The United States Navy on Wednesday displayed limpet mine fragments and a magnet it said it had removed from one of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-of-oman-tanker-attacks-un-chief-pushes-for-an-independent-probe-as-iran-rejects-us-blame-227226">two oil tankers attacked</a> in the Gulf of Oman last week, saying the mines bore a striking resemblance to Iranian ones.

The United States, waging a "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign against Iran to curb its nuclear and regional activities, has been trying to build an international consensus that Iran was behind last week's blasts, as well as a May 12 strike on four oil tankers off<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-nobody-wants-war-after-tanker-attacks-in-gulf-of-oman-227114"> the United Arab Emirates</a>.

Tehran has denied any involvement in both attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major transit route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have raised fears of broader confrontation in the Gulf region.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-releases-new-images-from-suspected-attacks-on-gulf-tankers-228402/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The US&nbsp;military previously released images it said showed Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Japanese-owned tanker Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13.

"The limpet mine that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," said Commander Sean Kido, commanding officer of an explosive ordinance dive and salvage task group in the Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT).

He was speaking to reporters at a NAVCENT facility near the UAE port of Fujairah. Small fragments said to have been removed from the Kokuka Courageous were on display alongside a magnet purportedly left by the IRCG team allegedly captured on video.

The Japanese company that owns the Kokuka Courageous had said that its ship was damaged by two "flying objects", but NAVCENT dismissed this.

"The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," Kido said, adding that nail holes visible in the hull indicated how the mine was attached to the ship.

The location of the mine above the ship's waterline indicated the intention was not to sink the vessel, he said.

Kido also said NAVCENT had collected biometric information including fingerprints from the ship's hull that would help in building a criminal case.

He said the United States was working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation", but declined to name the countries taking part.

Washington and Riyadh have publicly blamed Iran for last week's attack and the sabotaging last month of four ships, including two Saudi tankers, off Fujairah, a major bunkering hub. Several European nations have said more evidence is needed.

The UAE has said an inquiry into the May 12 attack pointed to a state actor, without naming a country. That inquiry said it was highly likely that limpet mines placed by trained divers were the cause.

"The dynamics of the two attacks are not clear, and the video that the U.S. said demonstrated Iran's role was also not clear," a Western diplomat in the Gulf said.

"The European line is that de-escalation (from possible conflict) must be a priority. Abu Dhabi is very much in line with the EU views on this," the diplomat said.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Tuesday that Washington would maintain its pressure campaign on Iran and continue to deter aggression in the region but does not want the confrontation with Tehran to escalate.

The United States said on Monday it would send around 1,000 more troops to the Middle East, in addition to a 1,500-troop increase announced last month that it said was prompted by Iranian threats.

The United States Navy on Wednesday displayed limpet mine fragments and a magnet it said it had removed from one of two oil tankers attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week, saying the mines bore a striking resemblance to Iranian ones.

The United States Navy on Wednesday displayed limpet mine fragments and a magnet it said it had removed from one of two oil tankers attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week, saying the mines bore a striking resemblance to Iranian ones. The United States, waging a "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign against Iran to curb its nuclear and regional activities, has been trying to build an international consensus that Iran was behind last week's blasts, as well as a May 12 strike on four oil tankers off the United Arab Emirates. Tehran has denied any involvement in both attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major transit route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have raised fears of broader confrontation in the Gulf region. The US military previously released images it said showed Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Japanese-owned tanker Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13. "The limpet mine that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," said Commander Sean Kido, commanding officer of an explosive ordinance dive and salvage task group in the Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT). He was speaking to reporters at a NAVCENT facility near the UAE port of Fujairah. Small fragments said to have been removed from the Kokuka Courageous were on display alongside a magnet purportedly left by the IRCG team allegedly captured on video. The Japanese company that owns the Kokuka Courageous had said that its ship was damaged by two "flying objects", but NAVCENT dismissed this. "The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," Kido said, adding that nail holes visible in the hull indicated how the mine was attached to the ship. The location of the mine above the ship's waterline indicated the intention was not to sink the vessel, he said. Kido also said NAVCENT had collected biometric information including fingerprints from the ship's hull that would help in building a criminal case. He said the United States was working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation", but declined to name the countries taking part. Washington and Riyadh have publicly blamed Iran for last week's attack and the sabotaging last month of four ships, including two Saudi tankers, off Fujairah, a major bunkering hub. Several European nations have said more evidence is needed. The UAE has said an inquiry into the May 12 attack pointed to a state actor, without naming a country. That inquiry said it was highly likely that limpet mines placed by trained divers were the cause. "The dynamics of the two attacks are not clear, and the video that the U.S. said demonstrated Iran's role was also not clear," a Western diplomat in the Gulf said. "The European line is that de-escalation (from possible conflict) must be a priority. Abu Dhabi is very much in line with the EU views on this," the diplomat said. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Tuesday that Washington would maintain its pressure campaign on Iran and continue to deter aggression in the region but does not want the confrontation with Tehran to escalate. The United States said on Monday it would send around 1,000 more troops to the Middle East, in addition to a 1,500-troop increase announced last month that it said was prompted by Iranian threats.

Limpet mine used in oil tanker attack resembled Iranian mines: US Navy

A US Navy surveillance aircraft in international airspace over the Mediterranean Sea was intercepted three times by a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bombers-fighters-intercepted-off-alaska-us-military-220574"> Russian jet fighter over three hours</a> on Tuesday, including a high-speed pass that was deemed unsafe and put the plane at risk, the US Sixth Fleet said.

"While the Russian aircraft was operating in international airspace, this interaction was irresponsible," the Sixth Fleet said in a statement.

"We expect them to behave within international standards set to ensure safety and prevent incidents," it said.

The Sixth Fleet said the first and third intercepts of the P-8A Poseidon were deemed to be safe but the second intercept involved a high-speed pass directly in front of the US aircraft that produced wake turbulence and "put our pilots and crew at risk."

A US Navy surveillance aircraft in international airspace over the Mediterranean Sea was intercepted three times by a Russian jet fighter over three hours on Tuesday, including a high-speed pass that was deemed unsafe and put the plane at risk, the US Sixth Fleet said.

A US Navy surveillance aircraft in international airspace over the Mediterranean Sea was intercepted three times by a Russian jet fighter over three hours on Tuesday, including a high-speed pass that was deemed unsafe and put the plane at risk, the US Sixth Fleet said. "While the Russian aircraft was operating in international airspace, this interaction was irresponsible," the Sixth Fleet said in a statement. "We expect them to behave within international standards set to ensure safety and prevent incidents," it said. The Sixth Fleet said the first and third intercepts of the P-8A Poseidon were deemed to be safe but the second intercept involved a high-speed pass directly in front of the US aircraft that produced wake turbulence and "put our pilots and crew at risk."

Navy surveillance aircraft intercepted three times by Russian jet: US Sixth Fleet

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China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-go-too-far-in-damaging-moves-china-tells-us-219797">rising tensions between the two powers</a>.

The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S. Diehl, a supply ship, conducted a routine transit "in accordance with international law" on Wednesday.

"The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the navy said.

"The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows."

US warships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" exercises in the narrow waterway separating the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, triggering angry responses from Beijing every time.

Beijing views any ships passing through the strait as essentially breaching its sovereignty, while the US and many other nations view the route as international waters open to all.

"We have lodged solemn representations with the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing.

The sail-by comes on top of tensions between the United States and China over trade and US efforts to thwart Chinese telecom giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-unwanted-asian-shops-shun-phone-trade-ins-on-google-suspension-worries-220614">Huawei </a>over security concerns.

The transit also comes as the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-south-korea-start-first-of-its-kind-naval-drill-220878"> US, Japan, South Korea</a> and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries.

Drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," the US 7th Fleet said.

In April, Beijing said its navy warned off a French warship that had entered the Taiwan Strait and lodged an official complaint with Paris.

China sees Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949.

The US diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan, but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier.

For the Guam naval drills, Australia has contributed two frigates, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the 7th Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side.

Home to more than 160,000 people, Guam was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with North Korea threatening to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions between the two powers. The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S.

China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions between the two powers. The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S. Diehl, a supply ship, conducted a routine transit "in accordance with international law" on Wednesday. "The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the navy said. "The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows." US warships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" exercises in the narrow waterway separating the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, triggering angry responses from Beijing every time. Beijing views any ships passing through the strait as essentially breaching its sovereignty, while the US and many other nations view the route as international waters open to all. "We have lodged solemn representations with the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing. The sail-by comes on top of tensions between the United States and China over trade and US efforts to thwart Chinese telecom giant Huawei over security concerns. The transit also comes as the US, Japan, South Korea and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries. Drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," the US 7th Fleet said. In April, Beijing said its navy warned off a French warship that had entered the Taiwan Strait and lodged an official complaint with Paris. China sees Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949. The US diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan, but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier. For the Guam naval drills, Australia has contributed two frigates, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the 7th Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side. Home to more than 160,000 people, Guam was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with North Korea threatening to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

China rebukes US over warship sail-by in Taiwan Strait

The United States,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-it-japans-smartphone-app-to-scare-off-molesters-become-smash-hit-220532"> Japan</a>, South Korea and Australia have kicked off "first-of-its-kind" naval drills near Guam, the US Navy said Thursday, amid mounting tensions with China and North Korea.

The "Pacific Vanguard" drill brings together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries to "sharpen skills and strengthen practical cooperation at sea," the US Seventh Fleet said in a statement.

The drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," added the statement.

Australia has contributed two frigates to the exercise, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the Seventh Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side.

With trade tensions growing between Washington and Beijing, China earlier this week denounced a US warship sail-by near disputed islands in the South China Sea.

And Guam, home to more than 160,000 people, was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missiles-like-these-will-start-the-war-north-korea-tests-showcase-growing-capability-217458"> North Korea threatening </a>to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

The United States, Japan, South Korea and Australia have kicked off "first-of-its-kind" naval drills near Guam, the US Navy said Thursday, amid mounting tensions with China and North Korea.

The United States, Japan, South Korea and Australia have kicked off "first-of-its-kind" naval drills near Guam, the US Navy said Thursday, amid mounting tensions with China and North Korea. The "Pacific Vanguard" drill brings together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries to "sharpen skills and strengthen practical cooperation at sea," the US Seventh Fleet said in a statement. The drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," added the statement. Australia has contributed two frigates to the exercise, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the Seventh Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side. With trade tensions growing between Washington and Beijing, China earlier this week denounced a US warship sail-by near disputed islands in the South China Sea. And Guam, home to more than 160,000 people, was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with North Korea threatening to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

US, Japan and South Korea start 'first-of-its-kind' naval drill

As US military warships sailed near the disputed islands in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-in-disputed-south-china-sea-amid-trade-tensions-220018">the South China Sea</a>, China hit back at the US asserting that it should "immediately stop provocative actions" as relations between the two nations continued to remain on the boil.

"We strongly urge the United States to immediately stop such provocative actions so as not to undermine Sino-US relations and regional peace and stability," China's foreign ministry spokesman said,adding,"China will continue to do what it needs to protect its national sovereignty and security and uphold the peace and stability of the South China Sea."&nbsp;

A US warship had sailed across the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warships-preble-chung-hoon-sail-near-spratly-islands-in-south-china-sea-216283"> Scarborough Shoal claimed by China</a> in the South China Sea on Sunday amid heightened tensions in the area.&nbsp;The US&nbsp;destroyer Preble had carried out the operation.

A fortnight ago the US military had sent two destroyers - &nbsp;Preble and Chung Hoon - within 12 nautical miles of Gaven and Johnson Reefs in the Spratly Islands.

China claims all the islands in the South China Sea, however, it is also claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia and Taiwan.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the warship had entered waters near the shoal without China's position and the Chinese navy had warned it to leave.

The United States is trying to disturb regional peace and stability by using the issue of freedom of navigation and flight, he added.

Earlier in the month, a US destroyer had conducted drills with a Japanese aircraft carrier along with two Indian naval ships and a Philippine patrol vessel in the waterways in the South China Sea.

Japan sent one of its two big aircraft carriers, the Izumo, while India deployed a destroyer, the INS Kolkata, and a tanker, the INS Shakti.

The US navy advocates freedom of navigation to freely move warships in the region, a move disputed by China. Beijing has built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea, including on the Spratlys.

As US military warships sailed near the disputed islands in the South China Sea, China hit back at the US asserting that it should "immediately stop provocative actions" as relations between the two nations continued to remain on the boil.

As US military warships sailed near the disputed islands in the South China Sea, China hit back at the US asserting that it should "immediately stop provocative actions" as relations between the two nations continued to remain on the boil. "We strongly urge the United States to immediately stop such provocative actions so as not to undermine Sino-US relations and regional peace and stability," China's foreign ministry spokesman said,adding,"China will continue to do what it needs to protect its national sovereignty and security and uphold the peace and stability of the South China Sea." A US warship had sailed across the Scarborough Shoal claimed by China in the South China Sea on Sunday amid heightened tensions in the area. The US destroyer Preble had carried out the operation. A fortnight ago the US military had sent two destroyers - Preble and Chung Hoon - within 12 nautical miles of Gaven and Johnson Reefs in the Spratly Islands. China claims all the islands in the South China Sea, however, it is also claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia and Taiwan. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the warship had entered waters near the shoal without China's position and the Chinese navy had warned it to leave. The United States is trying to disturb regional peace and stability by using the issue of freedom of navigation and flight, he added. Earlier in the month, a US destroyer had conducted drills with a Japanese aircraft carrier along with two Indian naval ships and a Philippine patrol vessel in the waterways in the South China Sea. Japan sent one of its two big aircraft carriers, the Izumo, while India deployed a destroyer, the INS Kolkata, and a tanker, the INS Shakti. The US navy advocates freedom of navigation to freely move warships in the region, a move disputed by China. Beijing has built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea, including on the Spratlys.

US should immediately stop provocative action in South China Sea: China

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Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday Tehran would not negotiate with the United States and a senior cleric warned that a US&nbsp;Navy fleet could be "destroyed with one missile", as a US aircraft carrier headed towards the Gulf.

The comments by hardliners appeared partly aimed at discouraging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-must-resist-us-sanctions-through-oil-non-oil-exports-iran-president-rouhani-215895">President Hassan Rouhani </a>and his moderate allies in Tehran from taking up an offer of talks from Washington.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran's leaders to sit down and talk with him about giving up their nuclear programme and said he could not rule out a military confrontation, given the heightened tensions.

The carrier Abraham Lincoln, deployed as a warning to Iran, passed through Egypt’s Suez Canal on Thursday.

American B-52 bombers have also arrived at a US&nbsp;base in Qatar, US&nbsp;Central Command said.

Iran has dismissed both moves as "psychological warfare" designed to intimidate it.

The semi-official ISNA news agency quoted hardliner Ayatollah Tabatabai-Nejad in the city of Isfahan as saying: "Their billion(-dollar) fleet can be destroyed with one missile.

"If they attempt any move, they will ... (face) dozens of missiles because at that time (government) officials won't be in charge to act cautiously, but instead things will be in the hands of our beloved leader (Ayatollah Ali Khamenei)," he said.

Tabatabai-Nejad represents Supreme Leader Khamenei, widely seen to be closer to hardliners than to Rouhani, in Isfahan.

Separately, Yadollah Javani, the elite Revolutionary Guards' deputy head for political affairs, said: "No talks will be held with the Americans, and the Americans will not dare take military action against us."

"Our nation ... sees America as unreliable," he said, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

"SANCTIONS HAVE NO EFFECT!"

Thousands of Iranians took part in state-sponsored marches on Friday to show support for the government's decision to scale back curbs on its nuclear programme agreed under a 2015 deal with world powers. Iran has threatened to go further if other signatories fail to shield it from US&nbsp;economic sanctions.

State TV showed protesters marching after Friday prayers in Tehran and said similar marches had been held across Iran.

"America should know, sanctions have no effect!" chanted the protesters.

Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Richard Moore, a visiting British Foreign Office official, that "Europe should not underestimate Iran's determination to scale back its commitments (under the 2015 deal) phase-by-phase", according to the state news agency IRNA.

Trump, who last year pulled Washington out of the deal and reimposed sanctions on Tehran, has expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders in the past and renewed it on Thursday.

Asked about Trump's comments, Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, Majid Takht Ravanchi, said Tehran had been talking with the six powers, including the United States, within the framework of the nuclear deal.

"All of a sudden he (Trump) decided to leave the negotiating table ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again?", Takht Ravanchi said in a US television interview.

He dismissed US&nbsp;allegations of an Iranian threat as "fake intelligence".

The US&nbsp;officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the pieces of intelligence that were causing concern included information that Iran had installed missiles on boats. One of the officials said the particular missile observed was perhaps capable of being launched from a small ship.

The media officer at Al Udaid air base, near Doha, Qatar, did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the arrival of the B-52 bombers.

US Central Command is responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday Tehran would not negotiate with the United States and a senior cleric warned that a US Navy fleet could be "destroyed with one missile", as a US aircraft carrier headed towards the Gulf.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday Tehran would not negotiate with the United States and a senior cleric warned that a US Navy fleet could be "destroyed with one missile", as a US aircraft carrier headed towards the Gulf. The comments by hardliners appeared partly aimed at discouraging President Hassan Rouhani and his moderate allies in Tehran from taking up an offer of talks from Washington. US President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran's leaders to sit down and talk with him about giving up their nuclear programme and said he could not rule out a military confrontation, given the heightened tensions. The carrier Abraham Lincoln, deployed as a warning to Iran, passed through Egypt’s Suez Canal on Thursday. American B-52 bombers have also arrived at a US base in Qatar, US Central Command said. Iran has dismissed both moves as "psychological warfare" designed to intimidate it. The semi-official ISNA news agency quoted hardliner Ayatollah Tabatabai-Nejad in the city of Isfahan as saying: "Their billion(-dollar) fleet can be destroyed with one missile. "If they attempt any move, they will ... (face) dozens of missiles because at that time (government) officials won't be in charge to act cautiously, but instead things will be in the hands of our beloved leader (Ayatollah Ali Khamenei)," he said. Tabatabai-Nejad represents Supreme Leader Khamenei, widely seen to be closer to hardliners than to Rouhani, in Isfahan. Separately, Yadollah Javani, the elite Revolutionary Guards' deputy head for political affairs, said: "No talks will be held with the Americans, and the Americans will not dare take military action against us." "Our nation ... sees America as unreliable," he said, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency. "SANCTIONS HAVE NO EFFECT!" Thousands of Iranians took part in state-sponsored marches on Friday to show support for the government's decision to scale back curbs on its nuclear programme agreed under a 2015 deal with world powers. Iran has threatened to go further if other signatories fail to shield it from US economic sanctions. State TV showed protesters marching after Friday prayers in Tehran and said similar marches had been held across Iran. "America should know, sanctions have no effect!" chanted the protesters. Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Richard Moore, a visiting British Foreign Office official, that "Europe should not underestimate Iran's determination to scale back its commitments (under the 2015 deal) phase-by-phase", according to the state news agency IRNA. Trump, who last year pulled Washington out of the deal and reimposed sanctions on Tehran, has expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders in the past and renewed it on Thursday. Asked about Trump's comments, Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, Majid Takht Ravanchi, said Tehran had been talking with the six powers, including the United States, within the framework of the nuclear deal. "All of a sudden he (Trump) decided to leave the negotiating table ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again?", Takht Ravanchi said in a US television interview. He dismissed US allegations of an Iranian threat as "fake intelligence". The US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the pieces of intelligence that were causing concern included information that Iran had installed missiles on boats. One of the officials said the particular missile observed was perhaps capable of being launched from a small ship. The media officer at Al Udaid air base, near Doha, Qatar, did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the arrival of the B-52 bombers. US Central Command is responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan.

Iran Guards reject US talks, cleric threatens carrier

The commander overseeing US&nbsp;naval forces in the Middle East told Reuters on Thursday that American intelligence showing a threat from Iran will not prevent him from sending an aircraft carrier through the vital Strait of Hormuz if needed.

Vice Admiral Jim Malloy, commander of the US Navy`s Bahrain-based Fifth Fleet, did not say whether he would send the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sending-carrier-bombers-to-mideast-is-psychological-warfare-iran-216721&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT1NfKpJDiAhWiguYKHcAICBcQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oYGH2uJxD7CRbHIDL8cYk"> USS Abraham Lincoln </a>carrier strike group into the strategic waterway off Iran, through which passes a fifth of oil consumed globally.

The group, whose deployment to the Middle East was fast-tracked by President Donald Trump`s administration as a warning to Iran, transited through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea on Thursday and was now under Malloy`s command.

"If I need to bring it inside the strait, I will do so," Malloy said in an interview by phone. "I`m not restricted in any way, I`m not challenged in any way, to operate her anywhere in the Middle East."

Iran has dismissed the US&nbsp;contention of a threat as "fake intelligence." Tensions have risen between <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vows-more-sanctions-for-iran-tells-europe-to-stop-doing-business-with-tehran-217159&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid_sjVpJDiAhUY6XMBHUb0CcoQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0MloTk2u-8x9_xOayC7Uhg">Tehran and Washington</a> since the Trump administration withdrew a year ago from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran and began ratcheting up sanctions to throttle the Islamic Republic`s economy. [nL2N22L1OB]

The Pentagon said it expedited Lincoln`s deployment and sent bombers to the Middle East after US&nbsp;intelligence signalled possible preparations by Tehran to stage attacks against US&nbsp;forces or interests. Malloy said the intelligence was linked "with the actual activity that we observed."

"And that was certainly enough for me ... to say that we saw this as a threat," he said.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, say one of the pieces of intelligence indicated Iran had moved missiles on boats. One of the officials said the particular missile observed was perhaps capable of launching from a small ship.&nbsp;

The officials also noted growing concerns about the threat from Iran-backed Shi`ite militia in Iraq, which have long avoided any confrontation with US troops under the shared goal of defeating Islamic State, a Sunni militant organization.

Malloy, whose naval forces would support efforts to defend US&nbsp;troops throughout the region, did not enter into details on the US&nbsp;intelligence. But he confirmed that some of the US concern centred on Iranian missiles.

"It might be a new fielding of technology by Iran," Malloy said, adding the weaponry "falls under the category of destabilising and offensive in nature."

`NOT IN A WAR-PLAN FOOTING`

The nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers required Tehran to curb its uranium enrichment capacity to head off any pathway to developing a nuclear bomb, in return for the removal of most international sanctions. Iran has always said it pursued a nuclear program for peaceful purposes only.

In the past month, the US&nbsp;designated Iran`s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) as a terrorist organization and increased sanctions pressure, with an explicit goal of slashing Iran`s oil exports to zero.&nbsp;

Beyond the deployment of the Lincoln, the United States also dispatched B-52 bombers to the Middle East in response and is also weighing the redeployment of Patriot missiles after pulling several out of the region last year, officials said.

Some of Trump`s critics fear the White House is intentionally provoking Iran. Although the military sought the deployments, the announcement itself came in a statement from White House national security adviser John Bolton - a hawk on Iran policy.

Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat, said he worried "that the Trump administration is leading us toward an unnecessary war."

Malloy, in his first interview since the IRGC designation, confirmed that US&nbsp;forces were operating at a heightened state of readiness. Still, Malloy stressed that the US&nbsp;military was not seeking or preparing for war with Iran.&nbsp;

"I am not in a war-plan footing and have not been tasked to do so," Malloy said. "However we are absolutely ready to respond to any aggression against the United States, partners in the region, or our interests."

Trump also reaffirmed that message on Thursday, saying he did not want conflict.&nbsp;

"We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that are loaded up and we don`t want to do anything," Trump told reporters.

The commander overseeing US naval forces in the Middle East told Reuters on Thursday that American intelligence showing a threat from Iran will not prevent him from sending an aircraft carrier through the vital Strait of Hormuz if needed.

The commander overseeing US naval forces in the Middle East told Reuters on Thursday that American intelligence showing a threat from Iran will not prevent him from sending an aircraft carrier through the vital Strait of Hormuz if needed. Vice Admiral Jim Malloy, commander of the US Navy`s Bahrain-based Fifth Fleet, did not say whether he would send the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group into the strategic waterway off Iran, through which passes a fifth of oil consumed globally. The group, whose deployment to the Middle East was fast-tracked by President Donald Trump`s administration as a warning to Iran, transited through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea on Thursday and was now under Malloy`s command. "If I need to bring it inside the strait, I will do so," Malloy said in an interview by phone. "I`m not restricted in any way, I`m not challenged in any way, to operate her anywhere in the Middle East." Iran has dismissed the US contention of a threat as "fake intelligence." Tensions have risen between Tehran and Washington since the Trump administration withdrew a year ago from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran and began ratcheting up sanctions to throttle the Islamic Republic`s economy. [nL2N22L1OB] The Pentagon said it expedited Lincoln`s deployment and sent bombers to the Middle East after US intelligence signalled possible preparations by Tehran to stage attacks against US forces or interests. Malloy said the intelligence was linked "with the actual activity that we observed." "And that was certainly enough for me ... to say that we saw this as a threat," he said. The US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, say one of the pieces of intelligence indicated Iran had moved missiles on boats. One of the officials said the particular missile observed was perhaps capable of launching from a small ship. The officials also noted growing concerns about the threat from Iran-backed Shi`ite militia in Iraq, which have long avoided any confrontation with US troops under the shared goal of defeating Islamic State, a Sunni militant organization. Malloy, whose naval forces would support efforts to defend US troops throughout the region, did not enter into details on the US intelligence. But he confirmed that some of the US concern centred on Iranian missiles. "It might be a new fielding of technology by Iran," Malloy said, adding the weaponry "falls under the category of destabilising and offensive in nature." `NOT IN A WAR-PLAN FOOTING` The nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers required Tehran to curb its uranium enrichment capacity to head off any pathway to developing a nuclear bomb, in return for the removal of most international sanctions. Iran has always said it pursued a nuclear program for peaceful purposes only. In the past month, the US designated Iran`s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) as a terrorist organization and increased sanctions pressure, with an explicit goal of slashing Iran`s oil exports to zero. Beyond the deployment of the Lincoln, the United States also dispatched B-52 bombers to the Middle East in response and is also weighing the redeployment of Patriot missiles after pulling several out of the region last year, officials said. Some of Trump`s critics fear the White House is intentionally provoking Iran. Although the military sought the deployments, the announcement itself came in a statement from White House national security adviser John Bolton - a hawk on Iran policy. Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat, said he worried "that the Trump administration is leading us toward an unnecessary war." Malloy, in his first interview since the IRGC designation, confirmed that US forces were operating at a heightened state of readiness. Still, Malloy stressed that the US military was not seeking or preparing for war with Iran. "I am not in a war-plan footing and have not been tasked to do so," Malloy said. "However we are absolutely ready to respond to any aggression against the United States, partners in the region, or our interests." Trump also reaffirmed that message on Thursday, saying he did not want conflict. "We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that are loaded up and we don`t want to do anything," Trump told reporters.

US commander says he could send carrier into Strait of Hormuz despite Iran tensions

The U.S. Navy released video on Thursday (May 9) showing fighter planes taking off and landing aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln as it makes its way to the Middle East over what Washington describes as threats from Iran.

US Navy releases video of USS Lincoln strike group headed to Mideast

China plans to build four nuclear-powered aircraft carriers by 2035 and develop new carrier-based fighter jets as Beijing tries to boost its naval prowess and catch up with the powerful US Navy, a media report Wednesday quoted Chinese military experts as saying.&nbsp;

China currently has one aircraft carrier in service the Liaoning, commissioned in 2012 and the Type 001A, the first carrier built in the country, which is still being tested.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also the head of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has ordered the military to modernise by 2035 and become a top-ranked fighting force by 2050.&nbsp;

Four of at least six aircraft battle groups China plans to have in the water by 2035 will be nuclear-powered, as the Asian giant tries to equal the US in naval strength, the South China Morning Post reported.

The experts said that after decades of trying to close the gap, the PLA Navy's hardware might by then be closer to matching the world's leading superpower in aircraft carrier technology but it would still lag in real combat experience.

All of China's new carriers were expected to be equipped with electromagnetic catapults similar to those used by the United States, the experts said.&nbsp;

The US' electromagnetic aircraft launch system, known as EMALS, can launch more aircraft more rapidly than the older diesel systems.

"China's nuclear-powered aircraft carriers with [EMALS-like systems] are expected to join the navy by 2035, bringing the total number of carriers to at least six although only four will work at the front line," Wang Yunfei, a naval expert and retired PLA destroyer naval officer, said.

"The country needs to keep developing until it is at the same level as the United States," Wang was quoted as saying by the Hong Kong-based newspaper.

The US seeks to keep its place as the dominant naval power across the Indo-Pacific, where Washington and its allies believe Beijing is trying to rewrite international rules and military alliances in place since World War II.

But Beijing is keen to expand its aircraft carrier battle groups to fulfil its global naval ambitions and defend its growing overseas interests.&nbsp;

Construction of its next conventional diesel-powered aircraft carrier, the Type 002 the first equipped with the electromagnetic launchers began last year.

Wang said the budget for the carrier projects would not be cut despite an economic slowdown and a trade war with the US.

"Even if the economic downturn has an effect, we can adjust proportions in total military expenditure to make sure naval modernisation keeps going," he said.&nbsp;

Song Zhongping, a television military commentator in Hong Kong, said China's fleet of aircraft carriers would expand to reflect its global standing.

With the PLA planning to have four nuclear-powered carrier battle groups on the front line by 2035, the Type 001A and its next-generation carrier Type 002 would become temporary battleships, Song said.

Both Wang and Song said the Liaoning would be replaced by the Type 001A by 2035, by which time the Liaoning would be obsolete. The Liaoning was refitted from a half-built Soviet hull bought from Ukraine in 1998 and is used to train carrier crews.

The PLA Navy will develop one of its fighter jets for use on its aircraft carriers, with debate ongoing over whether that will be the FC-31 or J-20. China has just one type of carrier-based fighter jet, the J-15, whereas the US has two.

Wang said Chinese engineers were developing a next-generation carrier-based fighter, describing it as a variant of the FC-31 stealth fighter, whose fighting capability may be "a little bit behind the US' F-35C".

Song said China's overall strength would remain limited by a lack of combat experience.

"China's aircraft carrier technology and its carrier-based fighter jets will be developed to match the same generation of their American counterparts, but hardware build-up is only part of the picture," he said.&nbsp;

China plans to build four nuclear-powered aircraft carriers by 2035 and develop new carrier-based fighter jets as Beijing tries to boost its naval prowess and catch up with the powerful US Navy, a media report Wednesday quoted Chinese military experts as saying.

China plans to build four nuclear-powered aircraft carriers by 2035 and develop new carrier-based fighter jets as Beijing tries to boost its naval prowess and catch up with the powerful US Navy, a media report Wednesday quoted Chinese military experts as saying. China currently has one aircraft carrier in service the Liaoning, commissioned in 2012 and the Type 001A, the first carrier built in the country, which is still being tested. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also the head of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has ordered the military to modernise by 2035 and become a top-ranked fighting force by 2050. Four of at least six aircraft battle groups China plans to have in the water by 2035 will be nuclear-powered, as the Asian giant tries to equal the US in naval strength, the South China Morning Post reported. The experts said that after decades of trying to close the gap, the PLA Navy's hardware might by then be closer to matching the world's leading superpower in aircraft carrier technology but it would still lag in real combat experience. All of China's new carriers were expected to be equipped with electromagnetic catapults similar to those used by the United States, the experts said. The US' electromagnetic aircraft launch system, known as EMALS, can launch more aircraft more rapidly than the older diesel systems. "China's nuclear-powered aircraft carriers with [EMALS-like systems] are expected to join the navy by 2035, bringing the total number of carriers to at least six although only four will work at the front line," Wang Yunfei, a naval expert and retired PLA destroyer naval officer, said. "The country needs to keep developing until it is at the same level as the United States," Wang was quoted as saying by the Hong Kong-based newspaper. The US seeks to keep its place as the dominant naval power across the Indo-Pacific, where Washington and its allies believe Beijing is trying to rewrite international rules and military alliances in place since World War II. But Beijing is keen to expand its aircraft carrier battle groups to fulfil its global naval ambitions and defend its growing overseas interests. Construction of its next conventional diesel-powered aircraft carrier, the Type 002 the first equipped with the electromagnetic launchers began last year. Wang said the budget for the carrier projects would not be cut despite an economic slowdown and a trade war with the US. "Even if the economic downturn has an effect, we can adjust proportions in total military expenditure to make sure naval modernisation keeps going," he said. Song Zhongping, a television military commentator in Hong Kong, said China's fleet of aircraft carriers would expand to reflect its global standing. With the PLA planning to have four nuclear-powered carrier battle groups on the front line by 2035, the Type 001A and its next-generation carrier Type 002 would become temporary battleships, Song said. Both Wang and Song said the Liaoning would be replaced by the Type 001A by 2035, by which time the Liaoning would be obsolete. The Liaoning was refitted from a half-built Soviet hull bought from Ukraine in 1998 and is used to train carrier crews. The PLA Navy will develop one of its fighter jets for use on its aircraft carriers, with debate ongoing over whether that will be the FC-31 or J-20. China has just one type of carrier-based fighter jet, the J-15, whereas the US has two. Wang said Chinese engineers were developing a next-generation carrier-based fighter, describing it as a variant of the FC-31 stealth fighter, whose fighting capability may be "a little bit behind the US' F-35C". Song said China's overall strength would remain limited by a lack of combat experience. "China's aircraft carrier technology and its carrier-based fighter jets will be developed to match the same generation of their American counterparts, but hardware build-up is only part of the picture," he said.

China to build four nuclear aircraft carriers to catch up with US Navy: Report

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations.

The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said.

"The 4.5-km-long aerial bomb was located around 2 pm yesterday during dredging operations at Netaji Subhas Dock berth II. Initially, we thought it was a torpedo, but the Navy has confirmed that it is a bomb," he told PTI.

The explosive is likely to be defused with the help of officials from the Ordnance Factory, he added.

Commodore Suprobho K De, naval officer-in-charge, West Bengal, said the bomb does not pose any risk as it has several security locks affixed to it.

"It is a 450-kg aerial bomb fitted with brackets to attach with fighter planes. There seems to be no threat from the bomb as it has locks affixed to it. Also, aerial bombs have to be dropped from a certain height to make an impact," he explained.

De said there is not much that the Navy can do about the device.

"I hope the KoPT will seek help from the Ordinance Factory, which has expertise in making ammunition. If needed, we may contact Vizag naval base for assistance," De said.

Netaji Subhas Dock, on the east bank of Hooghly river, was extensively used by the US Navy during World War II for its operations.&nbsp;

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations. The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said.

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations. The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said. "The 4.5-km-long aerial bomb was located around 2 pm yesterday during dredging operations at Netaji Subhas Dock berth II. Initially, we thought it was a torpedo, but the Navy has confirmed that it is a bomb," he told PTI. The explosive is likely to be defused with the help of officials from the Ordnance Factory, he added. Commodore Suprobho K De, naval officer-in-charge, West Bengal, said the bomb does not pose any risk as it has several security locks affixed to it. "It is a 450-kg aerial bomb fitted with brackets to attach with fighter planes. There seems to be no threat from the bomb as it has locks affixed to it. Also, aerial bombs have to be dropped from a certain height to make an impact," he explained. De said there is not much that the Navy can do about the device. "I hope the KoPT will seek help from the Ordinance Factory, which has expertise in making ammunition. If needed, we may contact Vizag naval base for assistance," De said. Netaji Subhas Dock, on the east bank of Hooghly river, was extensively used by the US Navy during World War II for its operations.

World War-II bomb found during dredging operations in Kolkata

The admiral leading US Navy operations in the Middle East was found dead Saturday in Bahrain, the military branch said, adding that no foul play was suspected in the case.

Vice admiral Scott Stearney, who began his post as commander of US Naval Forces Central Command -- including the US Fifth Fleet -- and Combined Maritime Forces in May, was found dead at his residence in the Gulf country.

"This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at Fifth Fleet and for the entire Navy. Scott Stearney was a decorated naval warrior," Admiral John Richardson, chief of naval operations, said in a statement.

"At this time no foul play is suspected."

He said the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bahraini Interior Ministry were cooperating on the investigation.

The Fifth Fleet's deputy commander, Rear Admiral Paul Schlise, assumed command in the wake of Stearney's death.

The Chicago native entered the US Navy in 1982 after graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor's degree in economics. He later obtained a master's degree from the National Defense University and.

He served in several strike fighter squadrons flying the FA-18 Hornet and served in Kabul, Afghanistan, as chief of staff of Joint Task Force 435 and later Combined Joint Interagency Task Force 435.

In the US, Stearney served in various roles, including as instructor and readiness officer at Navy Fighter Weapons School, according to his official biography. He also held various senior posts, including as director of operations at US Central Command.

The admiral leading US Navy operations in the Middle East was found dead Saturday in Bahrain, the military branch said, adding that no foul play was suspected in the case.

The admiral leading US Navy operations in the Middle East was found dead Saturday in Bahrain, the military branch said, adding that no foul play was suspected in the case. Vice admiral Scott Stearney, who began his post as commander of US Naval Forces Central Command -- including the US Fifth Fleet -- and Combined Maritime Forces in May, was found dead at his residence in the Gulf country. "This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at Fifth Fleet and for the entire Navy. Scott Stearney was a decorated naval warrior," Admiral John Richardson, chief of naval operations, said in a statement. "At this time no foul play is suspected." He said the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bahraini Interior Ministry were cooperating on the investigation. The Fifth Fleet's deputy commander, Rear Admiral Paul Schlise, assumed command in the wake of Stearney's death. The Chicago native entered the US Navy in 1982 after graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor's degree in economics. He later obtained a master's degree from the National Defense University and. He served in several strike fighter squadrons flying the FA-18 Hornet and served in Kabul, Afghanistan, as chief of staff of Joint Task Force 435 and later Combined Joint Interagency Task Force 435. In the US, Stearney served in various roles, including as instructor and readiness officer at Navy Fighter Weapons School, according to his official biography. He also held various senior posts, including as director of operations at US Central Command.

Top US naval commander found dead in middle east, no foul play suspected

Two US aircraft carriers with around<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-still-maintaining-ballistic-missile-sites-us-think-tank-176984"> 150 fighter jets are conducting</a> "complex" warfare drills in the Philippine Sea, the US Navy said on Thursday, in a show of force in waters south of China and within striking distance of North Korea.

The two carriers, the Japan-based USS Ronald Reagan and the USS John C Stennis deployed from the US West coast, are carrying out air, surface and anti-submarine warfare operations, the US Seventh Fleet said in a news release.

The US Navy has conducted such operations before, including drills by three carriers last year as tensions with North Korea escalated.

The latest, which coincides with US vice president Mike Pence's visit to the region, comes as denuclearisation talks with North Korea show little sign of progress and amid a tit-for-tat trade spat with China.

"Bringing two carrier strike groups together provides unparalleled naval combat power," US Seventh Fleet commander Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer said.

The USS Reagan also took part in the biggest war games ever staged in and around Japan this month, involving dozens of US and Japanese ships, hundreds of aircraft and thousands of military personnel.

Two US aircraft carriers with around 150 fighter jets are conducting "complex" warfare drills in the Philippine Sea, the US Navy said on Thursday, in a show of force in waters south of China and within striking distance of North Korea.

Two US aircraft carriers with around 150 fighter jets are conducting "complex" warfare drills in the Philippine Sea, the US Navy said on Thursday, in a show of force in waters south of China and within striking distance of North Korea. The two carriers, the Japan-based USS Ronald Reagan and the USS John C Stennis deployed from the US West coast, are carrying out air, surface and anti-submarine warfare operations, the US Seventh Fleet said in a news release. The US Navy has conducted such operations before, including drills by three carriers last year as tensions with North Korea escalated. The latest, which coincides with US vice president Mike Pence's visit to the region, comes as denuclearisation talks with North Korea show little sign of progress and amid a tit-for-tat trade spat with China. "Bringing two carrier strike groups together provides unparalleled naval combat power," US Seventh Fleet commander Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer said. The USS Reagan also took part in the biggest war games ever staged in and around Japan this month, involving dozens of US and Japanese ships, hundreds of aircraft and thousands of military personnel.

US aircraft carriers conduct war drills in Philippine Sea close to North Korea

In a move to boost India and United States defence cooperation, the US today renamed the Pacific Command as US Indo-Pacific Command.

Expanding on the symbolic move, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said: "Relationships with our Pacific and Indian Ocean allies and partners have proven critical to maintaining regional stability."

The US Pacific Command forces(USPACOM) is responsible for security in the Asia Pacific region. The Command encompasses nearly half of the earth's surface including China, Korea, western India to Australia,&nbsp;New Zealand including the&nbsp;Arctic and the Antarctic.

"In recognition of the increasing connectivity between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, today we rename the US&nbsp;Pacific Command to US Indo-Pacific Command," Mattis said.

The US Indo-Pacific command has been in the works for a while. In 2016, the US and India had signed an agreement governing the use of each other's land, air and naval bases for repair and resupply which was seen as a counterweight against the Chinese Navy.&nbsp;

India is already the United States' second largest arms buyer with the relationship set to grow manifolds as it modernises its armed forces in line with new demands in an increasingly competitive Asia-Pacific region.

Although there have been sticking points in defence ties namely the row over the recent acquisition&nbsp;of the Russian-made S-400 defence missile system, Mattis has been pushing for exemption for India with the Trump administration.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The US Indo-Pacific command has been in the works for a while.

In a move to boost India and United States defence cooperation, the US today renamed the Pacific Command as US Indo-Pacific Command. Expanding on the symbolic move, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said: "Relationships with our Pacific and Indian Ocean allies and partners have proven critical to maintaining regional stability." The US Pacific Command forces(USPACOM) is responsible for security in the Asia Pacific region. The Command encompasses nearly half of the earth's surface including China, Korea, western India to Australia, New Zealand including the Arctic and the Antarctic. "In recognition of the increasing connectivity between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, today we rename the US Pacific Command to US Indo-Pacific Command," Mattis said. The US Indo-Pacific command has been in the works for a while. In 2016, the US and India had signed an agreement governing the use of each other's land, air and naval bases for repair and resupply which was seen as a counterweight against the Chinese Navy. India is already the United States' second largest arms buyer with the relationship set to grow manifolds as it modernises its armed forces in line with new demands in an increasingly competitive Asia-Pacific region. Although there have been sticking points in defence ties namely the row over the recent acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 defence missile system, Mattis has been pushing for exemption for India with the Trump administration.

Trump's India initiative: US Pacific Command renamed US Indo-Pacific Command

China on Sunday officially started conducted sea trial for its first indigenously-built aircraft carrier on Sunday.&nbsp

This is China's second carrier after the earlier vessel launched in&nbsp2012 which was mainly a Soviet-era refit.

The new aircraft carrier left the shipyard in northeastern Dalian at 6.45am, Xinhua reported. Reports said China is in the process of building larger carriers in the years to come as the race hots up between the US and China to dominate the seas worldwide.

"Our country's second aircraft carrier set sail from its dock in the Dalian shipyard for relevant waters to conduct a sea trial mission, mainly to inspect and verify the reliability and stability of mechanical systems and other equipment," Xinhua said.

President Xi who now is the undisputed leader of the Communist state is personally overseeing the modernisation of the armed forces as Chinese military aircrafts and Navy engage in waters across the South China Sea in the disputed Spratly Islands and off Taiwan which China considers as a breakaway nation.

China is reportedly building another aircraft carrier in Shanghai to rival the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Ronald Reagan. State media has quoted experts as saying that the country needs at least six carriers. The United States operates 10 and plans to build two more.

The Chinese military is yet to name the new carrier which is temporarily called Type 001A weighing about 50,000 tonnes. The carrier is set to&nbspjoin the Chinese Navy in two years.

The new carrier will be able to host China's Shenyang J-15 fighter jets.

This is China's second carrier after the earlier vessel launched in 2012 which was mainly a Soviet-era refit.

China on Sunday officially started conducted sea trial for its first indigenously-built aircraft carrier on Sunday. This is China's second carrier after the earlier vessel launched in&nbsp2012 which was mainly a Soviet-era refit. The new aircraft carrier left the shipyard in northeastern Dalian at 6.45am, Xinhua reported. Reports said China is in the process of building larger carriers in the years to come as the race hots up between the US and China to dominate the seas worldwide. "Our country's second aircraft carrier set sail from its dock in the Dalian shipyard for relevant waters to conduct a sea trial mission, mainly to inspect and verify the reliability and stability of mechanical systems and other equipment," Xinhua said. President Xi who now is the undisputed leader of the Communist state is personally overseeing the modernisation of the armed forces as Chinese military aircrafts and Navy engage in waters across the South China Sea in the disputed Spratly Islands and off Taiwan which China considers as a breakaway nation. China is reportedly building another aircraft carrier in Shanghai to rival the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Ronald Reagan. State media has quoted experts as saying that the country needs at least six carriers. The United States operates 10 and plans to build two more. The Chinese military is yet to name the new carrier which is temporarily called Type 001A weighing about 50,000 tonnes. The carrier is set to&nbspjoin the Chinese Navy in two years. The new carrier will be able to host China's Shenyang J-15 fighter jets.

Watch: After setting up indigenously-built aircraft carrier, China eyes bigger vessel

The US government has released a video showing an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) moving at high speed below a US Navy jet, in a brief encounter recorded with a high-tech military camera in 2015.

The footage was released Friday by To the Stars Academy of Arts and Science (TTSA), a private scientific research and media group. It is headed by Dr&nbsp;Hal Puthoff, a NASA and US&nbsp;Department of Defense adviser and James Semivan, a former US Central Intelligence Agency service member.

The clip is said to be &quot;an authentic DoD video that captures the high-speed flight of an unidentified aircraft at low altitude&quot; and &quot;reveals a previously undisclosed Navy encounter that occurred off the East Coast in 2015,&quot; according to a statement from TTSA.

The video shows an unknown object moving rapidly at a distance from the US Navy F/A-18 Hornet, which is flying at 25,000 feet above sea level. Data imprinted in the footage shows the jet is moving at Mach 0.61, and that the UFO is keeping pace below it and to the left.

The unidentified vehicle appears as a white oval shape moving at high speed from top right to lower left of the screen flying very low over the water. The incident was captured through a high-tech camera pod called a Raytheon Advanced Targeting Forward-Looking, or ATFLIR, sensor.

The object does not appear to have obvious wings or a tail and there is no exhaust plume from the object, To The Stars researchers note in an analysis posted on their website.

This is the third declassified video which was released by To The Starts Academy of Arts and Science. In December, the Defense Department declassified two videos showing encounters between US Navy F-18 fighters and unidentified aircraft.

The first video viewed multiple pilots observing and discussing a strange, movement, egg-shaped object, apparently one of a &ldquo;fleet&rdquo; of such objects, according to cockpit audio. The second shows a similar incident involving an F-18 attached to the USS Nimitz carrier battle group in 2004.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The footage was released Friday by To the Stars Academy of Arts and Science (TTSA), a private scientific research and media group

The US government has released a video showing an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) moving at high speed below a US Navy jet, in a brief encounter recorded with a high-tech military camera in 2015. The footage was released Friday by To the Stars Academy of Arts and Science (TTSA), a private scientific research and media group. It is headed by Dr Hal Puthoff, a NASA and US Department of Defense adviser and James Semivan, a former US Central Intelligence Agency service member. The clip is said to be "an authentic DoD video that captures the high-speed flight of an unidentified aircraft at low altitude" and "reveals a previously undisclosed Navy encounter that occurred off the East Coast in 2015," according to a statement from TTSA. The video shows an unknown object moving rapidly at a distance from the US Navy F/A-18 Hornet, which is flying at 25,000 feet above sea level. Data imprinted in the footage shows the jet is moving at Mach 0.61, and that the UFO is keeping pace below it and to the left. The unidentified vehicle appears as a white oval shape moving at high speed from top right to lower left of the screen flying very low over the water. The incident was captured through a high-tech camera pod called a Raytheon Advanced Targeting Forward-Looking, or ATFLIR, sensor. The object does not appear to have obvious wings or a tail and there is no exhaust plume from the object, To The Stars researchers note in an analysis posted on their website. This is the third declassified video which was released by To The Starts Academy of Arts and Science. In December, the Defense Department declassified two videos showing encounters between US Navy F-18 fighters and unidentified aircraft. The first video viewed multiple pilots observing and discussing a strange, movement, egg-shaped object, apparently one of a “fleet” of such objects, according to cockpit audio. The second shows a similar incident involving an F-18 attached to the USS Nimitz carrier battle group in 2004.

Watch: UFO spotted? US Department of Defense video goes viral

A US aircraft carrier arrived in Vietnam today for the first time since the end of the war, as the former foes bolster military ties in the face of Beijing&#39;s build-up in the disputed South China Sea.

The USS Carl Vinson will make a four-day port call to the central city of Danang for a highly symbolic trip that will include a visit to a centre for victims of Agent Orange, the toxic defoliant sprayed over large swathes of land by the US during the Vietnam war.

But ongoing tensions in the South China Sea loom over the trip as Beijing continues to build artificial islands capable of hosting military installations -- much to the chagrin of Vietnam and other claimants to the sea.

Though the US is not a claimant to the resource-rich waterway, it has long lobbied for freedom of navigation in the sea to counter China&#39;s growing influence. 
Analysts say the port call, which follows a visit to the Philippines last month, is a chance for the United States to flex its military muscle in Asia.

&quot;It&#39;s a US push... To demonstrate a massive naval presence in the South China Sea area to China, that the US is staying engaged,&quot; Vietnam expert Carl Thayer told AFP ahead of the trip.

Vietnam remains the most vocal claimant in the region after the Philippines backed off under China-friendly President Rodrigo Duterte. Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei also have claims in the sea.

Duterte has refused to implement a landmark 2016 international tribunal ruling in Manila&#39;s favour over its competing claims with Beijing.

&quot;The Philippines has just rolled over, China is continually militarising and if the US doesn&#39;t maintain a presence in the region, Vietnam&#39;s got nowhere to hide,&quot; Thayer said.

The visit is also being touted as a key landmark between the former bitter enemies, whose relations have seen an extraordinary turnaround since the end of the war in 1975.

Though US ships have regularly docked in Vietnam in the past, this is the first time an aircraft carrier will make a port call to the country.

Vietnam&#39;s foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said the visit will &quot;contribute to maintaining peace, stability, security, cooperation and development in the region&quot;.

The nuclear-powered USS Carl Vinson is home to 5,300 sailors, pilots and crew and 72 aircraft and will be in Danang -- once a key US airbase -- until its departure on Friday.

The visit includes friendly basketball and soccer matches between US sailors and locals, along with an orphanage visit and navy band concerts.

The nuclear-powered USS Carl Vinson is home to 5,300 sailors, pilots and crew and 72 aircraft and will be in Danang

A US aircraft carrier arrived in Vietnam today for the first time since the end of the war, as the former foes bolster military ties in the face of Beijing's build-up in the disputed South China Sea. The USS Carl Vinson will make a four-day port call to the central city of Danang for a highly symbolic trip that will include a visit to a centre for victims of Agent Orange, the toxic defoliant sprayed over large swathes of land by the US during the Vietnam war. But ongoing tensions in the South China Sea loom over the trip as Beijing continues to build artificial islands capable of hosting military installations -- much to the chagrin of Vietnam and other claimants to the sea. Though the US is not a claimant to the resource-rich waterway, it has long lobbied for freedom of navigation in the sea to counter China's growing influence. Analysts say the port call, which follows a visit to the Philippines last month, is a chance for the United States to flex its military muscle in Asia. "It's a US push... To demonstrate a massive naval presence in the South China Sea area to China, that the US is staying engaged," Vietnam expert Carl Thayer told AFP ahead of the trip. Vietnam remains the most vocal claimant in the region after the Philippines backed off under China-friendly President Rodrigo Duterte. Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei also have claims in the sea. Duterte has refused to implement a landmark 2016 international tribunal ruling in Manila's favour over its competing claims with Beijing. "The Philippines has just rolled over, China is continually militarising and if the US doesn't maintain a presence in the region, Vietnam's got nowhere to hide," Thayer said. The visit is also being touted as a key landmark between the former bitter enemies, whose relations have seen an extraordinary turnaround since the end of the war in 1975. Though US ships have regularly docked in Vietnam in the past, this is the first time an aircraft carrier will make a port call to the country. Vietnam's foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said the visit will "contribute to maintaining peace, stability, security, cooperation and development in the region". The nuclear-powered USS Carl Vinson is home to 5,300 sailors, pilots and crew and 72 aircraft and will be in Danang -- once a key US airbase -- until its departure on Friday. The visit includes friendly basketball and soccer matches between US sailors and locals, along with an orphanage visit and navy band concerts.

US Navy sends Carl Vinson aircraft carrier to Vietnam in historic visit

Authorities in the US Navy have opened<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bin-laden-raid-author-to-forfeit-close-to-7m-from-book-earnings-5247"> an investigation after the mysterious death of an Army Green Beret </a>officer who was allegedly killed by two Navy SEAL Team 6 members in Mali.

On June 4, Staff Sergeant Logan Melgar was found dead in the embassy housing quarters in Mali&#39;s capital Bamako. Melgar&#39;s superiors quickly suspected &quot;foul play&quot; in the death, the New York Times reported.

The &quot;unidentified Navy SEALs&quot; have been placed on administrative leave, the Times said.

No one has been charged in Melgar&#39;s death, even though a military examiner ruled that Melgar&#39;s death occurred due to &quot;a homicide by asphyxiation,&quot; or strangulation, US papers reported.

The Navy Seal Team 6 is the famous counter-terrorism unit which killed al-Qaida chief Osama Bin Laden at Abbottabad, Pakistan in May, 2011.

Investigators are still to find out the motive behind the alleged murder. Neither the Army, Navy nor the military&#39;s Africa Command has issued a statement into Melgar&#39;s death. 
&nbsp;

The "unidentified Navy SEALs" have been placed on administrative leave, the Times said.

Authorities in the US Navy have opened an investigation after the mysterious death of an Army Green Beret officer who was allegedly killed by two Navy SEAL Team 6 members in Mali. On June 4, Staff Sergeant Logan Melgar was found dead in the embassy housing quarters in Mali's capital Bamako. Melgar's superiors quickly suspected "foul play" in the death, the New York Times reported. The "unidentified Navy SEALs" have been placed on administrative leave, the Times said. No one has been charged in Melgar's death, even though a military examiner ruled that Melgar's death occurred due to "a homicide by asphyxiation," or strangulation, US papers reported. The Navy Seal Team 6 is the famous counter-terrorism unit which killed al-Qaida chief Osama Bin Laden at Abbottabad, Pakistan in May, 2011. Investigators are still to find out the motive behind the alleged murder. Neither the Army, Navy nor the military's Africa Command has issued a statement into Melgar's death.

US Navy Seal Team 6 members in murder scandal

The US Navy confirmed Wednesday it had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-to-relieve-admiral-of-command-after-collisions-report-19346">sacked the commander </a>of its Seventh Fleet after a deadly collision between a destroyer and a tanker off Singapore, the latest of several accidents involving an American warship in Asian waters.

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin was relieved &quot;due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command&quot;, a navy statement said.

The navy is undertaking a fleet-wide global investigation after Monday&#39;s incident involving the USS John S. McCain, which left 10 sailors missing and five injured after a gaping hole was torn in the warship&#39;s side.

The Seventh Fleet, headquartered at Yokosuka in Japan, is the centrepiece of the US military presence in Asia, undertaking sensitive missions such as operations in the South China Sea and around the Korean peninsula. 
Aucoin, who had held the post since September 2015, had been in the navy for almost four decades and US media reports said he had been due to retire in weeks.

He was replaced by Rear Admiral Phil Sawyer.

Monday&#39;s accident was the second <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-announces-fleet-wide-probe-after-new-warship-collision-19287">fatal collision</a> in two months, both involving ships from the Seventh Fleet, after the USS Fitzgerald collided with a cargo vessel off Japan in June, leaving seven sailors dead.&nbsp;

There have been four accidents in total in the Pacific this year involving American warships, sparking concerns the US Navy could be overstretched as it tackles China&#39;s rising assertiveness and North Korea&#39;s nuclear ambitions.

The latest happened before dawn in busy shipping lanes around the Strait of Singapore, leaving a big hole in the hull of the warship and flooding it with water.

A massive search involving planes and aircraft was launched and US Navy divers joined the hunt Tuesday, scouring the ship&#39;s flooded compartments.

The divers had found remains of some of the sailors, the commander of the US Pacific Fleet, Admiral Scott Swift, said Tuesday without giving further details.

Malaysian authorities, which have deployed 10 ships and two helicopters for the search, also said they found a body and a US Navy helicopter collected it on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Five countries, the US, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia, are now involved in the search covering an area of about 2,600 square kilometres (1,000 square miles).

The accident happened as the McCain headed for a routine stop in Singapore after carrying out a &quot;freedom of navigation operation&quot; in the disputed South China Sea earlier in August, sparking a furious response from Beijing.

On Monday the Chief of US Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson ordered commanders within a week to set aside time, perhaps &quot;one or two days,&quot; for crews to sit down together for discussions.

A &quot;comprehensive review&quot; of practices would also begin.&nbsp;

The admiral did not rule out some kind of outside interference or a cyber-attack being behind the latest collision, but said he did not want to prejudge the inquiry. His broader remarks suggested a focus on &quot;how we do business on the bridge.&quot;

The damaged vessel is named after US Senator John McCain&#39;s father and grandfather, who were both admirals in the US navy.

The tanker involved in the collision, which was used for transporting oil and chemicals.&nbsp;

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin was relieved "due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command", a navy statement said

The US Navy confirmed Wednesday it had sacked the commander of its Seventh Fleet after a deadly collision between a destroyer and a tanker off Singapore, the latest of several accidents involving an American warship in Asian waters. Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin was relieved "due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command", a navy statement said. The navy is undertaking a fleet-wide global investigation after Monday's incident involving the USS John S. McCain, which left 10 sailors missing and five injured after a gaping hole was torn in the warship's side. The Seventh Fleet, headquartered at Yokosuka in Japan, is the centrepiece of the US military presence in Asia, undertaking sensitive missions such as operations in the South China Sea and around the Korean peninsula. Aucoin, who had held the post since September 2015, had been in the navy for almost four decades and US media reports said he had been due to retire in weeks. He was replaced by Rear Admiral Phil Sawyer. Monday's accident was the second fatal collision in two months, both involving ships from the Seventh Fleet, after the USS Fitzgerald collided with a cargo vessel off Japan in June, leaving seven sailors dead. There have been four accidents in total in the Pacific this year involving American warships, sparking concerns the US Navy could be overstretched as it tackles China's rising assertiveness and North Korea's nuclear ambitions. The latest happened before dawn in busy shipping lanes around the Strait of Singapore, leaving a big hole in the hull of the warship and flooding it with water. A massive search involving planes and aircraft was launched and US Navy divers joined the hunt Tuesday, scouring the ship's flooded compartments. The divers had found remains of some of the sailors, the commander of the US Pacific Fleet, Admiral Scott Swift, said Tuesday without giving further details. Malaysian authorities, which have deployed 10 ships and two helicopters for the search, also said they found a body and a US Navy helicopter collected it on Wednesday. Five countries, the US, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia, are now involved in the search covering an area of about 2,600 square kilometres (1,000 square miles). The accident happened as the McCain headed for a routine stop in Singapore after carrying out a "freedom of navigation operation" in the disputed South China Sea earlier in August, sparking a furious response from Beijing. On Monday the Chief of US Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson ordered commanders within a week to set aside time, perhaps "one or two days," for crews to sit down together for discussions. A "comprehensive review" of practices would also begin. The admiral did not rule out some kind of outside interference or a cyber-attack being behind the latest collision, but said he did not want to prejudge the inquiry. His broader remarks suggested a focus on "how we do business on the bridge." The damaged vessel is named after US Senator John McCain's father and grandfather, who were both admirals in the US navy. The tanker involved in the collision, which was used for transporting oil and chemicals.

US Navy dismisses commander after warship collision

The US.Navy plans to remove from duty the commander of the fleet that has suffered four recent collisions in Asia and the deaths of a number of sailors, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing US&nbsp;officials.

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin, the three-star commander of the US Seventh Fleet based in Yokosuka, Japan, will be relieved of command on Wednesday in connection with four collisions since January, including two involving fatalities, two US.officials said, according to the Journal.

It said Navy officials declined to comment.

&nbsp;

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin will be relieved of command on Wednesday in connection with four collisions since January, the Wall Street Journal said in a report

The US.Navy plans to remove from duty the commander of the fleet that has suffered four recent collisions in Asia and the deaths of a number of sailors, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing US officials. Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin, the three-star commander of the US Seventh Fleet based in Yokosuka, Japan, will be relieved of command on Wednesday in connection with four collisions since January, including two involving fatalities, two US.officials said, according to the Journal. It said Navy officials declined to comment.

US Navy to relieve admiral of command after collisions: Report

The US Navy&#39;s top officer asked his Chinese counterpart to exert influence on North Korea to help rein in its advancing nuclear and missile programs, a US official said on Thursday.

Chief of US Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson spoke with his Chinese counterpart Vice Admiral Shen Jinlong via a video teleconference.

&quot;Richardson voiced his concern about the nuclear and missile programs and emphasized that China should use its unique influence over North Korea,&quot; said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The call lasted for an hour and the two talked about the need to &quot;work together to address the provocative and unacceptable military behaviour by North Korea,&quot; the US Navy said in a statement.

Last month US President Donald Trump said Chinese efforts to persuade North Korea had failed.

Trump has hoped for greater help from China to exert influence over North Korea, leaning heavily on Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders had a high-profile summit in Florida in April and Trump has frequently praised Xi while resisting criticism of Chinese trade practices.

North Korea recently said it conducted its first test of an intercontinental ballistic missile, and that it had mastered the technology to mount a nuclear warhead on the missile.

The United States has remained technically at war with North Korea since the 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty. The past six decades have been punctuated by periodic rises in antagonism as well as rhetoric that has stopped short of a resumption of active hostilities.

Tensions rose sharply after North Korea conducted two nuclear weapons tests last year and carried out a steady stream of ballistic missile tests.

The two talked about working together 'to address the provocative and unacceptable military behaviour by North Korea'

The US Navy's top officer asked his Chinese counterpart to exert influence on North Korea to help rein in its advancing nuclear and missile programs, a US official said on Thursday. Chief of US Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson spoke with his Chinese counterpart Vice Admiral Shen Jinlong via a video teleconference. "Richardson voiced his concern about the nuclear and missile programs and emphasized that China should use its unique influence over North Korea," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The call lasted for an hour and the two talked about the need to "work together to address the provocative and unacceptable military behaviour by North Korea," the US Navy said in a statement. Last month US President Donald Trump said Chinese efforts to persuade North Korea had failed. Trump has hoped for greater help from China to exert influence over North Korea, leaning heavily on Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders had a high-profile summit in Florida in April and Trump has frequently praised Xi while resisting criticism of Chinese trade practices. North Korea recently said it conducted its first test of an intercontinental ballistic missile, and that it had mastered the technology to mount a nuclear warhead on the missile. The United States has remained technically at war with North Korea since the 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty. The past six decades have been punctuated by periodic rises in antagonism as well as rhetoric that has stopped short of a resumption of active hostilities. Tensions rose sharply after North Korea conducted two nuclear weapons tests last year and carried out a steady stream of ballistic missile tests.

US Navy chief seeks China's help in tackling North Korea threat

A spokesperson for North Korea's foreign ministry said the country is 'ready to react to any mode of war desired by the US'

India has been struggling to keep its tallest tricolour fluttering at 360 feet in Attari on the Indo-Pakistan border in Amritsar against high velocity winds. The administration in Amritsar has now decided to hoist the flag only after getting an expert opinion from the Home Ministry. The tricolour, which is 120 x 80 feet wide and weighs a 100 kilograms, was hoisted on the Wagah border on March 5. Since then its fabric has been replaced a few times. The wire supporting the flag pole also snapped a couple of times. It was replaced four times in the past one month and had to be brought down again after it was damaged last week. "Frequently bringing the flag down for repair or replacing the torn fabric is not appropriate. It hurts people's sentiments. So, we have written to the Home Ministry to form a committee of experts," Amritsar deputy commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha told DNA. There are specific guidelines under the Flag Code of India, 2010, which need to be adhered to while hoisting the flag. The flag cost more than 100,000 Rs, officials told DNA. (WION with inputs from DNA)

North Korea vows response to 'reckless' US Navy move

US President Donald Trump&#39;s pick for secretary of the Navy withdrew from consideration on Sunday, the second time a Trump nominee to lead one of the armed services bowed out because of government conflict-of-interest rules.

Trump last month nominated Philip Bilden, a private equity executive and former military intelligence officer, to lead the Navy, which the president has pledged he will expand.

In a statement on Sunday, Bilden said that &quot;after an extensive review process, I have determined that I will not be able to satisfy the Office of Government Ethics requirements without undue disruption and materially adverse divestment of my family`s private financial interests.&quot;

The development leaves Trump and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis without nominees to head both the Navy and Army.

Vincent Viola, whom the president had picked to be secretary of the Army, withdrew earlier this month.

In a statement, Mattis said he was disappointed but understood Bilden&#39;s decision. &quot;In the coming days I will make a recommendation to President Trump for a leader who can guide our Navy and Marine Corps team as we execute the president&#39;s vision to rebuild our military,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

(Reuters)

Trump had nominated Philip Bilden, a private equity executive and former military intelligence officer, to lead the Navy

US President Donald Trump's pick for secretary of the Navy withdrew from consideration on Sunday, the second time a Trump nominee to lead one of the armed services bowed out because of government conflict-of-interest rules. Trump last month nominated Philip Bilden, a private equity executive and former military intelligence officer, to lead the Navy, which the president has pledged he will expand. In a statement on Sunday, Bilden said that "after an extensive review process, I have determined that I will not be able to satisfy the Office of Government Ethics requirements without undue disruption and materially adverse divestment of my family`s private financial interests." The development leaves Trump and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis without nominees to head both the Navy and Army. Vincent Viola, whom the president had picked to be secretary of the Army, withdrew earlier this month. In a statement, Mattis said he was disappointed but understood Bilden's decision. "In the coming days I will make a recommendation to President Trump for a leader who can guide our Navy and Marine Corps team as we execute the president's vision to rebuild our military," he said. (Reuters)

US: Trump's pick for Navy secretary bows out

China said it opposed action by other countries under the pretext of freedom of navigation that undermined its sovereignty&nbsp;after a US aircraft carrier strike group began patrols in the contested South China Sea.

The US navy said the strike group, including the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier the USS Carl Vinson, began &quot;routine operations&quot; in the South China Sea on Saturday amid growing tension with China over control of the disputed waterway.

&quot;China always respects the freedom of navigation and overflight all countries enjoy under international law,&quot; Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a daily news briefing.

&quot;But we are consistently opposed to relevant countries threatening and damaging the sovereignty and security of littoral countries under the flag of freedom of navigation and overflight,&quot; Geng said in China&#39;s first official comment on the latest US patrol since it began.

&nbsp;

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The United States has called for a halt to China&#39;s artificial island building, and has tried to signal its determination to challenge Beijing over the disputed sea by sending military ships and planes near the islands. Here&#39;s more to this story. (WION)
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&quot;We hope relevant countries can do more to safeguard regional peace and stability,&quot; he said.&nbsp;The US carrier strike group has not referred to its recent operations in the South China Sea as &quot;freedom of navigation&quot; patrols.

US ships last year conducted several such patrols to counter any efforts to limit freedom of navigation in the strategic waters.

Friction between the United States and China over trade and territory under US President Donald Trump has increased concern that the South China Sea could become a flashpoint.

China wrapped up its own naval exercises in the South China Sea on Friday. War games involving its own aircraft carrier have unnerved neighbours with which it has long-running territorial disputes.

Beijing last week warned Washington against challenging its sovereignty in the South China Sea. It claims almost all of the resource-rich waters, through which about $5 trillion worth of trade passes each year.

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also claim parts of the South China Sea that command strategic sea lanes and have rich fishing grounds, along with oil and gas deposits.

The United States has criticised China&#39;s construction of man-made islands and build-up of military facilities in the sea and expressed concern they could be used to restrict free movement.

Foreign ministers of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday expressed concern over what they see as militarisation in the South China Sea, Philippines Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay said after meeting with his ASEAN counterparts.

(Reuters)

China had warned the US last week against challenging its sovereignty in the South China Sea

China said it opposed action by other countries under the pretext of freedom of navigation that undermined its sovereignty after a US aircraft carrier strike group began patrols in the contested South China Sea. The US navy said the strike group, including the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier the USS Carl Vinson, began "routine operations" in the South China Sea on Saturday amid growing tension with China over control of the disputed waterway. "China always respects the freedom of navigation and overflight all countries enjoy under international law," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a daily news briefing. "But we are consistently opposed to relevant countries threatening and damaging the sovereignty and security of littoral countries under the flag of freedom of navigation and overflight," Geng said in China's first official comment on the latest US patrol since it began. The United States has called for a halt to China's artificial island building, and has tried to signal its determination to challenge Beijing over the disputed sea by sending military ships and planes near the islands. Here's more to this story. (WION) × "We hope relevant countries can do more to safeguard regional peace and stability," he said. The US carrier strike group has not referred to its recent operations in the South China Sea as "freedom of navigation" patrols. US ships last year conducted several such patrols to counter any efforts to limit freedom of navigation in the strategic waters. Friction between the United States and China over trade and territory under US President Donald Trump has increased concern that the South China Sea could become a flashpoint. China wrapped up its own naval exercises in the South China Sea on Friday. War games involving its own aircraft carrier have unnerved neighbours with which it has long-running territorial disputes. Beijing last week warned Washington against challenging its sovereignty in the South China Sea. It claims almost all of the resource-rich waters, through which about $5 trillion worth of trade passes each year. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also claim parts of the South China Sea that command strategic sea lanes and have rich fishing grounds, along with oil and gas deposits. The United States has criticised China's construction of man-made islands and build-up of military facilities in the sea and expressed concern they could be used to restrict free movement. Foreign ministers of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday expressed concern over what they see as militarisation in the South China Sea, Philippines Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay said after meeting with his ASEAN counterparts. (Reuters)

US 'naval operation' in South China Sea angers China

The British Royal Navy, the Royal Australian Navy, the French Marine&nbsp;Nationale&nbsp;and the US Naval Forces Central Command started a three-day joint naval&nbsp;exercise called Unified Trident on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The multilateral operation takes place in the Persian Gulf, off Bahrain&#39;s coast&nbsp;and will simulate conventional and non-conventional warfare operations. The four participant countries are currently also involved in the Combined Joint Task Force &ndash; Operation Inherent Resolve &ndash;&nbsp;fighting against the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. France, US and UK are also conducting military operations in&nbsp;Libya.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;naval&nbsp;exercise&nbsp;happens dangerously close to Iran&#39;s territorial water and at a moment when&nbsp;the country&#39;s&nbsp;political relations with the US are plummeting.&nbsp;

&quot;It&rsquo;s not a show of force to the Iranians at all,&quot;&nbsp;said&nbsp;Royal Navy Lieutenant&nbsp;Commander&nbsp;Ant Wallace,&nbsp;the exercise planner,&nbsp;according to the American newspaper <a href="https://www.stripes.com/royal-navy-unified-trident-exercise-not-a-show-of-force-to-iran-1.451837">Stars and Stripes</a>, which operates within the US&nbsp;defense&nbsp;ministry.&nbsp;&quot;The reason we are doing this exercise, and I&rsquo;ll stress this over and over again, is because it&rsquo;s easier to do it here than it would be anywhere else. It&rsquo;s a key opportunity to bring ships together, to exercise together and to operate together. The fact that it is in the [Persian] Gulf is coincidental, really.&rdquo;&nbsp;

Tehran&nbsp;does not seem to share the same view and&nbsp;has promptly stated that it will not tolerate any intrusion in its waters. &ldquo;Anybody who wishes to stage a war game within the limits of the free waters should follow the international law and we do not allow anybody to get close to our waters and this is our red line,&rdquo; Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral&nbsp;Habibollah&nbsp;Sayyari&nbsp;was quoted saying by Iran&#39;s MEHR news agency.&nbsp;

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Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari. (Photo courtesy: Erfan Kouchary) (Others)
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Unified Trident kicks off after a series of worrying &#39;incidents&#39; between the US and the Iranian navy in the&nbsp;Persian&nbsp;Gulf.&nbsp;On January 9, a US navy destroyer fired three warning shots at four Iranian fast-attack vessels which were approaching at fast speed. A similar episode happened in August 2016.&nbsp;

On January 12, Iran detained 10 US Navy sailors whose boats entered Iranian waters due to mechanical problems. The team was&nbsp;released&nbsp;unharmed 15 hours later.&nbsp;

If there is tension in the Gulf&#39;s water, the situation is not better on the mainland. Iran funds a wide network of Shiite militias fighting in Syria for President Bashar al-Assad who is considered an enemy by the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tens of thousands Shiite militiamen are also fighting in Iraq against the Islamic State under the umbrella&nbsp;organisation&nbsp;Al&nbsp;Hashd&nbsp;Al&nbsp;Shabi&nbsp;or Popular&nbsp;Mobilisation&nbsp;Forces. Some of these groups share strong anti-US feelings and directly receive funds and weapons from Tehran.&nbsp;

The militias are generally perceived as Iran proxy armies that Tehran uses to expand its influence in West Asia, a move that neither the US nor their main ally Israel look at&nbsp;favourably.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump has often vowed against Obama&#39;s nuclear agreement with Tehran. His newly appointed US&nbsp;defense&nbsp;secretary James &#39;Mad Dog&#39;&nbsp;Mattis&nbsp;has always considered Iran a major threat to any possible peace process in West Asia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&quot;Deterrent is critical&quot; to defend the post-Second World War world&nbsp;order, said&nbsp;Mattis&nbsp;to senator McCain during the confirmation hearing. Even if it was planned before Trump&#39;s swearing in, operation Unified Trident seems to fall perfectly in line with both the presidency and the US&nbsp;defense&nbsp;secretary&#39;s views.&nbsp;

(WION)

Amid growing tensions with the US, Iran has warned that it will not tolerate any intrusion in its territorial waters

The British Royal Navy, the Royal Australian Navy, the French Marine Nationale and the US Naval Forces Central Command started a three-day joint naval exercise called Unified Trident on Tuesday. The multilateral operation takes place in the Persian Gulf, off Bahrain's coast and will simulate conventional and non-conventional warfare operations. The four participant countries are currently also involved in the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve – fighting against the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. France, US and UK are also conducting military operations in Libya. The naval exercise happens dangerously close to Iran's territorial water and at a moment when the country's political relations with the US are plummeting. "It’s not a show of force to the Iranians at all," said Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander Ant Wallace, the exercise planner, according to the American newspaper Stars and Stripes, which operates within the US defense ministry. "The reason we are doing this exercise, and I’ll stress this over and over again, is because it’s easier to do it here than it would be anywhere else. It’s a key opportunity to bring ships together, to exercise together and to operate together. The fact that it is in the [Persian] Gulf is coincidental, really.” Tehran does not seem to share the same view and has promptly stated that it will not tolerate any intrusion in its waters. “Anybody who wishes to stage a war game within the limits of the free waters should follow the international law and we do not allow anybody to get close to our waters and this is our red line,” Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari was quoted saying by Iran's MEHR news agency. Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari. (Photo courtesy: Erfan Kouchary) (Others) × Unified Trident kicks off after a series of worrying 'incidents' between the US and the Iranian navy in the Persian Gulf. On January 9, a US navy destroyer fired three warning shots at four Iranian fast-attack vessels which were approaching at fast speed. A similar episode happened in August 2016. On January 12, Iran detained 10 US Navy sailors whose boats entered Iranian waters due to mechanical problems. The team was released unharmed 15 hours later. If there is tension in the Gulf's water, the situation is not better on the mainland. Iran funds a wide network of Shiite militias fighting in Syria for President Bashar al-Assad who is considered an enemy by the US. Tens of thousands Shiite militiamen are also fighting in Iraq against the Islamic State under the umbrella organisation Al Hashd Al Shabi or Popular Mobilisation Forces. Some of these groups share strong anti-US feelings and directly receive funds and weapons from Tehran. The militias are generally perceived as Iran proxy armies that Tehran uses to expand its influence in West Asia, a move that neither the US nor their main ally Israel look at favourably. President Donald Trump has often vowed against Obama's nuclear agreement with Tehran. His newly appointed US defense secretary James 'Mad Dog' Mattis has always considered Iran a major threat to any possible peace process in West Asia. "Deterrent is critical" to defend the post-Second World War world order, said Mattis to senator McCain during the confirmation hearing. Even if it was planned before Trump's swearing in, operation Unified Trident seems to fall perfectly in line with both the presidency and the US defense secretary's views. (WION)

Joint US, UK, Australian, French naval operation kicks off in Persian Gulf

&nbsp;

China seized an underwater drone deployed by USNS Bowditch, an oceanographic survey ship in the South China Sea, US officials on Friday said.&nbsp;

The drone was captured on December 15 before USNS Bowditch could retrive the unmanned vessel about 50 nautical miles northwest of Subic Bay off the Philippines.

&quot;The UUV was lawfully conducting a military survey in the waters of the South China Sea,&quot; an official told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

&quot;It&#39;s a sovereign immune vessel, clearly marked in English not to be removed from the water - that it was US&nbsp;property,&quot; the official said.

The Pentagon confirmed that the drone had been taken.&nbsp;

Pentagon spokesman Jeff Davis said &quot;It is ours, and it is clearly marked as ours and we would like it back. And we would like this not to happen again.&quot;

The drone was part of an unclassified programme to collect oceanographic data including salinity, temperature and clarity of the water, the US&nbsp;official added.

The drone uses commercially available technology and costs around $150,000.

Mira Rapp-Hooper, a senior fellow in the Asia-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security, said&nbsp; 
&quot;This move, if accurately reported, is highly escalatory, and it is hard to see how Beijing will justify it legally.&quot;

This move could increase tensions between the two countries, amid&nbsp;China&#39;s growing aggression and presence in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

(WION with inputs from Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

The drone was part of an unclassified program to collect oceanographic data including salinity, temperature and clarity of the water

China seized an underwater drone deployed by USNS Bowditch, an oceanographic survey ship in the South China Sea, US officials on Friday said. The drone was captured on December 15 before USNS Bowditch could retrive the unmanned vessel about 50 nautical miles northwest of Subic Bay off the Philippines. "The UUV was lawfully conducting a military survey in the waters of the South China Sea," an official told Reuters on condition of anonymity. "It's a sovereign immune vessel, clearly marked in English not to be removed from the water - that it was US property," the official said. The Pentagon confirmed that the drone had been taken. Pentagon spokesman Jeff Davis said "It is ours, and it is clearly marked as ours and we would like it back. And we would like this not to happen again." The drone was part of an unclassified programme to collect oceanographic data including salinity, temperature and clarity of the water, the US official added. The drone uses commercially available technology and costs around $150,000. Mira Rapp-Hooper, a senior fellow in the Asia-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security, said "This move, if accurately reported, is highly escalatory, and it is hard to see how Beijing will justify it legally." This move could increase tensions between the two countries, amid China's growing aggression and presence in the South China Sea. (WION with inputs from Reuters)

China seizes US naval underwater drone in South China Sea

A US&nbsp;Navy&nbsp;guided missile destroyer was targeted on Sunday in a failed missile attack from territory in Yemen controlled by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, a US&nbsp;military spokesman told Reuters, saying neither of the two missiles hit the ship.

The attempted strike on the USS Mason, which was first reported by Reuters, came just a week after a United Arab Emirates vessel came under attack from Houthis, and suggests growing risks to the US&nbsp;military from Yemen&#39;s conflict.

The US&nbsp;government, which has become increasingly vocal about civilian casualties in the war, this weekend announced a review of its support to a Saudi Arabia-led coalition battling the Houthis, after a strike on mourners in the capital Sanaa that killed up to 140 people.&nbsp;The failed missile attack on the USS Mason began around 7 pm&nbsp;local time, when the ship detected two inbound missiles over a 60-minute period in the Red Sea off Yemen&#39;s coast, the US&nbsp;military said.

&quot;Both missiles impacted the water before reaching the ship,&quot; Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis said. &quot;There were no injuries to our sailors and no damage to the ship.&quot;

Saudi Arabia and the United States blame Shi&#39;ite Iran for supplying weapons to the Houthis. Tehran views the Houthis, who are from a Shi&#39;ite sect, as the legitimate authority in Yemen, but denies it supplies them with weapons.

A US&nbsp;defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the first missile triggered counter-measures from the USS Mason. It was not immediately clear whether those defenses may have helped prevent a direct hit on the ship.&nbsp;The USS Mason did not return fire, the official said, adding that the incident took place just north of the Bab al-Mandab strait off Yemen&#39;s southern coast.

Last week&#39;s attack on the UAE vessel also took place around the Bab al-Mandab strait, in what the UAE branded an &quot;act of terrorism&quot;.&nbsp;In 2013, more than 3.4 million barrels of oil passed through the 20 kilometre&nbsp;(12 mile)-wide Bab al-Mandab each day, the US&nbsp;Energy Information Administration says.

It was unclear what actions the US&nbsp;military might take, but Davis stressed a commitment to defend freedom of navigation and protect US&nbsp;forces.&nbsp;&quot;We will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our ships and our service members,&quot; he said.

The attack also came the same day that Yemen&#39;s powerful former president, Ali Abdullah Saleh, a key Houthi ally, called for an escalation of attacks against Saudi Arabia, demanding &quot;battle readiness at the fronts on the (Saudi) border&quot;.

An estimated 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen&#39;s war. The United Nations blames Saudi-led coalition strikes for 60 per cent of some 3,800 civilian deaths since they began in March 2015.

(Reuters)

It was unclear how the US?military might respond, but it stressed commitment to defend its freedom of navigation and protect its?forces

A US Navy guided missile destroyer was targeted on Sunday in a failed missile attack from territory in Yemen controlled by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, a US military spokesman told Reuters, saying neither of the two missiles hit the ship. The attempted strike on the USS Mason, which was first reported by Reuters, came just a week after a United Arab Emirates vessel came under attack from Houthis, and suggests growing risks to the US military from Yemen's conflict. The US government, which has become increasingly vocal about civilian casualties in the war, this weekend announced a review of its support to a Saudi Arabia-led coalition battling the Houthis, after a strike on mourners in the capital Sanaa that killed up to 140 people. The failed missile attack on the USS Mason began around 7 pm local time, when the ship detected two inbound missiles over a 60-minute period in the Red Sea off Yemen's coast, the US military said. "Both missiles impacted the water before reaching the ship," Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis said. "There were no injuries to our sailors and no damage to the ship." Saudi Arabia and the United States blame Shi'ite Iran for supplying weapons to the Houthis. Tehran views the Houthis, who are from a Shi'ite sect, as the legitimate authority in Yemen, but denies it supplies them with weapons. A US defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the first missile triggered counter-measures from the USS Mason. It was not immediately clear whether those defenses may have helped prevent a direct hit on the ship. The USS Mason did not return fire, the official said, adding that the incident took place just north of the Bab al-Mandab strait off Yemen's southern coast. Last week's attack on the UAE vessel also took place around the Bab al-Mandab strait, in what the UAE branded an "act of terrorism". In 2013, more than 3.4 million barrels of oil passed through the 20 kilometre (12 mile)-wide Bab al-Mandab each day, the US Energy Information Administration says. It was unclear what actions the US military might take, but Davis stressed a commitment to defend freedom of navigation and protect US forces. "We will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our ships and our service members," he said. The attack also came the same day that Yemen's powerful former president, Ali Abdullah Saleh, a key Houthi ally, called for an escalation of attacks against Saudi Arabia, demanding "battle readiness at the fronts on the (Saudi) border". An estimated 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen's war. The United Nations blames Saudi-led coalition strikes for 60 per cent of some 3,800 civilian deaths since they began in March 2015. (Reuters)

Navy ship targeted in failed missile attack from Yemen: US

The US Navy plans to send a ship to New Zealand in November, Prime Minister John Key said today, formally ending a standoff over the Pacific nations anti-nuclear policy that dates back more than 30 years. 
 
If the ship meets New Zealand&#39;s legal requirements, it will attend the Royal New Zealand Navy&#39;s 75th anniversary, Key said. This comes a day after US vice president Joe Biden assured neighbour Australia there would be no retreat from Washington&#39;s pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, regardless of who wins November&#39;s presidential election. 
 
&quot;Vice president Joe Biden confirmed in our discussions today that the US has accepted the invitation, and intends to have a ship represent the US Navy at this event,&quot; Key said during Biden&#39;s one-day visit to New Zealand.&nbsp;Biden said it was &quot;another expression of our close and cooperative relationship&quot;. 
 
Under New Zealand law, the Prime Minister can only grant approval if he is satisfied &quot;that the warships will not be carrying any nuclear explosive device upon their entry into the internal waters of New Zealand&quot;.&nbsp;Biden did not offer any detail about which ship would be attending. 
 
It will be the first visit by a US warship in more than three decades. In the mid-1980s, the Labour government of the time announced its decision to ban ships that were either nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed. 
 
The United States would not confirm or deny whether its ships had nuclear capacity leading to a stalemate between the two nations. 
 
The United States and Australia viewed the move as a breach of the three-way Australia, New Zealand and United States security treaty (ANZUS), which dates back to 1951. In 1986 it suspended treaty obligations to New Zealand. 
 
Despite the rift, the nations have remained close allies. New Zealand supported the US-led war on terror in Afghanistan and has sent soldiers to help train Iraq&#39;s armed forces.&nbsp;Key told local press that the ship must meet the legal requirements. 
 
&quot;There is a long-standing process for considering ship visits under our nuclear-free legislation,&quot; Key said. &quot;I will receive advice in due course to assist me in making a decision.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

It will be the first visit by a US warship in more than three decades. Despite the rift, the nations have remained close allies

The US Navy plans to send a ship to New Zealand in November, Prime Minister John Key said today, formally ending a standoff over the Pacific nations anti-nuclear policy that dates back more than 30 years. If the ship meets New Zealand's legal requirements, it will attend the Royal New Zealand Navy's 75th anniversary, Key said. This comes a day after US vice president Joe Biden assured neighbour Australia there would be no retreat from Washington's pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, regardless of who wins November's presidential election. "Vice president Joe Biden confirmed in our discussions today that the US has accepted the invitation, and intends to have a ship represent the US Navy at this event," Key said during Biden's one-day visit to New Zealand. Biden said it was "another expression of our close and cooperative relationship". Under New Zealand law, the Prime Minister can only grant approval if he is satisfied "that the warships will not be carrying any nuclear explosive device upon their entry into the internal waters of New Zealand". Biden did not offer any detail about which ship would be attending. It will be the first visit by a US warship in more than three decades. In the mid-1980s, the Labour government of the time announced its decision to ban ships that were either nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed. The United States would not confirm or deny whether its ships had nuclear capacity leading to a stalemate between the two nations. The United States and Australia viewed the move as a breach of the three-way Australia, New Zealand and United States security treaty (ANZUS), which dates back to 1951. In 1986 it suspended treaty obligations to New Zealand. Despite the rift, the nations have remained close allies. New Zealand supported the US-led war on terror in Afghanistan and has sent soldiers to help train Iraq's armed forces. Key told local press that the ship must meet the legal requirements. "There is a long-standing process for considering ship visits under our nuclear-free legislation," Key said. "I will receive advice in due course to assist me in making a decision." (Reuters)

US navy to end standoff with New Zealand over nuclear policy

US military forces will continue to operate in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, the US chief of naval operations John Richardson said today during a visit to a Chinese naval base. 
 
China has refused to recognise a ruling by an arbitration court in The Hague that invalidated its vast territorial claims in the South China Sea, and did not take part in the proceedings brought by the Philippines.&nbsp;Speaking in Sydney today, US vice president Joe Biden assured key ally Australia there would be no retreat from Washington&#39;s pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, regardless of who wins November&#39;s presidential election. 
 
China has repeatedly blamed the United States for stirring up trouble in the South China Sea, a strategic waterway through which more than $5 trillion of trade moves annually.&nbsp;China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam all have rival claims, of which China&#39;s is the largest. 
 
The United States has conducted freedom of navigation patrols close to Chinese-held islands, to Beijing&#39;s anger, while China has been bolstering its military presence there. 
 
Meeting Yuan Yubai, commander of the Chinese North Sea fleet, Richardson &quot;underscored the importance of lawful and safe operations in the South China and elsewhere professional navies operate&quot;, the US Navy said. 
 
US forces would keep sailing, flying and operating wherever international law allows, Richardson added.&nbsp;&quot;The US Navy will continue to conduct routine and lawful operations around the world, including in the South China Sea, in order to protect the rights, freedoms and lawful uses of sea and airspace guaranteed to all. This will not change.&quot; 
 
Freedom of navigation patrols carried out by foreign navies in the South China Sea could end &quot;in disaster&quot;, a senior Chinese admiral said over the weekend.&nbsp;State news agency Xinhua said today that countries outside the region should stay out of the South China Sea issue lest they cause unwanted problems. 
 
&quot;Western countries have a long history of failing to establish orderly rule over parts of the world. The Middle East is a classic example,&quot; it said. 
 
Richardson said he was supportive of the deepening of relations between the US and Chinese navies.&nbsp;&quot;But I will be continuously reassessing my support conditioned on continued safe and professional interactions at sea. In this area we must judge each other by our deeds and actions, not just by our words,&quot; he added. 
 
The United States has complained that Chinese aircraft and ships have performed &quot;unsafe&quot; manoeuvres while shadowing US ships and planes, particularly in the South China Sea. 
 
(Reuters)

US Navy has conducted freedom of navigation patrols close to Chinese-held islands, to Beijing's anger

US military forces will continue to operate in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, the US chief of naval operations John Richardson said today during a visit to a Chinese naval base. China has refused to recognise a ruling by an arbitration court in The Hague that invalidated its vast territorial claims in the South China Sea, and did not take part in the proceedings brought by the Philippines. Speaking in Sydney today, US vice president Joe Biden assured key ally Australia there would be no retreat from Washington's pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, regardless of who wins November's presidential election. China has repeatedly blamed the United States for stirring up trouble in the South China Sea, a strategic waterway through which more than $5 trillion of trade moves annually. China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam all have rival claims, of which China's is the largest. The United States has conducted freedom of navigation patrols close to Chinese-held islands, to Beijing's anger, while China has been bolstering its military presence there. Meeting Yuan Yubai, commander of the Chinese North Sea fleet, Richardson "underscored the importance of lawful and safe operations in the South China and elsewhere professional navies operate", the US Navy said. US forces would keep sailing, flying and operating wherever international law allows, Richardson added. "The US Navy will continue to conduct routine and lawful operations around the world, including in the South China Sea, in order to protect the rights, freedoms and lawful uses of sea and airspace guaranteed to all. This will not change." Freedom of navigation patrols carried out by foreign navies in the South China Sea could end "in disaster", a senior Chinese admiral said over the weekend. State news agency Xinhua said today that countries outside the region should stay out of the South China Sea issue lest they cause unwanted problems. "Western countries have a long history of failing to establish orderly rule over parts of the world. The Middle East is a classic example," it said. Richardson said he was supportive of the deepening of relations between the US and Chinese navies. "But I will be continuously reassessing my support conditioned on continued safe and professional interactions at sea. In this area we must judge each other by our deeds and actions, not just by our words," he added. The United States has complained that Chinese aircraft and ships have performed "unsafe" manoeuvres while shadowing US ships and planes, particularly in the South China Sea. (Reuters)

US says its forces will keep operating in South China Sea

The commanders of the US and Chinese navies will meet amid mounting tensions over Chinas claims to much of the South China Sea, the US Navy said Thursday. Admiral John Richardson, chief of US naval operations, will conduct a three-day visit beginning Sunday, stopping in Beijing and the coastal city of Qingdao, and will meet with his Chinese counterpart Wu Shengli.&nbsp; 
 
Beijing was incensed by the ruling of an international tribunal Tuesday which invalidated Chinas claims to the strategic waterway and promised a &quot;decisive response&quot; to any &quot;provocative action&quot; in the region. 
 
The United States, which has the largest navy in the world, maintains a permanent presence of military vessels in the region. 
 
Since last year it has also conducted three &quot;freedom of navigation&quot; patrols in the region, sending war ships within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands built by Beijing in the South China Sea to signal that Washington does not accept&nbsp; 
Chinas territorial claims. Beijing has asserted claims to as much as 90 percent of the South China Sea, infuriating regional neighbors such as the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam.&nbsp; 
 
American officials have repeatedly complained of the &quot;dangerous&quot; conduct of Chinese aircraft, which have buzzed American planes in the region. But despite rising tensions, American and Chinese sailors have maintained navy-to-navy relations, seeking to minimize the risk of any misunderstandings. China has been invited to participate in this years Rim of the Pacific naval exercises, currently being conducted between Hawaii and California. 
 
(AFP)

The United States, which has the largest navy in the world, maintains a permanent presence of military vessels in the region

The commanders of the US and Chinese navies will meet amid mounting tensions over Chinas claims to much of the South China Sea, the US Navy said Thursday. Admiral John Richardson, chief of US naval operations, will conduct a three-day visit beginning Sunday, stopping in Beijing and the coastal city of Qingdao, and will meet with his Chinese counterpart Wu Shengli. Beijing was incensed by the ruling of an international tribunal Tuesday which invalidated Chinas claims to the strategic waterway and promised a "decisive response" to any "provocative action" in the region. The United States, which has the largest navy in the world, maintains a permanent presence of military vessels in the region. Since last year it has also conducted three "freedom of navigation" patrols in the region, sending war ships within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands built by Beijing in the South China Sea to signal that Washington does not accept Chinas territorial claims. Beijing has asserted claims to as much as 90 percent of the South China Sea, infuriating regional neighbors such as the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam. American officials have repeatedly complained of the "dangerous" conduct of Chinese aircraft, which have buzzed American planes in the region. But despite rising tensions, American and Chinese sailors have maintained navy-to-navy relations, seeking to minimize the risk of any misunderstandings. China has been invited to participate in this years Rim of the Pacific naval exercises, currently being conducted between Hawaii and California. (AFP)

US, Chinese naval commanders to meet amid tensions

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