I - On Defense Podcast

For review:1.  The UN conference hosted by France and Saudi Arabia to work toward a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians has been postponed French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday.  France and Saudi Arabia had been set to host the gathering between June 17-20 in New York. 2. Israel smuggled attack drones into Iran using a variety of means, including trucks, shipping containers, and even suitcases, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing sources familiar with the Mossad operation.3.  Israeli PM & President Visit Site of Deadly Missile Strike in Bat Yam.4.  IDF Warns Citizens of Tehran to Evacuate. Widespread Israeli Air Force strikes were reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on Sunday afternoon, hours after the IDF issued an unprecedented evacuation warning for Iranian civilians to evacuate areas around weapons factories. 5.  Some Iranians began to flee the capital, Tehran, on Sunday as Israeli airstrikes continued to target military infrastructure and nuclear facilities across the Islamic Republic for a third day. 6.  IDF Strikes Oil Refineries, Fuel Depots, and Gas Fields.7.  Iran has asked Cyprus to convey “some messages” to Israel, the President President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday. However, Iran swiftly denied the claim, with its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei saying Iran did not send any message to Israel via a third country. 8.  US President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 50-minute phone call Saturday to discuss the escalating situation in the Middle East, the White House and Kremlin confirmed. 

For review:Latest information concerning Israel and Iran.1. Iran cancels talks with US scheduled for Sunday in Oman.2. Update on Iran missile strikes in Israel.3. Israeli Defense Minister (Israel Katz): "Tehran will burn" - if Iran Supreme Leader does not stop missile attacks on Israel's Home Front.4. IDF strikes Iran's energy infrastructure.5. Israeli Official (unnamed): assassination of Supreme Leader "not off limits."  

For review:Roll-up of today's events concerning the Israeli attack on Iran's Nuclear Sites and Iran's reaction.

For review:1. Israel Strikes Iran.

For review:1. Hamas and Abu Shabab Group clash in Gaza. Gaza's Hamas-run police force said Thursday that it killed 12 members of the Abu Shabab militia in Gaza, which said its fighters had killed five Hamas operatives.2. On Wednesday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Hamas Has New Leader in Gaza (Az al-Din Haddad).3.  US & Iran to Meet Sunday in Oman. A US official told Reuters that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff plans to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oman on Sunday and discuss Iran's response to the recent American proposal for a nuclear deal. 4. IDF Ready for Strike on Iran Nuclear Sites.  A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Thursday that a “friendly” regional country had alerted Tehran over a potential military strike by Israel. 5.  Russia will establish a dedicated military branch for unmanned systems.6.  US Army Stops M10 Booker Full-Rate Production.  "The Army has 26 Booker production vehicles on hand and the final number of M10 Bookers will be determined once those that are in final stages of completion are accepted by the Army (Army Spokesperson)."7. US Army XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (MICV) program continues moving forward.  American Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) have received the greenlight to continue designing a replacement for the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Each Company will produce seven identical prototypes for testing before the Army selects a winner in 2027 and fielding begins in 2029. 8. USAF Sentinel ICBM program update. Restructuring of the program has left its flight testing schedule up in the air, and a new date for the missile's first flight is now unknown. 

1. After repeated warnings, the activist vessel (Madleen) intercepted by Israeli Navy.  Four activists have been deported (voluntarily), and the remaining eight will appear before an Israeli tribunal- to authorize their deportation.2.  For the first time, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Hamas's October 7 attack on Tuesday, while reiterating his call for the terror group to release the remaining hostages in Gaza.  “What Hamas did in October 2023 in killing and taking civilians hostage is unacceptable and condemnable and Hamas must immediately release all hostages,” Mr. Abbas wrote in a letter to French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who this month will co-chair a UN conference aimed at advancing a two-state solution. 3. IAEA Chief Statement on Iran's Claim of Sensitive Documents.  The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (Rafael Mariano Grossi) said Monday that the information Iran claimed it seized regarding Israel's nuclear program “seems to refer” to the country's Soreq Nuclear Research Center. Soreq is a national laboratory for nuclear science established in Israel in 1958, engaged in nuclear science, radiation safety and applied physics. 4. Russia & Ukraine Prisoner Exchange.  Russia and Ukraine held the first stage of a prisoner swap on Monday, both countries confirmed, following an agreement reached during peace talks in Istanbul last week. 5.  The United States will reduce funding allocated for military assistance to Ukraine in its upcoming defense budget, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a congressional hearing on June 10. 6. Two Chinese Carrier Groups Operating in W. Pacific.  Two Chinese aircraft carrier strike groups (CNS Liaoning 16 & CNS Shandong 17) have simultaneously deployed to the Western Pacific – a first for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), Japanese officials said on Tuesday. 7.  FY26 Pentagon Procurement Budget Info. 

For review:1. As of Sunday AM, the activist humanitarian aid vessel (Madleen) is roughly 160 nautical miles from Gaza. Israeli Defense Minister Katz said Sunday that he had instructed the Israel Defense Forces to “prevent the ‘Madelaine' hate flotilla from reaching the shores of Gaza.” 2. Israeli outlet Channel 12 reports that documents found during IDF operations in Gaza show a close effort between Qatar and Hamas to thwart US President Donald Trump's “deal of the century” peace plan for Israel and the Palestinians and efforts for Arab countries to normalize relations with the Jewish state. 3.  The IDF and Shin Bet confirm that the body of Hamas leader Muhammad Sinwar was found in a tunnel that ran underneath the European Hospital in southern Gaza's Khan Younis. 4. Iran Claims "Treasure Trove" of Israeli Sensitive Documents.  Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib said the documents were related to Israel's nuclear facilities and its relations with the United States, Europe, and other countries, and to its defensive capabilities. 5. Russian Ministry of Defense claims elements of the 90th Tank Division have reached the border of the town of Dnipropetrovsk (Donetsk Region).  News outlet CNN is unable to verify the battlefield reports, and Ukraine has denied the Russian advance. 6. German Taurus Missiles to Ukraine?  A statement from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on May 26 about long-range strikes inside Russia resurrected a long-held hope in Ukraine — that Berlin is finally about to send Kyiv its Taurus missiles.  (There has so far been no confirmation of actual delivery of Taurus to Ukraine.)7.  Taiwan on Friday condemned Beijing's “provocative” actions after it conducted a "combat readiness patrol" around the island. Taipei's defense ministry said it detected 21 Chinese military aircraft, including fighters and drones, of which 15 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.8.  Chinese FC-31 Warplanes to Pakistan "Within Months".  A Pakistani government source told Janes outlet, that the FC-31 aircraft “will begin arriving within months.” The source did not provide further acquisition details, but it was previously reported that China could supply 30 to 40 jets to Pakistan. 9.  The USMC has received its final MQ-9A Reaper from General Atomics. The USMC currently have three air stations manning the drones, located in Arizona, Hawaii, and North Carolina. 

For review:1. Wall Street Journal Report: Iran Ordered Solid-Fuel Material From China for Missile Production. The Journal report, which cited people familiar with the transaction, said Tehran had ordered enough ammonium perchlorate to potentially manufacture up to 800 missiles. 2. Israel has been arming the Abu Shabab Clan in the Gaza Strip as part of an effort to strengthen opposition to Hamas in the enclave, defense sources confirmed on Thursday.3. The Israeli Navy is expected to block a high-profile activist mission sailing to Gaza to challenge Israel's blockade. Israeli defense officials told The Times of Israel that they are monitoring the boat's route (the Madleen). At its current pace, the Madleen would likely reach the Strip sometime over the weekend.4. Russia Launches Large Drone & Missile Strike Across Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelensky said Russia had used more than 400 drones and 40 missiles in the overnight attack, making it among the war's largest. 5. Ukrainian President Zelensky intends to hold a meeting with US President Donald Trump during the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak said on June 6.  The summit is scheduled to take place from June 15 to 17 in Kananaskis, Alberta.6. Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania are accelerating efforts to acquire new submarines (Poland) and Attack vessels (Latvia & Lithuania) that will broaden their capabilities suitable for the Baltic Sea's shallow waters.7. Poland's Armament Agency announced today it has halted a procurement process covering the acquisition of 32 S-70 Black Hawk utility helicopters as it looks to reassess equipment priorities in light of Ukraine war developments.8. The Philippines' defense department sealed the order for 12 FA-50 light combat aircraft in a $700 million package with Korea Aerospace Industries.9. President Trump Nominates New SACEUR / EUCOM Commander. LTG Alexus Grynkewich (USAF) is currently the Director of Operations for the Joint Chiefs of Staff.10. Secretary of the Air Force (Troy Meink) estimates it will cost less than $400 million to modify a luxury aircraft gifted from the Qatari government into President Donald Trump's flying command center. 

For review:1. US Vetoes UNSC Gaza Ceasefire Resolution.  “The United States has been clear we would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas and does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza,” Acting US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea told the council before the vote. 2.  Iran Rejects US Nuclear Deal Proposal.  The supreme leader insisted Iran would not abandon its uranium enrichment program. 3. IDF responds with artillery barrage to rocket fire targeting the Israeli Golan Heights.  A group calling itself the Mohammed Deif Brigades claimed the attack in a post on Telegram.  After the rocket fire, Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that Israel considered “the Syrian president directly responsible for every threat and [rocket] fire toward the State of Israel.” 4. Israeli defense firm Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will showcase its family of high energy laser weapon systems at the upcoming Paris Air Show. The IDF said that a lower-powered laser interceptor system shot down some 35 Hezbollah drones over northern Israel last year.5. President Trump phone call with Russian President. President Trump said Wednesday that Russian President Putin told him that Moscow would retaliate against Ukraine's drone attack over the weekend, casting doubt that a peace deal to end the war could come soon. 6.  NATO Secretary General: US is Committed to NATO; No Plans to Withdraw Troops.7. Senate Armed Service Committee Defense Reconciliation Bill.

For review:1. Ukrainian negotiators said Russia had again rejected an "unconditional ceasefire - but the two committed to return the bodies of 12,000 Soldiers. The two sides agreed to exchange all sick and heavily wounded prisoners of war, as well those aged under 25.2. During talks in Istanbul, the Russian delegation handed Ukraine a "peace memorandum" with its proposals for a ceasefire, Russian-state media outlet TASS reported on June 2, publishing the alleged document.According to the document, among Russia key demands are the official recognition of Russia's annexation of Crimea, as well as the annexation of Ukraine's Kherson, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Luhansk oblasts. Other demands include that Ukraine sticks to its neutral status, abandons its aspirations to join NATO, and an official end to Western arms supplies and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.3.  Iran Readies a "No" Response to US Talks Proposal. “Iran is drafting a negative response to the US proposal, which could be interpreted as a rejection of the US offer,” the senior diplomat, who is close to Iran's negotiating team, told Reuters.The US  proposal for a new nuclear deal was presented to Iran on Saturday by Oman's Foreign Minister (Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi).4. The Israel Defense Forces said Monday it had expanded its ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza over the past day. Palestinian media reported overnight that Israeli ground forces were approaching southern Gaza's Khan Younis.5. UK to Increase Defense Spending to 2.5% GDP by 2027. The UK Prime Minister (Sir Keir Starmer) said the increases represent “the largest sustained increase in defense spending since the end of the Cold War.” 6. The United States is urging Australia to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP.Australia already plans to raise its defense budget to 2.4% of GDP by 2033-34, up from the about 2% it spends now.7.  The Navy awarded a $536 million contract to NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Service to dismantle, recycle and dispose of the former aircraft carrier Enterprise (CVN-65)- a four-year undertaking.  

For review:1. The foreign ministers of Arab countries who had planned to visit the West Bank over the weekend condemned on Saturday Israel's decision to block their trip.  Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates had been expected to take part alongside Turkey.2. Ukraine's Drone Strikes on Russian Airfields Target Bombers. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) reported that the 01 June “Spider Web” drone operation caused approximately $7 billion in damages and disabled 34% of cruise missile carriers in key Russian airbases.  More than 40 aircraft are known to have been hit, including the A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22 M3. 3. Russian Missile Strike Targets Ukrainian Training Grounds. A Russian missile strike on a Ukrainian army training area killed at least 12 soldiers and wounded dozens more Sunday, Kyiv said, in a rare admission of its military losses. 4. On Saturday, 31 May, Hamas responded to US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff's latest proposal with amendments and demands, leading the mediator to blast the stance as one that is “totally unacceptable and only takes us backward.” 5. Nuclear Watchdog IAEA Reports Iranian Activity at Non-Declared Sites. Meanwhile, Iran warned Sunday it will retaliate if European powers “exploit” the Report showing it has stepped up production of highly enriched uranium and detailing its past secretive nuclear activities. 6.  Speaking at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Kenya, General Michael E. Langley, head of US Africa Command (AFRICOM), told reporters that China is attempting to “replicate every type of thing” the US military does to build and maintain relationships on the continent. 7.  Speaking to Bloomberg TV at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, the Chief of Defence Staff of the Indian Armed Forces (Major General Anil Chauhan) confirmed Pakistan shot down Indian Air Force fighter jets during the clashes in early May.  8.  US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth used a key address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, to assert that while the US doesn't seek war with China, it also will not be pushed out of the “critical” Indo-Pacific theater.  

For review:1. Houthi rebels threaten to target Israeli civilian aircraft after latest IDF strike on Sanaa International Airport.2. Israel to block a delegation of Middle Eastern foreign ministers from making a visit to the West Bank. The foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar and Turkey were slated to meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah on Sunday. 3. In April, Saudi Arabia Advised Iran to Negotiate with Washington. Saudi Arabia dispatched Prince Khalid bin Salman to Tehran,  with the warning that it would be better to reach a deal with the US than face the possibility of an Israeli attack if the talks broke down, according to the two Gulf sources. 4. Text of US Envoy Steve Witkoff's Israel - Hamas Ceasefire Proposal.5.  Russia Prepared to Consider Ceasefire if Europe Halts Military Aid.  Russia is prepared to consider a ceasefire in its war against Ukraine, but only if Kyiv stops receiving Western weapons and halts mobilization, Vasily Nebenzya, Russia's envoy to the United Nations, said on May 30, according to the Russian state news agency TASS. 6. President Donald Trump has decided to appoint the next Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), Reuters reported on May 30, citing unnamed officials.  The leading candidate is reportedly U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Alexus Grynkewich, who currently serves as Director for Operations of the Joint Staff. 7.  French President Emmanuel Macron gives keynote speech at Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. "Giving in to Russia's demands to annex a significant portion of Ukraine without consequences would deal a blow to American and European credibility that could be felt as far away as the Indo-Pacific." 8.  The United States is not ruling out a reduction in forces deployed to  S. Korea, two senior American defense officials told reporters traveling with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. There are 28,500 U.S. troops deployed to S. Korea as part of the U.S. long-term commitment to help defend Seoul from any attack from N. Korea. 

For review:1.  A senior Israeli official said Monday that a Hostage release and Ceasefire deal with Hamas has been rejected. The proposal- as reported by Lebanese outlet Al-Mayadeen- called for a ceasefire of about 70 days during which 10 living hostages would be released in two phases, modifying the so-called Witkoff outline, which laid out a shorter ceasefire for the release of about 10 living hostages. 2. US Initiative Begins Aid Distribution in Gaza.  The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF),  stated that roughly 8,000 boxes of food have been distributed in the foundation's first two days of operation, with each box feeding 5.5 people for 3.5 days, totaling 462,000 meals. 3. Russia Rejects Next Round of Peace Talks to Occur in Vatican; Perhaps Geneva. It remains unclear when another round of talks will be held. The Russian foreign ministry on Tuesday claimed it was still working on its memorandum of terms. 4. Sweden Security Assistance to Ukraine Worth $501 Million. Part of the measure focuses on targeted areas such as drones, naval operations, demining, and digital systems.  Sweden is also contributing over $105 million to fast-track ammunition procurement, split between Czech- and Estonian-led initiatives. 5.  The British Army intends to adopt a military strategy shifting from reliance on conventional military assets to drones and autonomous systems, The Times reported. The modernized military framework is set to be officially unveiled in the UK's upcoming Strategic Defense Review 2025. 6. New Zealand to spend $2.4 billion on defense in 2025. New Zealand's defense spending is scheduled to reach 2% of GDP by 2032/33. 7.  US Army to Upgrade M270 MLRS Launchers to the A2 Variant. The A2 variant features an improved fire control system, a new 600-horsepower engine, an armored cab, and a new transmission- plus other system components. Work will take place in Texas and Arkansas, with an estimated completion date of December 30, 2030.  

For review:1. Houthis continue missile attacks on Israel. A ballistic missile launched at Israel by the Houthis was successfully intercepted by air defenses, the military said Sunday. It was the third attack in four days, and the fifth since last Sunday.2. IDF Prepares for Ground Offensive in Gaza with 5 Divisions. When the major ground offensive is launched, the Palestinian population will be pushed into three small zones in Gaza. The IDF will then capture the rest of Gaza, clear it of Hamas infrastructure, raze most buildings, and hold it for the foreseeable future. This captured territory will include all of Rafah, Khan Younis, and the towns north of Gaza City.3. US Lifts Economics Sanctions on Syria. US Secretary of State Rubio said the waiver would “facilitate the provision of electricity, energy, water, and sanitation, and enable a more effective humanitarian response across Syria.”4. Russia & Ukraine Complete Largest Prisoner Exchange of the War. The prisoner exchange took place in three phases carried out over three days and was agreed on during peace talks held in Turkey on May 16.5. US President Trump voiced strong disapproval of Russia's weekend bombardment of Ukraine, telling reporters that he's "not happy with Putin.”The President's comments followed Russia's massive air assault on Ukraine over the weekend, during which more than 600 drones and dozens of missiles were launched from Friday to Sunday.6. In a possible retaliatory action, Russia temporarily stopped the Greek oil tanker Green Admire (that departed from Estonia) in its territorial waters on Sunday following the Estonia's Navy's attempt last week to stop the unflagged and unresponsive Jaguar tanker in the Estonian exclusive economic zone. The vessel Jaguar is suspected to be part of Russia's shadow fleet.7. Switzerland has received the EU's approval to join a multinational military cybersecurity project, the EU's Council announced this week. Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Italy and Luxembourg are already members of the project, in addition to Estonia.8. The US House passed a massive funding package (One Big Beautiful Bill), paving the way for Congress to add $150 billion in defense spending aimed at boosting major Trump administration priorities like Golden Dome.  The measure now moves to the US Senate. 

For review:1.  Updated Info on Strike that Targeted Hamas Leader.  The strike that targeted and possibly eliminated Hamas leader Muhammad Sinwar in Gaza earlier this month was made possible when the terror chief made the rare mistake of moving without a defensive “hostage belt” protecting him, according to a Friday report. 2.  Israel will receive a “devastating and decisive response” if it attacks Iran, the IRGC said on Thursday as Tehran vowed to defend its nuclear sites, days after two separate reports suggested Israel was making preparations to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. 3.  Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that Tehran's discussions with the United States over its nuclear program were “complicated,” as the fifth round of talks concluded in Rome.  Asked about the negotiations, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said “we believe that we are going to succeed” in the talks and in Washington's push for no enrichment. 4. Russia & Ukraine Swap 390 Prisoners; More Expected in Coming Days. Russia will be ready to hand Ukraine a draft document outlining conditions for a long-term peace agreement once a prisoner exchange is completed, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday. 5.  A former leading Ukrainian official has been shot dead outside an American school in the Spanish capital Madrid, authorities have confirmed. 6.  German defense firm Rheinmetall and India's Reliance Defence announced a “strategic partnership” on ammunition supplies today after officials from both companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).  A future production base in the Watad Industrial Area of Ratnagiri, will become one of the largest in South Asia and hold the capacity to manufacture up to 200,000 artillery shells, 10,000 tons of explosives and 2,000 tons of propellants annually. 7.  General Atomics is in talks to sell Saudi Arabia up to 200 MQ-9 unmanned systems, according to a company spokesperson. The discussions are part of the $142 billion in defense deals announced by President Donald Trump during last week's visit to the Gulf Region.8. USAF Test Launches Minuteman III Missile. Air Force Global Strike Command launched the Minuteman III at 12:01 Pacific time from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. It flew about 4,200 miles, at a speed of more than 15,000 miles per hour, to a test site at the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands.  The missile was randomly selected and came from Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana.9. Article from Military.com: Summary of Transformative changes to the Army. 10. US Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) sailed through the Strait of Gibraltar early this morning as it headed home following an eight-month deployment. The carrier is westbound in the Atlantic Ocean, a Navy official confirmed to USNI News Friday. 11. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will travel to the Shangri-La Dialogue, the largest defense conference in Asia, where he will deliver a speech on the Pentagon's approach to the region under the second Trump administration. The 2025 Shangri-La Dialogue event will take place in Singapore on 30 May–1 June. 

For review:1. US & Iran to Meet Friday in Rome for 5th Round of Talks. 2. Report: Israel Ready to Strike Iran if Nuclear Talks with US Break Down. Israel is getting ready to quickly strike Iran if ongoing talks between the United States and the Islamic Republic over the latter's nuclear program break down, Axios reports, citing a pair of Israeli sources.3. Israel and Turkey have reached an agreement in principle aimed at preventing any unwanted incidents between both countries' militaries operating in Syria, and established a hotline to avert such conflicts, according to media reports on Wednesday. 4.  The Lebanese and Palestinian Authority presidents agreed Wednesday that Palestinian factions won't use Lebanon as a launchpad for any attacks against Israel, and to remove weapons that aren't under the authority of the Lebanese state. 5.  Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs on Ceasefire in Ukraine: Foreign Minister Lavrov rejects the push to "have a truce and then we'll see," claiming that the "root causes" of Russia's war need to be resolved. 6.  NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on May 21 that the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague will focus on the military support for Ukraine to ensure it is in the strongest position possible both during its ongoing defense and in the eventual pursuit of a lasting peace.7.  President Trump on the US Golden Dome Missile Shield: “Once fully constructed, the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting missiles even if they are launched from other sides of the world, and even if they're launched from space. And we will have the best system ever built.” The President has appointed General Michael Guetlein (Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations) to oversee the effort. 8.  DoD Accepts Qatari 747 Jet: Will Undergo Modification for President's Use. An Air Force spokesperson added that the service is “preparing to award a contract to modify” the plane, but details “related to the contract are classified.” 

For review:1. President Trump Phone Call with Russian President.  President Trump sought to emphasize what he described as an excellent “tone and spirit” shared with the Kremlin leader. President Putin, meanwhile, described the call as “meaningful and frank.” 2.  EU Preparing Sanctions Package. The EU is preparing an important sanctions package against Russia as Moscow continues to refuse a ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a press conference on May 19. 3.  The EU & the UK agreed on a security and defense partnership which they said will allow for closer cooperation in areas such as support for Ukraine, and which may open the door for UK companies to benefit from an EU plan to boost defense-industrial spending. 4. De facto Hamas Leader (Muhammad Sinwar) Killed in Khan Younis Tunnel Strike.  The strikes that reportedly killed Sinwar on Tuesday targeted an underground command compound below the European Hospital where he was believed to have been sheltering. 5.  Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi:  Nuclear talks between Iran and the United States “will lead nowhere” if Washington insists that Tehran drop its uranium enrichment activity to zero. 6.  Raytheon has signed a $1-billion agreement with Qatar to deliver the Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS), making Doha the system's first international customer. The system integrates radar, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and effectors, such as jamming or kinetic interceptors, to respond to unmanned aerial threats. 7. Upgraded THAAD Radar Tracks Hypersonic Missiles.  Raytheon Spokesman: The new version of AN/TPY-2 has a longer range and can provide targeting coordinates to other missile defense interceptors beyond just the Army's THAAD batteries. The radar can see things twice as far, so (commanders) can make that command and control decision a lot earlier on which effector to use, whether it's an SM series or it's a Patriot, or it's a THAAD.

For review:1. Russia and Ukraine Istanbul Talks Last Under 2 Hours with Large Prisoner Exchange Agreement and Consensus to Meet Again. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called the POW swap as a “confidence-building measure” and said the parties had agreed in principle to meet again.2. US President Donald Trump says he will be speaking to Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday about ending the war in Ukraine, saying the call would be about "stopping the 'bloodbath'". The President said the call would take place at 10:00 EST & he would then speak to Ukrainian President Zelensky, and leaders of some NATO countries.3. Russian President Vladimir Putin has appointed Colonel General Andrey Mordvichev, who led the assault on Mariupol in 2022, as the Commander of the Russian Ground Forces.4. IDF Airstrikes on Houthi Ports. Israeli fighter jets targeted two Houthi-controlled ports in the west of the country, and threatened to kill the terror group's leader (Abdul-Malik al-Houthi), in response to the Iran-backed group's ongoing missile and drone attacks on Israel.5. The Israel Defense Forces announced that it has launched the first stages of a major offensive in the Gaza Strip, dubbed “Gideon's Chariots,” that will seek to “seize strategic areas.” 6.  In Baghdad, Leaders at an Arab League summit demanded increased pressure on Israel to end the war in Gaza, and reiterated the 22-nation body's rejection of President Trump's plan to take over the enclave, oust its residents, and rebuild it as a coastal resort.7.  Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday said US President Donald Trump was lying about his intentions for the region, and once again called Israel a “cancerous tumor” that must be uprooted.8. Armor Not Dead: Netherlands Building Tank Battalion. The new battalion, equipped with at least 46 x Leopard 2A8 Tanks, will be based at Bergen-Hohne Training Area (Germany), where the Dutch says there is enough space for realistic training, something that is lacking in the Netherlands.9. The Hungarian Defence Forces has received 3 x Leopard 2A7HU main battle tanks and their first Leguan 2HU armored vehicle-launched bridge as part of a contract signed in 2018. The plan will integrate up to 44 x tanks and associated support equipment to modernize the military's ground-based armored firepower. 

For review:1. President Trump on Last Leg of Middle East Visit.2. Despite No President Putin- Russia & Ukraine Delegations Still to Meet on16 May.3. US Army's First Unit Fielded with FLRAA will be 101st Airborne Division.4. US Army High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) aircraft procurement down to 6 systems instead of 12, as originally thought.  Last year, the Sierra Nevada Corporation won an Army contract to integrate a suite of capabilities onto the Bombardier Global 6500 jet under the HADES program. The service wants to have an initial aircraft ready for the force by the end of 2026 or early 2027.5.  USMC Commandant said the Marine Corps is still committed to the JLTV program. “It is our workhorse on the ground tactical vehicle fleet,” General Eric Smith told the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Speaking to reporters in Tennessee on Wednesday, Army Vice Chief General James Mingus said the Army's last tranche of JLTVs was purchased in January. 6. US Senate Confirms Troy Meink as Air Force Secretary.

For review:1. Russia - Ukraine Talks in Istanbul Thursday: Will Russian President Attend? In what may have been a surprise for the Russian leader, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy responded by accepting the invitation, saying he was ready to meet Putin in Turkey on 15 May.2. President Trump said he might take a detour during his Mideast trip to visit Turkey for peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine on 15 May.3.  Calm in Kashmir Border Region as Ceasefire Holds. Indian and Pakistani authorities said Monday there was no firing reported overnight along the heavily militarized region between their countries, the first time in recent days the two nations were not shooting at each other. 4. US-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander Freed from 580 Days in Hamas Captivity. 5. NATO's top military officer (Admiral Giuseppe Dragone - Italy) said he has no indication yet that the United States will withdraw forces committed to the alliance's defense plans and shift them to the Indo-Pacific.6.  NATO must make drastic changes to its electromagnetic warfare (EW) capabilities if the alliance wants to win a future war against Russia.7. President Donald Trump's plan to “temporarily” transform a Boeing 747 originally owned by Qatar's royal family into a new Air Force One plane has come under fire from congressional Democrats. 

For review:1. Ukraine Agrees to Direct Talks with Russia in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said he would agree to meet Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin in Turkey on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump told him immediately to accept Putin's proposal of direct talks.2.  India & Pakistan Ceasefire. India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire Saturday after US-led talks to end the most serious military confrontation between the nuclear-armed rivals in decades, but they accused each other of violating the deal just hours later.3. The Indian Navy massed naval forces in the Northern Arabian Sea and sent a carrier battle group, surface combatants, submarines and naval aviation to keep their Pakistani adversaries in a “defensive position,” Indian officials said this week. 4. President Trump Heads to Middle East Region, 13-16 May. US President Donald Trump's meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday is also set to include Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Syria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, Arabic media reported Sunday.5. Iran and the United States wrapped up nuclear talks in Oman on Sunday with no apparent breakthrough and a public standoff over enrichment, but with both sides confirming plans for future negotiations.6. The Israel Defense Forces on Sunday evening issued an “urgent” evacuation warning to the three Houthi-controlled ports in western Yemen, ahead of potential Israeli strikes.7. Defense News (Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo) Interview with Lithuania Minister of National Defense- Dovilė Šakalienė. 8.  Armor Not Dead: Australia Activates New Tank Squadron. The formal establishment of D Squadron within the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2 CAV) is a significant milestone for the Royal Australian Armoured Corps, representing the first time in the Corps' history that a regiment has two tank and cavalry squadrons positioned in the same location.

For review:1. Israeli Defense Minister (Israel Katz) warned Iran of consequences for sponsorship of Houthi Rebels. Defense Minster Katz: “I also warn the Iranian leadership that funds, arms and operates the Houthi terror organization… You are directly responsible. What we did to Hezbollah in Beirut, Hamas in Gaza, to Assad in Damascus and the Houthis in Yemen, will also be done to you in Tehran.”  2. IRGC General Threatens to "open the gates of hell" if US & Israel Attack Iran.IRCG Chief Hossein Salami: “I'm issuing a serious warning. If you make one wrong move, we will open up the gates of hell on you. Sit down and stay in your place…we have made extensive preparations.” 3. Russia's Victory Day Parade in Moscow.4.  French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk hit out at leaders and others who attended Moscow's Victory Day parade on Friday.  Mr. Macron and Mr. Tusk were in the French city of Nancy to sign a bilateral treaty, aimed at reinforcing defense and security cooperation between the two countries.5.  Denmark will allocate €830 million ($935 million) to the Ukrainian defense industry in 2025 on behalf of the European Union, using windfall profits from frozen Russian assets to buy Ukraine-made weapons.  Last year's equipment purchases using the Danish model included howitzers, long-range drones, anti-tank and anti-ship missile systems. 6.  Israel and Greece Collaborate on Large Underwater Drone. The "BlueWhale" sails at 7 knots (13 kilometers/8 miles per hour), has a depth range of 300 meters (984 feet), and can support endurance operations for up to four weeks. Applications of the system include acoustic reconnaissance, special force support, and as a conventional submarine wingman. 7.  Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) has received its first five OA-1K Skyraider II close air support prop planes.  The program of record covers a total requirement for 75 aircraft, with deliveries slated to run through 2029. However, it is currently only budgeted for 62 aircraft.

For review:1. US President Donald Trump indicated Wednesday that he is seeking to “blow up” Iran's nuclear centrifuges through an agreement with Tehran, but is also prepared to blow them up in an attack if necessary.2. UAE Facilitates Indirect Security Talks Between Israel & Syria. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on Wednesday confirmed that his country was currently taking part in indirect talks with Israel. Reports earlier in the day said that the United Arab Emirates had facilitated a backchannel for dialogue between Jerusalem and Damascus.3.  Moscow Victory Day Parade Guest List. The most high-profile guests in attendance this year will be Chinese President Xi Jinping and the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Other world leaders set to attend are those from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Congo, Cuba, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Guinea Bissau, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Palestine, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.4. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz traveled to Paris on his first foreign trip as head of government to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron- with the two leaders promising closer defense ties.5.  US Navy Sea Launched Cruise Missile - Nuclear in 2034. The proposed $150 billion defense reconciliation bill includes $2 billion to develop the missile and an additional $400 million to develop the warhead.6. Department of Defense IG Report on Gaza Pier.7. USAF and Boeing look to deliver the Presidential Jet, VC-25B (Air Force One) in 2027. 

1. IDF Airstrikes Disable Sanaa International Airport. Dozens of Israeli Air Force aircraft were involved in the strikes on Yemen on Tuesday, including fighter jets, refuelers, and spy planes. The IDF said the fighter jets dropped 50 munitions on the targets.2.  President Trump Announces Truce with Houthis; Halts Bombing in Yemen. Oman revealed that it had mediated the ceasefire deal under which neither side will target the other, including US vessels in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.3. A fourth round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States is likely to take place over the weekend in the capital of Oman, with Iranian state media pointing to May 11 as a probable date.4. Mediated by United Arab Emirates, Russia & Ukraine Exchange 205 Prisoners of War. This marks the fifth known prisoner of war swap of 2025.5. Ukraine dismisses idea of attacking the Russian Victory Day Parade in Moscow on 9 May.6. US Army tests 2 x counter UAS systems in Philippines- the Integrated Fires Protection Capability–High-Powered Microwave (IFPC-HPM) and the Fixed Site–Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS).7. USAF Sentinel ICBM Program Update. The Sentinel program will procure up to 634 missiles, with an additional 25 for development and testing — and deploy 400 of them in silos spread across missile fields in the US Great Plains. 8. USMC Landing Ship, Medium update. 

For review:1. Israeli PM Vows Retaliation Against Iran & Houthis for Airport Missile Strike. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday vowed to retaliate against the Houthis in Yemen and to act against “their patron” Iran, hours after the rebel group struck Ben Gurion Airport with a ballistic missile. 2. President Trump said in an interview aired Sunday that the aim of his administration's nuclear talks with Iran is to achieve “total dismantlement” of Tehran's nuclear program, but that he is open to letting the Islamic Republic pursue civilian nuclear energy.  A fourth round of talks between the US and Iran initially scheduled for Saturday, was postponed, mediator Oman said earlier this week, citing “logistical reasons.” 3. President Trump dismissed Mike Waltz as national security advisor and announced his nomination as the next US ambassador to the United Nations, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio was named as his interim replacement.According to a Washington Post report. President Trump was angered by his hawkish position on Iran and focus on military options to destroy Tehran's nuclear program.4. Pres Zelenskyy to Delegations Visiting Moscow Parade: We cannot be held responsible for what happens (in) Russian Federation.  The Ukrainian President said his government could not guarantee the safety of foreign delegations visiting Moscow to attend the Victory Day Parade next Friday, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. 5.  During an interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow has the "strength and means" to bring the war with Ukraine to a "logical conclusion." "We have enough strength and means to bring what was started in 2022 to a logical conclusion with the outcome Russia requires." 6. US SECDEF orders US Army transformation.

For review:1. Update on Israel wildfires.2.  Israel Strikes Damascus in Message to Syrian Regime.  Israel conducted airstrikes early on Friday near Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa's official residential compound in Damascus in response to violence in Syria against the country's Druze minority, the Israel Defense Forces said. 3. Lebanon has warned Hamas not to conduct operations that compromise the country's security or sovereignty, Beirut's Supreme Defense Council said on Friday. 4. Reuters article via Times of Israel concerning US/Iran Nuclear negotiations.In three weeks, the US and Iran have held three rounds of talks aimed at preventing Tehran from building a nuclear weapon in return for sanctions relief. A fourth round is expected to take place in Rome soon. 5. US State Department to Ukraine & Russia: US Will Not Be Mediators If Progress Not Made.  US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters Thursday that Kyiv and Moscow need to engage directly with each other and that the US will no longer “fly around the world at the drop of a hat to mediate meetings.”  US Secretary of State Rubio, said that unless a “real breakthrough” is made soon, President Trump “is going to have to make a decision about how much more time we're going to dedicate to this.” 6. UK RAF Collaborative Drone Effort.  The first autonomous collaborative platform (ACP) drone, labelled StormShroud, entered into service into the UK Royal Air Force.  The new StormShroud aircraft combines the UK-Portuguese Tekever 3 tactical uncrewed aerial system (UAS) with Leonardo UK's BriteStorm stand-in jammer, effectively transforming it into an ACP, to work in tandem with RAF fighter jets. 7. USAF Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) Effort. USAF announced it has selected Beale Air Force Base in California to host the service's first “Aircraft Readiness Unit” dedicated to its future fleet of drone wingmen. General Atomics and Anduril are facing off for the Air Force program after their selection last year. USAF expects to field CCA by 2030.8.  Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Kilby to USMC: We owe you a three-ship ARG [Amphibious Ready Group]. I owe you a three-ship ARG that's ready to embark Marines and conduct the training cycle and deploy on schedule. I do not meet that requirement.”  The Amphibious Ready Group is the USMC three-ship formation generally consisting of an assault ship (LHA), a transport dock (LPD) and a support vessel (LSD). USMC goal is to maintain what's known as a 3.0 presence: That means one ARG deployed from the East Coast to the Mediterranean or coast of Africa; one from the West Coast to the Pacific and a third “episodically” deployed forward from Japan.

For review:1. Israel seeks international aid in fighting wildfires across the country.  A statement from Israel's Foreign Ministry said the minister had spoken with the foreign ministers of the UK, France, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Argentina, Spain, North Macedonia, Azerbaijan, and other unspecified countries.2. IDF's Drone Strike "Message" Supports Syrian Druze Community. Joint Statement from Israel's PM and Defense Minster: “Israel will not allow harm to the Druze community in Syria, out of a deep commitment to our Druze brothers in Israel, who are connected by family and historical ties to their Druze brothers in Syria.” 3.  US & Ukraine Agree to Mineral Deal.  The Ukrainian Cabinet approved the agreement Wednesday. The deal still needs to be ratified by the Ukrainian Parliament before it can take effect. 4. EU Will Not Recognize Crimea as Russian.  EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas said on April 30: "On the European side, we have said this over and over again… Crimea is Ukraine."5.  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calls for accelerating the nuclear weapon capability of the Korean People's Army Navy.6. At Modern Day Marine conference, Polaris unveiled MRZR Alpha vehicle with one kilowatt of exportable power.  The company is also working on a MRZR variant capable of generating five kilowatts of power.7.  US Navy has awarded a long-awaited contract modification to General Dynamics Electric Boat, and major subcontractor HII, for the construction of two Virginia-class submarines appropriated through fiscal 2024 funding.

For review:1. Iran Port Blast Caused by "Negligence". Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni said Monday that a deadly explosion at the country's largest commercial port two days earlier was caused by “negligence” and failure to comply with safety measures.2.  An Israeli official said Monday that there is “no chance” Israel would accept the five-year truce proposal with the Hamas terror group that is currently being discussed by Arab mediators. 3. Russian President Announces Ceasefire from 8-11 May.  The Kremlin said in a note to the media that the ceasefire would begin at midnight local time May 8 and end at midnight May 11, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of “Victory Day,” when Russia celebrates its victory over the Nazis. 4. US Secretary of State Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov spoke on 27 April, with Secretary Rubio emphasizing the need to end the war. 5. Australian Delivery of Older M1 Abrams Tanks Delayed. The Australian Defense Ministry told the ABC that the promised tanks are "on target" to reach Ukraine in 2025. 6. India Tests Hypersonic Engine for Missile Program. The over 16-minute test was an upgrade over a previous test in January that lasted 120 seconds. It was performed at the newly-built Scramjet Connect Test Facility in India's southern city of Hyderabad. 7.  The U.S. military has hit more than 800 targets in Yemen during a 40-day airstrike campaign against the Houthis.  During the recent airstrike campaign, Houthi ballistic missile attacks have fallen by 69% and kamikaze drone attacks have fallen by 55%, according to Central Command. 8.  An F/-18E Super Hornet assigned to the carrier air wing embarked aboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) was lost at sea during a towing incident in the hangar bay Monday, according to a Navy announcement. No personnel were lost and one sailor sustained minor injuries, according to the service. 

For review:1. Iranian MP Blames Israel for Port Explosion. MP Mohammad Siraj: “Israel was involved in the explosion. It was not accidental. Clear evidence points to Israeli involvement.”  Israel's leadership has not commented on the blast. 2. IDF strikes missile warehouse in Beirut suburbs.  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a joint statement that missiles stored in the Lebanese capital “posed a significant threat to Israel.” 3. US continues to facilitate peace negotiations to end the Russia - Ukraine War. President Trump meets Ukraine President Zelenskyy in Vatican City.4. Car Bomb Kills Russian Senior Officer in charge of Army Operations (General Lieutenant Yaroslav Moskalik) in the town of Balashikha, east of Moscow. 5.  Car Bomb Kills Russian Electromagnetic Warfare Expert (Yevgeny Rytikov) in Bryansk- 100 kilometers north of the Russia-Ukraine Border. Mr. Rytikov headed the design bureau at the Bryansk Electromechanical Plant and was responsible for upgrading the Krasukha EW system, which Russian forces use to counter drones and airborne weapons. 6. North Korea reveals that it deployed troops to fight in Kursk Region.7.  Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reports that sustaining and modernizing the US Nuclear arsenal will cost $946 billion between 2025-2034. 8. US Army officially names the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon- "Dark Eagle". 

For review:1. IDF strikes Hamas command center in Northern Gaza.2. From interview with Time Magazine: US President Trump said he would not be dragged by Prime Minister Netanyahu into war with Iran, but vowed Washington could instead “be leading the pack” if diplomacy were to fail.3.  President Trump: Russia & Ukraine Close to a Deal.4. Estonia to Achieve Over 5% GDP on Defense Spending.5. Spain to Meet NATO Goal of 2% GDP Defense Spending in 2025.6. Netherlands increases defense budget to 22 billion euros in 2025.7. Armor Not Dead: UK Army's Challenger 3 Tank effort moving forward. UK Minister for Defence Procurement (Maria Eagle) revealed that “The [Armour Main Battle Tank] programme has now delivered four prototypes, with four more currently in build,” out of the 148 tanks expected. The Challenger 3 MBTs are expected to achieve initial operational capability in 2027, with full operational capability expected by 2030 until 2040.8. US Reconciliation Bill includes $150 Billion for Defense.

For review:1. Houthi rebels have downed 6 MQ-9 Reaper Drones since 15 March, and 15 Reapers since October 2023. The U.S. Air Force has about 280 Reapers in its inventory, each costing about $28 million, according to the Congressional Research Service.2. Iran Fortifies Nuclear Sites. Commercial satellite images taken on March 29 showed hardened entrances to (nuclear) complexes beneath Mt. Kolang Gaz La.3. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday told Hamas to release hostages it is holding in order to eliminate what he said was Israel's pretext to continue its war in Gaza.4. Deadly ambush by Hamas on an IDF vehicle operating inside Israeli-held buffer zone, illustrates the terror group is still a dangerous threat.5. Crimea Becomes a  Key Issue in Russia-Ukraine Peace.6. Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Shandong (17) once again deployed again to the Philippine Sea, marking the second time this month.7. Royal Australian Navy Enlisted Sailors Graduate US Navy Nuclear Power Training Course. Eight Royal Australian Navy sailors graduated from the six-month course on April 18 and are now qualified to handle the reactors and other associated systems on the nuclear attack boats that Canberra is set to receive under the 2021 AUKUS Agreement.8. Northrop Grumman reported a $477 million loss on the B-21 Raider bomber in the first quarter of 2025, as higher costs for manufacturing and materials affect the company.The B-21′s inflation adjusted average procurement unit cost is about $692 million.The Air Force plans to buy at least 100 B-21s but has left the door open to buying more bombers.

For review:1. Latest US airstrikes target Farwa neighborhood in Sanaa. US Central Command declined to answer questions about the strike.2. Israeli Air Force conducts drills that simulate Iranian missile attack on IAF bases. IAF bases were targeted in previous Iranian strikes in April and October 2024.3. IDF Ground Operations in Rafah Continue. The IDF has not only cut off Rafah from Khan Younis overground, but also located two major Hamas tunnels connecting the two cities.4. IDF experimenting unmanned D9 bulldozers. 5. Russian President Putin Open to Bilateral Talks with Ukraine.6. US & Canada Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) Effort. The OTHR effort is envisioned as a partnership with Canada to modernize NORAD's defenses, where original plans would reportedly see the US procure four radar systems and Canada two systems. 7. US Army's Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS) achieves Low Rate Initial Production. Raytheon plans producing eight LTAMDS per year- and based on international customers- the company said it wants to ultimately be able to produce 12 radars per year. 

For review:1. US Strikes Houthi Oil Terminal.  The US military said it had destroyed Ras Isa terminal "to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue". 2. WSJ Report: Anti-Houthi militias are planning ground offensive against the terror organization.  American officials said the United States is “open to supporting a ground operation by local forces” but “a decision on whether to back the effort hasn't been made yet.” 3. US & Iran Meet in Rome.  A second round of negotiations between Iran and the United States over Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program ended Saturday after several hours of talks, Iranian and American officials said. 4.  Israel Has not Ruled Out Strike On Iran's Nuclear Sites.  Attack plans include a mix of airstrikes and commando operations that vary in severity and could set back Tehran's ability to weaponize its nuclear program by just months or a year or more, sources said. 5. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio: US may move on from trying to secure a Russia - Ukraine peace deal if there is no progress in the coming days.6. Russian President Putin Declares Easter Truce.  “Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to 00:00 from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order that all military actions be stopped for this period,” the Russian President said. 7. Serbian Leaders plan to attended Russian Victory Day Parade in Moscow, despite warnings from EU Foreign Affairs and Security Representative Kaja Kallas. Ms. Kallas:  “Any participation in the May 9th parades or celebrations in Moscow will not be taken lightly on the European side".8. UK Army defeats drone swarms using radio-frequency, direct energy weapon.  Radio-frequency directed energy weapon systems can defeat airborne targets at ranges of up to 1 kilometer.9. Japan Installs Rail Gun on Test Ship. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) released an image of its state-of-the-art railgun currently undergoing testing aboard the test ship JS Asuka. The railgun systems are expected to be employed as naval or land-based artillery.

For review:1. NYT Report: President Trump Suspended Attack on Iranian Nuclear Sites Planned for May.2. IDF continues pressure on Hamas during Gaza Strip operations with three Divisions. No deadline for major offensive yet.3. US Secretary of State Traveling to Paris to Discuss Ukraine & Middle East. Separately, on Thursday, French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu will travel to Washington to meet with his counterpart, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.4.  Russian President Vladimir Putin and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani will discuss efforts to find a possible peace deal (Russia - Ukraine), when they meet in Moscow tomorrow. 5. Turkey Hosts Black Sea Security Talks in Event of Russia - Ukraine Ceasefire.According to an official statement by the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, the meeting includes military representatives from several countries, including Ukraine, France, the United Kingdom and Turkey.6. Opinion Article via Breaking Defense. In order to defend its' air and sea approaches more effectively, Australia should invest in long-range strike systems via air power- more specifically USAF B-2A Spirit Bombers.7. Latest on US Space Command Headquarters final location- either Colorado Springs or Huntsville.

For review:1. President Trump On Iran's Nuclear Ambition: "I'll solve that problem."  US President Donald Trump vowed Monday to “solve” the issue of Iran's nuclear ambitions, even if it means taking “very harsh” actions to thwart them.2.  Israel - Hams Hostage Negotiations. The Haaretz daily, citing Palestinian sources involved in the talks, reported that Cairo and Doha are working with the US toward a potential additional stage of the ceasefire-hostage release deal reached in January that would also include talks to end the 18-month war. 3. New Ukraine Capability Coalition: Electromagnetic Warfare. The goals include protection of friendly communication and disruption of the enemy's, persistent reconnaissance, drone defense, and effectiveness of weapon systems. 4. Ukraine troops provide feedback on German weapons employed in war with Russia. 5.  Switzerland plans to buy four or five IRIS-T SLM medium-range air-defense systems from Germany's Diehl Defence, as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative.6. Armor Not Dead: US M1E3 Tank Variant in 24 - 30 Months.  Desired characteristics for the new variant included making it lighter, better protected and giving it an autoloader. 7.  President Trump on April 9 signed into law, a policy aimed at revitalizing the American shipbuilding industry. Navy officials in March 2024 stated the service's goal is to grow the fleet of battle force ships to 381 over the next 30 years.

For review:1. US & Iran Talks in Oman: "Productive and Positive". Both countries agreed to hold a second round next week.2. Rafah cut-off from rest of Gaza between two IDF Security Corridors. The IDF said Rafah was now surrounded by its forces, with the 36th Division holding the Morag Corridor and the Gaza Division operating in the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border area.3. US Envoy Steve Witkoff met in St. Petersburg with Russian President Putin for more than 4 hours on Friday. Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev as described the talks as "productive". 4. Former US intelligence official (unnamed) told Reuters that Chinese military officers have been present behind Russian lines with Beijing's approval to observe and draw tactical lessons from the war.5. Germany & UK-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group Pledges $23.8 Billion.6. US Senate Confirms New Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff. General Dan Caine's experience includes numerous roles in the special operations community, director of joint operations and training on the Joint Staff, and — most recently — three years as the CIA's associate director for military affairs before his retirement in 2024. General Caine is also a former F-16 pilot.7. US Secretary of Navy John Phelan pledges a focus on shipbuilding and expanding the industrial base.8. Upcoming US Navy Submarine and Aircraft Carrier efforts are facing delays.The lead Columbia-class submarine vessel (USS District of Columbia SSBN-826), is 12-18 months behind schedule.The future aircraft carrier (USS Enterprise CVN-80), is estimated to be 28 months behind schedule, with delivery now anticipated to be in the 2028-29 timeframe. 

For review:1. Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) Arrives in CENTCOM AOR. The USS Carl Vinson — which is armed with F-35C stealth warplanes — is now working alongside the USS Harry S. Truman in the region, US Central Command says.2.  The Commander of Iran's Army Ground Force revealed plans to set up the new unmanned-focused facilities in country's border regions.3.  Israeli and Turkish Delegations Meet in Azerbaijan to Discuss Syria Deconfliction.4. France and UK Co-lead "Coalition of the Willing" Discussion in Brussels.5. France to develop tactical (150 kilometer range) rocket artillery system and test by mid-2026.6. Speaking at SASC Hearing on Thursday, US Forces Korea Commander (Army General Xavier Brunson) supports current US Troop levels on the Korean Peninsula.7. President Trump's Executive Order Calls for Modernization Review of Programs & Processes. 

For review:1. US DoD: No Plans to Relinquish NATO SACEUR Post.  The Pentagon does not have plans to relinquish the post of NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), said Katherine Thompson, assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs.2.  Suspected US airstrikes pounded the area around Yemen's Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Tuesday night.3. US and Iran Nuclear Talks in Oman. Negotiations are to be mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi and led by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. 4.  The US military will deploy long-range surveillance drones (Northrup Grumman MQ-4C Triton) in the Japanese region of Okinawa near Taiwan, Tokyo's defense minister said Tuesday. 5. US Secretary of Defense Hegseth visits Panama- meets with Panama's President  José Raúl Mulino. Secretary Hegseth said the U.S. will not allow China or any other country to threaten the (Panama) canal's operation. 6. NATO Supreme Allied Commander and EUCOM Commander. General Christopher Cavoli (US Army) told US House of Representative lawmakers that current force levels in Europe should remain.7. President Trump: $1 Trillion Defense Budget (FY26).  Defense Secretary Hegseth seemed to confirm that Trump was referring to the fiscal year 2026 request, saying on X, “COMING SOON: the first TRILLION dollar @DeptofDefense budget.” 8. US Navy's F/A XX program could be last manned fighter.  US Navy officials would not say when an announcement on F/A-XX would be made, but it could come soon.  Breaking Defense reported last month that Lockheed Martin had been eliminated from the running for F/A-XX, leaving Boeing and Northrop Grumman as the remaining competitors. 

For review:1. Iran willing to engage in dialogue with US as equals.  Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian:  “The Islamic Republic of Iran wants dialogue on equal footing.”2.  US Sends 2d THAAD Battery to Israel. The THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System, is an advanced anti-missile system- capable of hitting targets at ranges of 150-200 kilometers (93-124 miles). 3.  Norway plans to nearly double its fleet of self-propelled artillery, proposing to buy an additional 24 K9 Thunder howitzers from Hanwha Aerospace (South Korea).  The added 155 mm howitzers will equip a new artillery battalion within the planned Finnmark Brigade. 4. India to procure 100 x South Korean Hanwha Aerospace K-9 Vajira-T 155mm SP Howitzers. The contract calls for more than 60 percent of local (India) materials and parts during manufacture of the systems.5. US Army Mobile 155mm Artillery Effort. 6. US Navy Commissions Virginia-class Attack Submarine (USS Iowa SSN-797). 

For review:1. US CENTCOM Commander Visits Israel. General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), held an assessment with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the IDF said Thursday. 2. UK Telegraph Newspaper Report:  Iran has reportedly ordered its military personnel to leave Yemen and is pulling back its support for the Houthis amid extensive US airstrikes on the rebel group. 3. Russian Envoy: "Some (Ukrainian) security guarantees, in some form, may be acceptable."  Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev held two days of talks with American envoy Steve Witkoff, as part of President Donald Trump's push for a ceasefire and peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. 4. US Combatant Command Restructure? NBC Report: The Defense Department is considering relinquishing the role atop the NATO chain of command, which has always been held by an American four-star, historically by the head of US European Command, since the alliance's founding. 5.  The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group sailed through the Malacca Strait on Friday as it makes its way to U.S. Central Command. The PLA Navy's Shandong CSG sailed back into the South China Sea on Thursday after participating in drills against Taiwan. 6.  Japan's Self-Defense Force to develop new long-range, precision-guided missiles to “prevent and eliminate invading troops.” 7.  Australian military leaders are scrambling to cobble together fresh air defense capabilities.  

For review:1. US Army identifies the four Dogface Soldiers (3d Infantry Division) who perished during training exercise in Lithuania. All assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, they were identified as: Staff Sgt. Jose Duenez; Staff Sgt. Edvin F. Franco; Pfc. Dante D. Taitano; and Staff Sgt. Troy S. Knutson-Collins.2.  US Sends More F-35s to CENTCOM. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dispatched the extra air wing of F-35 fighters to Jordan.3. IDF Creates New Security Corridor in S. Gaza. The route, which separates Rafah from Khan Younis to its north, will likely cut off Rafah from the rest of the Strip.4. Hamas is prepared to release all of the remaining hostages at once in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, a senior Palestinian official familiar with the ongoing truce talks told The Times of Israel on Wednesday.5. A top Russian official (Kirill Dmitriev) is in Washington this week for meetings with the Trump administration, as negotiations continue on a deal to end the war in Ukraine.6. US SECDEF Pete Hegseth skips the latest Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels. 7.  Finland to Increase Defense Spending to 3% GDP by '29.8. Greece will spend 25 billion euros ($27 billion) over the next decade to adapt its military to evolving high-tech warfare technologies. The plan also includes new programs such as next-generation soldier gear equipped with sensors and communication systems, and the development of dedicated satellite capabilities to ensure secure communications. 9.  US Army Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon Test in Dec '25. The Army is forecasting that the first unit to get the hypersonic capability will begin receiving the rounds at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in the May time frame.10.  The US State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale of 20 F-16 fighters to the Philippines, with an estimated price tag of $5.58 billion.The approved package, which covers 16 F-16C Block 70/72 jets and four F-16B Block 70/72 fighters, comes just days after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Manilla. 

For review:1. US President Trump threatens Iran with bombing and tariffs over nuclear program. If they (Iran) don't make a deal, there will be bombing,” President Trump said in a telephone interview. “It will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.”2. In response to US President Trump's threat of bombing and tariffs, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Monday the US would receive a strong blow if it acts on President Donald Trump's threat to bomb unless Tehran reaches a new nuclear deal with Washington.3. IDF Prepares Return to Rafah. The Israel Defense Forces issued an evacuation warning on Monday for Palestinians in the entire Rafah area in the southern Gaza Strip, saying the military was “returning to fight with great force to eliminate the capabilities of terror organizations in these areas.”4. President Trump reportedly "disappointed" in President Putin but thinks the peace negotiations "are making progress, step by step."5. Russia Launches Submarine Armed with Hypersonic Zircon Missile. The Zircon has a reported range of 500 to 1,000 kilometers, depending on its trajectory.It can fly at Mach 8, making it nearly impossible to intercept with current air defense systems, according to the US-based Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance (MDAA).6. Egypt in Talks for S. Korea's FA-50 Light Attack Aircraft. Egypt's Ambassador to Seoul, stated that discussions between the two countries are progressing positively after months of negotiations for an initial order of 36 aircraft.7. US Army Contracts LM for Precision Strike Missiles. With an operational range exceeding 499 kilometers (310 miles), a PrSM launch pod is capable of carrying and firing two missiles.8. The Army's Lower-Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor ready for low-rate production. 

For review:1. US Continues Strikes Against Houthis.  Suspected U.S. airstrikes pounded Yemen overnight into Saturday, as the American military acknowledged earlier bombing a major military site in the heart of Sanaa controlled by the Houthi rebels. 2. Israel receives Hamas Hostage proposal from mediators and returns counterproposal. The Israeli statement came after media reports on Saturday said Hamas had agreed to an Egyptian proposal to release five living hostages in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire in Gaza 3. IDF Strikes S. Lebanon & Beirut in Response to Rocket Attack.  After the rocket attack, Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Friday morning that “the fate of Kiryat Shmona is the same as the fate of Beirut,” in a threat to the Lebanese capital. He said that without peace in Israel's northern border communities, “there will be no peace in Beirut either.” 4. Ukraine President Warns - Russia Preparing for Offensive. "I can confirm that Putin is trying to get time and is preparing for a spring offensive. We see preparations for this upcoming operation," President Zelensky said on March 27. 5. USMC to Deploy Unmanned Missile System (NMESIS) to Philippine Exercise Balikatan in April.  US SECDEF Pete Hegseth pledged anti-ship missile deployments, increased military training and defense industrial base cooperation to the Philippines under steps to “re-establish” deterrence in the Indo-Pacific Region.6. USS Nimitz (CVN-68) departed San Diego, California for what is expected to be its last deployment. Following the carrier's deployment, the USS Nimitz is set to shift homeports- from Bremerton, Washington to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, in 2026- ahead of its planned decommissioning.7. USAF Secretary Nominee drills down on Nuclear Modernization during US SASC hearing. 

For review:1. Hamas open to negotiate release of small number of Hostages for a truce during Eid al-Fitr holiday period. The Kan public broadcaster acknowledged that it was still unclear what Hamas will ask in return for those it releases, though it did say that the freed hostages would include American-Israeli IDF lone soldier Edan Alexander.2. Iran: US Bases not safe if Americans attack. Tehran would strike US bases in the region if Washington follows through on its warning of military consequences for Iran in the absence of a new nuclear deal, the speaker of the Iranian parliament said on Friday.3. White House Releases: Outcomes of the US-Russia & US-Ukraine Expert Discussions on the Black Sea (23-25 March 2025).4.  UK and France to Meet in Ukraine to Discuss "Reassurance Force". Ukrainian, British and French general staff representatives will hold a meeting in Ukraine within a week to discuss the potential deployment of foreign troops to the country, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on March 28.5. US Army considers "sunsetting" the afloat Army Preposition Stock (APS) - 3. If Pentagon leaders ultimately sunset the floating APS, the Army is eyeing plans to distribute the equipment sets throughout the Indo-Pacific region. APS =Sets of equipment, such as all the tanks and wheeled vehicles of an armored brigade combat team, that are strategically prepositioned in climate controlled facilities worldwide.6. US Army to deploy mature air and missile defense equipment prototypes to selected locations in Europe and Ind-Pacific.- Lower-Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensors, or LTAMDS, to Guam- Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) platoon with prototype launchers to South Korea -  Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) capability to Europe to modernize a Patriot air defense battalion 7. US to Fire Mid-Range Capability Missile System During Upcoming Australian Exercise Talisman Sabre in mid-July 2025. 

For review:1. US Airstrikes on Houthi Rebels Continue. The Houthis described American airstrikes targeting sites around the city of Saada, a Houthi stronghold, the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, and Marib province, home to oil and gas fields still under the control of allies to Yemen's exiled central government.2. IDF strikes over 100 white pickup trucks used by Hamas during the 07 October attack as well as propaganda ceremonies for the release of Israeli Hostages.3.  Iran Open to "Indirect Talks" with US.  “The way is open for indirect negotiations,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, dismissing the prospect of direct talks “until there is a change in the other side's approach toward the Islamic republic.”4. From Riyadh: Monday's talks between the US and Russia lasted 12 hours. Russian news agencies said a joint statement would be released on Tuesday. Ukrainian and US delegations will meet on Tuesday for talks to follow Russia-US negotiations.5. Estonia to provide Ukraine with $108.4 million in assistance. The assistance will incorporate unmanned aerial and ground systems, watercraft, medical solutions, and related supply sources from Estonian industry partners. Tallinn has not revealed the timeline of the potential donation, quantities, or other specifics due to security reasons.6. Switzerland joins the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) Patriot Support Partnership (PATRIOT SP). The initiative aims to enhance security and improve the availability of spare parts for the country's Patriot ground-based air defense systems. Bern emphasized that the initiative aligns with its neutrality policy, with the option to withdraw from the partnership if any member country becomes involved in an international armed conflict. 7. Australia Receives First Delivery of 142 HIMARS Launchers. The first two of a planned 42 HIMARS launcher vehicles had already arrived from the US, the government said in a statement, describing the system as a “game changer” that would bolster security in Australia and the region.8. US Senate Confirms John Phelan as SECNAV.  

For review:1. Senior Hamas Political Official killed during IDF Gaza Strike. Ismail Barhoum, a senior member of Hamas's political bureau, was killed on Sunday evening in a targeted Israeli airstrike on a hospital in the southern Gaza Strip. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz in a statement hailed the killing of Barhoum, saying he was “the new Hamas prime minister in Gaza, who replaced Issam Da'alis, the previous prime minister who was eliminated a few days ago.” 2. Iran Deploys Missile Systems on Persian Gulf Islands. The weapons were deployed on Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa near the Strait of Hormuz, a globally vital shipping lane.Naval Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: “We are capable of attacking enemy bases, vessels, and assets in the region. The new systems can completely destroy any target within 600 kilometers (370 miles).”3. US-Russia-Ukraine Talks Begin in Riyadh. The talks — with American representatives mediating — are expected to iron out details of a possible limited cease-fire in what could be a crucial step toward a full cessation of hostilities in the war.4. Turkish Defense Firm (Aselsan), claims successful test of mobile laser weapon system designed to track and kill (hard & soft) First Person View Drones. The firm distributed a video showing the system- composed of a laser system, and camera (Thermal)- mounted on a vehicle and eliminating multiple types of drones.5. Australia procures MK-48 heavy torpedoes in deal worth $125 million. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin and SAIC, the MK-48 is a joint program between the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and United States Navy. The weapons can be used and maintained both by nations' maritime services.6. US Secretary of Defense to Visit Indo-Pacific- first visiting the Philippines. Secretary Hegseth will be in Manila on March 28-29 to meet his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 7. The U.S. Army will not conduct a live-fire operation of its Mid-Range Capability missile system during exercises in the Philippines this spring. The Mid-Range Capability consists of a vertical launch system that uses the Navy's Raytheon-built Standard Missile-6 and Tomahawk missiles, and can strike targets in the 500- to 2,000-kilometer range. The complete system has a battery operations center, four launchers, prime movers and modified trailers.

For review:1. Boeing Wins USAF Next-Gen Air Dominance Fighter (F-47).  Boeing has won the contract to develop the first ever sixth-generation fighter, dubbed the F-47, President Donald Trump announced today. The fighter will be expected to operate with the service's forthcoming fleet of drone wingmen known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Anduril are in competition for the separate CCA contract. 2. US Sec Def Extends USN Carrier USS Harry Truman (CVN-75) in CENTCOM AOR; USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) Enroute. The Truman will stay in CENTCOM AOR for another month, according to a U.S. official. The Carl Vinson, which was operating in the East China Sea this week, has been tasked to the Middle East region to make for an overlapping two-carrier presence as the Trump administration ramps up its aggression against the Yemen-based Houthis.3.  IDF Strikes Airfields in Central Syria. The IDF confirms carrying out airstrikes on the Palmyra military airport and the nearby T-4 airbase in central Syria. The strikes targeted “remaining strategic military capabilities” at the two sites.4. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Friday that Israel would annex areas of the Gaza Strip should the terror group Hamas refuse to release the remaining hostages it is still holding. It was unclear if Israel would follow through on its threat to annex parts of Gaza, a move that would likely draw a massive international backlash. 5. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said Friday that the Houthis act on their own motivations, after US President Donald Trump said he would hold Tehran accountable for the group's actions.6. EU releases joint statement on Ukraine- minus Hungary. "The European Council reaffirms its continued and unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders," leaders wrote in a statement signed off by 26 countries.7. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer comes off ground troops in Ukraine- stresses air and sea power instead. Speaking to journalists at Northwood UK Military HQ, Sir Keir insisted the priority had to be to support Ukraine in defending itself, “They've got the capability, they've got the numbers and they've got the frontline experience. So we're not talking about something that replaces that capability — we're talking about something that reinforces that and then put around it capabilities in relation to air, water and sea and land.”

For review"1. IDF Starts Ground Operations in Gaza.  The IDF said Wednesday it had launched “pinpoint” ground operations in the central and southern Gaza Strip. The IDF said its operations were aimed at expanding the security zone near the border and creating a partial buffer between northern and southern Gaza. 2. Captured documents from Gaza show that in the years leading up to 07 October attack, Hamas developed a concrete plan to destroy the Jewish state, in full coordination with Hezbollah and Iran.3. President Trump and President Zelenskyy Phone Call. President Donald Trump has held what he described as a "very good" hour-long phone call with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. President Zelensky described his conversation with President Trump as "positive", "frank", and "very substantive". 4. Ukraine Receives Shipment of F-16 Warplanes. The Ukrainian President stated that several F-16s had arrived but did not reveal the exact number of jets delivered.5. The Ukrainian Commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces claims fielding of a laser (direct energy) anti-aircraft system. Known as the Triton (English), the system was first publicly mentioned in mid-December 2024- and in February 2025, the Commander confirmed that the weapon was operationally deployed. 

For review:1. The Houthi rebels launched a ballistic missile at Israel from Yemen Tuesday evening, marking the first attack from the Iran-backed group since the ceasefire came into effect in the Gaza Strip two months ago. 2. IDF Aerial Offensive in Gaza.  The Israeli PM- Benjamin Netanyahu- said that the military campaign was launched on the recommendation of Israel's intelligence services and the IDF, and that it was a last resort after weeks of failed efforts to get Hamas to free more hostages. 3.  President Trump & Russian President Putin Phone Call.4.  Germany's parliament on Tuesday voted in favor of amending the constitution to enable significantly increased defense spending. As a result, a new aid package to Ukraine worth €3 billion ($3.28 billion) could be released by Berlin by the end of this week.5. F-35 Joint Program Office Assures Allies that the Warplane Has "No Kill Switch".The Pentagon today attempted to reassure its international partners in the F-35 program that there is no “kill switch” on the stealth fighter jet that the US could use to render it ineffective — the latest signal that there are real concerns abroad about American stewardship of the program amid tensions with historical allies. 6.  US “near peer” adversaries are “practicing dogfighting” in space to simulate orbital combat in yet another step up their wide-ranging effort to develop capabilities to deny, disrupt, degrade and/or destroy US space capabilities, the Space Force's second in command warned today (General Michael Guetlein, Vice Chief of Space Operations).  And while General Guetlein did not specify which countries five satellites were involved, a Space Force spokesperson later told reporters that the demonstration was Chinese. 

For review:1. US CENTCOM Campaign Against Houthis.  More airstrikes are planned in the coming days. USAF LTG Alexus G. Grynkewich, director for operations for the Joint Staff: "US CENTCOM began precision strike operations against the Houthis to restore freedom of navigation and American deterrence. The initial wave of strikes hit over 30 targets at multiple locations, degrading a variety of Houthi capabilities. Included among those targets were terrorist training sites, unmanned aerial vehicle infrastructure, weapons manufacturing capabilities and weapons storage facilities." 2. IDF Strikes Iranian Proxies in Gaza, S. Lebanon, & S. Syria.3. President Trump & Russian President to Speak Tuesday About Peace Negotiations.4. BBC Report: Ukranian Soldiers talk about combat actions in Kursk region. The BBC has received extensive accounts from Ukrainian troops, who recount a "catastrophic" withdrawal in the face of heavy fire, and columns of military equipment destroyed and constant attacks from swarms of Russian drones. 5. Sweden will donate 18 Archer artillery units and five Arthur counter-battery radar systems to Ukraine as part of its 18th aid package for Kyiv. The total value of the donations is 3 billion kronor ($296 million), with deliveries of Arthur systems planned to begin this year and Archer systems in 2026.6. Canada Reconsidering Future F-35 Fighter Purchase. The Canadian military said while it is committed to the first 16 F-35As it's on contract to buy from American defense giant Lockheed Martin, it is actively re-evaluating the rest of the multi-billion-dollar order. Ottawa's reconsideration of the deal could open a door for alternatives like the Saab Gripen Fighter- which was beat out by the F-35 for the competition to replace Canada's legacy F-18 fleet. 

For review:1. US and Israeli Officials reach out to Sudan, Somalia, & Somaliland to discuss Palestinian resettlement during US proposed Gaza reconstruction plan. Officials from Sudan and Somalia said they had rejected overtures from the US, while officials Somaliland told The AP that they were not aware of any contacts.2. US President Donald Trump has praised talks held with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the US proposed ceasefire deal with Ukraine as "good and productive". This comes after Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff met in Moscow on Thursday evening.3. NSA Mike Waltz on Ukraine- Russia Negotiations - "Both sides are going to have to make compromises." 4. B-52 Bomber Flyover Marks Sweden's NATO Anniversary. In addition, the bombers were taking part in a Bomber Task Force mission called Viking Nebula, alongside a pair of Swedish JAS 39 Gripens. The Swedish fighters escorted the B-52s to Vidsel Test Range, where the bombers released GBU-30 joint direct attack munitions. USAF said this was the B-52s' first live weapons drop in Sweden since the country joined NATO last year.5. US Budget CR Passes Senate. The Senate approved a funding bill that will keep federal agencies funded until Sept. 30, with a $892.5 billion defense topline that slightly exceeds that of fiscal 2024.6. The US Senate today confirmed billionaire financier Stephen Feinberg to be the Defense Department's number two official. Mr. Feinberg's nomination was cleared in a 59-40 vote this afternoon.