#air-launched-rapid-response-weapon

[captainkurosolaire]

Manhunt

Luminescence fireflies glided over a rushing ravine, reflecting a fellow enchanting crescent moon hidden by passing clouds. A small lily-pad with an exotic amphibian aboard; starved gave to gluttony instinct, stretching tongue scooping up what appeared to be prey, was volatile of death. Black foot-pads ran towards a testing encounter. Instinct driving movement, unknowing invisibly feelings beneath the realm of suppression. Craving hungrily to return light. The Shadow and Company on the outskirt's of a meadow and construction-site being built, found a horrendous scene at their destination. An-ending result happening before a battle. A battered spiritual woman fell with a thud, echoing throughout, frightening lurking bats on trees. Massive sword secreting, tinge-lime-green and red droplet's ran off the edges as it was placed over a broad-shoulder of the assailant. "Rozan the Star, you're to late. She'll be inevitably dead within minutes." Not even requiring a turn-around to identify his fellow Shadow and knew his title closely. His own was Hydo The Inevitable Death-Adder. For his unique-weapon, manufacturing design brought from one-slash and irreversible outcome a poison with no believed-cure. The masculine Seeker, didn't submit to grief. "You'll be dead in seconds." Cold-fact uttered, tempered response. Many would rush with emotions, quake, could assume his act was heartless. Reality, stone-hard discipline, was his shape, unequivocally lethal.

Callous handling his hilt, locked between a contest that couldn't let this enemy left unattended. "Killer Queen retrieve her to safety, kindly." When the Black Miracle's crossed intensity rattled throughout nightly-breeze setting in. The venomous shadow, had a broken nose, he realigned effortlessly then reapplied his mask, so his Hit-Target did contest. The Kunoichi ally deftly took the injured lass behind cover, Rokeia's complexion was becoming greenish pale starting from finger-tips, weakness instantly demonstrated. Slight-coveting slash on her belly, but held dire effect. Each swordsman took a pace, before drawing in equal-mind with a lunge, their flurry steel clashing in contested sparks. The Venomous Shadow struck with mass overall power, while other held better weight distribution, balanced skill. A changing-guard came with Hoku from his sleeve launched a kunai to disrupt the flow. Whizzing towards his advisory, but would be blocked by plated gauntlet's swatting the projectile away, the Miqo'te believed held the upper-hand, athletically let out a slide to attempt to skirt around his opponent, but was predicted. Meeting a viscous-kick by the larger Hyur that caused a stagger-break, vertically realigning his blade, he'd charge forth at the smaller-figure, attempting to skewer him in half, by a full-frontal assault, it had the Miqo'te pinned against a wall. Reaction came barely only from instinct, horizontally aligning his sword to block. Feet-clinging behind using the wall, to attempt to counter-measure the strength being pushed, so terribly close to reaching his abdomen by an ilm for skewering. Quickly with rapidness the Miqo'te unleashed a defiant growl, slash his palm with own blade, and dousing it across his opponent's blade, then began controlling his breathing, allowing imbued air to circulate around his Uchigatana, accelerating the rate of corrosion, attempting to weaken the great-blade ensuing. Seemed at no avail, until both Death-Dealers heard sound of something chipped. The Venomous Shadow, leapt back with a retreat, knowing if continued, he'd lose the struggle. The blindfolded-cloth protecting eyelids was left rustling-away in a breeze. Ferocious glowing-golden orbs, awakened. His Title translated to the meaning, <Burning The Star>, it felt that's what his eyes could achieve. Battle would meet its climax. Grabbing his decorative scabbard from his sash and holding it out, concealing his steel slightly taking a battle-stance. Sweeping his leg's back, before letting out a shocking high-speed slash that saw his scabbard being used like a ranged-bullet. He built-air into a pocket, creating an ingenious attack. The Venomous Shadow slammed his blade firmly into the grounds and hid behind it like a shield. Otherwise it'd have punctured gravely, Hoku was descending upon him, predictably... The Hyur thought he read his opponent again; like-before. However, the Seeker made an unexpected duck, as-if those dangerous Truesight eyes predicted with foresight...

Hydo's tendon was slashed following, sending him into a penance. Dropped of knee; control... Before the final blow came. Hoku's blade dug into the near shoulder-expertly of the Venomous Shadow, down to his sternum, when his blade withdrew; brutally, it'd severe many major arteries, causing a volcanic-eruption of torrent sanguine to fountain out in rivulets. "Last words?" The Seeker almost showed signs of honor. Poisonous lastly spewed, "H-Hhe-heh.... I-I... d-d-die, knowing all inevitable outcomes." The Venomous Black Miracle, ferocious vomit bellowed from congested lungs, that saw his face-mask, removed. Unsheathing with emotion; a weapon satisfied, Battle loss, ...War won.

[Prev:Chapter]: Blooming Effect ~ ♪"My Enemy"♪

[usafphantom2]

Unprecedented U.S. Hypersonic Weapons Test From Guam Has Occurred

Joseph TrevithickPUBLISHED Mar 19, 2024 7:02 PM EDT

The Air Force has conducted an unprecedented test launch of a live AGM-183A ARRW hypersonic missile in the Western Pacific, sending signals to China and elsewhere in the region amid uncertainty about this particular program's future.

Lockheed Martin

The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that it conducted its final planned end-to-end test launch of a live AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon hypersonic missile, or ARRW, earlier this week. A B-52H bomber flying from the highly strategic U.S. Pacific island territory of Guam fired the missile. The War Zone was the first to predict this test was coming after the Air Force curiously released pictures of a live AGM-183A at a show-and-tell training event at Guam's Andersen Air Force Base in late February.

This is the first time an ARRW missile, or any other known American hypersonic weapon, has been test launched in this region. As such, the test sends signals across the Pacific, especially toward China. At the same time, this comes as ARRW's future continues to be murky with signs pointing to a potential follow-on program, which may already be in progress.

A live AGM-183A ARRW hypersonic missile seen under the wing of a B-52H bomber at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam on February 27, 2024. USAF

“A B-52H Stratofortress conducted a test of the All-Up-Round AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon," an Air Force spokesperson told The War Zone in a statement. "This test launched a full prototype operational hypersonic missile and focused on the ARRW’s end-to-end performance The test took place at the Reagan Test Site with the B-52 taking off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam on March 17, 2024 local time."

The Reagan Test Site consists of various facilities spread across multiple islands at Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The site is one of the U.S. military's premier missile test ranges and is regularly used to support the testing of very long-range munitions, including hypersonic weapons like ARRW.

Andersen Air Force Base on Guam is a key U.S. military hub in the Western Pacific and the Air Force's main base for staging long-range bomber operations in the region. It would play a central role in any future major conflict in the region, including one against China. U.S. hypersonic weapons, which are expected to be very expensive and acquired in relatively limited numbers, would be particularly valuable in a high-end fight for conducting conventional strikes against very high-value and heavily defended targets. These could include major air defense and other command and control nodes.

There had already been evidence that the ARRW test had occurred on or about March 17 based on the appearance and then cancellation of various warning notices. Online flight tracking data also showed signs the test was finally about to happen, including specially modified High Altitude Observatory (HALO) Gulfstream business jets operating in relevant areas. The HALO aircraft have supported past ARRW flight tests.

ARRW Update: New round scheduled tonight between 00:09 and 04:30 UTC.

So I guess launch did not happened last night despite 49th T&E Squadron's B-52H spotted by @FMilcoms.

The Air Force has only provided limited information so far about the test's outcome and has not explicitly said whether or not it was successful.

"The Air Force gained valuable insights into the capabilities of this new, cutting-edge technology. While we won’t discuss specific test objectives, this test acquired valuable, unique data and was intended to further a range of hypersonic programs," the Air Force spokesperson said in their statement to The War Zone. "We also validated and improved our test and evaluation capabilities for continued development of advanced hypersonic systems.”

The Air Force has used roughly similar language in statements about the previous three end-to-end tests of live ARRW missiles, which occurred in March, August, and October 2023. The March 2023 test ended in failure. Information about the August and October 2023 launches remains scant. The service also conducted another end-to-end ARRW test in December 2022, but this appears to have not involved a live all-up-round missile.

An AGM-183A missile seen during an earlier test launch in 2021 that did not involve a full end-to-end demonstration of the weapon. USAF

Whatever the exact outcome of the March 17 test was, ARRW's future is uncertain, as The War Zone has previously reported in depth.

"Currently, right now, we do not have the ARRW in the [Fiscal Year] 25 budget," Air Force Lt. Gen. Dale White, the Military Deputy at the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, told members of the House Armed Services Committee at a hearing last week. "However, we are continuing to analyze the test data that we have from that capability."

"With ARRW ... we are undergoing the final test of the all-up-round [AUR] with a planned test program completion by the end of [the] second quarter [of] Fiscal Year 2024," White added. "Future ARRW decisions are pending final analysis of all flight test data."

Following years of at best mixed test results, the Air Force announced in March 2023 that it planned to end the ARRW program and shift resources to work on a different type of hypersonic weapon, the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM). You can read more about the differences between ARRW, which has an unpowered hypersonic boost-glide vehicle payload, and air-breathing hypersonic cruise missiles like HACM here.

A rendering of a notional air-breathing hypersonic cruise missile from Raytheon, the prime contractor for the Air Force's HACM program. Raytheon

The Air Force has subsequently appeared on multiple occasions to be backtracking on its ARRW decision, despite the program still being officially set to come to an end this year. There are now signs that the service could be looking at a follow-on air-launched hypersonic boost-glide vehicle program, if it isn't already in the works.

Whatever the case, the Air Force has now completed its final planned end-to-end test of an ARRW missile, which it has said will inform its future hypersonic weapon plans.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com

[defenseaffairs]

Here are some of the latest developments in defense news:

1. **Pacific Partnerships**: U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the formation of a unique network of partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative aims to strengthen security ties among countries with shared values and visions for a free and open Indo-Pacific, involving increased collaboration in intelligence sharing, defense exercises, and defense industrial base cooperation [[❞]](https://breakingdefense.com/2024/06/defense-secretary-austin-promotes-new-unique-pacific-network-of-partnerships/).

2. **NATO's Largest Exercise**: NATO has begun its largest exercise since the Cold War, named Steadfast Defender 24. The exercise involves approximately 90,000 service members from 31 NATO allies and Sweden, focusing on the alliance's ability to rapidly deploy forces and execute new defense plans approved at last year's summit in Lithuania. This extensive exercise underscores NATO's unity and readiness to defend its territories [[❞]](https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3656703/nato-begins-largest-exercise-since-cold-war/).

3. **Hypersonic Missile Testing**: The U.S. Air Force has conducted the final test of the Lockheed Martin-made AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). Although the Air Force did not disclose the test's success, it stated that valuable data was collected to further various hypersonic programs. This marks the end of the ARRW rapid prototyping program, with future efforts likely shifting towards the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile program [[❞]](https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/03/19/us-air-force-conducts-final-test-of-lockheeds-hypersonic-missile/).

For more detailed information, you can visit the sources directly at [Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com), [Defense News](https://defensenews.com), and [Defense Department News](https://defense.gov).

[jenniferlinda76]

Titans of the Sea: The Power and Influence of Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers

Introduction

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers represent the pinnacle of naval engineering and strategic military capability. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68), the lead ship of its class, exemplifies the power and versatility of these floating fortresses. Coupled with formidable aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, the USS Nimitz and its counterparts serve as crucial assets in projecting military power and maintaining global security. This essay delves into the design, capabilities, and strategic importance of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, with a special focus on the USS Nimitz and its fleet of F/A-18 Hornets.

Evolution of Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers

The concept of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers emerged during the Cold War as nations sought to extend the reach and endurance of their naval forces. Unlike conventional diesel-powered ships, nuclear-powered carriers do not require frequent refueling, allowing them to remain deployed for extended periods and operate at higher speeds.

The USS Enterprise (CVN 65), commissioned in 1961, was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Its success paved the way for the development of the Nimitz-class carriers. The USS Nimitz, commissioned in 1975, was the first of ten nuclear-powered carriers in this class. These ships have since become the backbone of the U.S. Navy, embodying the principles of sustained power projection and rapid response.

Design and Capabilities of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz is an engineering marvel, measuring over 1,092 feet in length and displacing around 100,000 tons. It can accommodate a crew of approximately 5,000 personnel, including the ship's company and the air wing. Its flight deck spans about 4.5 acres, providing ample space for the launch and recovery of various aircraft.

Powered by two A4W nuclear reactors, the USS Nimitz can achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots. These reactors provide the ship with nearly unlimited operational range, limited only by the need for resupply of food and other consumables. The ship's propulsion system, combined with its advanced navigation and control technologies, enables it to maneuver effectively even in challenging conditions.

The USS Nimitz is equipped with a robust suite of defensive systems, including the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow and RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missiles, which provide protection against aerial threats. Additionally, the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) offers a last line of defense against incoming missiles and aircraft. The ship’s radar and sensor systems ensure comprehensive situational awareness, enhancing its defensive and offensive capabilities.

The Role of F/A-18 Hornets

Fighters like the F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft designed for carrier-based operations. Its versatility allows it to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and close air support. The Hornet has been a mainstay of the U.S. Navy's air wings since its introduction in the 1980s and continues to be a vital component of carrier strike groups.

The F/A-18 Hornet’s design emphasizes survivability and versatility. It features advanced avionics, reduced radar cross-section, and electronic warfare capabilities, making it a formidable opponent in air combat. Its twin-engine configuration provides redundancy and improved performance, particularly important for operations from the demanding environment of an aircraft carrier.

One of the key advantages of the F/A-18 Hornet is its ability to switch roles rapidly. It can carry a diverse array of ordnance, from air-to-air missiles to precision-guided bombs, enabling it to engage both aerial and ground targets with high effectiveness. This flexibility is crucial for modern naval operations, where threats can emerge from multiple domains simultaneously.

Strategic Importance of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz serves as a mobile airbase, capable of projecting power and deterrence far beyond U.S. territorial waters. Its presence in a region can significantly influence the strategic calculations of potential adversaries. The carrier’s ability to deploy a wide array of aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet, allows it to conduct sustained air operations over extended periods.

One of the primary missions of the USS Nimitz is to ensure freedom of navigation and the security of maritime trade routes. Given that a significant portion of global trade passes through strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the South China Sea, the carrier’s ability to operate in these areas is of paramount importance. Its deployment can reassure allies and deter aggression, contributing to regional stability.

In times of conflict, the USS Nimitz can serve as a command and control hub, coordinating the actions of various naval, air, and ground forces. Its air wing, centered around aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, can perform a wide range of missions, from establishing air superiority to providing close air support for ground troops. The carrier’s versatility makes it a critical asset in both conventional and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

The Future of Carrier Aviation

While the USS Nimitz and its sister ships remain at the forefront of naval power, the future of carrier aviation is evolving. New classes of carriers, such as the Gerald R. Ford-class, incorporate advanced technologies like electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear (AAG). These innovations aim to improve the efficiency and capability of carrier operations, allowing for the deployment of next-generation aircraft.

Additionally, the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into carrier air wings represents a significant shift. Drones like the MQ-25 Stingray, designed for aerial refueling, will extend the range and endurance of manned aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet. This development will enhance the operational flexibility of carrier strike groups, allowing them to project power even further.

Furthermore, advancements in stealth technology and electronic warfare are likely to shape the future composition of carrier air wings. Aircraft like the F-35C Lightning II, with its advanced stealth and sensor capabilities, are expected to complement and eventually replace older platforms like the F/A-18 Hornet. These next-generation fighters will ensure that carrier strike groups remain at the cutting edge of military capability.

Conclusion

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, epitomized by the USS Nimitz, are critical instruments of naval power and global stability. Their ability to operate independently for extended periods, combined with the versatile capabilities of aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, makes them indispensable to modern military strategy. As technological advancements continue to shape the future of carrier aviation, the legacy of the USS Nimitz and its contributions to naval warfare will endure, ensuring that these floating fortresses remain at the heart of American naval dominance for decades to come. The integration of new technologies and platforms will further enhance their operational effectiveness, enabling them to meet the evolving challenges of global security.

[xtruss]

Russia's Tactical Nuclear ☢️ Drills Aim At Effective Deterrence Against North Atlantic Terrorist Organization (NATO): Expert

— Chen Qingqing | May 22, 2024

North Atlantic Terrorist Organization's (NATO’s) Stamina Wane Illustration: Liu Rui/Global Times

Russia forces launched the first stage of tactical nuclear drills on Tuesday, which serves as a response to some provocative statements made by some Western officials, according to Russian media. Some Chinese military experts said on Wednesday that the purpose of the drills is not for actual combat but for effective deterrence, ensuring that the US and NATO do not act impulsively.

The drills will involve delivery of nuclear weapons to troops from storage sites, arming tactical nuclear missiles, and preparation of missile launches, RT reported on Tuesday.

The troops will be using Iskander-M systems, which can fire 9M723-1 ballistic missiles or 9M728 cruise missiles, both of which can carry tactical nuclear warheads with yields of between five and 50 kilotons, Russian news site RT said.

The exercise will also involve nuclear arming of the air-launched missiles, including the state-of-the-art, hypersonic Kinzhal. The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles and the Kh-32 cruise missiles that are delivered by Russian bombers are capable of carrying warheads similar to those mounted on Iskander projectiles, RT said. During the drills, Russian aircraft are to fly on patrol missions armed with these missiles, according to the ministry.

The Kremlin decided in early May to hold tactical nuclear weapons drills in response to some NATO countries' remarks about potentially sending troops to Ukraine, according to media reports. French President Emmanuel Macron said earlier that sending Western troops to Ukraine could not be ruled out, and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron suggested that Ukraine has the right to use UK-supplied weapons to strike targets on Russian territory.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in the US House of Representatives passed legislation in April to provide a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine which includes economic assistance and weapons. Some experts said that after a roughly six-month hiatus, Western military aid to Ukraine has resumed as quickly as possible.

"Tactical nuclear drills are mainly aimed at NATO and do not have a direct connection to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The US and other NATO member states have already hinted at the possibility of military intervention to some extent," Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military expert and media commentator, told the Global Times on Wednesday.

Russia's tactical nuclear exercises are mainly to demonstrate strength and power, such as the rapid deployment capability of tactical nuclear weapons, as the US-led NATO military alliance is currently exerting tremendous military pressure on Russia, Wei noted.

Moreover, the US has been engaging in nuclear activities, including conducting subcritical nuclear tests and continuously demonstrating its nuclear sharing capabilities within the framework of NATO exercises. "Therefore, Russia needs to be prepared at the tactical nuclear weapons level to deter and counterbalance NATO," Wei said.

In response to the drills announced by the Kremlin in early May, US President Joe Biden and State Department officials downplayed concerns that Putin could deploy a nuclear weapon, but continue to take the threats seriously, CNN reported on May 7.

The US said it had seen no change in Russia's "strategic force posture," according to the US media report.

The US is rallying more countries to provide military aid to Ukraine, including NATO countries, EU countries, and even countries from the Indo-Pacific region, which could lead to a strategic misjudgment by the US, making them believe that Russia is weak or that its military capabilities are limited, a Beijing-based military expert who spoke on condition of anonymity, told the Global Times on Wednesday.

While Russia's conventional forces may have certain weaknesses compared to those of the US and NATO, both in terms of quantity and quality, Russia's strength lies in its nuclear arsenal, be it strategic or tactical nuclear weapons, which are on par with or even superior to those of the US, the expert said.

"Therefore, through these actions, Russia aims to demonstrate its nuclear prowess to deter the US and other nuclear-armed nations such as the UK and France," the expert added.

Tactical nuclear drills primarily involve small nuclear warheads on tactical missiles, focusing on the entire process of preparation, transportation and integration with weapons systems, experts said.

Conducting tactical nuclear exercises does not mean launching actual nuclear warheads, it may involve the use of simulated warheads of the same size and weight, Wei noted.

"The exercises encompass the entire process, including the deployment of troops equipped with Iskander tactical missiles and hypersonic missile systems. The main goal is to demonstrate the capability of tactical nuclear strikes using the two advanced tactical missile systems," the expert said.

When commenting on how the US and the West will respond to Russia's "demonstrating its strength," some experts said a critical consideration for Western countries is whether the US is really willing to provide a nuclear umbrella for them.

"The US has dispatched B-52 strategic bombers. These bombers are capable of both strategic and tactical strikes, as well as conventional operations. NATO countries, including the UK and EU nations, could recognize Russia's determination through these actions," the anonymous expert said.

[aresdifesa]

Proseguono le prove del missile ipersonico statunitense ARRW L’USAF ha provveduto ad eseguire un test di un missile da crociera ipersonico ARRW nell’area del Pacifico; la prova è stata eseguita da un bombardiere Boeing B-52H Stratofortress decollato dalla base aerea di Andersen sita sull’isola di Guam. Il missile AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon o ARRW è composto da un motore a razzo e da un veicolo di planata ipersonico. L’ARRW è stato progettato dall’USAF per attaccare obiettivi terrestri strategici di elevato valore politico-militare-industriale induriti con tempi di reazione estremamente rapidi. Infatti, i veicoli ipersonici viaggiano a velocità superiori a Mach 5, rendendoli difficili da rilevare ed intercettare con

[7ooo-ru]

США провели очередное испытание гиперзвуковой ракеты AGM-183

Соединенные Штаты в воскресенье провели пятое по счету испытание прототипа гиперзвуковой ракеты AGM-183, разработанной в рамках программы ARRW (Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon).

Подробнее https://7ooo.ru/group/2024/03/20/789-sshaproveli-ocherednoe-ispytanie-giperzvukovoy-rakety-agm-183-grss-291877880.html

[thxnews]

UK Bolsters Ukraine's Air Defence Amid Strikes

Delivering Air Defence Missiles Amid Russian Assault

2023 marked a pivotal year in the UK's support for Ukraine, culminating in the delivery of a new package of advanced air defence missiles. This support is critical as Russia continues its relentless assault on Ukrainian cities, employing hundreds of drones and missiles. The latest delivery of about 200 air defence missiles, designed to replenish UK-developed systems provided earlier, aims to bolster Ukraine’s ability to protect its citizens and infrastructure from Russian attacks.  

Expansion of Military Aid

Comprehensive Support with Advanced Technology This year, the UK's military aid to Ukraine reached new heights. Following the Prime Minister's early announcements, the UK supplied a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks, self-propelled AS90 guns, armored vehicles, and long-range precision strike capabilities, including Storm Shadow cruise missiles and attack drones. These contributions significantly enhance Ukraine's defence capabilities against ongoing Russian aggression.  

Defence Secretary's Stance

Grant Shapps Condemns Russian Airstrikes Defence Secretary Grant Shapps highlighted the desperate nature of Putin's latest airstrikes, viewing them as futile attempts to regain momentum. Emphasizing the UK's commitment to Ukraine's defence, Shapps announced the shipment of hundreds of air defence missiles to replenish British-gifted systems. These missiles are capable of downing Russian drones and missiles with remarkable accuracy, reinforcing Ukraine's air defence.   The Message to Russia and the World Shapps underscored that Putin's actions test both Ukraine's defences and the West's resolve. However, he asserted that Ukraine’s resilience, especially in weakening the Russian Black Sea fleet, demonstrates its determination to win. The latest air defence package from the UK sends a clear message of unwavering support to Ukraine in the face of Russian hostility.  

Advancements in Air Defence Technology

ASRAAM Missiles and British Engineering MBDA in the UK manufactures air defence missiles (Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles – ASRAAM), typically launched from aircraft such as the Typhoon and F-35 jets. In a unique adaptation, engineers modified these missiles for ground launch capabilities, demonstrating British engineering ingenuity and rapid response capability. Ukrainian crews received training in the UK on these systems, which have effectively countered Russian air targets.  

Training and Operational Support

Training Ukrainian Recruits on UK Soil Beyond supplying weapons, the UK has played a crucial role in training Ukrainian military personnel. November 2023 marked 30,000 Ukrainian recruits trained through Operation Interflex on UK soil. Including specialized training for marines, explosive ordnance disposal experts, and combat air pilots, the UK has trained over 53,000 Ukrainians since the invasion of Crimea in 2014. The UK plans to train an additional 10,000 recruits in the first half of 2024.  

Financial Commitment to Ukraine's Defence

£4.6bn Total UK Military Support The UK's military support to Ukraine totals £4.6 billion, with £2.3 billion allocated for FY23/24 until the end of the financial year. The Prime Minister has pledged to continue supporting Ukraine in 2024, reinforcing the UK’s role as a key ally in Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression.  

A Continued Partnership for Freedom

The UK's unwavering support for Ukraine in 2023, through the delivery of advanced air defence systems and comprehensive military aid, highlights a strong commitment to international security and freedom. As Ukraine continues to face challenges from Russian aggression, the UK stands as a pivotal ally, providing both technological and training support to ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and protection of its citizens.   Sources: THX News, Ministry of Defence & The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP. Read the full article

[ultrajaphunter]

Another creation from the RuZZian Airborne Forces, two 2B9M “Cornflowers” ​​were stuck on the BTR-D.

The indigenous method is on the horse, and the RuZZian Army's Antique Version of ''Cornflowers'' appears on the RuZZian-Ukrainian Battlefield.

2023-10-23 12:19

Recently, the 2B9 "Cornflower" rapid-fire mortar appeared on the Russian-Ukrainian battlefield.

Cornflower is an 82mm rapid-fire mortar equipped by the Soviet Union in the 1970s, and then began to be exported to other countries in the 1980s.

Once the cornflower came out, it was well received by the troops, especially the gun uses a unique magazine to feed the bombs, and the rate of fire can reach 40 rounds per minute.

One gun is equivalent to 2-3 conventional mortars. It has a strong firepower coverage.

However, in the war in Afghanistan, cornflower also exposed some shortcomings.

First of all, in the burst mode, the vibration is greater, and the shooting accuracy is poorer.

It can only rely on large-scale shooting to achieve firepower coverage. Secondly, there is a complex hydraulic system, which increases the weight a lot.

It is several times heavier than the traditional 82mm mortar.

It is difficult to carry it by manpower and can only be towed by a car.

Soldiers on the battlefield began to use their brains to put the cornflower on the MT-LB tracked armored vehicle and use it as a self-propelled artillery.

Actual combat has proved that this local method of riding a horse is practical, so the official also began to study and launched a self-propelled cornflower.

In the 1990s, China purchased the "Cornflower" rapid-fire mortar and started imitation work.

It turned out that there were more problems with this type of gun than imagined.

The rate of fire is indeed high, and a 4-round magazine is fired within 2 seconds, but the accuracy is a headache.

There is also the so-called continuous shooting that has no practical value. Continuous shooting will cause the temperature of the gun barrel to rise sharply.

Therefore, the actual maximum safe rate of fire of the cornflower is controlled within 40 rounds per minute, and the continuous rate of fire is controlled within half an hour. within hair.

The original 2B9 type had a water-cooled jacket, and the later 2B9M type was changed to air-cooled.

Because the cooling effect was not as good as water cooling, the continuous rate of fire was reduced to 200 rounds per half an hour, so the actual rate of fire had no obvious advantage over traditional structure mortars.

Domestically, by lengthening the barrel and improving the charge, the muzzle velocity of the cornflower has been increased from 272 m/s to 295 m/s, and the maximum range has been increased from 4570 meters to more than 6000 meters.

Although the improved domestic version W99 has improved performance compared with Cornflower, the shortcomings of poor accuracy and poor maneuverability have not been fundamentally improved.

Therefore, although this model has been tried for several years, it has not been able to serve in batches.

The integration of vehicles and guns was not completed until the "Dongfeng Warrior" light general-purpose platform entered service.

The domestic 82mm vehicle-mounted rapid-fire mortar is integrated on a 360-degree rotatable base in the middle of the body, and a set of low-light night vision and sighting system is installed on the left side of the gun body.

The shooting accuracy and rapid response capability of the entire weapon system and night combat capabilities have been greatly improved.

According to public reports, the domestically produced 82mm vehicle-mounted rapid-fire mortars are mainly equipped in the PLA's mountain rapid response troops, light mechanized troops, and airborne troops.

This also reflects the difference in philosophy between our army and the Russian army.

The RuZZian Army requires it to have continuous shooting capability, while the People's Liberation Army pays more attention to its instantaneous firepower strike capability, that is, to use this type of weapon as an upgraded version of the 82mm mortar, and move the position after shooting.

At present, in addition to the Dongfeng Warrior, the Lynx platform can also be equipped with rapid-fire mortars.

Rapid and maneuverable firepower is our focus.

As for factors such as range and ammunition power, it is a matter of the 120mm mortar.

On the other hand, Soviet revisionists originally wanted to use cornflowers to replace the 120mm mortars belonging to the regiment, but it was later discovered that it was not possible, and they were eliminated after only ten years of service. Later, the RuZZian Army did not make a name for itself, and the new equipment was inconsistent, which not only outdated the times, but also hindered the formation of combat effectiveness.

In the current RuZZian-Ukrainian battlefield, cornflowers are still the original cornflowers, and the platform is still the MT-LB armored vehicle.

It is difficult to guarantee the accuracy of this "self-propelled artillery" that is launched by the local method.

The cannon can be lifted directly without removing the wheels.

Going up, there is no protection, and the ammunition boxes and personnel are all exposed on the roof of the vehicle.

It is better to learn from other countries and launch the 120 directly in the armored vehicle.

Generally speaking, RuZZia still has a lot of wealth, and there are many mechanized platforms, but it lacks key module integration, and we have been far behind us in terms of industrial systems.

[wpristav]

ВВС США провели повторное испытание гиперзвуковой ракеты АRRW после неудачного пуска весной

19 августа Военно-воздушными силами США было проведено испытание гиперзвуковой ракеты ARRW (Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon). Об этом сообщает американское издание Defense News. По информации издания, испытания прошли в южной части штата Калифорния.Для проведения испытаний ВВС США задействовали стратегический бомбардировщик Boeing B-52H Stratofortress, который выпустил гиперзвуковую ракету AGM-... Читать дальше »

[bb-latvija]

Kodolbumbvedējs B-52H Stratofortress otro reizi izmēģina hiperskaņas raķetes AGM-183A ARRW prototipu

gada decembrī ASV Gaisa spēki pirmo reizi izmēģināja hiperskaņas raķetes kaujas prototipu ar lidmašīnu B-52H Stratofortress. Otrais tests tika pabeigts pirms dažām dienām. Kas ir zināmsASV Gaisa spēki strādā pie hiperskaņas raķetes ar nosaukumu AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). Dienests vēlas no 2024. fiskālā gada budžeta iegūt 150 miljonus ASV dolāru, lai pabeigtu…

[usafphantom2]

USAF tests the ARRW hypersonic weapon five months after a test that did not work

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 08/22/2023 - 07:43m Military

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) on Saturday tested a prototype of the AGM-183A Air-lanced Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) hypersonic weapon after a hiatus since a failure occurred during a test in March.

The service said in an August 21 statement that a B-52H Stratofortress launched a full operational prototype of ARRW, known as the full round, off the coast of Southern California.

The USAF said it obtained new "valuable" insights into the capabilities of the missile, but did not say if it considered the test a success.

"Although we did not discuss the specific objectives of the test, this test acquired valuable and unique data and was intended to promote a series of programs such as ARRW and Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM)," the statement said. "We also validate and improve our testing and evaluation capabilities for the continuous development of advanced hypersonic systems."

The ARRW was supposed to be the first hypersonic weapon of the U.S. military to achieve operational status. A successful test took place in December, with a peak speed five times the speed of sound, after several failed attempts.

USAF Secretary Frank Kendall said the service will not buy ARRW after the failed March test. The U.S. Air Force said it will still finish the last two full test flights of the program to collect data to help in future hypersonic programs.

Tags: AGM-183A ARRWarmamentsMilitary AviationhypersonicUSAF - United States Air Force / U.S. Air Force

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

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

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[nawapon17]

The US Air Force has reached a major milestone, completing the first test of its All-Up-Round AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) hypersonic missile off the coast of Southern California last Friday.

[xtruss]

How to Stop a Three-Way Nuclear Arms-Race! America, China and Russia Must Agree on Mutual Restraints Before It’s Too Late

— August 31st 2023 | Leaders | Destroyer of Worlds

A Rocket Launches from a Missile System during a Test at the Plesetsk Facility in North-Western Russia. Image: Associated Press

In life and in a recent film, Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb, was haunted by the idea that “I am become Death, destroyer of worlds.” The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 nearly brought annihilation. Fortunately the superpowers stepped back from the brink and agreed on arms-control deals that eventually shrank nuclear stockpiles, and did more besides.

Now the world is entering a new nuclear arms-race—one that may be harder to stop. Instability is increasing because of Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats in Ukraine and China’s rapid build-up of weapons. And arms control is collapsing. First Russia and later America stopped exchanging information under New start, the last deal limiting their arsenals. The treaty will expire in February 2026, and there is little sign of a replacement. China has never cared for such curbs. America, China and Russia need to start talking now, before another Cuban-style crisis occurs.

Developed during the cold war, the notion of “mutual assured destruction” involves mind-bending logic. But now deterrence is becoming even more complex because of the prospect of three near-peer nuclear powers. The balance of terror is also being upended by new kinds of missiles and sensors, and by the possibility of artificial intelligence influencing decisions.

Until now, America and Russia accepted limits on the basis of parity, assuming their arsenals of 5,000-6,000 warheads each would be enough to deter each other and smaller threats. China used to rely on a “minimal deterrent” of a few hundred warheads. But it wants more weapons and to maintain them at a higher level of alert: it could have 1,500 warheads by 2035, according to the Pentagon. Given their “friendship with no limits”, Russia and China could act as military allies in a crisis.

Should America match the combined arsenals of Russia and China? Some experts think that, at the very least, it needs more weapons. From 2026 they want to “upload” warheads, currently held in reserve, onto deployed missiles and bombers. Many in Congress are calling for a nuclear sea-launched cruise missile (slcm-n) to plug a perceived gap in the escalation ladder. Such moves could make everything worse. China or Russia may try to match America’s bigger arsenal; India could build up in response to China; Pakistan in reaction to India; and so on.

President Joe Biden is rightly resisting a huge new build-up, which should be considered only if diplomacy is exhausted. America is right to keep modernising its triad (of land-, sea- and air-launched nukes), but stick to limits on the number of warheads beyond 2026, providing Russia does the same. It should keep open its offer to talk without preconditions with China and Russia.

Stability requires a mix of threat and reassurance. The big powers need to discuss all aspects of their nuclear enterprise, not least missile defences, slcm-n and tactical weapons. They must also think of space and cyberspace, where the first shot of the next war may be fired. A call by America, Britain and France to limit the role of artificial intelligence by ensuring there is a “man in the loop” using nukes makes sense. America and Russia should resume notifications under New start. China should take part in more confidence-building measures, such as missile-launch notifications.

China’s belief that such safety-nets encourage risk-taking is wrong. Nobody, including the leaders of the People’s Republic, benefits from unrestrained nuclear rivalry. It would soak up vast resources: Russia cannot afford it. And in a nuclear-armed world without limits, everybody is on a high wire. Negotiated restraints are the only way to avert Oppenheimer’s dread, in the film, of “a chain reaction that would destroy the entire world”. ■

— This article appeared in the Leaders section of the print edition under the headline "A Three-Way Nuclear ☢️ Arms-Race"