a> for a "Cuban Missile"-style crisis if the United States wanted one.

With tensions rising over Russian fears that the United States might deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe as a Cold War-era arms-control treaty unravels, Putin has said Russia would be forced to respond by placing hypersonic nuclear missiles on submarines near US&nbsp;waters.

The United States says it has no immediate plans to deploy such missiles in Europe and has dismissed Putin's warnings as disingenuous propaganda. It does not currently have ground-based intermediate-range nuclear missiles that it could place in Europe.

However, its decision to quit the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty over an alleged Russian violation, something Moscow denies, has freed it to start developing and deploying such missiles.

Putin has said Russia does not want a new arms race, but has also dialled up his military rhetoric.

Some analysts have seen his approach as a tactic to try to re-engage the United States in talks about the strategic balance between the two powers, something Moscow has long pushed for, with mixed results.

In the Sunday evening broadcast, Dmitry Kiselyov, presenter of Russia's main weekly TV news show 'Vesti Nedeli', showed a map of the United States and identified several targets he said Moscow would want to hit in the event of a nuclear war.

The targets, which Kiselyov described as US&nbsp;presidential or military command centres, also included Fort Ritchie, a military training centre in Maryland closed in 1998, McClellan, a US&nbsp;Air Force base in California closed in 2001, and Jim Creek, a naval communications base in Washington state.

Kiselyov, who is close to the Kremlin, said the "Tsirkon" ('Zircon') hypersonic missile that Russia is developing could hit the targets in less than five minutes if launched from Russian submarines.

Hypersonic flight is generally taken to mean travelling through the atmosphere at more than five times the speed of sound.

"For now, we're not threatening anyone, but if such a deployment takes place, our response will be instant," he said.

Kiselyov is one of the main conduits of state television’s strongly anti-American tone, once saying Moscow could turn the United States into radioactive ash.

Asked to comment on Kiselyov's report, the Kremlin said on Monday it did not interfere in state TV's editorial policy.

Russian state television has listed US military facilities that Moscow would target in the event of a nuclear strike, and said that a hypersonic missile Russia is developing would be able to hit them in less than five minutes.

Russian state television has listed US military facilities that Moscow would target in the event of a nuclear strike, and said that a hypersonic missile Russia is developing would be able to hit them in less than five minutes. The targets included the Pentagon and the presidential retreat in Camp David, Maryland. The report, unusual even by the sometimes bellicose standards of Russian state TV, was broadcast on Sunday evening, days after President Vladimir Putin said Moscow was militarily ready for a "Cuban Missile"-style crisis if the United States wanted one. With tensions rising over Russian fears that the United States might deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe as a Cold War-era arms-control treaty unravels, Putin has said Russia would be forced to respond by placing hypersonic nuclear missiles on submarines near US waters. The United States says it has no immediate plans to deploy such missiles in Europe and has dismissed Putin's warnings as disingenuous propaganda. It does not currently have ground-based intermediate-range nuclear missiles that it could place in Europe. However, its decision to quit the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty over an alleged Russian violation, something Moscow denies, has freed it to start developing and deploying such missiles. Putin has said Russia does not want a new arms race, but has also dialled up his military rhetoric. Some analysts have seen his approach as a tactic to try to re-engage the United States in talks about the strategic balance between the two powers, something Moscow has long pushed for, with mixed results. In the Sunday evening broadcast, Dmitry Kiselyov, presenter of Russia's main weekly TV news show 'Vesti Nedeli', showed a map of the United States and identified several targets he said Moscow would want to hit in the event of a nuclear war. The targets, which Kiselyov described as US presidential or military command centres, also included Fort Ritchie, a military training centre in Maryland closed in 1998, McClellan, a US Air Force base in California closed in 2001, and Jim Creek, a naval communications base in Washington state. Kiselyov, who is close to the Kremlin, said the "Tsirkon" ('Zircon') hypersonic missile that Russia is developing could hit the targets in less than five minutes if launched from Russian submarines. Hypersonic flight is generally taken to mean travelling through the atmosphere at more than five times the speed of sound. "For now, we're not threatening anyone, but if such a deployment takes place, our response will be instant," he said. Kiselyov is one of the main conduits of state television’s strongly anti-American tone, once saying Moscow could turn the United States into radioactive ash. Asked to comment on Kiselyov's report, the Kremlin said on Monday it did not interfere in state TV's editorial policy.

After Putin's warning, Russian TV lists nuclear targets including Pentagon in US

Washington will not unilaterally withdraw from Afghanistan, the Pentagon chief said Thursday, as NATO said the Kabul government must be brought into US peace talks with the Taliban to end the country's 17-year war.

Acting defence secretary Patrick Shanahan said any decision to reduce the number of US troops in Afghanistan would be taken in coordination with NATO, which runs a training and support mission in the war-torn country.

The United States is leading a push for peace talks with the Taliban, seeking a breakthrough in the grinding conflict, with the Islamists announcing Wednesday a fresh round of meetings in Islamabad.

But NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warned against any more delay in involving the Afghan government of President Ashraf Ghani in the process, saying that without it lasting peace would not be possible.

US President Donald Trump wants to end US involvement in Afghanistan, where 14,000 American troops are still deployed -- raising Afghan fears that Washington could exit before securing a durable peace deal.

But, after talks with fellow NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Shanahan said Washington would not act alone.

"There will be no unilateral troop reduction. That was one of the messages in the meeting today. It will be coordinated. We work together," he said after the meeting, which came after a tour of Kabul and Baghdad for Shanahan.

"I feel as though we're creating the diplomatic leverage Ambassador Khalizad needs. We really need to talk about the possibility for peace. This may be our moment."

German welcome

Zalmay Khalilzad is the US special envoy leading talks with the Taliban and he has expressed hope of finding a deal before Afghan presidential elections scheduled for July.

Washington held talks with Taliban officials in Qatar last month as part of efforts to convince the militants -- ousted from power in Afghanistan by a US-led invasion in 2001 -- to negotiate with Ghani's government.

Shanahan's commitment was welcome news to Germany, which has been a frequent target for US criticism since Trump came to power, particularly over its defence spending.

German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen said it was important that "there will be no unilateral decisions by the Americans, but that every step, every strategic step in Afghanistan will be discussed within the circle of NATO defence ministers."

Ghani himself has vented frustration at talks going on without him about the future of Afghanistan and warned against rushing into a deal.

"It is very important that the Afghan government as soon as possible becomes fully integrated in the peace process," Stoltenberg said.

"Without that, there will be no lasting peace and no strong institutions to make sure any peace agreement is fully enforced."

The militants last week held separate talks in Moscow with a senior delegation of Afghan politicians -- including some of Ghani's leading rivals.

Washington will not unilaterally withdraw from Afghanistan, the Pentagon chief said Thursday, as NATO said the Kabul government must be brought into US peace talks with the Taliban to end the country's 17-year war.

Washington will not unilaterally withdraw from Afghanistan, the Pentagon chief said Thursday, as NATO said the Kabul government must be brought into US peace talks with the Taliban to end the country's 17-year war. Acting defence secretary Patrick Shanahan said any decision to reduce the number of US troops in Afghanistan would be taken in coordination with NATO, which runs a training and support mission in the war-torn country. The United States is leading a push for peace talks with the Taliban, seeking a breakthrough in the grinding conflict, with the Islamists announcing Wednesday a fresh round of meetings in Islamabad. But NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warned against any more delay in involving the Afghan government of President Ashraf Ghani in the process, saying that without it lasting peace would not be possible. US President Donald Trump wants to end US involvement in Afghanistan, where 14,000 American troops are still deployed -- raising Afghan fears that Washington could exit before securing a durable peace deal. But, after talks with fellow NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Shanahan said Washington would not act alone. "There will be no unilateral troop reduction. That was one of the messages in the meeting today. It will be coordinated. We work together," he said after the meeting, which came after a tour of Kabul and Baghdad for Shanahan. "I feel as though we're creating the diplomatic leverage Ambassador Khalizad needs. We really need to talk about the possibility for peace. This may be our moment." German welcome Zalmay Khalilzad is the US special envoy leading talks with the Taliban and he has expressed hope of finding a deal before Afghan presidential elections scheduled for July. Washington held talks with Taliban officials in Qatar last month as part of efforts to convince the militants -- ousted from power in Afghanistan by a US-led invasion in 2001 -- to negotiate with Ghani's government. Shanahan's commitment was welcome news to Germany, which has been a frequent target for US criticism since Trump came to power, particularly over its defence spending. German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen said it was important that "there will be no unilateral decisions by the Americans, but that every step, every strategic step in Afghanistan will be discussed within the circle of NATO defence ministers." Ghani himself has vented frustration at talks going on without him about the future of Afghanistan and warned against rushing into a deal. "It is very important that the Afghan government as soon as possible becomes fully integrated in the peace process," Stoltenberg said. "Without that, there will be no lasting peace and no strong institutions to make sure any peace agreement is fully enforced." The militants last week held separate talks in Moscow with a senior delegation of Afghan politicians -- including some of Ghani's leading rivals.

No unilateral US pullout from Afghanistan: Pentagon chief

China and Russia have developed robust and capable space services and the two countries pose a challenge and threat to the space capabilities of the US, the Pentagon has said.

Chinese and Russian military doctrines indicate they view space as important to modern warfare and counter space capabilities as a means to reduce US and allied military effectiveness, the Pentagon said in a report released by the Defense Intelligence Agency.

The report "Challenges to Security in Space" examines the space and counter space programmes that could challenge the US or partner interests in the space domain.

Noting that both countries have developed robust and capable space services, including space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, the report said China and Russia were making improvements to existing systems including space launch vehicles and satellite navigation constellations.

"These capabilities provide their militaries with the ability to command and control their forces worldwide with enhanced situational awareness, enabling them to monitor, track and target US and allied forces," it said.

Running into more than 40 pages, the report mentions India a few times and describes China and Russia as a major challenger to the US, Iran and North Korea as other space challenges.

The Pentagon lists India as one of the nine countries and one international organisation which can independently launch spacecraft: China, India, Iran, Israel, Japan, Russia, North Korea, South Korea, the United States, and the European Space Agency (from French Guiana).

While the European Union, Russia and the US' satellite navigation constellations offer global coverage, Japan and India operate regional systems, it said.

China operates both a regional and worldwide satellite navigation system.

In its report, the Pentagon said Chinese and Russian space surveillance networks were capable of searching, tracking and characterising satellites in all orbits.

This capability supports both space operations and counter space systems, it said.

"Both states are developing jamming and cyberspace capabilities, directed energy weapons, on-orbit capabilities and ground-based antisatellite missiles that can achieve a range of reversible to non-reversible effects," said the report.

The report is intended to support a deeper public understanding of keyspace and counter space issues and inform open dialogue and partner engagement on these challenges.

"Beijing and Moscow will continue to see space as integral to winning modern wars. They are developing systems that pose a threat to freedom of action in space. Both will continue their efforts to enhance their space and counterspace capabilities, and better integrate them into their respective militaries," the report said.

The report notes that some actors will seek counter space capabilities that target the perceived United States and allied reliance on space, including the ability to use secure satellite communications, precision strike capabilities, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance or ISR assets.

Globally, the space industry will continue to expand as technological and cost barriers fall and international partnerships for joint production grow. State, non-state and commercial actors increasingly will have access to information from space.

"The number of satellites and debris on orbit will grow concurrently, making tracking satellites, discriminating threats from non-threats, and predicting and preventing collisions a greater challenge," it said.

China and Russia have developed robust and capable space services and the two countries pose a challenge and threat to the space capabilities of the US, the Pentagon has said.

China and Russia have developed robust and capable space services and the two countries pose a challenge and threat to the space capabilities of the US, the Pentagon has said. Chinese and Russian military doctrines indicate they view space as important to modern warfare and counter space capabilities as a means to reduce US and allied military effectiveness, the Pentagon said in a report released by the Defense Intelligence Agency. The report "Challenges to Security in Space" examines the space and counter space programmes that could challenge the US or partner interests in the space domain. Noting that both countries have developed robust and capable space services, including space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, the report said China and Russia were making improvements to existing systems including space launch vehicles and satellite navigation constellations. "These capabilities provide their militaries with the ability to command and control their forces worldwide with enhanced situational awareness, enabling them to monitor, track and target US and allied forces," it said. Running into more than 40 pages, the report mentions India a few times and describes China and Russia as a major challenger to the US, Iran and North Korea as other space challenges. The Pentagon lists India as one of the nine countries and one international organisation which can independently launch spacecraft: China, India, Iran, Israel, Japan, Russia, North Korea, South Korea, the United States, and the European Space Agency (from French Guiana). While the European Union, Russia and the US' satellite navigation constellations offer global coverage, Japan and India operate regional systems, it said. China operates both a regional and worldwide satellite navigation system. In its report, the Pentagon said Chinese and Russian space surveillance networks were capable of searching, tracking and characterising satellites in all orbits. This capability supports both space operations and counter space systems, it said. "Both states are developing jamming and cyberspace capabilities, directed energy weapons, on-orbit capabilities and ground-based antisatellite missiles that can achieve a range of reversible to non-reversible effects," said the report. The report is intended to support a deeper public understanding of keyspace and counter space issues and inform open dialogue and partner engagement on these challenges. "Beijing and Moscow will continue to see space as integral to winning modern wars. They are developing systems that pose a threat to freedom of action in space. Both will continue their efforts to enhance their space and counterspace capabilities, and better integrate them into their respective militaries," the report said. The report notes that some actors will seek counter space capabilities that target the perceived United States and allied reliance on space, including the ability to use secure satellite communications, precision strike capabilities, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance or ISR assets. Globally, the space industry will continue to expand as technological and cost barriers fall and international partnerships for joint production grow. State, non-state and commercial actors increasingly will have access to information from space. "The number of satellites and debris on orbit will grow concurrently, making tracking satellites, discriminating threats from non-threats, and predicting and preventing collisions a greater challenge," it said.

China, Russia pose threat to US space capabilities: Pentagon report

Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-calls-recent-afghanistan-peace-talks-with-us-successful-report-195440">talks</a>, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war.

"It is important that the Afghan government is involved in discussions regarding Afghanistan," Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him on the unannounced trip.

He said the United States has important security interests in the region and wanted to hear from commanders on the ground.

Shanahan replaced Jim Mattis, who quit in December over policy differences with US President Donald Trump. He will meet US military officials and the Afghan leadership, including President Ashraf Ghani.

Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in talks, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war.

Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in talks, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war. "It is important that the Afghan government is involved in discussions regarding Afghanistan," Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him on the unannounced trip. He said the United States has important security interests in the region and wanted to hear from commanders on the ground. Shanahan replaced Jim Mattis, who quit in December over policy differences with US President Donald Trump. He will meet US military officials and the Afghan leadership, including President Ashraf Ghani.

Acting Pentagon chief makes first Afghanistan trip as US seeks peace deal

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country.

Under secretary of defence for policy John Rood, however, said that it is early to determine how far India, which already has substantial domestic missile defence capabilities, will go regarding the defence collaboration.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813"> approves </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813">sale</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813"> of two missile defence systems for Air India One</a>

“We have talked to the Indians about missile defence as potentially an area as well to collaborate on. It’s early days to determine how far that will go,” Rood said speaking at a think-tank here on Thursday.

“The Indians have substantial capabilities domestically of their own and they’ve done some development of missile defences. So the degree to which they’re interested in acquiring or working collaboratively with us in the US remains to be seen,” Rood said when asked about reports that India is interested in purchasing the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system popular as THAAD from the US.

The previous Obama administration was not very forthcoming in sharing its advance missile defense system with India, following which New Delhi went ahead to procure it from Russia.

As part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, the Trump administration now seems to be more than inclined to let India procure its missile defense system with talks between the two countries having already started making an appearance before the prestigious Hudson Institute think-tank, Rood said the US is certainly open to this kind of collaboration with India.

“And if that isn’t one of the areas they choose to go in, there’s quite a bit of other meaty areas that we can pursue. Maybe I should have chosen a term rather than meaty, quite a few Indians are vegetarian as you know,” Rood said jokingly.

The US has had a very positive relationship with the Indian government, he said. “And we’re building a, what we hope is a much deeper and broader relationship with them, all the way from the presidential level with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi on down,” he said.

“We have had excellent meetings and we’re expanding our agenda. There’s more meat to it, if you will. So I’m really feeling very good about the overall trajectory of that relationship,” said Rood who has been personally involved through successive administrations in building India-US relationship - in both the Bush administration, the Obama administration, and now in the present Trump administration.

The US has also agreed to sell two advanced missile defence systems to India for two Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft for an estimated cost of $190 million, a decision that will enhance the security of the planes flying the president and the prime minister.

The Pentagon on Wednesday said the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship.

The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a “major defence partner”, a status which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India.

In 2018, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-inclusion-in-sta-1-category-by-us-sends-strong-political-message-to-china--156932">US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status</a>. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases India’s defence procurement from the US.

Last year, India and the US signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) to facilitate interoperability between the two militaries and sale of high end technology.

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country.

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country. Under secretary of defence for policy John Rood, however, said that it is early to determine how far India, which already has substantial domestic missile defence capabilities, will go regarding the defence collaboration. Also read: US approves sale of two missile defence systems for Air India One “We have talked to the Indians about missile defence as potentially an area as well to collaborate on. It’s early days to determine how far that will go,” Rood said speaking at a think-tank here on Thursday. “The Indians have substantial capabilities domestically of their own and they’ve done some development of missile defences. So the degree to which they’re interested in acquiring or working collaboratively with us in the US remains to be seen,” Rood said when asked about reports that India is interested in purchasing the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system popular as THAAD from the US. The previous Obama administration was not very forthcoming in sharing its advance missile defense system with India, following which New Delhi went ahead to procure it from Russia. As part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, the Trump administration now seems to be more than inclined to let India procure its missile defense system with talks between the two countries having already started making an appearance before the prestigious Hudson Institute think-tank, Rood said the US is certainly open to this kind of collaboration with India. “And if that isn’t one of the areas they choose to go in, there’s quite a bit of other meaty areas that we can pursue. Maybe I should have chosen a term rather than meaty, quite a few Indians are vegetarian as you know,” Rood said jokingly. The US has had a very positive relationship with the Indian government, he said. “And we’re building a, what we hope is a much deeper and broader relationship with them, all the way from the presidential level with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi on down,” he said. “We have had excellent meetings and we’re expanding our agenda. There’s more meat to it, if you will. So I’m really feeling very good about the overall trajectory of that relationship,” said Rood who has been personally involved through successive administrations in building India-US relationship - in both the Bush administration, the Obama administration, and now in the present Trump administration. The US has also agreed to sell two advanced missile defence systems to India for two Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft for an estimated cost of $190 million, a decision that will enhance the security of the planes flying the president and the prime minister. The Pentagon on Wednesday said the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship. The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a “major defence partner”, a status which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India. In 2018, the US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases India’s defence procurement from the US. Last year, India and the US signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) to facilitate interoperability between the two militaries and sale of high end technology.

In bid to build 'deeper relationship', US and India in talks over missile defence collaboration: Pentagon

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