THREAD: military news

RUSSIA’S Military Losses Soar Amid Ukraine Conflict

10 October 2024 — Britain’s Ministry of Defence reports a sharp rise in Russian military casualties, averaging 1,271 per day in September. This marks the highest daily losses since the conflict began. The increase is linked to Ukraine’s counter-invasion efforts and Russia’s aggressive tactics.

The analysis shows Russia’s casualty rate has more than doubled compared to last year’s peaks. Despite harsh winter conditions, there’s no sign of reduced conflict intensity. Over 648,000 Russian casualties are estimated since the war started, based on Ukrainian figures.

Ukraine claims it inflicted over 38,000 casualties on Russian forces in September alone and destroyed thousands of vehicles like tanks and armored units. However, Western sources often highlight Russian losses without comprehensive data on Ukrainian casualties due to limited transparency from Kyiv.

While Ukraine’s reported figures for Russian losses exceed those from Britain’s Ministry of Defence, accurate assessments are tough due to wartime secrecy. President Zelensky dismissed Kremlin claims about Ukrainian casualties as exaggerated lies earlier this year but didn’t disclose specific numbers for his own forces’ losses.

RUSSIA’S Nuclear Warning: UK Military Sites in Crosshairs Amid Escalating Tensions

07 May 2024 — Russia has heightened tensions by threatening to target UK military bases. This aggressive stance follows Britain’s decision to supply weapons to Ukraine, which Russia alleges have been used against its territory. This threat emerges as Russia prepares for President Vladimir Putin’s fifth term inauguration and the national Victory Day celebrations.

In a bold response to what it describes as Western provocations, Russia is set to conduct military drills that simulate the use of tactical nuclear weapons. These exercises are unique because they focus on battlefield nuclear capabilities, unlike typical maneuvers involving strategic nuclear forces. Tactical nuclear weapons are intended for localized impact, minimizing broader destruction.

The global community has expressed deep concern over these developments. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric voiced worries about the increasing talk of nuclear arms usage, describing the current risks as “alarmingly high.” He emphasized the need for nations to refrain from actions that might lead to misjudgments or catastrophic consequences.

These events underscore a critical moment in international relations, highlighting the delicate balance between national defense and global security threats. The situation calls for careful diplomatic engagement and a reassessment of military strategies by all involved nations to prevent further escalation of tensions.

UK’S RECORD Military Aid to UKRAINE: A Bold Stand Against Russian Aggression

23 April 2024 — Britain has unveiled its largest military aid package for Ukraine, totaling £500 million. This significant boost raises the UK’s total support to £3 billion for the current financial year. The comprehensive package includes 60 boats, 400 vehicles, over 1,600 missiles, and nearly four million rounds of ammunition.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stressed the critical role of supporting Ukraine in Europe’s security landscape. “Defending Ukraine against Russia’s brutal ambitions is crucial not just for their sovereignty but also for the safety of all European nations,” Sunak remarked before his discussions with European leaders and NATO’s chief. He cautioned that a victory for Putin could pose threats to NATO territories as well.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized how this unprecedented aid would bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian advances. “This record package will equip President Zelenskiy and his courageous nation with essential resources to repel Putin and bring back peace and stability to Europe,” stated Shapps, reaffirming Britain’s dedication to its NATO allies and European security overall.

Shapps further underscored Britain’s unwavering commitment to support its allies by enhancing Ukraine’s military strength which is vital in maintaining regional stability and deterring future aggression from Russia.

DEFENSE BILL Slashed: Allies Fear for US Reliability

24 March 2024 — The House gave the green light to a $1.2 trillion defense bill on Friday, which includes crucial aid for Ukraine. However, the significantly trimmed budget and prolonged delays have left allies like Lithuania doubting the U.S.'s reliability.

The conflict in Ukraine, instigated by Russia, has been ongoing for over two years. While American backing for Kyiv has slightly lessened, European allies stand firm. Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuanian Foreign Minister, voiced concerns over Ukraine’s capacity to hold its front line based on the quantity of ammunition and equipment received.

Landsbergis also expressed apprehension about Russia’s potential future actions if Putin continues without restraint. He portrayed Russia as a “massive, aggressive empire with a bloodthirsty nature” that inspires other dictators globally.

This is an incredibly unsettling time," concluded Landsbergis underlining the worldwide repercussions of Russia’s unchecked aggression.

UKRAINE’S Downfall: The Shocking Inside Story of the Most Devastating Ukrainian Defeat in a Year

11 March 2024 — SLOVIANSK, Ukraine — Ukrainian soldiers found themselves in an unrelenting battle, defending the same industrial block for months with no relief. In Avdiivka, troops had been stationed for nearly two years of the war without any sign of replacements.

As ammunition dwindled and Russian airstrikes intensified, even fortified positions were not safe from advanced “glide bombs”.

The Russian forces employed a strategic onslaught. They first sent lightly armed soldiers to exhaust Ukraine’s ammunition reserves before deploying their well-trained troops. Special forces and saboteurs staged ambushes from tunnels, adding to the chaos. During this turmoil, a battalion commander mysteriously vanished according to law enforcement documents seen by The Associated Press.

In less than a week, Ukraine lost Avdiivka — a city that had been defended long before Russia’s full-scale invasion began. Outnumbered and nearly surrounded, they chose withdrawal over facing another deadly siege like Mariupol where thousands of troops were either captured or killed. Ten Ukrainian soldiers interviewed by The Associated Press painted a grim picture of how dwindling supplies, overwhelming Russian force numbers and military mismanagement led to this catastrophic defeat.

Viktor Biliak is an infantryman with the 110th Brigade who has been stationed since March 2022 said that

US Marines SPRING Into Action: SECURING Haiti Amid Rampant Gang Violence

09 March 2024 — The US State Department has called upon a Marine security team to restore order in Haiti, according to Fox News Digital. This decision stems from the country’s escalating gang violence leading to widespread instability.

A representative from the State Department stressed that ensuring the safety of American citizens abroad is their topmost concern. Despite operating with a reduced staff, the US Embassy in Port-au-Prince remains operational and prepared to aid American citizens as required.

Earlier confusion regarding the mission’s status and personnel involved has been clarified. An antiterrorism security team is confirmed for deployment this week, while the Pentagon continues evaluating its options in response to this unpredictable situation.

UK and France’s HIDDEN Soldiers in Ukraine: Germany ACCIDENTALLY Spills the Beans

07 March 2024 — In a surprising turn of events, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz unintentionally disclosed that both the UK and France have troops stationed in Ukraine. This revelation came about as he defended his decision not to provide Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles. According to Scholz, these troops are supervising the deployment of their nations’ long-range missiles on Ukrainian soil. His comments hint at a fear of escalating tensions with Russia.

Following Scholz’s unexpected revelation, a leaked audio recording surfaced featuring top-ranking German military officials confirming the active involvement of British soldiers in Ukraine. The recording suggests that British forces are assisting Ukrainians in targeting and firing UK-provided missiles at specific Russian targets. While the German Defence Ministry has verified the authenticity of this recording, it has left some questions unanswered regarding potential editing prior to its release by Russia.

Despite not disputing the legitimacy of this leaked audio, Berlin has tried to downplay it as Russian “disinformation”. Miguel Berger, Germany’s ambassador to Britain, described it as “a Russian hybrid attack” designed to destabilize Western allies. Berger asserted there is “no need for an apology” towards either UK or France.

This unforeseen disclosure raises questions about Western involvement in Ukraine beyond diplomatic protection and underscores Germany’s prudent approach towards direct military engagement with Russia.

CONGRESS Holds the Key: The FUTURE of the Russia-Ukraine War in Year Three

25 February 2024 — As we enter the third year of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, experts tell Fox News Digital that its future hangs on Congress. Will they overcome their hesitation to provide ongoing support? Kenneth J Braithwaite, a former Navy secretary under Trump and ex-ambassador to Norway, underscores America’s alliances’ crucial role in this worldwide challenge.

Communism is alive and well," warns Braithwaite. He emphasizes that as Russia battles Europe and China seeks greater global sway, Americans must prioritize self-defense against these threats. This protection comes through partnerships and unified resistance against authoritarian dangers.

Ukraine’s second invasion year witnessed significant turmoil with Russia initially facing major defeats when Wagner forces defected. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin managed to mount a successful counterattack against Ukraine’s counteroffensive. In a daring move, Putin rejected renewing a U.N.-backed deal for grain shipments via the Black Sea and instead launched an attack on Ukraine.

In response, Ukraine unleashed an impressive naval operation that obliterated twelve Russian vessels in the Black Sea — a strategic victory for Kyiv that enabled them to create their own grain corridor by driving out the Russian fleet from

HEROIC Navy Seals SACRIFICED in Iranian Weapons Seizure: Four Arrested

23 February 2024 — Four individuals of foreign nationality have been charged after a vessel was intercepted in the Arabian Sea. The U.S. Navy seized the ship, which was allegedly carrying Iranian-made weapons.

In a devastating turn of events, two brave Navy SEALs lost their lives during this operation. The fallen warriors were identified as Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J. Chambers and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram.

David Sundberg, Assistant Director of the FBI Washington Field Office, stated that these charges serve as a stern warning to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He stressed that any hostile actions from foreign governments will not go unchecked by the U.S..

The FBI and other U.S Government agencies pledge to persistently disrupt attempts by hostile foreign entities aiming to instill fear and inflict harm through violent means.

US Troops UNDER ATTACK: Iran-Backed Militias Blamed for Deadly Drone Strike

31 January 2024 — A devastating drone attack in Jordan, which tragically claimed the lives of three U.S. service members, has been attributed to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an organization supported by Iran. The assault also resulted in injuries for at least 40 troops stationed at Tower 22, a covert base vital to American operations in Syria. This alarming incident unfolds as President Joe Biden weighs his retaliatory options.

In a stern warning, Iran vowed to “respond decisively” if the U.S. takes action against Tehran for the attack. John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, confirmed that this premeditated strike was orchestrated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and included involvement from militant group Kataib Hezbollah.

Kirby dismissed an announcement from Kataib Hezbollah about halting military operations against occupation forces as untrustworthy. He stressed that they are not alone in launching attacks on U.S forces. Amid this escalating situation, President Biden is set to attend a solemn ceremony honoring fallen troops at Dover Air Force Base this Friday.

Additional American strikes could potentially intensify tensions within an already unstable region struggling with Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza since

GAZA CONFLICT Escalates: 21 Israeli Soldiers Dead, Calls for Cease-Fire Intensify

24 January 2024 — In a devastating turn of events, Palestinian militants in Gaza have orchestrated the deadliest single attack on Israeli forces since the war began. This assault, resulting in the death of 21 soldiers, has amplified calls for an immediate cease-fire.

The Israeli military confirmed that their ground forces have encircled Khan Younis, Gaza’s second-largest city. Additionally, reports suggest that Israeli tanks and troops have infiltrated Muwasi – an area previously considered safe for Palestinians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the soldiers but remained resolute in his commitment to achieving “absolute victory.” This includes defeating Hamas and liberating over 100 Israeli hostages held captive by militants. However, these ambitious war objectives are now being scrutinized by Israelis who question their feasibility.

An unidentified senior Egyptian official disclosed that Israel proposed a two-month cease-fire plan. The proposal included freeing hostages in exchange for releasing imprisoned Palestinians and allowing top Hamas leaders in Gaza to relocate. Despite this offer, Hamas remains steadfast in its refusal to release any more hostages until Israel ceases its offensive and withdraws from Gaza.

FINAL WARNING: Yemen’s Houthi Launches Armed Drone at US Navy, Ignites Tensions

05 January 2024 — A drone, armed and unmanned, was launched from Yemen under Houthi control. It came dangerously close — within a few miles — to U.S. Navy and commercial vessels before exploding on Thursday. This alarming incident unfolded mere hours after the White House and its allies issued a stern “final warning” to the Iran-backed militia group. They warned of potential military action if such attacks persisted.

This event marks a first for the Houthis — their initial use of an unmanned surface vessel (USV) since they began harassing commercial ships in the Red Sea following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, as stated by Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, who leads U.S. Navy operations in the Middle East. Fabian Hinz, an expert in missile technology and research fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, highlighted that these USVs form a crucial part of Houthi’s maritime weaponry arsenal.

Since late October last year, there has been an increase in aggression from Houthis with numerous attack drones and missiles targeted at commercial vessels traversing through Red Sea waters. In retaliation to these attacks, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Operation Prosperity Guardian this past December 2022; additional ships were deployed to safeguard commercial vessels navigating through Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

NAVY’S Mightiest Warship USS Gerald R Ford Heads Home: Leaving Middle East Amid Rising Houthi Threats

02 January 2024 — America’s largest naval vessel, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is preparing to sail back home from the eastern Mediterranean Sea. This move comes in the wake of an attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7th and forms part of a broader assessment of global force positioning by defense authorities.

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower will stand as the only U.S. aircraft carrier in the region, given escalating attacks by Yemen-based Houthis on commercial ships navigating Middle Eastern waters. The Houthis justify these assaults as retaliation to Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza.

Over the past weekend, U.S Navy helicopters from both USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely thwarted a Houthi hijacking attempt in Southern Red Sea, sinking three out of four boats involved after responding to a distress signal from Maersk Hangzhou.

In light of intensifying threats from Houthis, an international task force has been established by U.S military to protect commercial vessels navigating these volatile waters. The Biden administration continues to assert that Iran is providing intelligence support to Houthis for these attacks.

Biden INKS $8863 Billion Defense Act, SLAMS Congressional Oversight

25 December 2023 — President Joe Biden has put his signature on the National Defense Authorization Act, green-lighting a hefty $886.3 billion in spending. This act aims to equip our military with the means to deter future conflicts and provide support for service members and their families.

Despite giving his approval, Biden raised eyebrows with concerns over certain provisions. He argues these clauses excessively limit executive power in national security matters by calling for more congressional oversight.

According to Biden, these provisions could force the disclosure of highly sensitive classified information to Congress. There’s a risk this could expose crucial intelligence sources or military operational plans.

The extensive bill, which covers over 3,000 pages, sets out a policy agenda for the Department of Defense and U.S military but doesn’t earmark funding for specific initiatives or operations. Additionally, Biden voiced his ongoing concern about clauses barring Guantanamo Bay detainees from setting foot on U.S soil.

US and UK GEAR UP for Imminent Strikes on Yemen’s Houthi Forces: A Tense Standoff Unfolds

20 December 2023 — The United States and the United Kingdom are making strategic moves near Yemen, hinting at a potential offensive against the Houthi forces. This includes positioning sensitive air and naval assets in the region, alongside a U.S.-led naval task force.

The Iran-backed Houthis have recently escalated tensions by launching multiple attacks on civilian shipping vessels in the Red Sea. These assaults have severely disrupted international shipping routes, compelling many companies to reroute their vessels around Africa’s southern tip. This diversion has led to increased time and costs.

While specific details about the military forces positioned closer to Yemen are not disclosed, it is confirmed that both strike and supporting platforms are involved. The Eisenhower carrier strike group is currently stationed off the Yemeni coast with four F/A-18 fighter squadrons and an electronic warfare squadron.

Given these developments, it appears increasingly probable that strikes against Houthi targets inside Yemen will be executed by U.S. and U.K. forces in the near future.

ISRAEL’S Warfare Crisis: Growing Pleas for Peace Amid Rising Civilian Deaths and Humanitarian Despair

18 December 2023 — Israel is grappling with escalating global demands for a ceasefire. This comes in the wake of a string of fatal shootings, including an accidental incident that claimed the lives of three Israeli hostages. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, now into its tenth week, has raised serious questions about Israel’s military actions. Despite the U.S.'s crucial military and diplomatic backing, Israel may face increased scrutiny during Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s imminent visit.

The brutal war has led to substantial civilian losses with thousands dead and vast areas of northern Gaza reduced to rubble. An estimated 1.9 million Palestinians, constituting nearly 90% of Gaza’s population, have been forced to flee southwards within the beleaguered territory. Struggling Palestinians are surviving on scant humanitarian aid while some are seen crowding around aid trucks at Egypt’s Rafah crossing point.

Even though Israel has permitted direct aid into Gaza for the first time since the war commenced, relief workers argue it falls short considering the magnitude of destruction. The U.N agency responsible for Palestinian refugees estimates over half of Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins due to this conflict.

On a

ISRAEL-HAMAS Conflict: The Rising Tensions and Shocking Russian War Crime Probes

10 December 2023 — Defense reporter Mike Brest from the Washington Examiner recently delved into the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. He sat down with Magazine Executive Editor Jim Antle to discuss this escalating issue, which has seen a worrying increase in casualties in Gaza.

Brest didn’t stop there; he also shed light on ongoing investigations into potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This new development brings an added layer of complexity to an already strained global situation.

The persistent conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Russia’s alleged misdeeds, is stirring unease across the globe. As these situations continue to evolve, they promise to have profound impacts on international relations and worldwide stability.

DEFENDING Our Skies: Innovative EYEWEAR Shields Aircrew from Surge in Laser Attacks

29 November 2023 — The Human Systems Division of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center is on a mission. They’re developing state-of-the-art protective eyewear for aircrew operators, a response to the alarming rise in laser pointer incidents. Based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, the division is focusing on the Block 3 product line. This new gear will offer both laser and ballistic protection — a first in its field.

Capt. Pete Coats, who leads the division’s Aircrew Laser Eye Protection Program, stressed how vital eye health is for pilots. He warned that being hit by a laser without adequate protection could endanger not just safe flying and landing but also jeopardize a pilot’s career itself. The innovative eyewear will come in eight different models, each tailored to specific mission needs and other key factors.

Mark Beer, deputy program manager of the same program, clarified that aircrews engaged in low-speed missions or hovering would gain most from this dual ballistic and laser protection feature. However, those piloting fighter aircraft or high-altitude bombers might not need as much ballistic coverage. In just this year alone, pilots have reported nearly 9,500 laser strikes to the Federal Aviation

MARINE CORPS Commandant’s Sudden Hospitalization: Uncertainty and Political Turmoil Ensue

31 October 2023 — Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith was urgently hospitalized following a medical crisis on Sunday evening. The specifics of the emergency are still concealed, but USNI News suggests that Smith suffered a heart attack.

Currently, Lt. Gen. Karsten Heckl is holding the fort as acting commandant during Smith’s absence. Under normal circumstances, the assistant commandant would step in if the commandant is unable to perform his duties, but this role remains unoccupied due to political deadlock.

President Biden’s pick for assistant commandant, Lt. Gen. Christopher Mahoney, is one among over 300 nominations held up by Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) objection against a Department of Defense policy related to abortion services for military personnel and their dependents.

Tuberville along with other Republicans assert that the department has exceeded its jurisdiction with this policy; however, the department maintains that its intention is to guarantee equal healthcare access for all military personnel.

TOP US Military Officers DEPLOYED to Israel: Biden’s Bold Move Amid Gaza Tensions

23 October 2023 — President Joe Biden has sent a select group of top U.S. military officers to Israel, the White House announced on Monday. Among these officers is Marine Lt. Gen. James Glynn, known for his successful strategies against the Islamic State in Iraq.

These high-ranking officials have been tasked with advising the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on their ongoing operations in Gaza, according to National Security Council spokesman John Kirby and White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during Monday’s press briefing.

While Kirby did not reveal the identities of all dispatched military officials, he confirmed that each one possesses relevant experience for the operations currently being conducted by Israel.

Kirby emphasized that these officers are there to offer insights and pose challenging questions — a tradition consistent with U.S.-Israeli relations since this conflict began. However, he refrained from commenting on whether President Biden had urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to postpone a full-scale ground war until civilians could safely evacuate.