South Korea plans to launch its first nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s under a new defence programme. The project aims to strengthen Seoul’s military capabilities against North Korea’s growing missile and submarine threats. The announcement signals a major shift in South Korea’s long-term naval defence strategy. Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back revealed the plan on Tuesday […]
Indo-Pacific security
Australia-India-Japan-US Quad focuses on maritime stability
At a Quad meeting in New Delhi, member states urged action on global connectivity and supply chain risks. The talks focused on maritime security, critical minerals, and strategic infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific region. The discussions matter for global trade, energy markets, and countries facing growing tensions with China and Iran. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar […]
Australia, Japan seal $7bn warship deal
Australia and Japan have signed contracts to launch a $7 billion warship deal. The agreement strengthens defence cooperation and reshapes regional security dynamics. It also supports efforts to counter growing military influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi signed the memorandum in […]
Vietnam military prepares for possible US threat, documents reveal
An internal Vietnamese military document reveals preparations for a potential American “war of aggression,” highlighting Hanoi’s concerns over US influence and fears of external forces fomenting a domestic uprising. The document, titled “The 2nd US Invasion Plan,” completed by the Ministry of Defense in August 2024, describes the US as a belligerent power ready to […]
Taiwan unveils $40bn defence boost amid rising China tensions
Taiwan has announced a massive $40 billion supplementary defence budget, signalling its firm resolve to protect its sovereignty as tensions with China continue to escalate. President Lai Ching-te revealed the T$1.25 trillion package on Wednesday, describing it as a critical step to safeguard the island’s future. He stressed that history shows compromise in the face […]
US clears $93M Javelin, Excalibur sale to India
The United States has approved a $93 million sale of Javelin anti-tank missiles and Excalibur artillery shells to India. This marks India’s first major defense purchase under the US Foreign Military Sales program since relations cooled in August. The deal aims to strengthen India’s defense capabilities and deepen strategic ties between Washington and New Delhi. […]
US approves $93M Javelin, Excalibur arms sale to India
WASHINGTON: The US State Department has approved the sale of Javelin anti-tank missiles and Excalibur guided artillery munitions to India, valued at $93 million, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on Wednesday. This marks India’s first defence equipment purchase under Washington’s foreign military sales program since tensions escalated in August over US tariff […]
US Defense Secretary visits DMZ amid talks on troop role in South Korea
SEOUL — US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) along the North Korean border on Monday as part of his trip to South Korea, the South Korean Defence Ministry said. His visit comes ahead of talks aimed at reshaping the role of US troops stationed in the country. Hegseth arrived at the […]
10-Year defense deal deepens US-India partnership
The United States and India have signed a 10-year defense framework agreement. The deal was announced after a meeting between US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in Kuala Lumpur. Hegseth described the agreement as a milestone for regional stability and defense balance. According to Hegseth, the deal will increase cooperation […]