The militaries of the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China.

Security engagements between the treaty allies have soared this year, including a decision to almost double the number of Philippine bases the American military can access, some facing Taiwan, and their largest-ever joint military drill in April.

This week's three-day joint air and maritime exercise was a "significant initiative" to boost interoperability between the two, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

"I am confident this ... will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people," he said on social media platform X.

The drill would start off in Mavulis island, the&nbsp;Philippines' northernmost point, located about 100 km (62 miles) off Taiwan, said Eugene Cabusao, spokesperson for the Northern Luzon command.

It will end in the West Philippine Sea, the name Manila uses for waters in the South China Sea that fall within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Philippine military said three navy vessels, two FA-50 light combat aircraft and an A-29B Super Tucano light attack plane would participate, while the United States would send a littoral combat ship and a P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft.

The news comes a day after Marcos told a forum in Hawaii the situation in the South China Sea had become more "dire", with the Chinese military inching closer to the Philippine coastline.

The patrols, which are likely to irk China, are a sign the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;is stepping up its defence posture amid what it described as China's "aggressive activities" in the highly strategic waters, long seen as a potential flashpoint between the United States and China.

"China believes that defense and security cooperation between countries needs to be conducive to regional peace and stability. They should not escalate tensions or undermine trust between countries, still less target any third party," China's Washington embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said.

China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China claims most of the South China Sea on the basis of a "nine-dash line" that stretches as far as 1,500 km (900 miles) south of its mainland, cutting into the EEZs of rival claimants Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;and Vietnam.

Marcos has forged closer ties with Washington since assuming office last year after a testy relationship with former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had pivoted closer to Beijing in exchange for infrastructure projects and investments.

Ties with China have soured under Marcos, with repeated standoffs between Chinese and Filipino vessels in waters claimed by both countries, prompting heated exchanges of rhetoric and concerns of an escalation.

Marcos recently met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bid to reduce the tension.

The joint patrol with the United States showed that Manila was making a stand over the South China Sea, said Jay Batongbacal, director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea in Manila, the capital.

"It shows that the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;is really firming up its posture on West Philippine Sea issues," Batongbacal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China.

The militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China. Security engagements between the treaty allies have soared this year, including a decision to almost double the number of Philippine bases the American military can access, some facing Taiwan, and their largest-ever joint military drill in April. This week's three-day joint air and maritime exercise was a "significant initiative" to boost interoperability between the two, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. "I am confident this ... will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people," he said on social media platform X. The drill would start off in Mavulis island, the Philippines' northernmost point, located about 100 km (62 miles) off Taiwan, said Eugene Cabusao, spokesperson for the Northern Luzon command. It will end in the West Philippine Sea, the name Manila uses for waters in the South China Sea that fall within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippine military said three navy vessels, two FA-50 light combat aircraft and an A-29B Super Tucano light attack plane would participate, while the United States would send a littoral combat ship and a P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. The news comes a day after Marcos told a forum in Hawaii the situation in the South China Sea had become more "dire", with the Chinese military inching closer to the Philippine coastline. The patrols, which are likely to irk China, are a sign the Philippines is stepping up its defence posture amid what it described as China's "aggressive activities" in the highly strategic waters, long seen as a potential flashpoint between the United States and China. "China believes that defense and security cooperation between countries needs to be conducive to regional peace and stability. They should not escalate tensions or undermine trust between countries, still less target any third party," China's Washington embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China claims most of the South China Sea on the basis of a "nine-dash line" that stretches as far as 1,500 km (900 miles) south of its mainland, cutting into the EEZs of rival claimants Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Marcos has forged closer ties with Washington since assuming office last year after a testy relationship with former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had pivoted closer to Beijing in exchange for infrastructure projects and investments. Ties with China have soured under Marcos, with repeated standoffs between Chinese and Filipino vessels in waters claimed by both countries, prompting heated exchanges of rhetoric and concerns of an escalation. Marcos recently met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bid to reduce the tension. The joint patrol with the United States showed that Manila was making a stand over the South China Sea, said Jay Batongbacal, director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea in Manila, the capital. "It shows that the Philippines is really firming up its posture on West Philippine Sea issues," Batongbacal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines launches joint sea, air patrols with US military

Five American service members were killed after the military aircraft they were in crashed into the eastern Mediterranean Sea during training on Friday (Nov 12).

US European Command in a statement said that the accident took place during a routine air refuelling mission as part of military training.

It said that the rescue efforts began immediately after the crash, but none of those on board the plane survived.

A probe has been launched to ascertain how or at what point the flight crashed.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen,” the military said in a statement.

<h2>Accident not linked to conflict in the Middle East&nbsp;</h2>

The European Command categorically said that the incident was not linked to the Israel-Hamas war or the cross-firing along the Israel-Lebanon border.

“We can definitively say that the aircraft sortie was purely related to training and there are no indications of hostile activity.”

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden in a statement condoled the deaths.

“Jill and I are praying for the families&nbsp;and friends&nbsp;who have lost a precious loved one – a piece of their soul. Our entire nation shares their grief.”

He continued, “Service members willingly take risks&nbsp;to keep the American people safe&nbsp;and secure. And their daily bravery and selflessness is an enduring testament to what is best in our nation.”

<h2>Rise in US military aircraft crashes&nbsp;</h2>

Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin similarly called the accident “another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe.”

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“They represent the best of America,” he said in a statement. “We will remember their service and their sacrifice.”

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This isn’t the first that US military aircraft have crashed in recent years. In September, an F-35 stealth warplane went down, with the pilot able to eject.

In March, two US Army helicopters crashed during a nighttime training mission in Kentucky, killing all nine soldiers on board.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five American service members were killed after the military aircraft they were in crashed into the eastern Mediterranean Sea during training on Friday (Nov 12).

Five American service members were killed after the military aircraft they were in crashed into the eastern Mediterranean Sea during training on Friday (Nov 12). US European Command in a statement said that the accident took place during a routine air refuelling mission as part of military training. It said that the rescue efforts began immediately after the crash, but none of those on board the plane survived. A probe has been launched to ascertain how or at what point the flight crashed. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen,” the military said in a statement. Accident not linked to conflict in the Middle East The European Command categorically said that the incident was not linked to the Israel-Hamas war or the cross-firing along the Israel-Lebanon border. “We can definitively say that the aircraft sortie was purely related to training and there are no indications of hostile activity.” Meanwhile, President Joe Biden in a statement condoled the deaths. “Jill and I are praying for the families and friends who have lost a precious loved one – a piece of their soul. Our entire nation shares their grief.” He continued, “Service members willingly take risks to keep the American people safe and secure. And their daily bravery and selflessness is an enduring testament to what is best in our nation.” Rise in US military aircraft crashes Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin similarly called the accident “another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe.” Also read | Jewish school in Canada’s Montreal targeted by gunfire for second time in a week “They represent the best of America,” he said in a statement. “We will remember their service and their sacrifice.” Also read | France commits a billion Euros to polar research amid ice caps, glaciers' melting concerns This isn’t the first that US military aircraft have crashed in recent years. In September, an F-35 stealth warplane went down, with the pilot able to eject. In March, two US Army helicopters crashed during a nighttime training mission in Kentucky, killing all nine soldiers on board. (With inputs from agencies)

Five US service members killed after military aircraft crashes during training in Mediterranean Sea

Foreign military financing is a critical foreign policy tool for promoting Washington's interests around the world. It ensures US coalition partners and friendly foreign governments are equipped and trained to work.

US foreign military funding goes up | US boosting Ukraine, Taiwan & Israel forces

According to research by Duke University, you can buy personal information of serving US military members on the dark web for as little as 12 cents per head. Researchers funded by the military academy at West Point posed as buyers who contacted data broker firms that sold data sets.

US military personnel data up for sale, sold for 12 cents per person

Highly sensitive information of the US military personnel, including their families, and veterans, is being sold online in pennies and dimes per person, a new study from Duke University has found.

The data includes the personnel's health status, details of their family members, their home address, and work location.&nbsp;The university’s brokerage research project was able to purchase these information from sites that collect and sell personal information.

Some of those sites curated the search criteria to military demographics like branch, duty and veteran status, the report noted.

The research team was able to buy the data for as cheap as $0.12 per record.

<h2>US national security at risk</h2>

They also found that a vast unregulated, multibillion-dollar industry is thriving online in the US that spans from major credit reporting agencies to obscure analytics firms to mobile apps that quietly sell users’ location data.

“It was way too easy to obtain this data: a simple domain, 12 cents a service member, and no background checks on our purchases,” Justin Sherman, a senior fellow at Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy who runs its data brokerage research project, told CNN.

“If our research team, subject to university research ethics and privacy processes, could do this in an academic study, a foreign adversary could get data in a heartbeat to profile, blackmail, or target military personnel,” Sherman added.

These data are usually purchased by data brokers to conduct legitimate information surveys, such as background checks and credit checks.

However, there has been a growing concern that a foreign intelligence service can trace the whereabouts and expose vulnerabilities of US military members simply by shopping for the information online, as the sites that sell these information online don't conduct background checks on potential buyers.

<h2>Govt yet to act on it&nbsp;</h2>

The government has already taken note of it, with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau saying in August that it was&nbsp;exploring new rules that would bar data brokers from selling certain information except for specific circumstances.

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The Federal Trade Commission is currently considering new regulations to crack down on data brokers, CNN reported.

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“We cannot comment on any company’s specific practices,” an FTC spokesperson told the news outlet.

“However, we have repeatedly raised concerns about the practices of data brokers and their potential impact on consumer privacy. We are prepared to take action against any company that fails to safeguard consumer data and follow applicable laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act.”

Highly sensitive information of the US military personnel, including their families, and veterans, is being sold online in pennies and dimes per person, a new study from Duke University has found.

Highly sensitive information of the US military personnel, including their families, and veterans, is being sold online in pennies and dimes per person, a new study from Duke University has found. The data includes the personnel's health status, details of their family members, their home address, and work location. The university’s brokerage research project was able to purchase these information from sites that collect and sell personal information. Some of those sites curated the search criteria to military demographics like branch, duty and veteran status, the report noted. The research team was able to buy the data for as cheap as $0.12 per record. US national security at risk They also found that a vast unregulated, multibillion-dollar industry is thriving online in the US that spans from major credit reporting agencies to obscure analytics firms to mobile apps that quietly sell users’ location data. “It was way too easy to obtain this data: a simple domain, 12 cents a service member, and no background checks on our purchases,” Justin Sherman, a senior fellow at Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy who runs its data brokerage research project, told CNN. “If our research team, subject to university research ethics and privacy processes, could do this in an academic study, a foreign adversary could get data in a heartbeat to profile, blackmail, or target military personnel,” Sherman added. These data are usually purchased by data brokers to conduct legitimate information surveys, such as background checks and credit checks. However, there has been a growing concern that a foreign intelligence service can trace the whereabouts and expose vulnerabilities of US military members simply by shopping for the information online, as the sites that sell these information online don't conduct background checks on potential buyers. Govt yet to act on it The government has already taken note of it, with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau saying in August that it was exploring new rules that would bar data brokers from selling certain information except for specific circumstances. Also read | Ex-US prez Donald Trump fights with judge during testimony in civil fraud trial The Federal Trade Commission is currently considering new regulations to crack down on data brokers, CNN reported. Also read Australian woman allegedly dies due to side-effects of weight loss medication Ozempic “We cannot comment on any company’s specific practices,” an FTC spokesperson told the news outlet. “However, we have repeatedly raised concerns about the practices of data brokers and their potential impact on consumer privacy. We are prepared to take action against any company that fails to safeguard consumer data and follow applicable laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act.”

Sensitive data of US military personnel being sold online for pennies: Report

According to American media reports, a United States military jet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar in San Diego, California, on Friday (August 25). In a later update it was said that the pilot who was in the jet had died, reported ABC News citing a defence official.&nbsp;

The media reports citing officials said that the crash involved an F/A-18 Hornet. The MCAS public affairs had said earlier, that the crash was reported just before midnight in a remote part of the base east of Interstate 15.&nbsp;

The report by ABC News, citing an unnamed defence official said that the search and rescue teams recovered the US Marine Corps pilot at the crash site. The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing in North Carolina issued a statement confirming that the pilot was part of their unit.&nbsp;

Media reports citing a statement from the base in California reported that the crash took place near an interstate highway around 11:54 pm (local time) and called it “an accident”. According to Fox News, there was only one pilot on board.

The crash also happened during a training flight, reported ABC News. However, the cause of the crash is unknown and an investigation is underway. It was also not immediately clear if it was a single-seater or two-seater jet.&nbsp;

The MCAS public affairs had earlier said there were no indications of damage to property on the ground, reported the local media reports. “The crash site is on government property east of the air station and there are no indications of damage to property on the ground,” said the statement.&nbsp;

The MCAS also said that the aircraft was not part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing headquartered at Miramar (16 kilometers north of downtown San Diego) and was operating of the air station.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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According to American media reports, a United States military jet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar in San Diego, California, on Friday (August 25).

According to American media reports, a United States military jet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar in San Diego, California, on Friday (August 25). In a later update it was said that the pilot who was in the jet had died, reported ABC News citing a defence official. The media reports citing officials said that the crash involved an F/A-18 Hornet. The MCAS public affairs had said earlier, that the crash was reported just before midnight in a remote part of the base east of Interstate 15. The report by ABC News, citing an unnamed defence official said that the search and rescue teams recovered the US Marine Corps pilot at the crash site. The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing in North Carolina issued a statement confirming that the pilot was part of their unit. Media reports citing a statement from the base in California reported that the crash took place near an interstate highway around 11:54 pm (local time) and called it “an accident”. According to Fox News, there was only one pilot on board. The crash also happened during a training flight, reported ABC News. However, the cause of the crash is unknown and an investigation is underway. It was also not immediately clear if it was a single-seater or two-seater jet. The MCAS public affairs had earlier said there were no indications of damage to property on the ground, reported the local media reports. “The crash site is on government property east of the air station and there are no indications of damage to property on the ground,” said the statement. The MCAS also said that the aircraft was not part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing headquartered at Miramar (16 kilometers north of downtown San Diego) and was operating of the air station. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pilot of US F-18 military jet killed after 'accidental' crash near San Diego: Reports

In the United States, as abortion access for troops emerges as a sore spot, a second military branch is now without a confirmed leader.

On Friday, the US Army's chief of staff, General James McConville, stepped down after completing his tenure. However, protests over abortion access for US troops have come in the way of approval of Pentagon nominations, leaving the top post vacant.

<h2>The waiting game</h2>

As per AFP, more than 300 nominations, including the generals that are to be the new heads of Army and Marine Corps, are awaiting confirmation by the US Senate.

"Unfortunately, today, for the first time in the history of the Department of Defence, two of our services will be operating without Senate-confirmed leadership," said US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at a ceremony marking the end of General McConville's tenure.

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"The failure to confirm our superbly qualified senior uniformed leaders undermines our military readiness. It undermines our retention of some of our very best officers. And it is upending the lives of far too many of their spouses, children, and loved ones," he remarked.

The Pentagon, too, has emphasised that the delay in approval of these nominations negatively affects military families.

<h2>Lives 'in limbo'</h2>

Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth said. "We need the Senate to act not only on his nomination but also on the over 300 other general and flag officers across the armed services whose careers and lives are now in limbo because of this unprecedented hold."

To replace McConville, the Pentagon has nominated the current vice chief of staff of the Army, General Randy George. Till his nomination is confirmed, George will perform all the Army chief duties in an acting capacity.

The US Marine Corps commandant stepped down on July 10th, till date his post remains vacant. The problem is set to worsen as soon other top officers, including Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Mike Gilday and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley.

<h2>Pro-choice vs Pro-life</h2>

In June 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe V. Wade, striking down the nationwide right to abortion.&nbsp;

While the decision had clear, lasting repercussions for American women in most states, for those serving in the army it meant travelling to at times far away states, if stationed in places where abortion is restricted or banned.

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To allow troops to take administrative absences to receive "non-covered reproductive health care," and to establish travel allowances to help them cover costs, the Defence Secretary directed the US Defence Department to develop policies.

However, pro-life supporters like Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, claim these efforts are illegal and have vowed to delay approval of senior officers as well Defence Department civilian officials until Austin's policies are reversed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the United States, as abortion access for troops emerges as a sore spot, a second military branch is now without a confirmed leader. On Friday, the US Army's chief of staff, General James McConville, stepped down after completing his tenure.

In the United States, as abortion access for troops emerges as a sore spot, a second military branch is now without a confirmed leader. On Friday, the US Army's chief of staff, General James McConville, stepped down after completing his tenure. However, protests over abortion access for US troops have come in the way of approval of Pentagon nominations, leaving the top post vacant. The waiting game As per AFP, more than 300 nominations, including the generals that are to be the new heads of Army and Marine Corps, are awaiting confirmation by the US Senate. "Unfortunately, today, for the first time in the history of the Department of Defence, two of our services will be operating without Senate-confirmed leadership," said US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at a ceremony marking the end of General McConville's tenure. Also read | Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup "The failure to confirm our superbly qualified senior uniformed leaders undermines our military readiness. It undermines our retention of some of our very best officers. And it is upending the lives of far too many of their spouses, children, and loved ones," he remarked. The Pentagon, too, has emphasised that the delay in approval of these nominations negatively affects military families. Lives 'in limbo' Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth said. "We need the Senate to act not only on his nomination but also on the over 300 other general and flag officers across the armed services whose careers and lives are now in limbo because of this unprecedented hold." To replace McConville, the Pentagon has nominated the current vice chief of staff of the Army, General Randy George. Till his nomination is confirmed, George will perform all the Army chief duties in an acting capacity. The US Marine Corps commandant stepped down on July 10th, till date his post remains vacant. The problem is set to worsen as soon other top officers, including Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Mike Gilday and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley. Pro-choice vs Pro-life In June 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe V. Wade, striking down the nationwide right to abortion. While the decision had clear, lasting repercussions for American women in most states, for those serving in the army it meant travelling to at times far away states, if stationed in places where abortion is restricted or banned. Also read | US: People hope to kill massive serpents in Florida’s Burmese pythons killing contest To allow troops to take administrative absences to receive "non-covered reproductive health care," and to establish travel allowances to help them cover costs, the Defence Secretary directed the US Defence Department to develop policies. However, pro-life supporters like Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, claim these efforts are illegal and have vowed to delay approval of senior officers as well Defence Department civilian officials until Austin's policies are reversed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lives in 'limbo' as pro-life protest leaves top US military jobs unfilled

United States President Joe Biden, in a historic move, signed an order on Friday reshaping the way the United States military probes the cases of sexual assault by shifting the power from the unit commanders to independent prosecutors.

The order transfers key decision-making authorities from commanders to specialised, independent military prosecutors in cases of sexual assault, domestic violence, murder, and other serious offences by amending the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

This executive order published by the White House, will put an and to the pressure from the advocates of the victims in order to guarantee better accountability within the ranks, despite the aversion to change from the military top brass.&nbsp;

The order officially implements the changes passed by Congress in the Fiscal Year 2022's National Defense Authorization Act (FY22 NDAA).&nbsp;

The administration dubs it as “the most significant transformation of the military justice system since the UCMJ was established in 1950.”

"These reforms are a turning point for survivors of gender-based violence in the military. They fulfill President Biden’s promise to fundamentally shift how the military justice system responds to sexual assault and related crimes, which is something President Biden has prioritized since Day One of this administration. Ending gender-based violence wherever it occurs has been a top priority for the President throughout his career, as a Senator, and as Vice President," the White House said.&nbsp;

"As Commander in Chief, he’s made clear that our one truly sacred obligation as a nation is to prepare and equip those we send into harm’s way, and to care for them and their families both while they are deployed and when they return home. The reforms implemented through today’s Executive Order do just that, promoting dignity and respect for those who serve by better protecting our servicemembers and making the military safer and more just," it further added.

The White House said that the order takes significant action to reform the military justice system by amending the Manual for Courts-Martial and its accompanying rules for Courts-Martial that include establishing the rules that will govern the new Offices of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC), the independent military prosecutors who will now decide, in the place of commanders, whether to prosecute covered offences such as sexual assault and domestic violence, child abuse, and murder.

As per the latest Pentagon data, there were nearly 8,942 cases of sexual assault involving military personnel that were reported in the year 2022, slightly up on the previous year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden, in a historic move, signed an order on Friday reshaping the way the United States military probes the cases of sexual assault by shifting the power from the unit commanders to independent prosecutors.

United States President Joe Biden, in a historic move, signed an order on Friday reshaping the way the United States military probes the cases of sexual assault by shifting the power from the unit commanders to independent prosecutors. The order transfers key decision-making authorities from commanders to specialised, independent military prosecutors in cases of sexual assault, domestic violence, murder, and other serious offences by amending the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This executive order published by the White House, will put an and to the pressure from the advocates of the victims in order to guarantee better accountability within the ranks, despite the aversion to change from the military top brass. The order officially implements the changes passed by Congress in the Fiscal Year 2022's National Defense Authorization Act (FY22 NDAA). The administration dubs it as “the most significant transformation of the military justice system since the UCMJ was established in 1950.” "These reforms are a turning point for survivors of gender-based violence in the military. They fulfill President Biden’s promise to fundamentally shift how the military justice system responds to sexual assault and related crimes, which is something President Biden has prioritized since Day One of this administration. Ending gender-based violence wherever it occurs has been a top priority for the President throughout his career, as a Senator, and as Vice President," the White House said. "As Commander in Chief, he’s made clear that our one truly sacred obligation as a nation is to prepare and equip those we send into harm’s way, and to care for them and their families both while they are deployed and when they return home. The reforms implemented through today’s Executive Order do just that, promoting dignity and respect for those who serve by better protecting our servicemembers and making the military safer and more just," it further added. The White House said that the order takes significant action to reform the military justice system by amending the Manual for Courts-Martial and its accompanying rules for Courts-Martial that include establishing the rules that will govern the new Offices of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC), the independent military prosecutors who will now decide, in the place of commanders, whether to prosecute covered offences such as sexual assault and domestic violence, child abuse, and murder. As per the latest Pentagon data, there were nearly 8,942 cases of sexual assault involving military personnel that were reported in the year 2022, slightly up on the previous year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden signs order transforming way military handles sexual assault cases

In order to tackle fresh security challenges from Iran, the US on Thursday (July 20) announced the deployment of new military assets to West Asia.&nbsp;

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin approved the deployment of an Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) into the region.

The readiness group is made up of three ships—including the Bataan, an amphibious assault ship—whereas an expeditionary unit usually comprises about 2,500 Marines.

Along with Bataan, other two US warships—the USS Mesa Verde and the USS Carter Hall—have also been deployed.&nbsp;

This deployment comes after an initial decision of sending the F-35s, F-16s, and a guided missile destroyer, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116), to the region in previous weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attempts-to-seize-oil-tankers-in-strait-of-hormuz-prompts-us-navy-response-612454">Also read:&nbsp;Iran attempts to seize oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, prompts US Navy response</a>

“These additional forces provide unique capabilities, which alongside our partners nations in the region, further safeguard the free flow of international commerce and uphold the rules-based international order, and deter Iranian destabilizing activities in the region,” the US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Gen. Erik Kurilla said in a statement.

<h2>Rising security threat from Iran</h2>

The US claims Iran has increasingly sought to interrupt and block the safe passage of US commercial ships in recent times through the Strait of Hormuz, the 39km passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

In early July, the US said it prevented an Iranian attempt to seize two oil tankers near the Strait. In one incident, Iranian forces even opened fire on one oil tanker, prompting the USS McFaul destroyer to “drive off” the attacking vessels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-talk-with-mutual-understanding-to-cool-tensions-605322">Also read:&nbsp;US, Iran talk with mutual `understanding` to cool tensions</a>

“On July 5, US forces prevented two attempted commercial tanker seizures by the Iranian Navy after the Iranians had opened fire in one of the incidents near the coast of Oman,” a news release from the US Navy read.

<h2>US increasing military presence in West Asia since May</h2>

The US Navy has been ramping up its military deployment in the region since May, owing to increased seizure attempts by Iranian forces.

The US claims nearly 20 such incidents took place in 2021 alone.

“We remain vigilant and ready to protect navigational rights in these critical waters,” US Vice Admiral Brad Cooper said recently.

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In order to tackle fresh security challenges from Iran, the US on Thursday (July 20) announced the deployment of new military assets to West Asia. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin approved the deployment of an Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) into the region.

In order to tackle fresh security challenges from Iran, the US on Thursday (July 20) announced the deployment of new military assets to West Asia. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin approved the deployment of an Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) into the region. The readiness group is made up of three ships—including the Bataan, an amphibious assault ship—whereas an expeditionary unit usually comprises about 2,500 Marines. Along with Bataan, other two US warships—the USS Mesa Verde and the USS Carter Hall—have also been deployed. This deployment comes after an initial decision of sending the F-35s, F-16s, and a guided missile destroyer, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116), to the region in previous weeks. Also read: Iran attempts to seize oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, prompts US Navy response “These additional forces provide unique capabilities, which alongside our partners nations in the region, further safeguard the free flow of international commerce and uphold the rules-based international order, and deter Iranian destabilizing activities in the region,” the US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Gen. Erik Kurilla said in a statement. Rising security threat from Iran The US claims Iran has increasingly sought to interrupt and block the safe passage of US commercial ships in recent times through the Strait of Hormuz, the 39km passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. In early July, the US said it prevented an Iranian attempt to seize two oil tankers near the Strait. In one incident, Iranian forces even opened fire on one oil tanker, prompting the USS McFaul destroyer to “drive off” the attacking vessels. Also read: US, Iran talk with mutual `understanding` to cool tensions “On July 5, US forces prevented two attempted commercial tanker seizures by the Iranian Navy after the Iranians had opened fire in one of the incidents near the coast of Oman,” a news release from the US Navy read. US increasing military presence in West Asia since May The US Navy has been ramping up its military deployment in the region since May, owing to increased seizure attempts by Iranian forces. The US claims nearly 20 such incidents took place in 2021 alone. “We remain vigilant and ready to protect navigational rights in these critical waters,” US Vice Admiral Brad Cooper said recently. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US deploying more warships, Marines in West Asia amid Iranian aggression

The United States military emails were exposed to Russian ally Mali. The problem was simulated by entering '.ml' instead of '.mil'. This data containing diplomatic documents, tax returns and passwords by exposed in less than a minute.

US military emails redirected to Russian ally Mali

A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia.

The confusion seems to have arisen due to the domain name for sending emails. While the US military uses “.MIL” domain, the mails were being sent to “.ML,” the domain for Mali.

As a result, sensitive information, including diplomatic documents, tax returns, passwords, and travel details of top officers, were sent erroneously to the Mali government’s official email ID.

<h2>Happened multiple times</h2>

But what is concerning is that it has happened multiple times, with the first instance being reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who has a contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported.

Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages, with almost 1,000 arriving on Wednesday alone.

One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May.

He has been trying to get in&nbsp;contact with the US officials to apprise them of the grave error.

The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials.

In July, he sent a letter to the US writing, “This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/two-singaporean-lawmakers-resign-after-admitting-to-inappropriate-relationship-616585">Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’</a>

Till Sunday, the .ML domain was being handled by Zuurbier due to the 10-year contract, which expired on Monday.

<h2>US says aware of situation</h2>

It will revert to Mali’s government, which is closely allied with Russia, and might allow it to gain access to the millions of misdirected emails.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-will-establish-peace-in-ukraine-within-24-hours-of-coming-to-power-616620">Trump says he'll establish peace in Ukraine within 24 hours of coming to power</a>

Responding to the matter, Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon, told FT that the Department of Defence “is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously”.

He further said that emails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia.

A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia. The confusion seems to have arisen due to the domain name for sending emails. While the US military uses “.MIL” domain, the mails were being sent to “.ML,” the domain for Mali. As a result, sensitive information, including diplomatic documents, tax returns, passwords, and travel details of top officers, were sent erroneously to the Mali government’s official email ID. Happened multiple times But what is concerning is that it has happened multiple times, with the first instance being reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who has a contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported. Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages, with almost 1,000 arriving on Wednesday alone. One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May. He has been trying to get in contact with the US officials to apprise them of the grave error. The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials. In July, he sent a letter to the US writing, “This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US.” Also read | Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’ Till Sunday, the .ML domain was being handled by Zuurbier due to the 10-year contract, which expired on Monday. US says aware of situation It will revert to Mali’s government, which is closely allied with Russia, and might allow it to gain access to the millions of misdirected emails. Also read | Trump says he'll establish peace in Ukraine within 24 hours of coming to power Responding to the matter, Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon, told FT that the Department of Defence “is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously”. He further said that emails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands of US military emails mistakenly sent to Russian ally Mali due to ‘typo’

In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The strike was conducted on Friday using MQ-9 drones, which had earlier encountered interference from Russian aircraft during an incident that stretched&nbsp;nearly two hours, according to a statement from US Central Command.

“The strike on Friday was conducted by the same MQ-9s that had, earlier in the day, been&nbsp;harassed&nbsp;by Russian aircraft in an encounter that had lasted almost two hours,” the statement from US Central Command said, as reported by the Guardian.

The US Air Force released video footage that purportedly captured the encounter between the drones and Russian fighter jets on Wednesday, demonstrating the need for the MQ-9 Reapers to employ evasive manoeuvres. Expressing concern over the incident, the US Air Forces Central issued a statement condemning the actions of the Russian air forces operating in Syria, characterising them as unprofessional and unsafe.

Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force in the Middle East, recounted that one of the Russian pilots deliberately positioned his aircraft in front of a drone and engaged the SU-35's afterburner, intentionally impeding the safe operation of the drone by the operator.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-visit-will-not-solve-our-challenges-overnight-janet-yellen-tells-chinese-audience-613516">One visit will not solve our challenges overnight: Janet Yellen tells Chinese audience</a>

<h2>Washington intensifies raids on suspected islamic state operatives in Syria</h2>

In an escalated effort, Washington has increased its raids and operations targeting suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria. The operations have resulted in the killing and apprehension of leaders who had sought refuge in areas under the control of Turkey-backed rebels following the group's territorial losses in Syria in 2019.

Since the successful campaign that eliminated former IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, known for declaring himself the "caliph of all Muslims," the United States and its allies have been actively pursuing surviving leaders. Many of these individuals are believed to have been involved in planning attacks abroad.

US military commanders emphasise that while the IS has experienced significant degradation and a weakened ability to rebuild its network, it still poses a substantial threat in the region.

Also watch |&nbsp;US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition

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During its peak in 2014, the IS controlled a significant portion of Iraq and Syria. Despite being pushed back in both countries, the group's militants continue to carry out insurgent attacks, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by their presence.

The US military's strike against Usamah al-Muhajir, the ISIS leader, is part of its ongoing efforts to counter the threat posed by the extremist group in the region.&nbsp;

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In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters.

In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters. The strike was conducted on Friday using MQ-9 drones, which had earlier encountered interference from Russian aircraft during an incident that stretched nearly two hours, according to a statement from US Central Command. “The strike on Friday was conducted by the same MQ-9s that had, earlier in the day, been harassed by Russian aircraft in an encounter that had lasted almost two hours,” the statement from US Central Command said, as reported by the Guardian. The US Air Force released video footage that purportedly captured the encounter between the drones and Russian fighter jets on Wednesday, demonstrating the need for the MQ-9 Reapers to employ evasive manoeuvres. Expressing concern over the incident, the US Air Forces Central issued a statement condemning the actions of the Russian air forces operating in Syria, characterising them as unprofessional and unsafe. Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force in the Middle East, recounted that one of the Russian pilots deliberately positioned his aircraft in front of a drone and engaged the SU-35's afterburner, intentionally impeding the safe operation of the drone by the operator. Also read | One visit will not solve our challenges overnight: Janet Yellen tells Chinese audience Washington intensifies raids on suspected islamic state operatives in Syria In an escalated effort, Washington has increased its raids and operations targeting suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria. The operations have resulted in the killing and apprehension of leaders who had sought refuge in areas under the control of Turkey-backed rebels following the group's territorial losses in Syria in 2019. Since the successful campaign that eliminated former IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, known for declaring himself the "caliph of all Muslims," the United States and its allies have been actively pursuing surviving leaders. Many of these individuals are believed to have been involved in planning attacks abroad. US military commanders emphasise that while the IS has experienced significant degradation and a weakened ability to rebuild its network, it still poses a substantial threat in the region. Also watch | US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition During its peak in 2014, the IS controlled a significant portion of Iraq and Syria. Despite being pushed back in both countries, the group's militants continue to carry out insurgent attacks, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by their presence. The US military's strike against Usamah al-Muhajir, the ISIS leader, is part of its ongoing efforts to counter the threat posed by the extremist group in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Islamic State leader Usamah al-Muhajir killed in Syria: US central command

A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.

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BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion<a href="https://t.co/GesSDyU1xV">pic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV</a>
— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) <a href="https://twitter.com/spectatorindex/status/1671297929200685056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022. 
 
“It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated&nbsp;for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said.

<h2>Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia</h2>

In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral

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However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces.

<h2>Russia’s assault on Ukraine</h2>

Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday.

<h2>USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far</h2>

Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion.

It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-daniel-ellsbergs-history-defining-disclosure-with-pentagon-papers-that-rocked-white-house-605431">Also read:&nbsp;Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House</a>

In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines.

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A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.

A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation. BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billionpic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) June 20, 2023 × This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022. “It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said. Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Watch: Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral × However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces. Russia’s assault on Ukraine Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday. USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion. It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems. Also read: Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US overestimated value of weapons sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion: Pentagon

The Chinese ship manoeuvred 'unsafely' close to a US destroyer in the Taiwan Strait, according to the Navy. FILE - On March 2, 2022, the Pentagon can be seen from Air Force One as it travels over Washington. The U.S. military claims that a Chinese Navy ship manoeuvred in a "unsafe manner" close to a U.S. Navy destroyer in the Taiwan Strait.

US Military: Chinese ship moved in an unsafe manner

Russia claimed on Tuesday (May 23) that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet to "prevent violations of the state border" by two US Air Force strategic bombers flying over the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry said, "After removing the foreign military aircraft from the Russian state border, the Russian fighter went back to its air base."&nbsp;

The defence ministry claimed that the two aircraft were B-1 strategic bombers belonging to the US Air Force. According to the statement, the army prevented the violation of the border.&nbsp;

The ministry added, "The flight of the Russian fighter was carried out in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace."&nbsp;

Similar incidents have happened in the past as well and in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, they become detrimental.&nbsp;

Just over a week ago, Russia said that two aircraft were intercepted attempting to "violate" its airspace. One of the aircraft was German and the other one was French.&nbsp;

Before that, in mid-April, Russia sent a fighter jet to escort a German naval aircraft over the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine War: Are intel agencies fighting a parallel battle?&nbsp;

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<h2>When a Russian jet hit a US drone</h2>

A major incident happen when an American drone crashed after colliding with a Russian jet over the Black Sea in March.&nbsp;

The US military said that a Russian Su-27 fighter jet downed an American MQ-9 Reaper drone, and called it a "reckless" incident.&nbsp;

A video was released by the Pentagon, which showed the Russian military jet coming very close to a US military drone and dumping fuel near it. The US said that the Russian aircraft damaged the propeller during the intercept.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said that the de-classified video, which is about 40 seconds long, has been edited by the US military for length but shows events in sequential order.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russia has denied the accusations levelled by the US that its jets acted recklessly. Moscow said that the drone crashed after making "sharp manoeuvres," having "provocatively" flown close to Russian air space near Crimea.&nbsp;

A ministry statement had said that Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his US counterpart that the American drone flights near Crimea's coast "were provocative in nature" and could lead to "an escalation in the Black Sea zone."&nbsp;

After the incident, General Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, had said: "There is a pattern of behaviour recently where there is a little bit more aggressive actions being conducted by the Russians."&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Russia claimed on Tuesday (May 23) that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet to "prevent violations of the state border" by two US Air Force strategic bombers flying over the Baltic Sea.

Russia claimed on Tuesday (May 23) that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet to "prevent violations of the state border" by two US Air Force strategic bombers flying over the Baltic Sea. The Russian defence ministry said, "After removing the foreign military aircraft from the Russian state border, the Russian fighter went back to its air base." The defence ministry claimed that the two aircraft were B-1 strategic bombers belonging to the US Air Force. According to the statement, the army prevented the violation of the border. The ministry added, "The flight of the Russian fighter was carried out in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace." Similar incidents have happened in the past as well and in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, they become detrimental. Just over a week ago, Russia said that two aircraft were intercepted attempting to "violate" its airspace. One of the aircraft was German and the other one was French. Before that, in mid-April, Russia sent a fighter jet to escort a German naval aircraft over the Baltic Sea. WATCH | Ukraine War: Are intel agencies fighting a parallel battle? × When a Russian jet hit a US drone A major incident happen when an American drone crashed after colliding with a Russian jet over the Black Sea in March. The US military said that a Russian Su-27 fighter jet downed an American MQ-9 Reaper drone, and called it a "reckless" incident. A video was released by the Pentagon, which showed the Russian military jet coming very close to a US military drone and dumping fuel near it. The US said that the Russian aircraft damaged the propeller during the intercept. The Pentagon said that the de-classified video, which is about 40 seconds long, has been edited by the US military for length but shows events in sequential order. Meanwhile, Russia has denied the accusations levelled by the US that its jets acted recklessly. Moscow said that the drone crashed after making "sharp manoeuvres," having "provocatively" flown close to Russian air space near Crimea. A ministry statement had said that Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his US counterpart that the American drone flights near Crimea's coast "were provocative in nature" and could lead to "an escalation in the Black Sea zone." After the incident, General Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, had said: "There is a pattern of behaviour recently where there is a little bit more aggressive actions being conducted by the Russians." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia scrambles Su-27 to intercept two US military jets over Baltic Sea to prevent airspace violation

In the last 6 months, China has launched dozens of low earth orbit satellites. It begs an obvious question: what are low earth orbit satellites? & Why is China suddenly sending so many of them into space? The Americans claim, China is using its low earth orbit satellites to spy on United States' military installations. Mohammed Saleh gets you the details of China's plans to build the world's biggest surveillance system.

China's 13,500 satellites to spy on U.S. Military installations | World at War

Military pilots have high rates of cancer, and for the first time, a <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23713702-military-pilots-cancer-study">Pentagon study </a>has revealed that the ground crews who fuel, maintain, and launch those aircraft are also becoming sick.&nbsp;

Retired military aviators who had been raising concerns about the number of air and ground crew personnel they knew who had cancer for years had long wanted the data. They were informed that past military investigations had found no evidence that they were more at risk than the American population as a whole, as reported by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

The Pentagon found that air crew members had an 87&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;higher rate of melanoma and a 39 per cent&nbsp;higher rate of thyroid cancer, as well as a 16 per cent&nbsp;higher rate of prostate cancer for men and a 16&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;higher rate of breast cancer for women, in its year-long study of nearly 900,000 service members who flew or worked on military aircraft between 1992 and 2017. The risk of all cancers was 24&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;higher overall among flight crews.&nbsp;

The study found that while women had a seven&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;higher breast cancer risk, ground crews had a 19&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;higher rate of brain and nervous system cancers, a 15&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;&nbsp;higher rate of thyroid cancer, and a nine&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;&nbsp;higher rate of kidney or renal cancers. The total rate of all cancers increased by three&nbsp;per cent.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/3d-bioprinting-in-healthcare-this-technology-can-repair-organs-inside-the-human-body-573782">3D bioprinting in healthcare: This technology can eliminate the need for invasive surgeries</a>

Additionally, some good news was reported. Lung cancer rates were much lower among ground and air crews, and air crews also had reduced rates of bladder and colon cancer.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Did Trump pay adult-film star to not discuss the encounter? New York braces for drama | Details

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As observed by&nbsp;the Pentagon, the latest study was one of the biggest and most comprehensive studies to date. This study looked across all of the services and at both air and ground troops, in contrast to a prior study that just examined Air Force pilots and discovered some increased rates of cancer.&nbsp;

The research found that when people in the crew were diagnosed with cancer, they had a higher chance of surviving than people in the general population. The research suggested that this was because crew members were more likely to be in better health due to their military fitness requirements and were diagnosed with cancer earlier due to regular required medical checkups.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Military pilots have high rates of cancer, and for the first time, a Pentagon study has revealed that the ground crews who fuel, maintain, and launch those aircraft are also becoming sick.

Military pilots have high rates of cancer, and for the first time, a Pentagon study has revealed that the ground crews who fuel, maintain, and launch those aircraft are also becoming sick. Retired military aviators who had been raising concerns about the number of air and ground crew personnel they knew who had cancer for years had long wanted the data. They were informed that past military investigations had found no evidence that they were more at risk than the American population as a whole, as reported by the Associated Press. The Pentagon found that air crew members had an 87 per cent higher rate of melanoma and a 39 per cent higher rate of thyroid cancer, as well as a 16 per cent higher rate of prostate cancer for men and a 16 per cent higher rate of breast cancer for women, in its year-long study of nearly 900,000 service members who flew or worked on military aircraft between 1992 and 2017. The risk of all cancers was 24 per cent higher overall among flight crews. The study found that while women had a seven per cent higher breast cancer risk, ground crews had a 19 per cent higher rate of brain and nervous system cancers, a 15 per cent higher rate of thyroid cancer, and a nine per cent higher rate of kidney or renal cancers. The total rate of all cancers increased by three per cent. ALSO READ | 3D bioprinting in healthcare: This technology can eliminate the need for invasive surgeries Additionally, some good news was reported. Lung cancer rates were much lower among ground and air crews, and air crews also had reduced rates of bladder and colon cancer. ALSO WATCH | Did Trump pay adult-film star to not discuss the encounter? New York braces for drama | Details As observed by the Pentagon, the latest study was one of the biggest and most comprehensive studies to date. This study looked across all of the services and at both air and ground troops, in contrast to a prior study that just examined Air Force pilots and discovered some increased rates of cancer. The research found that when people in the crew were diagnosed with cancer, they had a higher chance of surviving than people in the general population. The research suggested that this was because crew members were more likely to be in better health due to their military fitness requirements and were diagnosed with cancer earlier due to regular required medical checkups. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Pentagon study finds higher cancer rates in military pilots, ground crew

The United States military claimed on Tuesday (March 14) that a Russian jet collided with an American drone over the Black Sea. Divulging details, the US military's European Command said that a Russian Su-27 jet fighter collided with an American MQ-9 Reaper drone.&nbsp;

US Air Force General James Hecker, the commander of US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa, said: "Our MQ-9 aircraft was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was intercepted and hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and complete loss of the MQ-9".&nbsp;

Hecker further said that "this incident demonstrates a lack of competence in addition to being unsafe and unprofessional".&nbsp;

The statement mentioned that the incident happened at approximately 7:03am (CET). It also noted that several times before the collision, the Su-27s dumped fuel on the drone and flew in front of it. The US Air Force called the incident "reckless" and "environmentally unsound".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-defends-ukraine-war-says-its-about-survival-of-russian-statehood-572027">Putin defends Ukraine war, claims it’s about ‘survival’ of Russian statehood</a>&nbsp;

CNN quoted a US official familiar with the incident as saying that the Russian fighter jet damaged the propeller of the American drone. The official, whose identity was not revealed in the report, said that the Reaper drone and two SU-27 Flanker jets were operating over international waters over the Black Sea when the incident occurred. One of the Russian jets "intentionally" flew in front of and dumped fuel in front of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).&nbsp;

While responding to the incident, the National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists that the Russian intercepts in the area are common, but this one "is noteworthy because of how unsafe and unprofessional it was, indeed reckless that it was".&nbsp;

<h2>US&nbsp;summons&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;envoy&nbsp;</h2>

In the immediate aftermath, The US summoned Russia's ambassador to protest the crash, the State Department said. Spokesman Ned Price told reporters: "We are engaging directly with the Russians, again at senior levels, to convey our strong objections to this unsafe, unprofessional intercept, which caused the downing of the unmanned US aircraft."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons

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<h2>Russia denies causing crash</h2>

Russia's defence ministry denied causing the crash as it said that it scrambled fighter jets following the detection of a US drone over the Black Sea.&nbsp;

"As a result of a sharp manoeuvre... the MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle entered an uncontrolled flight with loss of altitude and collided with the surface of the water," the ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry added that its fighter jets "did not use their on-board weapons, made no contact with the UAV".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The United States military claimed on Tuesday (March 14) that a Russian jet collided with an American drone over the Black Sea. Divulging details, the US military's European Command said that a Russian Su-27 jet fighter collided with an American MQ-9 Reaper drone.

The United States military claimed on Tuesday (March 14) that a Russian jet collided with an American drone over the Black Sea. Divulging details, the US military's European Command said that a Russian Su-27 jet fighter collided with an American MQ-9 Reaper drone. US Air Force General James Hecker, the commander of US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa, said: "Our MQ-9 aircraft was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was intercepted and hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and complete loss of the MQ-9". Hecker further said that "this incident demonstrates a lack of competence in addition to being unsafe and unprofessional". The statement mentioned that the incident happened at approximately 7:03am (CET). It also noted that several times before the collision, the Su-27s dumped fuel on the drone and flew in front of it. The US Air Force called the incident "reckless" and "environmentally unsound". ALSO READ | Putin defends Ukraine war, claims it’s about ‘survival’ of Russian statehood CNN quoted a US official familiar with the incident as saying that the Russian fighter jet damaged the propeller of the American drone. The official, whose identity was not revealed in the report, said that the Reaper drone and two SU-27 Flanker jets were operating over international waters over the Black Sea when the incident occurred. One of the Russian jets "intentionally" flew in front of and dumped fuel in front of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). While responding to the incident, the National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists that the Russian intercepts in the area are common, but this one "is noteworthy because of how unsafe and unprofessional it was, indeed reckless that it was". US summons Russian envoy In the immediate aftermath, The US summoned Russia's ambassador to protest the crash, the State Department said. Spokesman Ned Price told reporters: "We are engaging directly with the Russians, again at senior levels, to convey our strong objections to this unsafe, unprofessional intercept, which caused the downing of the unmanned US aircraft." WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons × Russia denies causing crash Russia's defence ministry denied causing the crash as it said that it scrambled fighter jets following the detection of a US drone over the Black Sea. "As a result of a sharp manoeuvre... the MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle entered an uncontrolled flight with loss of altitude and collided with the surface of the water," the ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that its fighter jets "did not use their on-board weapons, made no contact with the UAV". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian fighter jet hits US drone over Black Sea; US calls it 'reckless'

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region.&nbsp;

“Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US&nbsp;servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added.&nbsp;

While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty.&nbsp;

This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria.&nbsp;

Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” 
&nbsp;

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The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region. “Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added. While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty. This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria. Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military

U.S. military helicopter crashes on highway at Harvest, Alabama. Black flames & smoke rises from the UH-60 Black Hawk.

Fatal Helicopter Crash

U.S. military shot down a mysterious object to have appeared in the skies over lake Huran close to the Canadian border. This is the fourth flying object that has been taken down over North America in 2 weeks.

U.S. shoots down 4th object in two weeks

China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed. American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down on Sunday and collected the debris to analyse it.&nbsp;However, China has said that the balloon seen flying across the US was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.&nbsp;

A senior administration official familiar with the matter said that the Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Monday briefed officials from about 40 embassies about the latest on the balloon saga.&nbsp;

The report by The Post, which is based on interviews with several anonymous defence and intelligence officials, mentioned that the surveillance balloon effort, which has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast, has collected information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-takes-unspecified-measures-after-north-korean-balloon-briefly-spotted-over-south-korea-559295">Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea</a>&nbsp;

According to the report, the officials have claimed that these surveillance balloons have been spotted over five continents and are being operated in part by the Peoples Liberation Army air force.&nbsp;

As quoted by the report, one official said that "what the Chinese have done is taken an unbelievably old technology, and basically married it with modern communications and observation capabilities" to try to glean intelligence on other nations' militaries. the official said that "it's a massive effort".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, a recent report highlighted that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats. A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past. The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government.&nbsp;

Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out."&nbsp;

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China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed.

China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed. American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down on Sunday and collected the debris to analyse it. However, China has said that the balloon seen flying across the US was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. A senior administration official familiar with the matter said that the Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Monday briefed officials from about 40 embassies about the latest on the balloon saga. The report by The Post, which is based on interviews with several anonymous defence and intelligence officials, mentioned that the surveillance balloon effort, which has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast, has collected information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines. ALSO READ | Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea According to the report, the officials have claimed that these surveillance balloons have been spotted over five continents and are being operated in part by the Peoples Liberation Army air force. As quoted by the report, one official said that "what the Chinese have done is taken an unbelievably old technology, and basically married it with modern communications and observation capabilities" to try to glean intelligence on other nations' militaries. the official said that "it's a massive effort". WATCH | Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America × Meanwhile, a recent report highlighted that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats. A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past. The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan?

The suspected Chinese "spy balloon" in the airspace of the United States escalated the tensions between the US and China. Beijing said that it was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.&nbsp;

However, the way this entire balloon saga unfolded, it appears that it may have jeopardised the fragile ties between the two superpowers.&nbsp;In the aftermath, even the US States Secretary of State Antony Blinken had to postpone his crucial visit to Beijing.&nbsp;

But a recent report published by US-based media outlets notes that a top defence official said that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats.&nbsp;

A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past.&nbsp;The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-takes-unspecified-measures-after-north-korean-balloon-briefly-spotted-over-south-korea-559295">Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea</a>&nbsp;

Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out."&nbsp;

In a report by NBC News, it is mentioned that during a briefing, VanHerck was asked about whether or not his command had been involved in tracking previous balloons.&nbsp;

He was also asked whether he was able to identify differences between the most recent case of a suspected&nbsp;Chinese "spy balloon" and other balloons dating to the Trump administration.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America&nbsp;

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The US deployed a fighter jet to down the balloon on Sunday and VanHerck was giving an update on the recovery of debris, which was eventually done Tuesday.&nbsp;

He said that the US "utilised multiple capabilities to ensure we collected and utilised the opportunity to close intel gaps" while tracking the balloon across the American territory. &nbsp;

NBC report also added that a senior Biden administration official claimed that Chinese surveillance balloons had previously flown over the US United States.&nbsp;

According to the official, it has happened during the Biden administration and at least three other times during the term of former president Donald Trump.&nbsp;

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The suspected Chinese "spy balloon" in the airspace of the United States escalated the tensions between the US and China. Beijing said that it was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.

The suspected Chinese "spy balloon" in the airspace of the United States escalated the tensions between the US and China. Beijing said that it was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. However, the way this entire balloon saga unfolded, it appears that it may have jeopardised the fragile ties between the two superpowers. In the aftermath, even the US States Secretary of State Antony Blinken had to postpone his crucial visit to Beijing. But a recent report published by US-based media outlets notes that a top defence official said that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats. A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past. The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government. ALSO READ | Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out." In a report by NBC News, it is mentioned that during a briefing, VanHerck was asked about whether or not his command had been involved in tracking previous balloons. He was also asked whether he was able to identify differences between the most recent case of a suspected Chinese "spy balloon" and other balloons dating to the Trump administration. WATCH | Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America × The US deployed a fighter jet to down the balloon on Sunday and VanHerck was giving an update on the recovery of debris, which was eventually done Tuesday. He said that the US "utilised multiple capabilities to ensure we collected and utilised the opportunity to close intel gaps" while tracking the balloon across the American territory. NBC report also added that a senior Biden administration official claimed that Chinese surveillance balloons had previously flown over the US United States. According to the official, it has happened during the Biden administration and at least three other times during the term of former president Donald Trump. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Does the Chinese balloon incident highlight failure of US military?

The United States military carried out a strike in Somalia and killed at least 30 al-Shabaab fighters, said the US Africa Command in a statement&nbsp;on Saturday (January 21). The “collective self-defence strike”, as the US military described it, took place in the central Somalian town of Galcad, on Friday, where the East African nation’s military was engaged in heavy fighting. However, there was no US military present on the ground when the airstrike occurred, said Washington’s defence official.&nbsp; 
 
The operation was about 260 km away from the north of the capital Mogadishu where the Somali forces were attacked by at least 100 al-Shabaab fighters, said the statement. According to the Somali government and the militant group, at least seven soldiers were killed after the al-Shabaab fighters stormed the Somali military base in Galcad, reported Reuters. The US Africa Command, which is the American government’s presence on the continent, also said no civilians were injured or killed due to the remote location at which the strike occurred but three vehicles were destroyed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-eight-killed-in-roadside-bombing-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-552848">Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>

Meanwhile, a statement by Somalia’s Information Ministry said their soldiers had killed at least 100 fighters and destroyed five gun-mounted pick-up vehicles known as technicals, said a&nbsp;Reuters report. The militant group has been fighting since 2006 to topple the country’s government. Last year, as a part of the ongoing support by US President Joe Biden’s administration, Washington approved Pentagon’s request to redeploy troops in the region to counter the militant group.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-kill-six-in-raid-on-somalia-village-they-recently-lost-549979">Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost</a>

In the statement, on Saturday, the US military said, “Somalia remains central to stability and security in all of East Africa. US Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to help give them the tools they need to defeat al-Shabaab, the largest and most deadly al-Qaeda network in the world”. So far, the US forces have conducted several strikes in Somalia and killed many members of al-Shabaab. The last one took place in December near the Somalian city of Cadale which resulted in the death of at least six al-Shabaab militants.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The United States military carried out a strike in Somalia and killed at least 30 al-Shabaab fighters, said the US Africa Command in a statement on Saturday (January 21).

The United States military carried out a strike in Somalia and killed at least 30 al-Shabaab fighters, said the US Africa Command in a statement on Saturday (January 21). The “collective self-defence strike”, as the US military described it, took place in the central Somalian town of Galcad, on Friday, where the East African nation’s military was engaged in heavy fighting. However, there was no US military present on the ground when the airstrike occurred, said Washington’s defence official. The operation was about 260 km away from the north of the capital Mogadishu where the Somali forces were attacked by at least 100 al-Shabaab fighters, said the statement. According to the Somali government and the militant group, at least seven soldiers were killed after the al-Shabaab fighters stormed the Somali military base in Galcad, reported Reuters. The US Africa Command, which is the American government’s presence on the continent, also said no civilians were injured or killed due to the remote location at which the strike occurred but three vehicles were destroyed. ALSO READ | Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility Meanwhile, a statement by Somalia’s Information Ministry said their soldiers had killed at least 100 fighters and destroyed five gun-mounted pick-up vehicles known as technicals, said a Reuters report. The militant group has been fighting since 2006 to topple the country’s government. Last year, as a part of the ongoing support by US President Joe Biden’s administration, Washington approved Pentagon’s request to redeploy troops in the region to counter the militant group. ALSO READ | Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost In the statement, on Saturday, the US military said, “Somalia remains central to stability and security in all of East Africa. US Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to help give them the tools they need to defeat al-Shabaab, the largest and most deadly al-Qaeda network in the world”. So far, the US forces have conducted several strikes in Somalia and killed many members of al-Shabaab. The last one took place in December near the Somalian city of Cadale which resulted in the death of at least six al-Shabaab militants. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US military says strike in Somalia killed at least 30 members of militant group al-Shabaab

China's defence ministry has accused the US military of misguiding the public about a previous confrontation between the two forces in the South China Sea about the disputed Paracel Islands.&nbsp;Two days after the US military alleged that a Chinese Navy aircraft flew dangerously close to a US air force jet, the defence ministry of China has accused the US military of fudging information, Reuters reported. 
 
ccording to a defence ministry spokesperson, the US military plane violated international law and compromised the safety of Chinese pilots.

On Thursday, the US military claimed that a Navy J-11 fighter jet from China came within three metres of US air force RC-135 aircraft on December 21. China's action pushed the US military to take unavoidable steps to prevent a collision between the two. 
 
ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-three-unidentified-ballistic-missile-says-south-korea-548212">North Korea fired three ‘unidentified ballistic missiles,’ says South Korea</a>

However, the spokesman for China's Southern Theatre Command, Tian Junli, gave a statement on Saturday denying the accusations. He argued that the US aircraft overstepped international territories, neglected consistent warnings, and took unsafe measures putting the Chinese aircraft at risk.&nbsp;

"The United States deliberately misleads public opinion to confuse the international audience," Tian said. "We solemnly request the US side to restrain the actions of frontline naval and air forces, strictly abide by related international laws and agreements, and prevent accidents in the sea and the air," he continued. 
 
WATCH |&nbsp;Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

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A large portion of the southern waters near China comes under Chinese territory. However, other countries like Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also hold small parts.

Conflicts over the South China sea are not new to China. US military has increased patrols near the water body to avoid armed conflicts between China, Vietnam, and the Philippines, which struggle to assert maritime power over it.&nbsp;

The ownership of the Paracel islands remains heavily debated. However, the People's Republic of China has de facto control over the islands.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's defence ministry has accused the US military of misguiding the public about a previous confrontation between the two forces in the South China Sea about the disputed Paracel Islands.

China's defence ministry has accused the US military of misguiding the public about a previous confrontation between the two forces in the South China Sea about the disputed Paracel Islands. Two days after the US military alleged that a Chinese Navy aircraft flew dangerously close to a US air force jet, the defence ministry of China has accused the US military of fudging information, Reuters reported. ccording to a defence ministry spokesperson, the US military plane violated international law and compromised the safety of Chinese pilots. On Thursday, the US military claimed that a Navy J-11 fighter jet from China came within three metres of US air force RC-135 aircraft on December 21. China's action pushed the US military to take unavoidable steps to prevent a collision between the two. ALSO READ| North Korea fired three ‘unidentified ballistic missiles,’ says South Korea However, the spokesman for China's Southern Theatre Command, Tian Junli, gave a statement on Saturday denying the accusations. He argued that the US aircraft overstepped international territories, neglected consistent warnings, and took unsafe measures putting the Chinese aircraft at risk. "The United States deliberately misleads public opinion to confuse the international audience," Tian said. "We solemnly request the US side to restrain the actions of frontline naval and air forces, strictly abide by related international laws and agreements, and prevent accidents in the sea and the air," he continued. WATCH | Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION A large portion of the southern waters near China comes under Chinese territory. However, other countries like Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also hold small parts. Conflicts over the South China sea are not new to China. US military has increased patrols near the water body to avoid armed conflicts between China, Vietnam, and the Philippines, which struggle to assert maritime power over it. The ownership of the Paracel islands remains heavily debated. However, the People's Republic of China has de facto control over the islands. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China accuses US military of distorting information about close aircraft encounter

Taiwan's population is dwindling. The result is that its military is seeing record-low recruitment figures. This comes at a time when tensions with China are worsening.

WION Fineprint | Taiwan's military intake the lowest in a decade

In a rare move, the US military informed its allies as well as adversaries of the docking of a US Navy nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine for the first time at the remote island of Diego Garcia, located in the Indian Ocean, as part of the months-long deployment. 
 
The Navy, in its message, revealed the USS West Virginia's docking in the Indian Ocean and its visit to the port from October 25 to 31. When Navy submarines are at sea, their specific movements remain highly classified, so the submarines would have got the required time to transit to a different location in the Indian Ocean because of the delayed announcement.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unwilling-to-allow-effective-foreign-covid-vaccine-despite-the-protests-us-539816">China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US</a> 
 
As per a military official, the importance of publicising the USS West Virginia's port call is to relay a message to its potential allies as well as adversaries. “They should take from this that a ballistic missile submarine which is undetectable can operate in any ocean for an extended period,” said the official. 
 
Both the US and British forces use Diego Garcia, which is a highly militarised island, located in the south of the equator. The nuclear-missile-equipped submarine's remote location helped it in ensuring that the 150-person crew remains unobserved by outsiders and the operations of the submarine remain a secret, allowing it to dock in the region for a longer duration. 
 
The official did not clarify if the message was aimed at Russia, North Korea or China, however, it is known for a fact that the US submarines' underwater stealth is critical to collecting highly classified signals intelligence related to adversaries along with providing sea-based nuclear deterrence with the presence of nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-says-silence-is-complicity-in-his-call-to-denounce-anti-semitism-539736">Joe Biden says 'silence is complicity' in his call to denounce anti-semitism</a> 
 
In a statement, Commander of US Strategic Command Adm Charles Richard said: “Every operational plan rests on the assumption that nuclear deterrence is holding, and (ballistic missile submarines) like West Virginia are vital to a credible nuclear deterrence for the United States and our allies.” 
 
As per the official, a standard submarine patrol lasts for 10 to 12 weeks and it can be extended by many weeks by switching out the crew.

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In a rare move, the US military informed its allies as well as adversaries of the docking of a US Navy nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine for the first time at the remote island of Diego Garcia, located in the Indian Ocean, as part of the months-long deployment.

In a rare move, the US military informed its allies as well as adversaries of the docking of a US Navy nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine for the first time at the remote island of Diego Garcia, located in the Indian Ocean, as part of the months-long deployment. The Navy, in its message, revealed the USS West Virginia's docking in the Indian Ocean and its visit to the port from October 25 to 31. When Navy submarines are at sea, their specific movements remain highly classified, so the submarines would have got the required time to transit to a different location in the Indian Ocean because of the delayed announcement. ALSO READ| China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US As per a military official, the importance of publicising the USS West Virginia's port call is to relay a message to its potential allies as well as adversaries. “They should take from this that a ballistic missile submarine which is undetectable can operate in any ocean for an extended period,” said the official. Both the US and British forces use Diego Garcia, which is a highly militarised island, located in the south of the equator. The nuclear-missile-equipped submarine's remote location helped it in ensuring that the 150-person crew remains unobserved by outsiders and the operations of the submarine remain a secret, allowing it to dock in the region for a longer duration. The official did not clarify if the message was aimed at Russia, North Korea or China, however, it is known for a fact that the US submarines' underwater stealth is critical to collecting highly classified signals intelligence related to adversaries along with providing sea-based nuclear deterrence with the presence of nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles. ALSO READ| Joe Biden says 'silence is complicity' in his call to denounce anti-semitism In a statement, Commander of US Strategic Command Adm Charles Richard said: “Every operational plan rests on the assumption that nuclear deterrence is holding, and (ballistic missile submarines) like West Virginia are vital to a credible nuclear deterrence for the United States and our allies.” As per the official, a standard submarine patrol lasts for 10 to 12 weeks and it can be extended by many weeks by switching out the crew.

US Navy shows its prowess, shares submarine’s ‘undetected’ port visit, docking in Indian Ocean

A United States patrol base was attacked by two rockets targeted at the coalition forces in Syria, said a statement by the US central command (CENTCOM), on Friday. The base was located in Al-Shaddadi and the attack took place at approximately 10:31 pm (local time in Syria), it added. This comes amid the recent escalation and a wave of rocket attacks along the Syria-Turkiye border.&nbsp;

“The attack resulted in no injuries or damage to the base or coalition property,” said the statement by CENTCOM. The Kurdish People’s Protection Units or the YPG-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been Washington’s key ally in the fight against ISIL (ISIS) group in the region. The SDF, after the rocket attacks, visited the origin site and found a third unfired rocket, said the officials, without disclosing who was behind the firing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-people-killed-several-wounded-after-rocket-strikes-by-kurdish-militants-in-syria-turkiye-536157">At least two people killed, several wounded after rocket strikes by Kurdish militants in Syria: Turkiye</a>

Meanwhile, the recent escalation in the region is marked by an increase in the number of air raids and rocket attacks between Syria-Turkiye following the bombing in Istanbul on November 13. The bombing had reportedly killed six people and injured 80, for which Ankara blames the Kurdish groups in Syria.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-launches-airstrikes-over-northern-syria-535708">Turkey launches airstrikes over northern Syria</a>

Subsequently, Turkiye said that it had launched airstrikes on&nbsp;nearly 90 targets which were destroyed by its warplanes. According to authorities in Ankara, they killed several people who they refer to as “terrorists”. At least 31 people were killed in these strikes, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ankara-launches-bomb-strikes-over-northern-syria-after-istanbul-bomb-blast-535695">Türkiye launches air raids against Kurdish militants in Syria and Iraq, 31 dead</a>

On the other hand, suspected Kurdish militants in Syria fired rockets across the border killing at least two people and injuring approximately 10 people, said officials in Turkiye&nbsp;last week. “Attacks of this kind place coalition forces and the civilian populace at risk and undermine the hard-earned stability and security of Syria and the region,” said CENTCOM spokesman, Colonel Joe Buccino in a statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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A United States patrol base was attacked by two rockets targeted at the coalition forces in Syria, said a statement by the US central command (CENTCOM), on Friday.

A United States patrol base was attacked by two rockets targeted at the coalition forces in Syria, said a statement by the US central command (CENTCOM), on Friday. The base was located in Al-Shaddadi and the attack took place at approximately 10:31 pm (local time in Syria), it added. This comes amid the recent escalation and a wave of rocket attacks along the Syria-Turkiye border. “The attack resulted in no injuries or damage to the base or coalition property,” said the statement by CENTCOM. The Kurdish People’s Protection Units or the YPG-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been Washington’s key ally in the fight against ISIL (ISIS) group in the region. The SDF, after the rocket attacks, visited the origin site and found a third unfired rocket, said the officials, without disclosing who was behind the firing. ALSO READ | At least two people killed, several wounded after rocket strikes by Kurdish militants in Syria: Turkiye Meanwhile, the recent escalation in the region is marked by an increase in the number of air raids and rocket attacks between Syria-Turkiye following the bombing in Istanbul on November 13. The bombing had reportedly killed six people and injured 80, for which Ankara blames the Kurdish groups in Syria. ALSO WATCH | Turkey launches airstrikes over northern Syria Subsequently, Turkiye said that it had launched airstrikes on nearly 90 targets which were destroyed by its warplanes. According to authorities in Ankara, they killed several people who they refer to as “terrorists”. At least 31 people were killed in these strikes, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group. ALSO READ | Türkiye launches air raids against Kurdish militants in Syria and Iraq, 31 dead On the other hand, suspected Kurdish militants in Syria fired rockets across the border killing at least two people and injuring approximately 10 people, said officials in Turkiye last week. “Attacks of this kind place coalition forces and the civilian populace at risk and undermine the hard-earned stability and security of Syria and the region,” said CENTCOM spokesman, Colonel Joe Buccino in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘No injures or damage’: US military after rocket attack on patrol base in Syria

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed.

His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said.

Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly.

Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-struggling-to-find-naval-pilots-for-three-aircraft-carriers-report-521421">China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report</a>

"An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further."

The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China.

An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment.

Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed.

Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-air-force-f-35a-crashes-in-florida-pilot-ejects-safely-probe-on-526961">US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on</a>

Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor.

He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show.

Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry".

Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020.

Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment.

Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited.

&nbsp;

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A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show. Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed. His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said. Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly. Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed. ALSO READ: China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report "An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further." The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China. An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment. Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed. Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters. ALSO READ: US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor. He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show. Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry". Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020. Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment. Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former US military pilot who worked in China arrested in Australia, faces extradition

The Pentagon will offer travel assistance and support to troops and their families who need abortions but are based in areas where the procedure is now prohibited. The military will also strengthen privacy safeguards for anyone seeking medical attention, according to a new department policy issued on Thursday.&nbsp;

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's memo specifies the rights and protections service personnel and their dependents will receive regardless of where they are based, which was a major concern for troops when the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade in June.

The accessibility to abortion has emerged as a key issue in the midterm elections. If Democrats have enough seats in Congress to enact it, President Joe Biden indicated this week that the first bill he sends to Capitol Hill the next year will be one that codifies abortion safeguards into law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-indicts-smugglers-who-smuggled-american-chips-to-russia-527056">US indicts 5 Russians for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia</a>

Women's constitutional rights to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-expected-to-pledge-codifying-abortion-rights-ahead-of-mid-term-elections-526545">abortion</a> were eliminated by the high court's decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson case, which also gave states the authority to decide whether abortions are permitted in their jurisdictions. Since then, more than a dozen states have outlawed or severely restricted abortion.

The new policy establishes rules so that local commanders cannot control whether service members have access to care or foster an environment where service members or their dependents are afraid to report problems for fear of punishment. It builds on the Pentagon's initial response in June, when it said it would continue to permit medical leave for service members who needed to travel out of state for abortions but noted it needed to carefully consider the court decision and ensuing state laws to determine whether any additional guidance would be required.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-says-he-hasnt-received-any-funding-from-pentagon-for-starlink-services-in-ukraine-526631">Musk says he hasn't received any funding from Pentagon for Starlink services in Ukraine</a>

The new regulations also extend the time a service member must notify commanders of a pregnancy to 20 weeks and give additional protections to defence healthcare providers who perform abortions. Each military base is also required to publicly list the reproductive health care services available to service members and their dependents.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Pentagon will offer travel assistance and support to troops and their families who need abortions but are based in areas where the procedure is now prohibited.

The Pentagon will offer travel assistance and support to troops and their families who need abortions but are based in areas where the procedure is now prohibited. The military will also strengthen privacy safeguards for anyone seeking medical attention, according to a new department policy issued on Thursday. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's memo specifies the rights and protections service personnel and their dependents will receive regardless of where they are based, which was a major concern for troops when the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade in June. The accessibility to abortion has emerged as a key issue in the midterm elections. If Democrats have enough seats in Congress to enact it, President Joe Biden indicated this week that the first bill he sends to Capitol Hill the next year will be one that codifies abortion safeguards into law. Also read | US indicts 5 Russians for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia Women's constitutional rights to abortion were eliminated by the high court's decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson case, which also gave states the authority to decide whether abortions are permitted in their jurisdictions. Since then, more than a dozen states have outlawed or severely restricted abortion. The new policy establishes rules so that local commanders cannot control whether service members have access to care or foster an environment where service members or their dependents are afraid to report problems for fear of punishment. It builds on the Pentagon's initial response in June, when it said it would continue to permit medical leave for service members who needed to travel out of state for abortions but noted it needed to carefully consider the court decision and ensuing state laws to determine whether any additional guidance would be required. Also read | Musk says he hasn't received any funding from Pentagon for Starlink services in Ukraine The new regulations also extend the time a service member must notify commanders of a pregnancy to 20 weeks and give additional protections to defence healthcare providers who perform abortions. Each military base is also required to publicly list the reproductive health care services available to service members and their dependents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pentagon pledges funds, help for troops seeking abortions

The U.S. Pentagon has stopped accepting new F-35 jets after it discovered a magnet used in the stealthy fighter's engine was made with unauthorized material from China. Eric Njoka tells you more.

WION Fineprint | US military halts F-35 jet deliveries over use of Chinese alloy

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