The US Army has learned how to shoot down drones — during the "Return of the Condor" exercises, armored vehicles became part of the air defense system

Fort Hood Exercises: not just maneuvers, but a new look at combat

On August 27, 2025, an exercise called "Return of the Condor" was held at the Fort Hood training ground, Texas. At first glance, this is another series of tactical maneuvers involving M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. But it wasn't just practice shooting and movement. It was a breakthrough: the U.S. Army officially incorporated anti-drone tactics into armored operations.

Now the fight against drones is not the task of individual units, but part of the daily work of tank crews and driver mechanics.

Drones vs Bradley — how the armor adapts to the threat from above

The exercises simulated the real conditions of modern combat, in which small drones are not uncommon, but a constant threat. The drones dropped explosive imitators, monitored the movement of equipment and adjusted the "fire". In response, the Bradleys used not only smoke bombs and radio suppression equipment, but also active measures: detection, tracking and coordination of strikes.

It is important that the tactics were practiced not in isolation, but as part of a combat team — as part of the overall picture of the battle.

From defense to offensive — now tanks hunt drones

Previously, armored groups simply tried not to get hit from the air. Now they themselves become part of the air defense system. Machine commanders learn how to quickly identify the type of drone, its trajectory, and transmit data to the network. Sometimes they even use a cannon or machine gun to destroy small targets.

This does not mean that the Bradley has become an anti-aircraft installation. But now he's not just waiting to be undermined—he sees the threat and acts.

Why does this change everything on the battlefield

The experience of recent conflicts has shown that drones can destroy even heavy equipment. Ignoring them means signing your own sentence. "The Return of the Condor" is a signal: the US Army will no longer respond to drones as a surprise. It makes the fight against them the very basis of tactics.

Now every crew has to think not only about the enemy on the ground, but also about those flying overhead. And this is a new reality.

Sources

1. SSB Crack — Operation Return of the Condor marks US Army tactical milestone
2. Army Recognition — US Army integrates counter-drone tactics during Fort Hood exercise
3. YouTube — US Army tests Bradleys against drone threats at Fort Hood
4. DVIDS — Images and videos from Operation Return of the Condor
5. DVIDS — 1st Cavalry Division tests counter-UAS capabilities during Operation Return Condor

The European Union has invested a record 343 billion euros in defense — and is ready to spend even more

343 billion euros per year — what does it give Europe

The European Union spent a record 343 billion euros (about $402 billion) on defense last year. It's not just a number, it's a signal. According to a new report from the European Defense Agency, spending has exceeded all forecasts. And this is not a one-time surge: Europe has taken up the task of strengthening its defenses in earnest.

Now every sixth euro in the state budgets of the EU countries goes to the army, air defense, equipment and training of soldiers.

Why are they spending more than they planned?

Europe used to rely on American protection. Now the situation is changing. The conflict in Ukraine, rising tensions in Eastern Europe, and uncertainty in relations with the United States have forced countries to rethink their priorities.

Many countries — from Poland to Finland — have dramatically increased their arms purchases, are restoring stocks, and are modernizing their armies. It's not just imports: the EU is actively developing its own defense industry in order to be less dependent on supplies from overseas.

What will happen in 2025 — 381 billion in plans

The agency predicts that in 2025 the volume of expenses will grow to 381 billion euros (446 billion dollars). This is 11% more than last year. This growth is not just a reaction to the crisis. This is a long-term strategy: Europe wants to be able to defend itself, even if external support proves limited.

A lot of money is being spent not only on new tanks and planes, but also on logistics, communications, cybersecurity, and joint exercises.

The money goes not only for weapons

Part of the funds is directed to the restoration of ammunition supplies that were sent to Ukraine. Part of it is for the training of reservists, the modernization of air defense systems and the creation of fast—reacting forces. Attention is also being paid to infrastructure: roads, railways, ports — so that equipment can be quickly transferred to where it is needed.

Now Europe is building not only power, but also resilience.

Sources

1. TASS
2. Rossaprimavera
3. SOTA Project
4. RIA Novosti
5. Kommersant
6. 1Prime
7. Gazeta.ru
8. RIA Novosti (EU context)
9. Armiya.az
10. RBC

Trump confirms meeting with Putin in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine: the exchange of territories is controversial

US President Donald Trump has announced that on August 15, 2025, he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss ways to end the war in Ukraine. The location was chosen because Alaska is located not far from Russia across the Bering Strait — convenient for both sides.

Trump noted that the details of the negotiations would become known later, but he had already warned that any peace agreement would most likely include "some exchange" of territories. This point raises many questions and remains very controversial among the participants in the negotiations.

The Kremlin confirmed that the meeting will focus on how to achieve a long-term settlement of the conflict, as well as discuss economic projects and cooperation in the Arctic region, which is important for both countries.

Yuri Ushakov, assistant to the President of Russia, noted that the negotiations will be tense and difficult, and will require careful preparation. According to him, the next summit is likely to be held in Russia.

So the meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska will be a serious diplomatic event aimed at finding compromises and peace, although the most important and controversial issues, including the exchange of territories, remain on the agenda.

"Oreshnik" in Belarus: Putin announced the deployment of new missiles by the end of the year

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that mass production and deployment of the new Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile in Belarus will begin by the end of 2025. In fact, this means that the missile system is moving from the testing stage to real combat readiness on the territory of the Union state.

Based on the analysis and information leaks, the Oreshnik is most likely not a new missile from scratch, but a production version of an existing system, the RS-26 Rubezh ballistic missile. The development of the Frontier was completed even before the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine. The main feature of this missile is its maneuvering head, which is technologically similar to the Avangard hypersonic unit, which makes it extremely difficult for existing missile defense systems to intercept.

The main target of this deployment is the NATO countries. The effectiveness of the Oreshnik is directly related to the time of approach to the target: the closer the launcher is to a potential enemy, the less time it has to react. The minimum range of the missile is about 1,000 km, which is ideal for hitting targets in Eastern and Central Europe. Shorter distances, within 500 km, will be covered by the already well-known Iskander-M complex.

Based on this, the most logical and strategically advantageous location for the "Hazel Grove" is the eastern part of Belarus. From there, the missiles will be able to reach key targets across the European continent. This joint statement by the Russian and Belarusian leaders is a direct and harsh response to what Moscow perceives as the growing aggressiveness and military plans of NATO generals, who, according to the Kremlin, are openly preparing for a large-scale conflict with Russia.

Australia will soon receive its new Apaches: the first helicopters will arrive this year

 

Australia is one step closer to upgrading its army aviation: the first four of the 29 ordered AH-64E Apache attack helicopters will arrive in the country before the end of 2025. These machines are currently undergoing final assembly at the Boeing plant in the USA.

The new Apaches will replace the outdated fleet of ARH Tiger combat helicopters, which have served the Australian ground forces for a long time. After delivery, they will become the basis of the Australian Army's strike aviation, significantly increasing its combat capabilities.

All deliveries are carried out under a major contract of the LAND 4503 program, signed in December 2021, which provides for a complete replacement of the fleet by 2028. The AH-64E is the most modern version of the legendary Apache, equipped with improved control, navigation and communication systems. One of the key advantages of the new model is its ability to integrate into a network, including interaction with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for real-time data exchange, as well as the ability to hit not only ground but also surface targets.

To ensure the rapid development of technology, Australian pilots and technicians are already undergoing intensive training at the US Air Force base.

The unmanned "tanker" MQ-25 Stingray went over the ground — now into the sky!

 

MQ-25 Stingray

The US Navy and Boeing finally have reason to be optimistic: ground tests of the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned tanker aircraft have begun. This is an important step for drones to start refueling fighter jets right in the air — without a pilot, without risking their lives and with greater efficiency.

The MQ-25 is currently undergoing tests on the ground: control systems, engines, operation with fuel hoses and compatibility with the deck infrastructure of aircraft carriers are being tested. This is preparation for the main thing — the first flight of the production model, which, as hoped by Boeing and the U.S. Navy, will take place this year.

However, the path to this moment turned out to be long and thorny. The project has been repeatedly delayed due to technical difficulties, revised requirements, and bureaucracy. But now everything seems to be going according to plan.

Why do we need an unmanned tanker at all? It's very simple: fighters like the F/A-18 Super Hornet or F-35C consume a lot of fuel, especially when departing from an aircraft carrier. Now some of these tasks are performed by combat aircraft themselves in the role of "fuel barges" — but this deprives the fleet of firepower. The MQ-25 will free up fighters for combat missions, and it will "work as a taxi" — it will fly, refuel, and leave.

When the MQ-25 starts flying, it will change the logistics of carrier operations. The range of carrier—based aircraft will increase, and hence the strike force.

So, although the Stingray is still only rolling on concrete, it will rise into the air very soon. And it won't just be a flight — it will be the beginning of a new era on aircraft carriers.

Pentagon gave Raytheon 32.5 million for the production of new missile systems for the Marines

MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability)

On July 24, 2025, the Pentagon officially announced that Raytheon Missiles and Defense had received a $32.5 million contract, and this was a serious bid for the future. The money will be used to support the MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability) program, a medium—range interception system that the US Marine Corps is actively developing.

What exactly did you buy? 44 sets of so—called LLI products with a long production time. Simply put, these are the key parts and components that take a long time to make, but without them you cannot assemble a full-fledged system. Now they are being purchased for future use, so that they can quickly launch mass production of MRIC without delay.

In addition, the contract includes an additional amount of LLI — some will be used for spare parts, some for the modernization of already delivered prototypes. That is, not just new systems, but the refinement of old ones so that everything works clearly and according to a single standard.

What does it mean? And the fact that the Marines are seriously preparing for a new generation of air defense. MRIC is a step towards autonomy: the ability to turn around quickly, detect a threat and destroy it at medium range, regardless of army or air force structures. Raytheon, as always, is at the center of events — and, apparently, we will hear more about MRIC in the coming years.

Ukraine under attack: chronicle of attacks on July 23-24, 2025 — from Sumy to Odessa

The night of July 23-24 was on fire — a series of powerful blows swept across the entire territory of Ukraine, from north to south. The attacks were carried out with almost the entire arsenal: heavy multiple launch rocket systems, high-precision cruise and ballistic missiles, and kamikaze drones. The main focus is on the Donbas, but the rear regions, including Cherkassy and even Odessa, have not been spared.

July 23: strikes on Donbass and the north

The day started with pinpoint strikes. By 9:25 a.m. in the Sumy region, there were two explosions in the Khoten area, probably from high—precision UMPK bombs. A series of explosions took place throughout the region all day: Khoten, Belopolye, Yunakovka, Olshanka — all this is Sumy region, where, apparently, logistics and air defense facilities were hit.

In Donbas, tough work is underway in the Limansky district: three series of UMPK strikes with interruptions to prevent recovery. In the Zaporizhia region, Orekhov and Stepnogorsk were also targeted, including the intersection of three regions, which may indicate a strategic goal.

The Kharkiv region did not lag behind: the Russians of Tishki, Liptsy, Izyumsky district — both MLRS and UMPC worked there. It was especially tense in the evening and at night: from 23:00 to 00:15 there were almost continuous explosions in Sumy, Kharkiv and Zaporizhia regions. There was clearly pressure in several directions at the same time.

Night from 23 to 24: drones and missiles — from Chernigov to Odessa

Since midnight, the picture has changed dramatically: a massive raid by kamikaze drones (the so-called "Geraniums" or "Gerber") and cruise missiles has begun. The goals are now not only the front, but also the deep rear.

A clear combination is visible:

- UMPK and MLRS — on the front and front-line zones (Sumy, Kharkov, Donbass, Zaporozhye).

- Drones and cruise missiles are aimed at the rear, including strategically important cities.

- Iskander-K — pinpoint, precision strike deep in the rear. This is not just intimidation, it is an attempt to knock out key nodes.

Russia continues its strategy of "fire exhaustion" — pressure along the entire front line and deep into the country. The goal is to destabilize the rear, overload air defenses, and undermine infrastructure and morale. Ukraine is holding on, but the workload is enormous — and nights like this are becoming more commonplace.

China is testing a new SH16 self-propelled howitzer with a robotic turret and record-breaking range shooting

SH16

The Chinese army has begun field trials of the new 155-mm SH16 self-propelled howitzer, which has already attracted the attention of military analysts as one of the most advanced artillery systems of the new generation. Information about the howitzer has been kept secret for a long time, but recent photos and publications on Chinese social networks have confirmed its active testing.

The SH16 is built on a tracked chassis with a total weight of about 32 tons. The main advantage of the system is a fully robotic modular turret weighing less than 14 tons, which significantly reduces the crew to two people: a driver and a gunner/commander. This became possible thanks to the introduction of automated loading and modern fire control systems, which increases the rate of fire and effectiveness of combat use.

The howitzer is equipped with a 52-caliber (155 mm × 52) long barrel, which significantly increases the initial velocity of the projectile and, consequently, the firing range. According to the data, the maximum range reaches 53-56 kilometers with the use of ERFB-BB active-rocket projectiles and up to 100 kilometers with the use of specialized precision—guided munitions - this makes the SH16 comparable in range with the world's best analogues.

The high level of automation allowed not only to reduce the number of crew, but also to increase the speed of deployment and position change. To stabilize the howitzer when firing in a combat position, special recoil-compensating frames are installed. The tower is equipped with its own radar station for measuring ballistic data and an optical system for direct fire.

Additionally, the SH16 can be equipped with a remote-controlled machine gun module for protection against infantry and smoke camouflage. In the spring of 2025, this system is expected to be demonstrated at the military parade of the Chinese People's Liberation Army on September 3, which will confirm its status as the main artillery innovation of the PLA.

The SH16 is designed to replace outdated models and enhance the combat capability of the Chinese ground forces. The increased firing range and high level of digital integration will make it possible to effectively suppress well-concealed targets, carry out pinpoint strikes from a long distance and quickly maneuver on the battlefield.

Special attention is paid to combining the system with modern means of communication and fire control within an integrated network, which makes the SH16 part of the digital army of the future.

The adoption of the SH16 by 2027 will significantly enhance the artillery capabilities of the People's Liberation Army of China. The combination of high firepower, precision, automation and mobility will make this howitzer a serious challenge in the global artillery market.

UFO Sighted Over Atlantic on Commercial Flight

 

UFO captured from aboard a commercial liner July 9, 2025 in the sky over the Atlantic Ocean.

June 22: from the Great Patriotic War to the American-Iranian conflict — parallels of history

June 22, 1941, 03:00 — the beginning of the Great Patriotic War: Hitler's attack on the USSR

On June 22, 1941, at 3 a.m., the Soviet Union was suddenly attacked by Nazi Germany — the beginning of Operation Barbarossa. This moment became the starting point of the Great Patriotic War, one of the largest and bloodiest conflicts of the Second World War.

The course of events

- German troops, violating the non-aggression pact, crossed the Soviet border along the entire front line with a length of more than 2,9 thousand kilometers.

- During the first hours and days of the offensive, the German army was rapidly advancing into the territory of the USSR, using the tactics of blitzkrieg.

- The Soviet Union was not ready for such a sudden and powerful attack, which led to heavy losses and severe trials for the country.

Date value

 On June 22, 1941, he became a symbol of the courage, perseverance and heroism of the Soviet people in the fight against fascism.

- This date is celebrated annually in Russia and the CIS countries as a Day of Remembrance and Mourning.

- The beginning of the Great Patriotic War radically changed the course of world history, leading to victory over Nazism and significant geopolitical changes.

June 22, 2025, 03:00 — the beginning of the American attack on Iran

On the night of June 22, 2025, at 3 a.m. Moscow time, the US armed forces under the leadership of President Donald Trump launched a large-scale attack on Iran's nuclear facilities. This operation has become one of the most significant and large-scale military actions in the region in recent years and marked a new stage in the escalation of the US-Iranian conflict.

The course of events

- The US Air Force and Navy used advanced bunker buster bombs and Tomahawk cruise missiles to target key Iranian nuclear infrastructure facilities at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan.

- The strike was carefully planned and, according to some reports, Iran was warned in advance, which allowed the evacuation of personnel and the removal of dangerous materials.

- Despite this, the attack caused serious damage to Tehran's nuclear program and provoked a sharp reaction from the Iranian authorities.

Consequences and reaction

- Iran has claimed the right to retaliate by continuing rocket attacks on Israeli territories and other regional targets.

- Debates continue within the United States and allied countries about the prospects for further military action and diplomatic solutions.

Date value

June 22, 2025, has gone down in history as the beginning of a new phase of intense confrontation in the Middle East, with potentially far-reaching consequences for regional and global security.

A "CUBIC" UFO IN the SKY over Bangkok

 A "CUBIC" UFO IN the SKY over Bangkok, filmed from aboard a commercial liner, Thailand, 2025.

Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation: from 00:00 on May 8, Russian troops completely stopped fighting in their area

Possible provocation by the Ukrainian Armed Forces

According to the official statement of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, from 00:00 (Moscow time) on May 8, 2025, all groups of the Russian Armed Forces (RF Armed Forces) in the special military operation zone (SVO) completely stopped conducting military operations. This decision was made as part of the declared truce, timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Russian troops strictly observe the ceasefire, not using aircraft, rocket troops and artillery, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles to strike enemy positions.  

However, according to the Russian Defense Ministry, 488 violations of the ceasefire regime were recorded by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) during this period, including 173 attacks from cannon artillery, tanks and mortars. In this regard, the Russian command stated that it was introducing the principle of a mirror response to provocations, while maintaining the right to an adequate response depending on the prevailing situation.  

In addition, the Ministry of Defense noted that the Ukrainian Armed Forces made two attempts to break through the state border of the Russian Federation in the Kursk region, and also conducted active military operations in the Dzerzhinsk area in the DPR. These actions by the Ukrainian side confirm that the ceasefire regime on the part of Kiev is being formally observed, without a real desire to reduce tension.  

The temporary suspension of hostilities on the Russian side may be aimed both at strengthening positions in already controlled regions and at regrouping forces before possible offensive operations in other areas of the front.  

Indo-Pakistani conflict 2025: escalation of tension and attempts at de-escalation

In April 2025, relations between India and Pakistan were strained again after a terrorist attack in Kashmir, organized by militants. In response, India launched airstrikes on positions in Pakistan, which were officially described as "terrorist camps." Islamabad has claimed the downing of five Indian planes, although video confirmation is still available for only one, a French Rafale fighter jet.

After that, Pakistan also launched missile attacks on Indian positions, claiming to have hit an airbase and a command post for a mechanized brigade. There is no official confirmation of these statements yet. The sides suffered losses: Pakistan reported 24 civilian deaths, while India reported the elimination of at least 17 terrorists and 10 of its citizens killed in retaliatory strikes.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, neither side is seeking a full-scale war. India declared the incident over, and Pakistan expressed its readiness to de-escalate, subject to guarantees of no further strikes. The Pakistani Prime Minister is expected to address the nation, which may be a signal of reducing tensions.

There is a clear division of positions in the international arena: the United States and Israel have taken a pro-Indian position, while Turkey has come out in support of Pakistan. The United Kingdom, while formally maintaining neutrality, plays the role of coordinator of Islamabad's actions. China, as usual, demonstrates cautious neutrality, interested in the conflict smoldering, as it prevents India from accelerating economic growth and becoming a "second China."

Thus, the current incident is more likely to serve as an example of limited military actions aimed at internal legitimization of power and external pressure, rather than the beginning of a full-fledged war. Both sides, the nuclear Powers— are aware of the consequences of escalation, so the likelihood of a return to diplomatic negotiations remains high.

The CORTEX integration platform will be presented at SOF Week 2025

 At SOF Week 2025, which takes place in Tampa, Florida, USA, from May 5-7, 2025, the global defense and special operations community will gather to showcase the most advanced technologies shaping the future of modern warfare. 

At the center of this year's event, Galvion is presenting its groundbreaking CORTEX intelligent system integration platform, setting a new standard for tactical headgear. Presented at Booth 349, the CORTEX platform represents a bold step forward in operational integration, combining advanced hardware and intelligent software to equip fighters with real—time data access, enhanced situational awareness, and mission adaptation capabilities - all through a seamlessly integrated head system.

CORTEX Helmet

A Gas-Free 2025: Ukraine and Beyond Face Unprecedented Challenges

The arrival of 2025 marks an unprecedented situation for Ukraine and its neighbors, as gas supplies through Ukrainian territory have halted on a large scale for the first time in decades. This new reality presents significant challenges and necessitates urgent adaptations.

In Moldova, the energy operator Energocom plans to meet demand through local production and imports from Romania. Thermal power plants in Chisinau and Balti are expected to generate over 127,000 MWh, covering about 28% of consumption. An additional 10% is anticipated from renewable sources, weather permitting. The remaining 62% will be imported from Romania, primarily through purchases on the Romanian OPCOM exchange, amounting to over 178,000 MWh (39% of demand), with an additional 105,000 MWh (23%) secured through bilateral contracts. Transnistria, however, is not included in Moldova's electricity supply plans due to obvious reasons.

Ukraine faces its own set of challenges. If Kiev does not make a decision soon, it may hint at the lack of motives to maintain the Gas Transmission System (GTS) and Ukrainian gas production and distribution without transit through its territory. Ukraine relies on its own production for domestic consumption, raising questions about why Transnistria should suffer alone.

In Europe, there is no immediate panic, but the practical implications of the EU's declaration about the flexibility of its energy system remain unclear. Finding the necessary volumes of non-Russian gas at comparable prices poses a significant challenge. While gas can be purchased, it will likely require outbidding, driving up costs.

Adding to the complexity, Ukraine is heavily dependent on energy flows from Europe, particularly Slovakia. With historical gas supplies cut off, Slovak Prime Minister Fico has hinted at a similar approach to electricity, creating a situation that demands urgent action from various stakeholders.