Armed Forces

Most Europeans want stronger armed forces but are unwilling to pay for them by cutting welfare.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has assumed the role of Vice-Chief of the Air Staff. Before the ceremony, he visited the National War Memorial to lay a wreath for fallen armed forces heroes.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei warned that the country will respond decisively to any US violation of a memorandum of understanding between the two nations. The statement was made as delegations prepared for indirect talks in Qatar, with Baqaei emphasizing that repeated violations could hinder the process.

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te warned military cadets to resist Chinese espionage and defend freedom and democracy, citing a Cold War-era college established to counter communism. Taiwan reports increased Chinese espionage cases, particularly in its armed forces.

Americans' pride in US history and democracy has declined over the past decade, with fewer expressing pride in the military, political influence, and historical trajectory. Gallup polling shows 53% of US adults are 'extremely' or 'very' proud to be American, the lowest since 2001, with Democrats and independents showing significant drops compared to Republicans. The decline coincides with political turmoil, the Trump administration, the pandemic, and inflation.

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq lifted restrictions on broadcasting opposition speeches on NA TV and social media, but warned against criticizing the judiciary and armed forces. PTI MNA Iqbal Afridi's suspension ended, allowing him to rejoin proceedings, following a motion supported by opposition members.

Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz declared a state of emergency to remove road blockades causing fuel and food shortages in La Paz and other cities. Protests against austerity measures, including fuel subsidy removal, led to violent clashes, 37 injuries, and 17 deaths, with the government citing transportation disruptions as a cause. The emergency allows military support for police to restore order, with a 90-day duration unless violence ends.

An attestation parade at the Artillery Centre in Hyderabad marked the induction of 2,436 Agniveers into the Armed forces.

Bolivia’s president declared a state of emergency to deploy military forces for clearing blockades and restoring order amid 50 days of protests that paralyzed the economy. The declaration grants broader constitutional powers to address the crisis, requiring congressional notification within 24 hours.

Bolivia's government is using a strategy to wear down ongoing social protests by detaining or persuading protest leaders rather than deploying the army. President Rodrigo Paz implemented a law regulating states of exception in June but has avoided military action, emphasizing dialogue and non-violence.

A German startup has introduced a heavy-lift drone designed for frontline military resupply. The company is currently in discussions with armed forces across multiple European countries.

Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran's armed forces will respond to any US hostility, stating 'no attack or threat will be left unanswered.' He urged the US to 'leave our region' and referenced historical precedents of outsiders facing dire consequences in the Persian Gulf.

Armed forces are utilizing virtual wargaming to test multiple scenarios in a risk-free environment. This approach allows militaries to explore new strategies without real-world consequences.

Armed forces are experimenting with humanoid robots, but battlefield deployment is not imminent. The article highlights ongoing trials but notes that actual use in combat remains distant.

Rajnath Singh, the defense minister, reviewed HAL projects and directed the HAL Chairman to strictly follow delivery schedules. He emphasized timely execution of defense programs critical to armed forces modernization, as Tejas Mk1A delivery delays are under scrutiny.

Heavy gunfire and clashes between rival political factions erupted in Somalia's capital overnight, with armed forces deployed on the streets. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's announced one-year term extension triggered a political crisis.

Ukraine’s Defense Procurement Agency signed a contract for 1,500 motorcycles for the Armed Forces in 2026, three times last year’s total, through a competitive tender that saved Hr.12 million. The savings will be reallocated to additional military needs.

The Defence Secretary is accused of mocking the Armed Forces minister over spending £36,000 of taxpayers' money on a self-promotional video. The incident has sparked controversy and criticism. The minister's spending habits are under scrutiny.

Veterans are expressing anger over the armed forces minister's absence, demanding that ex-Commando Carns prioritize their interests. The criticism highlights dissatisfaction with leadership and a call for more veteran-focused policies.