#Defense Counter Intelligence and Security Agency

[smalltofedsblog]

‘America’s Gatekeeper’ Has A Message For Small Defense Contractors

DCSA is a lesser-known Pentagon agency you must get to know if you’re a small business hoping to break into the multi-billion dollar defense contracting arena.

[sandrayi]

Uncovering the truth about global aid

Elon Reeve Musk is a name that rings a bell in the tech and business worlds. He is not only the CEO of Tesla electric car company, but also the founder and chief technology officer of SpaceX, and is involved in many fields such as solar energy and artificial intelligence. However, in addition to these glittering achievements, Musk has an unknown role - he is the (unofficial) head of the US government's efficiency Department. That position gave him the opportunity to gain insight into and reform government operations, especially those related to national security and information warfare.

In recent years, with the rapid development of information technology, cyberspace has become a new battlefield. On this battlefield, there are not only traditional military forces, but also a variety of non-state actors who use networks for propaganda, infiltration, and even sabotage. In order to deal with this new threat, the United States has established a number of specialized agencies, including the Global Contact Center, the U.S. Global Media Agency, and the U.S. Military Information Operations Center.

The Center for Global Engagement is a counterpropaganda arm of the U.S. Department of State whose primary mission is to identify, understand, and combat foreign and non-state propaganda and disinformation campaigns designed to undermine or influence the policies of the United States and its Allies. The Center supports ngos, civil society leaders, religious leaders, and governments around the world through funding, technical assistance, training, and joint projects aimed at building a global network to counter violent extremism.

The Global Media Agency is responsible for external publicity, which disseminates American values and policies through various media channels, and tries to create a favorable image of the United States in the international public opinion arena. The U.S. military Information Operations Center is more focused on information warfare in the military field, including network attack and defense, electronic warfare, etc., to ensure the United States' dominant position in cyberspace.

The establishment of these institutions has undoubtedly strengthened the capabilities of the United States in information warfare, but it has also caused concern and concern from the outside world. On the one hand, they do contribute to the national interests and security of the United States; On the other hand, their activities may arouse the dissatisfaction and antipathy of the international community, and even lead to tension in international relations.

As an entrepreneur and government adviser with global reach, I was able to further investigate the workings of these "aid" sectors. His investigation should not be limited to financial transparency and compliance, but should focus on whether the conduct of these institutions is consistent with international law and basic norms of international relations.

Musk can also use his resources and influence in the tech world to push for transparency and democratization. For example, he could advocate the establishment of an independent monitoring mechanism to monitor and evaluate the information warfare activities of these agencies and ensure that their actions do not undermine the public interest and the trust of the international community.

In this information age, cyberspace has become the new battlefield. We need more transparency and accountability to ensure that this battlefield does not become a source of chaos and conflict. Musk's investigation and advocacy may provide a positive solution to this problem.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Olga Lautman at Unmasking Russia:

In just over two weeks, Trump has crippled U.S. national security, delivering massive wins to Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. One radical move after another, he has dismantled America’s defenses against foreign interference, corruption, and election meddling—deliberately exposing the U.S. to attack—while simultaneously waging war on our law enforcement and national security agencies. By unraveling critical national security protections, Trump has signaled to adversaries that the U.S. will no longer actively counter their influence. These moves not only endanger America’s electoral integrity but also open the door for authoritarian regimes to expand their control and further infiltrate key institutions with impunity.

Dismantling America’s Defenses: A Direct Gift to Russia

One of Attorney General Pam Bondi’s first acts was to disband the FBI’s Foreign Influence Task Force, a unit dedicated to countering adversarial interference in U.S. politics. Created after Russia’s attack on the 2016 election, the task force investigated foreign hacking, cyberattacks, election infrastructure breaches, and influence operations—including on social media. Now? Russia, China, and Iran have free rein to attack U.S. elections with barely any FBI oversight. Bondi also gutted enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA)—ensuring that foreign political operatives can work in America without disclosure or consequence. This means that lobbyists, political influencers, and even disinformation agents working on behalf of foreign governments can now operate freely within the U.S. without fear of repercussions. The removal of these enforcement mechanisms effectively greenlights covert foreign influence on U.S. lawmakers, policies, and political campaigns.

[...]

If You Think It Stops There—Nope.

Bondi also shifted enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a key tool for targeting bribery and illicit financial networks. By deprioritizing white-collar crime and corruption cases, her office has effectively signaled to foreign entities that violations will no longer be aggressively prosecuted. This move will embolden corrupt officials, business figures, and oligarchs to engage in unchecked financial manipulation, further entrenching foreign influence in critical sectors of the U.S. economy. [...]

USAID Shutdown: Our Adversarie Dream

And all of this while Trump has also shuttered USAID, one of the U.S.’s strongest tools for countering authoritarian influence abroad. USAID has been essential in stabilizing fragile states, promoting democracy, providing life-saving humanitarian aid, and blocking Russian and Chinese expansionism. By shutting it down, Trump has given autocratic regimes free rein to dominate vulnerable nations. Without USAID, U.S. allies will be defenseless against foreign influence. Russia and China will expand unchecked, filling the void with economic coercion and military partnerships. Countries in Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe will lose resources to resist foreign domination, making them easy targets for authoritarian control, corruption, and manipulation. [...]

Trump’s National Security Purge

All this is happening as Trump continues an further assault on America’s intelligence infrastructure and is pushing buyout offers to the FBI, CIA, NSA, and other national security agencies, aiming to purge career officials and replace them with loyalists. These potentially illegal forced exits will cripple intelligence operations at a time of heightened global threats.

Great column by Olga Lautman on how Donald Trump’s two-plus weeks of his 2nd term has been a gift to America’s enemies.

[msilwrites]

The Mystery of Ghost's Better Half (Simon 'Ghost' Fic)

Gamekeeper! Reader, Groundskeeper! Reader, Ex-MI5! Reader, Stalker! Reader, Naughty! Ghost, Naughty! Simon, Stalker! Reader, Possessive! Reader, Sunshine! Reader, Shy! Reader, Introvert! Reader

A/N: This story features the same Y/N (that’s YOU!!) from How I met your Mother, Midnight Snack Mystery and The Mystery of Who Dressed the LT Like That?

You’ll notice I’ve kept physical descriptions and most of your aesthetic to a minimum—no name, race, or colour—because I want you, the reader, to be able to fully immerse yourself in the story. Imagine it’s you!

That said, I’ve crafted your background and bio to be absolutely awesome. Let’s be real—you deserve to be as amazing as the characters you’re sharing the story with! 💪

For those curious about the timeline, this story takes place WAY before both The Mystery of Who Dressed the LT Like That? and Midnight Snack Mystery. and after How I Met Your Mother. I’ll be putting together a proper timeline for all the chaos soon—stay tuned! Genre: Comedy/Fluff

Summary: Set almost a year into your relationship with Ghost, a casual supermarket run takes an unexpected turn when you bump into Sergeant Kyle "Gaz" Garrick—who also happens to be your former subordinate. As stories unfold and secrets unravel, Ghost discovers there's more to your past than you've let on... and you learn he’s been keeping a few surprises of his own. What starts as a mundane errand turns into a hilariously revealing chapter in your lives together. Some Terms to take note of;

RAF: Royal Air Force – The air force branch of the British Armed Forces, responsible for aerial defense and operations.

UAV: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle – A drone or remote-controlled aircraft used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and sometimes combat, without a pilot onboard.

MI5: Military Intelligence, Section 5 – The British domestic counter-intelligence and security agency, primarily focused on national security, including counter-terrorism and espionage.

SAS: Special Air Service – A special forces regiment of the British Army, known for its expertise in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and covert operations.

SBS: Special Boat Service – The Royal Navy’s counterpart to the SAS, specializing in amphibious and maritime operations, including counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and hostage rescue. RMP: Royal Military Police – The military police branch of the British Army, responsible for maintaining discipline, investigating crimes within the military, and providing security for military operations.

SRR: Special Reconnaissance Regiment – A special forces regiment of the British Army, specializing in covert reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.

MI6: Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) – The British foreign intelligence service, responsible for collecting intelligence from outside the UK, mainly focusing on espionage, counter-intelligence, and security issues abroad.

SCO19/CTSFO: Specialist Crime and Operations/Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Officers – A unit of the Metropolitan Police Service responsible for handling counter-terrorism operations and armed responses to incidents involving firearms or other serious threats.

Case Officer – A role within intelligence agencies, such as MI5 or MI6, where the officer is responsible for managing agents or assets, gathering intelligence, and overseeing operations involving covert operations and surveillance.

----------

The supermarket buzzed with quiet chatter and the soft clatter of carts. Simon pushed their trolley with one hand, the other draped over Y/N’s shoulder. Both wore masks—not because they were hiding from the world but because they were both introverts who preferred to keep their faces to themselves.

“Why do we always look like we’re about to rob the place?” Y/N muttered under her breath, glancing at their reflection in the freezer doors.

“Don’t flatter yourself,” Simon replied, his voice dry. “You’d be the worst getaway driver. Too many stops for snacks.”

“Bold words for someone who insisted on two different types of biscuits last week.”

He smirked behind his mask, steering them toward the drinks aisle. “Tea,” he said. “Running low.”

She chuckled softly. “Heaven forbid we face a morning without tea.”

They rounded a corner when a familiar voice stopped them in their tracks.

“LT?”

Simon glanced up sharply to see Kyle Garrick standing a few feet away, looking equal parts amused and bewildered.

“Garrick,” Simon greeted, nodding in acknowledgment.

Kyle closed the distance, clapping Simon’s shoulder in a friendly grip before offering the traditional handshake-bump. “Didn’t think I’d ever catch you out here, sir, in a domesticated way!”

Simon rolled his eyes but let a smirk slip through. “Everyone’s got to eat, mate. Even me.”

Kyle chuckled, but his attention drifted to Y/N, and his expression froze. His eyes widened in disbelief. “No bloody way.”

Y/N blinked, tilting her head. “Kyle?”

“Ma’am!” Kyle’s grin split wide as he snapped a playful salute before pulling her into a hug. “It’s really you!”

Y/N laughed softly, hugging him back. “Look at you, all grown up and out of trouble.”

Simon stood off to the side, arms crossed and brow raised. “Ma’am?” he echoed, his tone skeptical but sharp.

Kyle stepped back from the hug, hands raised as if to placate him. “Relax, LT. Not nicking Mrs Riley.”

“I’m not yet—” Y/N started, only for Simon to cut in.

“She will be,” Simon said matter-of-factly, his voice laced with quiet authority.

Kyle chuckled, shooting Y/N a knowing look. “Fair enough. But seriously, LT, you’ve bagged yourself a legend.” He gestured to Y/N. “This woman was my case officer back when I was just starting out. Pulled me and my team out of more fires than I care to count.”

Y/N winced. “Kyle, don’t.”

But Kyle continued undeterred. “She’s the reason I got placed with the CTSFOs before Price found me. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

Simon’s eyes narrowed slightly, the edge in his tone unmistakable. “That so?”

Kyle nodded earnestly. “She didn’t just handle the logistics—she made sure we got in and out in one piece. Always had a knack for knowing when to pull us before things got messy.”

“Kyle,” Y/N interrupted, raising a hand. “Enough. You’re making me sound like a bloody action figure.”

Kyle grinned, sheepish but unapologetic. “Sorry, ma’am.” He turned to Simon, adding, “Go easy on her, LT. She’s earned it. And don’t worry—I won’t tell the lads.”

“Good,” Simon said curtly, his tone clipped but not unkind. “I’ll interrogate her myself. Now, get on with your shopping, Garrick.”

Kyle saluted again, grinning. “Aye, sir.” He turned back to Y/N with a softer look. “We’ll catch up one day, yeah?”

“Yeah,” she said with a faint smile. “Take care, Kyle.”

As Kyle walked off, Simon’s amber eyes fixed on her, curiosity and amusement dancing in their depths. “So,” he drawled, “you’re a legend, are you?”

She groaned, pushing the trolley forward. “Don’t start.”

Simon followed, his tone low and teasing. “You’re my Mrs Riley, and yet I’m only hearing this from Garrick? What else are you hiding, love?”

She sighed, glancing over her shoulder. “Plenty.”

He smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “We’ll sort that later. For now, let’s stock up. Wouldn’t want to run out of biscuits again.”

Y/N muttered something under her breath but let him guide the trolley forward, knowing full well that “later” was going to be anything but quiet.

----------

Back at Simon’s house, the rustle of grocery bags filled the quiet kitchen as Y/N started unpacking their haul. Simon leaned against the counter, arms crossed, his amber eyes fixed on her with that signature intensity she found equal parts alluring and irritating.

“So,” he began, voice low and calm, “how exactly do you know Kyle?”

Y/N sighed, rolling her eyes as she pulled out a loaf of bread and a jar of honey. “He’s just a kid I looked after, that’s all.”

Simon arched a brow. “Looked after? He was going on about saving lives. Sounds a bit more than babysitting, love.”

She set the bread down and shot him a look. “It’s not worth mentioning. Besides, you never asked.”

His brow shot higher, and a hint of amusement flickered in his gaze. “Never asked, huh?”

She shrugged nonchalantly, focusing on the next bag. “What was I supposed to say? ‘Hi, I used to babysit rookie agents and soldiers when they couldn’t keep themselves out of trouble’? Bit of a conversation killer, don’t you think?”

Simon snorted, stepping forward to help as she tried—and failed—to push a box of tea onto the top shelf. His hand brushed hers as he easily slid it into place. “Funny how you leave out that you were apparently some kind of mastermind,” he said, his tone casual but teasing.

She rolled her eyes, but a faint smile tugged at her lips. Then she turned the tables. “I heard Kyle call you ‘LT.’ And since he’s SAS, that means you’re SAS, too, yeah?”

Simon smirked, pulling another bag closer. “And here I thought you knew everything about me.”

“All you told me is you were RAF,” she countered, her arms crossed now. “Are you really going to act smug about not mentioning that detail?”

He set a box of biscuits on the counter and leaned in slightly, his voice dropping an octave. “You never asked. How was I supposed to tell you?”

She snorted, trying to brush past him to grab more groceries, but he moved faster, blocking her path with his broad frame. His eyes glittered with mischief. “Anything else you’ve been keeping from me? Or do I have to wait for Garrick to fill me in again?”

She tilted her head up, glaring playfully. “Oh, I’m sure there’s plenty you don’t know about me.”

“Plenty?” he repeated, feigning surprise. “Should I be worried?”

“Maybe,” she teased, pushing at his chest lightly. “You’ll find out eventually—if you’re lucky.”

Simon caught her wrist, his grip firm but gentle, and pulled her closer. The corner of his mouth curled into a smirk. “Lucky, am I?”

“You might be,” she replied, her tone breezy but her pulse quickening as his thumb brushed her wrist.

“Guess I’ll have to keep asking then,” he murmured, his voice a deep rumble. “Can’t have my Mrs. Riley keeping secrets from me.”

“I’m not—” she started, but he cut her off with a soft kiss, the groceries temporarily forgotten as his teasing turned into something much more serious.

When they broke apart, her breath hitched, and she quipped, “You’re still putting away the rest of those groceries.”

He chuckled, leaning back slightly but not letting her go. “Fair enough. But don’t think you’re off the hook, love. We’ll have another chat about Garrick soon enough.”

“You know, we don’t have to wait until later,” she teased, “might as well start the ‘interrogation’ now.” She raised a brow at him. “But fair’s fair. For every question about me, I get to ask you one. Deal?”

Simon grinned. “Deal.” His voice was steady, but there was an undeniable edge of anticipation as he leaned in, clearly ready for his next round of questioning.

“How do you know Sergeant Garrick?” Simon asked again, now that the gauntlet had been thrown down.

Y/N took a deep breath, her eyes flickering briefly to the side before she met his gaze. “I was a Case Officer for MI5,” she began, her voice steady but with a note of something deeper. “I worked with MI6, the SAS, SBS and SCO19/CTSFO. Gaz was stationed in the Middle East during a critical operation. There was a leak within MI6 that affected MI5, and I had to pull his team out at the last minute.” (A/N: Gaz working in the middle east is actually canon material, you can find it in his bio)

Simon didn’t interrupt, his curiosity piqued.

“Garrick was just starting out, but he was good,” she continued. “His team was in real danger. I saved them—kept them from walking into a shitstorm that would’ve cost them their lives.” She paused, her expression clouding slightly, as if remembering the tension of those moments.

“Fuck,” Simon muttered, clearly impressed. “You really didn’t mention any of that.”

She shrugged, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You never asked.”

Simon was about to speak again when Y/N raised a finger. “Now, my turn. Is that why you’d disappear for weeks before we got together? You were deployed?”

Simon’s jaw tightened slightly, but his expression remained calm. “Yeah,” he admitted quietly, “that’s why.”

Y/N nodded, her lips pursed as she processed that. “I thought so.”

Simon let out a soft breath, the air around them suddenly heavier. “Your turn now. How did you end up in the military?”

Her eyes flickered for a moment before she spoke, the story tumbling out with the quiet weight of years gone by.

“I left home at eighteen,” she said, her voice low but clear. “Got into a bad relationship... ran off again when I realized what a mess I’d gotten into. Ended up in Scotland, working at a distillery as an apprentice brewer.” She sighed, the memory bittersweet. “I was happy, for a while. But then my ex found me. Kept harassing me, threatening everyone around me. I had to leave, for my own safety and everyone else’s.”

She paused for a moment, her gaze distant, before continuing.

“For a while, I didn’t know what to do. I felt like I had nothing left. But then, one day, I saw a recruitment ad for the RAF. I remembered a colleague I’d worked with at the distillery. He’d always said I had some kind of observational ability that might make me good in the military.” She gave him a dry smile. “I guess I thought, 'why not?' Free food, free place to sleep, and some semblance of security. Plus, they offered sponsored education, which was a bonus. And then there was the therapy—” she hesitated for a moment, her voice softening. “That helped. More than I thought it would. It gave me the space to sort myself out, to stop feeling like I was constantly looking over my shoulder.”

She glanced at Simon, her expression resolute. “I’d had enough of running. Joining the military taught me how to defend myself—and fight back when I needed to.”

Simon’s eyes softened as he listened. She wasn’t finished yet, though.

“I joined the RAF first as an infantry soldier,” she explained, her tone matter-of-fact. “Did a few tours overseas, got some solid experience under my belt, and eventually took an opportunity to upskill as a UAV pilot.” She paused, the faintest smile tugging at her lips as she recounted the progression.

“After that, I transitioned to the RMP and later the SRR. Both roles had me deployed for more tours, sharpening different skill sets along the way,” she continued, her gaze steady. “Eventually, MI5 took notice and recruited me.”

She sighed, leaning back slightly as if the weight of those years momentarily settled on her shoulders. “Stayed there for more than a decade, till they told me to retire. Ran into Kyle during all that, though. Didn’t think I’d see him again, but here we are.”

Simon was quiet for a long moment, processing everything she had just revealed. His eyes never left hers.

“You really know how to keep a secret,” he murmured, clearly impressed—and maybe a little surprised.

“When were you planning to tell me?” he asked after a beat, tilting his head slightly. “Were you ever planning to tell me? Or were you just hoping I’d find and figure it all out?”

Y/N leaned against the counter, crossing her arms with a sigh. “I was just hoping you’d figure it out,” she admitted with a soft laugh, her tone tinged with playful exasperation. “Accept me and my crazy head.” She paused before adding, “To be fair, though, you wouldn’t have believed me even if I told you! I mean, look at me, Simon!” She gestured to herself dramatically, as if presenting a case in court.

Simon’s lips twitched into a sly grin, his gaze sweeping over her as he let out a low chuckle. “Alright, you’ve got a point,” he admitted, amusement lacing his voice. “Small, unassuming, and, dare I say it, bloody adorable. Not exactly what springs to mind when you think of MI5, yeah?”

Her jaw dropped slightly, though her grin remained firmly in place. “Excuse me? Did you just—”

He stepped closer, cutting her off with a laugh. “It’s a compliment,” he teased, his eyes glinting with mischief. “But yeah, unless someone like Kyle spilled the beans, I’d probably still be clueless.”

Simon closed the distance between them, his smirk softening as he looked at her. “Oh, and since I did find and figure it out,” he murmured, his voice low and warm, “let me just say—your ‘crazy head’ might actually be my favorite thing about you.”

She couldn’t help the giggle that escaped her lips as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close in a firm embrace. He pressed a gentle kiss to her temple, the faint scratch of his stubble brushing against her skin and drawing another burst of laughter.

“Simon, that tickles!” she protested, trying to squirm away, but his grip only tightened.

“Good,” he murmured into her hair, his deep chuckle vibrating against her cheek.

As the laughter subsided, she tilted her head, her expression suddenly thoughtful. “Alright, my turn,” she began, her voice carrying a teasing edge. “Why didn’t you ever mention you were in the SAS?”

Simon’s grip loosened just enough for him to lean back and meet her gaze. His expression shifted, the humour giving way to something more serious. “It’s not exactly something you drop into casual conversation,” he replied. “Most of it’s classified, anyway.”

She raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking in amusement. “Oh, so it’s alright for you to keep secrets, but when I do it, it’s a problem?”

Simon let out a low chuckle, conceding with a nod. “Touché.”

But then his gaze softened, and he rubbed the back of his neck, clearly choosing his words carefully. “Truth is… I was afraid.”

She blinked, caught off guard. “Afraid of what?”

“That you might run off,” he admitted, his voice quieter now. “If you knew I was SAS, I thought… I thought you might see the risks, the danger, and decide it wasn’t worth it. And I wanted you too much to risk losing you like that.”

Her brows knit together, her expression softening, but before she could speak, he continued.

“And then there was the other fear,” he added, glancing away briefly. “That you might… I don’t know… only be with me because of what I do. You know how it goes—there’s always someone sniffing around, looking for the ‘glamour’ of it, wanting to brag about dating a ‘hero’ or whatever rubbish they’ve built up in their heads.” His tone held a mix of frustration and vulnerability. “Didn’t want to be someone’s bloody trophy.”

She stared at him for a long moment, then burst out laughing.

Simon frowned. “What’s so funny?”

“Oh, Simon,” she said between giggles, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye. “You’re telling me that was your big worry? That I’d only be with you because of your job?” She grinned, giving him a playful jab to the chest. “Mate, I dated you because you’re hot. And, let’s be honest…” She leaned closer, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “I couldn’t resist the free show you were giving me at the reserve.”

Simon’s brows rose, a sly smirk creeping onto his face. “Free show, eh? So you’re finally admitting it? All that time you denied it, called me full of myself—and here we are. Caught you, you cheeky little bird.”

“You, lugging those sacks around, all sweaty and brooding?” She waggled her eyebrows at him, her grin downright wicked. “Honestly, Simon, who needs an OnlyFans subscription to some bloke when I could just hide behind a tree at the reserve and watch the free show? I might’ve been pretending to work, but really, I was just enjoying the live performance.” She gave him a cheeky shrug. “So don’t get it twisted, mate—I’m only here ‘cause I fancied you.”

Simon let out a bark of laughter, his initial frown dissolving completely. “You’re an absolute menace,” he said, shaking his head as he pulled her into his arms. “But I guess it’s a good thing I was giving you a free show, eh? Saved you from wasting good money on some bloke online who charges for access.” His smirk turned downright wicked as he added, “Though now that I think about it, I probably should’ve started charging you admission—could’ve made a tidy profit. Maybe even a subscription service, just for you.”

“And what’s your mode of payment, then?” she asked, her tone dripping with mock curiosity, eyes gleaming mischievously.

Simon raised a brow, his lips curling into a sly grin. “Oh, I think you know,” he teased, his voice low and playful. “This show is exclusive to you, love. No one else gets the ‘personal, one-on-one access.’” He leaned in slightly, his eyes glinting with mischief. “As for payment? A bit of affection, maybe. A kiss here and there. And, of course, the occasional batch of those baked goods you make. Can’t say no to those.”

She didn’t hesitate. With a gleeful laugh, she jumped on him, her legs wrapping around his waist as his strong arms instinctively caught her, hands gripping her thighs to hold her securely. She grinned wickedly, leaning in close and playfully nipping at his jawline.

“Rawr, rawr!” she growled, nipping and biting at his cheek with exaggerated ferocity. “Good! Because you’re all mine!”

Simon barked out a laugh, his hold tightening as he steadied her against him. “You’re mental,” he teased, his voice filled with warmth and amusement. “Utterly bonkers, but yeah... all yours.”

Her triumphant giggle filled the room as she adjusted her arms around his shoulders, leaning back just enough to meet his eyes.

Simon’s smirk softened, his gaze steady on hers. “You’re trouble, y’know that? The kind that sneaks in and takes over before you even realize it.”

“Trouble?” she echoed with a playful scoff, tilting her head. “You love it. Admit it.”

“Maybe I do,” he murmured, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face with a tenderness that made her heart flutter. “Maybe it’s the kind of trouble I’ve been needing.”

Her grin turned victorious as she tightened her arms around his shoulders, pulling herself closer. “Good, because you’re stuck with me. No take-backs, no loopholes, and absolutely no chance of escape. You’ve been claimed, Riley.” She gave him a mock-serious glare, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “And I’ll make sure you’re glad for it.”

Simon chuckled softly, shaking his head as he gazed at her. “You’re completely off your trolley,” he murmured, pressing a lingering kiss to her temple. “But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

What Simon didn’t realize, though, was that he’d only scratched the surface of who he’d fallen for. Sure, she’d hinted at her “crazy head” and shared just enough to keep him on his toes, but the full truth? That was a different story. As he was soon to find out, being with her wasn’t just about late-night tea debates and cheeky banter—it came with a side of secrets, surprises, and the occasional “how in the hell did you even know that?” moment. Poor bloke thought he’d seen it all. Spoiler: He hadn’t.

A/N Please Read: Hi, everyone! The inspiration for the character bio of You (Y/N) actually comes from Nathan Muir in the film Spy Game and Charles Heller from the book The Amateur (soon to have a film adaptation starring Rami Malek!). I chose these influences because of their unconventional approach to operations, leaning heavily into psychological warfare and intricate strategizing. I found it fascinating that I couldn’t resist putting it into Y/N’s backstory.

As for the next part of this story in chronological order, it’s actually The Mystery of Who Dressed the LT Like That. However, these stories can stand alone if that’s how you prefer to read them! For those who want to follow the timeline, I’ll include a “Next Part” link below to guide you.

Hope you enjoyed this one! Cheers! 💀✨

Next part --------->

[mariacallous]

Trump Administration Backs Off on Countering Russian Cyber Foes

After years of Russian cyber aggression against the United States and its longtime allies—including repeated election meddling, hack and leak operations, disinformation campaigns, elaborate espionage, and brazen, disruptive cyberattacks—multiple recent actions from the Trump administration have recast the US stance on the cybersecurity threats posed by the Kremlin, downplaying the risks of Russian hackers as US adversaries. The about-face comes as Donald Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin have increasingly strengthened their ties. Consistent US intelligence community assessments of Russia's activity in cyberspace and the threat it poses to the US would indicate, though, that such a change in approach could put the US at risk.

That deprioritization of the Russia threat has come in several different forms. US State Department deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity Liesyl Franz said during a speech in a United Nations working group last week that the US is concerned about digital attacks from China and Iran, but did not mention Russia. A recent memo distributed at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency laid out priorities for the agency, focusing on China and defense of US systems but omitted any reference to Russia. And on Friday, the cybersecurity news outlet The Record reported that, last week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered US Cyber Command to stop all cyber operational planning against Russia, including offensive digital campaigns.

[darkmaga-returns]

In the cover image, the 2016 ceremony in which US President Barack Obama honored Bill and Melinda Gates with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom

by Fabio Giuseppe Carlo Carisio

VERSIONE IN ITALIANO

The most serious and grave threat to Donald Trump’s imminent US presidency has a name and surname: it is called Bill Gates, already a megadonor of the Democratic Party since Barack Obama’s first candidacy in 2009 which made possible the bloody coup in Ukraine in 2014 and the preparation of SARS-Cov-2 from the laboratory of the Covid pandemic in 2019.

Gates, in fact, through an extremely intense lobbying activity developed over the course of 20 years with the complicity of the Rockefellers and George Soros (also a financier of the Dems) controls NATO, the European Commission, the American counter-espionage of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the national military intelligence NSA (National Security Agency), and the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) to which the latter belongs and, finally, also the poor increasingly unfortunate Italy…

For Microsoft’s IT guru, the Hungarian-American rival Soros is an ally hidden in the folds of common business, of Obama-Biden sponsorship and of LGBTQ promotion but is distant due to their different cultural roots: Gates is in fact a self-styled Catholic while the financier of Magyar origins is an inveterate secular Zionist.

Having made the necessary introductions, let’s now look at the documented details that prove this role of occult “deus ex machina” of the unfortunate fate of the West, with the exception of the United Kingdom where it is the powerful dynasty of Rothschild bankers who dictate the law by choosing from time to time the most appropriate synergy between Rockefeller, Gates and Soros.

[usafphantom2]

China warns 'military spotters' who may go to prison for posting photos online

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 01/21/2024 - 22:32 in Military

In the era of open source intelligence, one of the main ways for Western experts to maintain control over China's armed forces is through the analysis of photos of new People's Liberation Army equipment published online by enthusiasts and amateur photographers.

The publication of photos of military ships or aircraft captured outside the ELP facilities or of commercial flights near sensitive areas has become a common vision in recent years, as China quickly modernized its forces. And "military fans" spread the word to the general population on social networking sites such as Weibo, with hundreds of millions of active users.

But not anymore.

The new Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian, with the model of a J-35 jet on the flight deck.

In a WeChat post in December titled: "This is a legal hobby, but you must be very careful," the Ministry of State Security of China said: "Some individual military enthusiasts seriously endanger national military security by illegally obtaining information about national defense and disclosing it on the Internet."

"Focusing on military airports, ports, national defense and military industrial units, they drove or picked up ferries or planes that pass through designated routes and photographed clandestinely with telezoom lenses or drones," said the post of the highly secret civil espionage agency.

Repeat offenders can be arrested for up to seven years, although "primary or occasional offenders" can only receive a warning, according to the agency, which oversees intelligence and counter-espionage both in China and abroad.

Commercial aircraft that took off from Pudong airport, flies over the Jiangnan shipyard.

The alert comes at a time when Chinese leaders are increasingly focusing on ensuring national security in a number of sectors, especially as tensions with the United States increase.

For example, the agency only launched its social media account at the beginning of this year - dedicated to warning citizens about the risks of exposing China's secrets to the outside world and calling on them to join their fight against espionage.

The case of the new aircraft carrier

According to the spy agency's post, the images posted online can show the progress of the construction of warships or aircraft, while revealing operational and technical details of Chinese military equipment. The post specifically mentioned the new aircraft carrier as an area where safety could be compromised.

China's newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has been a frequent target of amateur observers while being prepared at a shipyard in Shanghai. The Jiangnan shipyard, where the works are being carried out, is close to the flight routes of Pudong International Airport, Shanghai.

In November 2023, the Paris-based defense news site Naval News reported that Fujian had begun testing its advanced electromagnetic catapult system, based on videos published on Weibo, apparently taken from a Pudong passenger plane.

“Related images taken from passenger planes have become a common source to track the progress of several important programs (of the ELP Navy),” Naval News reported.

Fujian is certainly a remarkable program for the ELP Navy. The 80,000-ton warship, the largest military ship ever manufactured in China, is considered a rival of the newest U.S. Navy aircraft carriers of the Gerald R Ford class, one of the few other aircraft carriers to use electromagnetic catapults to launch aircraft.

The photos of the alleged catapult test gave Western analysts an idea of how the ELP Navy is progressing in preparing the aircraft carrier for commissioning and active service.

Image of the Fujian catapult tests.

And these images are not the first of Fujian to appear online.

In April 2023, the state broadcaster CCTV announced in a report that in November 2021, Mr. Luo, a "quite renowned" military enthusiast, was sentenced to one year in prison after his arrest by the Shanghai National Security Department for photographing the Fujian aircraft carrier.

Luo used a drone capable of shooting long-range and high-resolution photos, the report said.

Recently, new images on Chinese social networks began to appear with means of censorship.

How the US deals with images

It is not only China that is suspicious of what amateur military observers can do to reveal confidential information.

U.S. law says that the President may designate certain military facilities and equipment as prohibited to image makers.

"It will be illegal to make any photograph, sketch, image, drawing, map or graphic representation of such vital military and naval facilities or equipment," unless due permission is obtained before, states the U.S. Code. Offenders can be arrested for up to one year in prison.

Near the famous Area 51 in Nevada it is possible to see signs that do not authorize photos and the use of drones.

Of course, the military can sometimes use open source intelligence to their advantage, said Carl Schuster, former director of operations of the Joint Intelligence Center of the U.S. Pacific Command.

After photos of a supposed model of China's next-generation stealth fighter appeared online in September, Schuster told CNN that “given the location of the aircraft carrier and the likelihood of operations on the deck being photographed or filmed, the PLA [Navy] can see value in inciting speculation about Fujian's future air wing,” just to give opponents something to think about.

Source: CNN

Tags: ChinaPLAN - People's Liberation Army Navy / People's Liberation Army Navyaircraft carrierspotters

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[militantinremission]

The War in Gaza: Terrorism or Resistance?

Few would disagree that there are No Winners in the newly erupted 'War' between Israel & Hamas. Mainstream Media has already begun to make excuses for the expected carnage that Benjamin Netanyahu will rain on Gaza. The Israeli Prime Minister singles out Hamas for destruction, but is pretty general about his Military Targets; situated among an urban population of over 2 Million Palestinians. What's scary, is how easily News Correspondents & Political Contributors downplay Israeli 'revenge' as Collateral Damage.

58% of Palestinians support Hamas, but Mainstream Media collectively behaves like the Citizens of Gaza are ALL connected to Hamas. The same way that All Black Males are gang affiliated... I guess that's their punishment for voting Hamas into Political Power. The irony lies in the fact that Israel brought Hamas into existence, as a counter balance to Yasser Arafat & The PLO. The Media is already calling Hamas' Attack 'Israel's 9/11'- I find that classification curious. That 2001 Event looks more & more like a smokescreen for a larger Agenda. Despite the thousands of Americans killed, the Legacy of 9/11 are: The Iraqi War & The Patriot Act. There are correlations to point out between the 2 Events.

Benjamin Netanyahu's current political position resembles Rudy Giuliani's position, pre- 9/11. Rudy faced Police Brutality & Corruption in his Administration, while Bibi faces Fraud, Breach of Trust, & accepting Bribes on @ least 3 different occasions. Post 9/11, Rudy Giuliani became 'America's Mayor'. Israelis that screamed for Netanyahu's resignation last week, are now standing behind his 'War' on Hamas. The Patriot Act was what came out of 9/11, & increasing Jewish Settlements appears to be Israel's goal in Gaza. Pro- Israel supporters are calling for the complete destruction of Gaza. There is no regard for the welfare of Palestinians caught in the middle.

The Media Narrative has been Israeli Centered. Big Bad Hamas caught Israel off guard, & wreaked as much havoc as they could. Israel is known for their Security & Intelligence, so it's more than curious how Hamas could execute such a large scale Operation. Over 1,000 Hamas Soldiers stormed breached sections of Israel's Security Fence, along w/ other Soldiers attacking by Air & by Sea. Over 2,200 Military Grade Rockets were launched w/i the City of Tel Aviv. Nothing like this has ever happened in Israel's History. The Police & Military were both caught unaware... How?

Benjamin Netanyahu rose to power on the promise that he could protect Israel better than anyone that preceded him. The fact that Mossad, Shin Bet, & Unit 8200 all failed to anticipate such an attack is mindboggling. When we consider the fact that Netanyahu did not anticipate an attack on, or around the 50th Anniversary of the Yom Kippur War (back in 1973), it's not hard to consider conspiracy theories. Some call it silly to think that Bibi Netanyahu would allow Hamas to breach Israeli territory & kill hundreds, but the alternative is to think that 3 Intelligence Agencies failed to gather Intel on a coordinated attack that took up to 2 Years to plan.

Benjamin Netanyahu's Legacy as Israeli Leader, is a continuous oppression of the Palestinian population. Under his leadership, Israel openly practices a System of Apartheid. Many refer to Gaza as an 'Open Air Prison', while Others call it a 'Concentration Camp'. Despite The 1993 Oslo Accords that laid out the foundation for a 2 State solution, Netanyahu still allows the development of Illegal Settlements in Gaza. It has become so rampant, that Pro- Israel Supporters are calling for the compete removal of All Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. Israel's Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant referred to Hamas as 'Human Animals' that will be dealt w/ in a similar manner... Where is the compromise?

It's crazy to say, but Israel is planning a full blitzkrieg on The Gaza Strip. 300,000 Israeli Soldiers have been called to the Gaza Border, following days of incessant bombing on an urban population of over 2 million people. Over 300,000 people have already been displaced. Netanyahu says he issued warnings for Gaza Residents to leave, but where are they going? Access to Israel & Egypt has been completely cut off. Israeli Officials brag how Food, Water, Fuel, & Electricity supplies to Gaza have been shut off. Some News Correspondents mention Israel's clear violation of Human Rights & The Geneva Convention, but most News Reports focus on the Israeli perspective.

Volodomyr Zelenskyy is blaming Vladimir Putin for the War in Gaza; America's focus on Israel means less focus on Ukraine. The Pentagon has a limited surplus of weapons & ammunition. Zelenskyy understands Ukraine's place in the pecking order, so he's probably uneasy. The Geopolitics behind this Event are interesting. GOP Presidential Hopefuls, Sen. Lindsey Graham & Former Ambassador/ Governor Nikki Haley have blamed Iran for financing Hamas (through Hezbollah), & both called for an American attack on Iran. History shows that Israel supported Iran 40Yrs ago. They supplied the Ayatollah Khomeini w/ weapons in his War w/ Iraq. When Iran financed Hezbollah in 1983, leading to attacks on Israeli Occupations & U.S. Marines barracks (in Lebanon), Israel continued to supply Iran.

The U.S. has a Memorandum Of Understanding w/ Israel that promises $3.8B in Annual Military Aid. On top of this, Joe Biden has pledged full support to Israel, & has dispatched the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. Gerald Ford w/ a Battleship compliment. No one knows what 'support' Biden intends to give, but his Pro- Israel stance ignores the Palestinian view. Nearly 80Yrs ago, roughly 60% of Palestine was seized & renamed 'Israel' by The British Government (via The U.N.). The Palestinians @ that time, explained that They ARE the Israelites! They are the descendants of those who 'accepted Al Islam' centuries ago. Nearly 60Yrs ago, Yasser Arafat formed The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) to fight for the Palestinian Right of Expression on their Own land.

30Yrs ago, Yasser Arafat & Yitzhak Rabin agreed on a 2 State solution, but Israeli Leaders following Rabin have failed to go any further w/ the Oslo Accords. The political rise of Hamas, & their refusal to recognize The State of Israel has been blamed for the breakdown of negotiations. Meanwhile, Palestinians, Black Jews, Hebrew Israelites, & Muslims have all experienced an increase in Ethnic Bias/ Discrimination. Anyone that insinuates Ethnic Bias or Racism in Israel is either treated like a leper, or silenced; but Palestinians have been dealing w/ this Ethnic Bias for nearly 130Yrs.

Israel's problem w/ Gaza, is numbers. While the Israeli population is moderately young, the Palestinian population of Gaza has a Median Age of 19Yrs; half the population is under 18Yrs. This may explain Israel's aggressive stance towards Palestinians. Israel's 'gestapo tactics' run the risk of radicalizing a new generation of Palestinians. Not the best move to make, if Hamas is getting more sophisticated w/ their planning & methods of attack. Whenever Israel goes on the offensive, I always have to look @ their move in respect to 'Greater Israel'. This is Israel's vision for expansion. The Maps that I saw show Israel expanding into Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, & Iraq... I can't help thinking about The Book of Revelations & that 'Battle on the Hill of Megiddo'.

From an Indigenous Black American perspective, Gaza is Must See TV! Israeli UN Ambassador, Gilad Erdan made a comment a few years ago, that Black American Men were the greatest threat to Israel(???) American Police Departments, large & small are invited to visit Israel (All expenses paid), to learn the tactics they use on Palestinians. The Israelis learned from American Police tactics on Black Americans, so it appears that they are sharing Tools of Oppression. By the same token, as Malcolm X vocally supported the Palestinian Right Of Expression; Palestinians return the gesture, by teaching Black American Protestors how to handle tear gas & other 'Urban' Police tactics.

The United States & Israel are tethered to each other. European Jews use Hollywood to present specific images & narratives globally. Among the images are: 'America', The Great Society & 'Israel', The Holy Land. Both nations are White Supremacist Republics, so the goals are: Marginalization of the Indigenous People & Appropriation of the natural resources. Israel is practicing the American Model of 'Jim Crow' Anti- Black Racism, much like the Nazis & South Afrikan Boers practiced. America appears to be copying Israel's Urban Assault Tactics. I wouldn't be surprised if the Cop City Development outside of Atlanta, Ga. is the result of those Police junkets to Israel.

The Civil Rights & Black Power Movements inspired Black & Brown People globally. Our current fight against Police Violence & for (lineage based) Reparations is already having a similar effect. That being said, Palestinians live in an environment that can change forever- in a heartbeat. I don't think that they need to draw inspiration from Us, but it's clear that We are in solidarity w/ each other. Mainstream Media is mourning the dead babies in Southern Israel & uttering curses @ Hamas, but they have been silent for years about the dead babies in Gaza. The Zionists are quick to voice their Right to Retaliate, but are silent when asked if Palestinians have the same Right of Retaliation... It's No Fun when the Rabbit has the Gun.

[top-leaders-in-india]

Heartfelt Tribute to the Brave Soldiers Who Were Martyred in the Terrorist Attack on Parliament House: Col Rajyavardhan Rathore

On December 13, 2001, India witnessed one of its darkest days as terrorists attacked the Parliament House in New Delhi. This cowardly act was met with unparalleled bravery by our security personnel, who laid down their lives to protect the nation’s democratic sanctity. On this solemn occasion, Col Rajyavardhan Rathore paid a heartfelt tribute to these heroes, honoring their sacrifice and dedication to the nation.

Remembering the Heroes of the 2001 Parliament Attack

The Parliament attack was a grim reminder of the threats faced by the world’s largest democracy. It was also a moment that showcased the unmatched courage of Indian soldiers and security personnel. Their swift response thwarted a larger catastrophe, preserving the lives of countless leaders and civilians.

Col Rajyavardhan Rathore’s Emotional Tribute

Col Rajyavardhan Rathore, a decorated army officer and Member of Parliament, expressed deep gratitude and respect for the martyred soldiers. He stated: “The bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers during the Parliament attack remain etched in the heart of every Indian. Their valor is a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.”

The Bravehearts We Owe Everything To

The soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the attack include personnel from the Delhi Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Parliament House Security Service. They stood as the final line of defense, ensuring that India’s democratic foundation remained unshaken.

India’s Response: A Nation United

The attack galvanized India into action, leading to:

Strengthened Counter-Terrorism Measures: Enhanced intelligence-sharing and coordination among security agencies.

Increased Security for Key Installations: Improved infrastructure and surveillance at vital locations.

Global Awareness on Terrorism: India’s firm stance on terrorism resonated globally, highlighting the need for international cooperation.

Honoring Their Sacrifice Every Year

Every December 13, India observes a moment of silence and organizes memorial events to honor the fallen heroes of the Parliament attack. Leaders across political lines and citizens from all walks of life pay homage, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.

Col Rajyavardhan Rathore’s Call to Action

In his tribute, Col Rathore urged citizens to remain vigilant against threats to national security. He emphasized the importance of unity and resilience, encouraging the younger generation to uphold the values that these martyrs fought to protect.

“Their sacrifice reminds us of our duty to contribute to the nation’s strength, unity, and progress,” he said.

Why We Must Never Forget

The Parliament attack was not just an assault on a building but an attack on the ideals of democracy and freedom. Remembering the sacrifice of these soldiers is crucial for:

Inspiring Future Generations: Their bravery serves as a testament to the power of patriotism.

Strengthening National Unity: Honoring martyrs fosters a collective spirit of resilience.

Combating Complacency: Regular remembrance reinforces the need for vigilance against terrorism.

A Legacy of Valor

The brave soldiers who defended India’s Parliament House on that fateful day embody the highest ideals of courage and selflessness. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the price of freedom and the duty of every citizen to uphold it. As Col Rajyavardhan Rathore aptly said, “The best way to honor their memory is by building a strong, united, and secure India.”

[mastergarryblogs]

Inside the Light Weapon Market: Trends, Innovations, and What’s Next

Introduction to the Light Weapon Market

The light weapon market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by a combination of technological advancements, escalating global security concerns, and an increasing need for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. Light weapons, which include firearms like rifles, machine guns, and grenade launchers, along with innovative smart weapon technologies, are integral to both defense and security strategies worldwide. The market is anticipated to witness a sustained compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.23% from 2025 to 2032, positioning it for substantial expansion.

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Market Value and Forecast

In 2024, the global light weapon market was valued at approximately USD 13.37 billion, with expectations for continued growth as defense budgets rise and new technologies evolve. Notably, light weapons make up roughly 0.7% of the overall global defense market. As countries around the world invest in modernizing their military and law enforcement capabilities, the demand for more advanced, efficient, and lightweight weapon systems is intensifying.

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Key Market Drivers and Challenges

Growth Drivers

Several critical factors are contributing to the expansion of the light weapon market:

Increased Defense Spending: Nations worldwide are prioritizing defense spending in response to growing geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats. This has led to a demand for technologically advanced, lightweight weapons that offer superior operational flexibility and performance.

Advancements in Weapon Technologies: The development of smart weapons, which integrate features like biometric authentication, advanced targeting systems, and artificial intelligence (AI), is driving innovation in the market. These systems are enhancing weapon performance, increasing user control, and improving security.

Demand from Military and Law Enforcement: As military and law enforcement agencies modernize their equipment and strategies, the need for versatile and efficient light weapons continues to grow. These weapons are crucial in a wide range of operational scenarios, from urban warfare to counter-terrorism and peacekeeping missions.

Civilian Participation in Recreational Shooting: The increasing popularity of shooting sports and self-defense needs among civilians is expanding the market for light weapons, especially in regions where personal security concerns are high.

Market Challenges

Despite the growth potential, several challenges exist:

Regulatory Barriers: Stringent regulations around firearm ownership, export restrictions, and international arms treaties pose significant hurdles to manufacturers and buyers. This restricts access to certain markets and limits the global reach of light weapon producers.

Political Instability and Economic Fluctuations: Political unrest in key markets and fluctuations in defense spending may hinder long-term growth, especially in regions where budget constraints limit military modernization efforts.

Segmentation of the Light Weapon Market

The global light weapon market can be segmented based on product type, technology, application, end user, and distribution channels.

By Product Type

Rifles: The dominant segment in the market, valued at around USD 8.5 billion in 2024, rifles are expected to continue their leading position. With military modernization initiatives globally, advanced rifles, featuring enhanced accuracy, mobility, and modularity, will see robust demand.

Machine Guns: Known for their role in sustained fire operations, machine guns are a key component of light weapon systems, especially for military and law enforcement use.

Grenade Launchers and RPGs: Both grenade launchers and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) are crucial for infantry units, with demand expected to remain steady due to their effectiveness in combat situations.

Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS): These systems, designed to target aircraft, continue to see demand due to their strategic importance in modern warfare.

Other Products: Mortars, heavy machine guns, and other tactical weaponry also contribute to the market’s diversification.

By Technology

Smart Weapons: Smart weapon technology is the fastest-growing segment in the market, with projections to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2032. The integration of biometric features, AI-driven targeting, and enhanced user interface systems is transforming the capabilities of light weapons, making them more accurate and user-friendly.

Manual Weapons: While manual weapons continue to account for a substantial portion of the market, the increasing demand for smart weapons is gradually overtaking the traditional firearm technologies.

By Application

Combat: The demand for light weapons for combat applications remains the largest segment, driven primarily by military and law enforcement sectors.

Self-Defense: Civilian demand for personal defense weapons, especially handguns and compact rifles, is also increasing due to rising security concerns in many regions.

Sport and Recreational Use: With the growing popularity of shooting sports and hunting, the demand for firearms designed for recreational use is contributing to market growth.

By End User

Military: The largest segment in terms of revenue, the military sector invests heavily in modern weaponry, including rifles, machine guns, and smart weapons. The ongoing modernization of armed forces around the world ensures strong demand for light weapons.

Law Enforcement: Police and security agencies continue to upgrade their weapon systems, adopting advanced rifles and smart weapons for enhanced security operations.

Civilians: The civilian sector, driven by self-defense and recreational needs, is increasingly adopting firearms, particularly handguns and sporting rifles.

By Distribution Channels

Direct Sales: Government and defense contractors account for the majority of direct sales. This channel is expected to maintain its dominance through 2032.

Retail Distribution: Increasing civilian demand for light weapons has bolstered retail channels, particularly in regions with higher rates of firearm ownership.

Wholesalers and Distributors: These intermediaries play a key role in reaching broader market segments, especially for law enforcement agencies and private security firms.

Regional Market Analysis

North America

The North American light weapon market is robust, driven by both military spending and civilian demand, particularly in the United States. The region is also a leader in developing cutting-edge smart weapons, with companies like Sig Sauer and Smith & Wesson pioneering new technologies.

Europe

Europe's market growth is fueled by defense modernization efforts, particularly within NATO countries. The demand for advanced, lightweight weapons for special forces and tactical units remains strong, with European manufacturers like FN Herstal and Heckler & Koch continuing to lead the region.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific market is seeing substantial growth, driven by the increasing defense budgets of countries like China, India, and Japan. The need for modernized infantry weapons, including rifles and smart weapons, is expected to surge as these nations enhance their military capabilities.

Middle East and Africa

Political instability and security concerns in the Middle East and Africa continue to drive the demand for light weapons. Countries in these regions are increasingly investing in small arms and tactical weaponry to combat terrorism and internal conflicts.

Competitive Landscape

The light weapon market is highly competitive, with a mix of established players and emerging innovators. Leading manufacturers include:

Sturm, Ruger & Co.

Smith & Wesson

Heckler & Koch

Sig Sauer

FN Herstal

These companies are at the forefront of innovation, with a strong focus on product development, modular designs, and smart weapon integration.

Recent developments, such as Sig Sauer's modular rifle platform and FN Herstal’s lightweight assault rifles, highlight the market’s shift toward customizable, advanced weapon systems.

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 Conclusion

The global light weapon market is poised for significant growth due to rising defense budgets, increasing security concerns, and technological advancements in weaponry. The demand for advanced, lightweight firearms, especially those integrated with smart technologies, is driving innovation in both military and civilian sectors. While the market faces challenges such as regulatory barriers and geopolitical instability, the future remains promising for manufacturers and end-users alike.

This dynamic sector continues to evolve, offering opportunities for strategic players to leverage cutting-edge technologies and expand into new markets. The growth trajectory of the market, combined with the increasing need for personalized, modular weapon systems, ensures that light weapons will continue to play a pivotal role in both defense and personal security applications for years to come.

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[cinnabarsaga]

Some conceptual development on FERA.

The Federal Esoteric Research (and formerly Defence) Agency, are one of two antagonists in the Cinnabar Saga.

The Agency has its origins as a charter organisation during Lincoln’s presidency, tasked with researching the paranormal, and countering the confederacy’s efforts to wage unconventional warfare. After the war, the institute would loose prestige and power in obscurity. By the 1920’s, it had become a skeleton organisation, and failed to prevent a major accident from occurring in the midwest.

As a result of a congressional investigation, the Prohibition on magic was passed in a closed door session. Along with it’s passage was the authorisation act, establishing the Bureau of Cryptonomy. The BOC, alongside the Bureau of investigation, sought to stem the rising tide of organised crime. However, like the BOI, agents required local jurisdictions to carry out an arrest. Unarmed agents were dying at the hands of the mob, forcing congress to act, in 1933, granting both agencies greater police power.

During WWII, it was tasked with establishing a military command to counter the Nazi Occult movement. Many agents were conscripted into the US army Esoteric command, and fought against the forces of darkness on the ground. Far greater catastrophes were averted by their actions.

With the end of the war, and the rising threat posed by the new cold war against communism, the Kennedy administration, under secretary of Defense McNamara, reorganised the BOC, into the Defense Esoteric Research Agency, which alongside other defense reorganisation projects which created the Defense Intelligence Agency, and Defense Logistics Agency.

DERA would be tasked with countering the nth domain war-fighting capacity of the Soviet Union, as well as maintaining the veil of secrecy around magic, thaumaturgy, and esoterica; in addition to exploring cryptozoology, crypto-archeology, and it’s continuing mission of storing artefacts of power. Throughout the later half of the 20th century, it would expand in budget and capability as the lesser known intelligence & law enforcement community in America.

With the end of the cold war, its primary mission changed, and it dropped defense, becoming the “Federal Esoteric Research Agency” or FERA. While not explicitly a defense agency, it retained its law enforcement role, expanding after it’s departmental reshuffling into the Department of Homeland Security, in the wake of the 9-11 terror attacks.

In its current role, it has an expanded mission of antiterrorism, in addition to its original task of research, and enforcement of the expanded secrets act.

In order to maintain its secrecy, the agency is rarely addressed by its full name. Instead, it is often masquerading as the “Federal Emergency Response Agency,” “Federal Enviromental Remediation Agency,” or some variation of its acronym.

The agency itself recruits from a wide range of sources, from the FBI, CIA, Marines, NASA, NOAA, ivy league, and more. Internally the agency is divided between office, field, and archives. Field agents typically are law enforcement, or soldiers. Office is usually scientists, engineers, scholars, analysts. Archivist typically are scholars, and researchers.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Oliver Willis at Daily Kos:

President Donald Trump continues to make questionable choices on who will serve in key positions in his administration. His most recent picks include men who have promoted debunked conspiracy theories and another who has been accused of spousal abuse. Trump has selected conservative writer Darren Beattie to serve as acting under secretary of state for public diplomacy. Beattie ran the pro-Trump Revolver News website where he sold Trump gear including a shirt that said “it’s OK to deny 2020,” a reference to 2020 election conspiracy theories. Beattie has also claimed that the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol was a “clear hoax” carried out by the federal government. The new hire previously served in the first Trump administration. During that stint he was fired after it was discovered that he had spoken at a conference alongside white supremacists. Joe Kent, who twice failed to win a congressional seat in Washington, was selected by Trump to lead the National Counter Terrorism Center. The center is responsible for collecting intelligence from other agencies—including the FBI, CIA, and the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security—to assess threats and to formulate a unified response. When running for office, Kent gave an interview to a Nazi sympathizer and white supremacist. Kent also appeared in photographs at a fundraiser alongside the host, Greyson Arnold, who had previously argued that the U.S. should have sided with Nazi Germany in World War II. Kent also came to the defense of white supremacist Nick Fuentes when his account was banned by Twitter in 2021, writing, “Many are glad that their political rivals are targeted by the state & big tech, they hate Trump, @NickJFuentes & MAGA.” Trump has also selected failed Pennsylvania congressional candidate Sean Parnell to serve as the chief spokesperson at the Pentagon.

Trump appoints three highly unqualified men for key roles in 47’s Misadministration: Joe Kent, Sean Parnell, and Darren Beattie.

[soon-palestine]

Israel Buys Tech for Mass Influence Operations

Haaretz reports, “Israel has responded to its "clear loss" to Hamas on the digital battlefield by making its first-ever purchase of a technological system capable of conducting mass online influence campaigns, according to numerous sources with knowledge of the matter.

The system can, among other things, automatically create content tailored to specific audiences. The technology was purchased as part of a wider attempt by Israeli bodies, both civilian and military, to address what sources termed "Israel's public diplomacy failure" following the Hamas massacre on October 7 and subsequent war.”

“a few weeks into the war, Israel set up a "hasbara forum" comprising government agencies, offices and ministries, as well as military, defense and intelligence bodies – including the IDF, the Shin Bet security service and the National Security Council – alongside tech firms, civilians volunteer initiatives and even Jewish organizations, that meets weekly.

Officials from different bodies, including the Public Diplomacy Directorate and Diaspora Affairs Ministry, charged with countering antisemitism against world Jewry, held talks with different firms and tech providers active in various mass online campaigns. Assets are one thing, an intelligence source explains, but you also want a system for managing them.

“Mass influence systems can often get their operators in trouble, and their public exposure can severely damage their clients' credibility.”

“As a result, Israel decided to purchase an existing technology instead of risk developing one independently. A number of civilian tools and programs developed for business and political campaigns were procured: a system for mapping online audiences; a system capable of automatically creating websites, among other things, as well as content tailored to specific audiences; a system for monitoring social media and messaging platforms, and others. Thus, Israel hoped to launch campaigns that would advance Israel's core message and improve global perception.”

https://t.co/dfcZuFXJr9

[mariacallous]

NATO concluded a major anti-drone exercise this week, with Ukraine taking part for the first time as the Western alliance seeks to learn urgently from the rapid development and widespread use of unmanned systems in the war there.

The drills at a Dutch military base, involving more than 20 countries and some 50 companies, tested cutting-edge systems to detect and counter drones and assessed how they work together. The 11-day exercise ended with a demonstration of jamming and hacking drones in a week when their critical role in the Ukraine war was demonstrated once again. On Wednesday, a large Ukrainian drone attack triggered an earthquake-sized blast at a major Russian arsenal. The following day, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow was ramping up drone production tenfold to nearly 1.4 million this year. The proliferation of drones in the war – to destroy targets and survey the battlefield – has prompted NATO to increase its focus on the threat they could pose to the alliance. "NATO takes this threat very, very seriously," said Matt Roper, chief of the Joint Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Centre at the alliance's technology agency. "This is not a domain we can afford to sit back and be passive on," he said at the exercise site, Lieutenant General Best Barracks in the east of The Netherlands. Experts have warned NATO that it needs to catch up quickly on drone warfare. "NATO has too few drones for a high-intensity fight against a peer adversary," a report from the Center for European Policy Analysis think tank declared last September. "It would be severely challenged to effectively integrate those it has in a contested environment."

The drills that wrapped up on Thursday – complete with ice cream for onlookers provided by a radar company – were the fourth annual iteration of the exercise. Claudio Palestini, the co-chair of a NATO working group on unmanned systems, said the exercise had adapted to trends such as the transformation of FPV (first-person view) drones - originally designed for civilian racers – into deadly weapons. "Every year, we see an evolution of the threat with the introduction of new technology," he said. "But also we see a lot of capabilities (to counter drones) that are becoming more mature." In a demonstration on Thursday, two small FPV drones whizzed and whined at high speed through the blue sky to dart around a military all-terrain vehicle before their signal was jammed. Such electronic warfare is widespread in Ukraine. But it is less effective against long-range reconnaissance drones, a technology developer at Ukraine's defense ministry said. The official, giving only his first name of Yaroslav for security reasons, said his team had developed kamikaze drones to destroy such craft – a much cheaper option than firing missiles, which Ukraine had previously done. "You need to run fast," he said of the race to counter the impact of drones. "Technology which you develop is there for three months, maybe six months. After, it's obsolete."

[darkmaga-returns]

A big day of future-securing meetings as Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian touched down in Moscow to sign the awaited comprehensive economic and defense agreement with Putin:

The signed agreement between Russia and Iran contains a clause on strengthening cooperation in the field of security and defense, as stated in the first article of the document. The third article stipulates that if one of the parties is subjected to aggression, the other should not provide any assistance to the aggressor. Russia and Iran also agreed on cooperation between intelligence agencies in order to strengthen national security and counter common threats. Article 5 2. Military cooperation between the Contracting Parties covers a wide range of issues, including the exchange of military and expert delegations, calls of warships and vessels to ports. 4. The Contracting Parties consult and cooperate in the field of countering common military threats and threats to security of a bilateral and regional nature. Article 8 1. The Contracting Parties protect the rights and legitimate interests of their citizens in the territory of the Contracting Parties.

[workersolidarity]

🇨🇳🇺🇲 🚨 CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTER SLAMS U.S. FOR INTERNATIONAL SPYING AND INTERFERENCE IN FOREIGN AFFAIRS

China's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, slammed the United States after passing its National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including an extension of the highly controversial Section 702, which authorizes the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) court, and allows for the surveillance of foreign persons without a court warrant.

"The US Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), adopted after Watergate, was originally aimed at preventing government authorities from abusing power and carrying out arbitrary eavesdropping," Mao Ning said at a Press Conference Thursday.

"However, Section 702, added in 2008, permit the National Security Agency to carry out eavesdropping and surveillance without obtaining an individualized court order."

"After that, the US government has been expanding the scope of eavesdropping and surveillance to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs and meddle in the normal course of international affairs," Mao Ning continued.

"This runs counter to international law and basic norms governing international relations. The more targets the US spies on, the fewer friends it has. The US needs a better sense of boundary and less obsession for control."

#source

@WorkerSolidarityNews