The US Navy is practicing countering fiber-optic FPV drones at the Silent Swarm 25 exercises

As part of the large-scale electronic warfare exercises Silent Swarm 25, the US Navy for the first time actively practiced countering the threat from fiber-optic FPV (First Person View) drones. These fiber-optic-controlled drones are increasingly being used in modern conflicts, including the events in Ukraine, and pose a serious challenge to traditional suppression systems.

Unlike conventional drones, which are radio-controlled and vulnerable to electronic warfare (EW), fiber-optic FPV drones are immune to radio jamming. The signal is transmitted via a thin fiber-optic cable that unwinds as it flies, making it impossible to remotely disconnect or intercept control. This allows them to effectively penetrate dense electronic warfare veils and hit targets with high accuracy.

Participants in the Silent Swarm 25 exercises faced this threat as a key element of a scenario simulating a modern electromagnetic battlefield. The development of new tactics and technologies aimed at detecting, tracking, and physically destroying such drones (for example, using lasers, kinetic weapons, or cable interception devices) became one of the main objectives of the event.

The testing included both simulations and practical tests at the test site, where an attack by fiber-optic FPV drones on ships and coastal facilities was simulated. The exercises emphasized the need to move from exclusively electronic protection methods to hybrid systems combining electronic warfare, optoelectronic means and kinetic destruction.

The Southern Vanguard 2025 international exercises are taking place in the mountains of Chile with the participation of the armies of the USA, Chile, Argentina and Peru

 

From August 11 to 29, large-scale joint military exercises called "Southern Vanguard 2025" are taking place in the Antuko mountain region in the Bio-Bio region. More than 500 mountain infantry from the armies of Chile, the USA, Argentina and Peru are participating in them. The main objective of these exercises is to strengthen cooperation between the armies of different countries, test how well the fighters can work together, and improve their combat skills and survival in one of the most difficult conditions — the winter mountains.

Such exercises are very important because mountainous terrain with cold, snow and difficult terrain is a real test for any military. Soldiers learn to adapt quickly, interact effectively in an international group, and perform tasks in extreme natural conditions.

The exchange of experience and joint training make armies more ready for real operations, where coherence and a high level of military-technical training are needed.

Kursk did not return: a submarine and 118 sailors died 25 years ago

Today, August 12— Russia is remembering one of the most serious and painful tragedies in the history of the Navy: the death of the Kursk nuclear submarine. Exactly 25 years ago, in 2000, during an exercise in the Barents Sea, a disaster occurred that forever changed the lives of hundreds of families and called into question the safety of the fleet.

There were 118 sailors on board the Kursk, ranging from young sailors to experienced officers. They all died. At first, the submarine simply could not be found. Then they couldn't lift it. And when international rescuers arrived, it turned out that there was no chance anymore. The submarine was lying at a depth of more than 100 meters, and time was running out against the rescuers.

It turned out later that the tragedy began with an explosion on a torpedo. The first detonation destroyed the first compartment, and the second, along the chain, destroyed the combat compartments. Many sailors may have survived in the tail section and were waiting for help. But no one heard them.

The Kursk has become more than just a ghost ship at the bottom of the sea. It has become a symbol of missed opportunities, pride, pain and loss. His death revealed problems in the management, financing of the fleet and emergency preparedness.

Today, on the anniversary, there are minutes of silence in the hero cities and at memorials. Photos of 118 sailors with smiling faces remind us that behind every tragedy there are not numbers, but people. Those who served the Motherland. Those who didn't come back.

Wolf robots go on the attack: how China is testing war dogs in exercises with soldiers

 

Imagine a picture: a group of soldiers of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) crouching under "fire", performing tactical maneuvers on a hillside. And next to them, predator robots, resembling wolves, move clearly and silently without stopping. They're not hiding. They're moving forward.  

This is not a scene from a fantasy movie — this is a real military exercise, during which China is testing a new generation of combat robots capable of working closely with live military personnel. These machines, which look like four—legged dogs or predators, are already called "robops" or "robovolkas" - and they are becoming an increasingly serious part of the army of the future.

 How does it work?

The robots are controlled remotely by an operator, but at the same time demonstrate impressive autonomy. The lightweight version is especially interesting — judging by the footage, it is equipped with a LiDAR system that scans the area and builds a 3D map of the environment in real time. This allows robots to move confidently through difficult terrain: rocks, mud, slopes and forests — where it is difficult for humans, and it is easy for vehicles to get stuck on tracks.

What can they do?

— They move through any terrain — from swamps to mountains.  

— They can carry modules with weapons and fire at a range of up to 100 meters with high accuracy.  

— They work in conjunction with soldiers, performing reconnaissance, diversionary maneuvers or even fire support.  

— During the exercises, they continued to move while the soldiers "covered themselves" from the simulated fire, showing that the vehicles are considered an extension of the combat unit, and not just auxiliary equipment.

China is clearly following the path of army hybridization: soldier + robot. Such vehicles reduce the risks for live fighters, allow them to clear buildings faster, patrol borders and operate in dangerous conditions — with chemical threats, radiation or in conditions of high ambush activity.

The wolf robots are not just a technology show. This is a signal: the future of war is already here, and it barks not for real, but at the operator's command.

Japan and 9 countries train together to defend space: international space defense exercises in Australia

 

The Japan Air Self-Defense Forces took part in a large international command and staff training on space defense, which took place in Australia. It was attended by representatives of 10 countries, all with the common goal of strengthening friendship and cooperation in protecting space from threats.

The main idea of these exercises is to work out a joint response to any problems in space that may disrupt the operation of satellites, communications and navigation. During the training, the countries exchanged experiences and identified all the weaknesses in order to work as a single mechanism in the face of a real threat.

This is a very important event for Japan, because now space has become very complex and even dangerous — there are many satellites, and there is a risk that someone may use space for military or cyber purposes. By working together with other countries, solutions can be found and defended faster.

During the exercises, they worked out models of real threats: how to disrupt communications, how to protect themselves from cyber attacks on satellite control. Experts from various fields worked with the participants, from space surveillance to system protection.

Such cooperation is necessary now, because a lot depends on satellites in the army and in civilian life. The better countries are friends and help each other, the safer space and, in general, the planet becomes.

For Japan, participating in such events is a way to gain valuable experience working together and show everyone that it is a serious player in global security and is ready to protect our common interests together with its allies.

Germany throws fighter jets into Poland: Eurofighter on guard at the border with Belarus

Germany took a decisive step — five Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets landed at the Lask airbase, which is just a couple of hours east of Warsaw. This is not just another training transfer. The deployment took place just before the high-profile joint military exercises of Russia and Belarus, scheduled for September. And the signal that Berlin is sending is very clear: "We are with our allies, and we will not let you play out the scenario on our territory."

These five Typhoons are not just beautiful airplanes with German crosses on board. They are now part of the permanent grouping of German troops in Poland, which already includes two batteries of Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as additional aircraft and technical support. In other words, we are talking about a full-fledged air group capable of both intercepting targets and covering its troops and allies in the event of an escalation.

A spokeswoman for the German Air Force bluntly stated: "This deployment is a clear signal of allied solidarity within NATO and a reliable means of deterrence and protection of the common airspace." Simply put, "we are here, we are together, and if someone does something wrong, they will be rebuffed."

The background for this step is the increasingly tense situation on the eastern flank of NATO. Russia and Belarus have announced large-scale joint exercises "Slavic Brotherhood" or "Zapad-2025" (the exact name has not yet been announced), which will be held on the territory of Belarus. According to the plans, tens of thousands of troops, tanks, aircraft, and possibly even missile systems will be involved there.

But Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are watching these maneuvers with concern. It's no secret that they are afraid: what if these exercises will become a cover for real aggression? Especially considering how Russia used the "exercises" before invading Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 and 2022. There are fears that the troops who arrived "for the exercises" simply will not leave — and a new phase of the conflict will begin, already on the borders of NATO.

That is why Germany, as one of the key players in Europe and a member of NATO, decided not to wait. Placing a Eurofighter in a Weasel is not just a technical exercise. This is a demonstration of readiness for action. These fighters can intercept enemy aircraft, escort reconnaissance vehicles, and, if necessary— participate in combat operations. And the presence of Patriot adds a layer of defense: they are capable of intercepting ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as aircraft.

In addition, Germany is showing that it is taking on more responsibility for the security of Eastern Europe. Previously, the United States and the Baltic countries had borne the brunt in this area. Now Berlin is clearly strengthening its presence — and this may be the beginning of a new strategy.

 Moscow continues to pump Belarus with troops and equipment, and the West will strengthen its position.

September will show what happens next. When the exercises of Russia and Belarus begin, it will be especially hot in the skies over Eastern Europe, both literally and figuratively.

NATO forces in the skies over the Black Sea: U.S. and Italian fighter jets practice air strikes

 

As part of the large-scale NATO exercise Neptune-25-2, US Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet fighters and Italian Navy F-35B Lightning II fighter-bombers conducted joint training in Close Air Support (CAS) for ground troops. These simulation operations took place both in the airspace over the Black Sea and in the training areas of Romania.

The exercises demonstrate a high degree of compatibility and interaction between the air forces of the NATO allies. The American Super Hornet, known for its stability and firepower, flew side by side with the Italian F-35B, the most advanced fifth—generation fighter aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities and ultra-high stealth. This combination allows us to work out complex scenarios where the F-35B can use its sensors to detect targets in a highly secure environment, and then transmit data to strike with heavier ammunition from the Super Hornet.

These training sessions underscore NATO's continued presence and combat readiness in the eastern part of the alliance, especially in the coastal regions of the Black Sea, where increased deterrence is a key objective.

Americans and British caught drones in Poland: Project Flytrap 4.0 exercises

 

This week, from July 27 to 31, in Poland, at the Bemowo Piske training ground near Elk, intense exercises were held to combat one of the most pressing threats to the modern battlefield — enemy drones. They were attended by American soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the V Corps and their allies from the United Kingdom.

These multinational maneuvers are called Project Flytrap 4.0 ("Trap 4.0 Project"). Their main goal is not just to practice tactics, but to develop and test inexpensive, portable solutions for the suppression and destruction of unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). In an environment where cheap commercial drones and kamikaze FPV have become deadly weapons, armies need affordable and effective ways to protect their positions, equipment and personnel.

The exercises in Poland are a laboratory for new ideas. Soldiers from the United States and Great Britain jointly tested various electronic jamming systems, drone locators, and possibly even hand traps to find optimal and scalable responses to the drone threat. Successful solutions developed within the framework of Project Flytrap can be quickly implemented in units serving along the eastern flank of NATO.

Americans with HIMARS galloped across the islands: how they learn to quickly jump from shore to shore in the Pacific Ocean

 The US Army, together with its allies, has worked out a cool operation: the rapid delivery and unloading of HIMARS rocket launchers on one of the islands in the Indo-Pacific region. Imagine: a rocket launcher that can fly almost 80 km, is unloaded from a ship in a matter of minutes, shoots and disappears — like a ghost. This is not a movie, but a real tactic that the Americans and their partners are currently honing.

Why all this? In the event of conflict in regions such as the South China Sea or around Taiwan, every minute and every meter counts. If you are static, you will be quickly found and destroyed. Therefore, the key rule is: he came, shot, disappeared. Such exercises with HIMARS teach you how to move quickly without giving the enemy a chance to react.

Mobility is now the main trump card. HIMARS can be airlifted to the island by heavy helicopter or from an amphibious assault ship, and the system is ready for combat immediately after unloading. Then — transfer to another point, and again into battle. This allows you not only to survive under enemy attacks, but also to operate over a vast territory, as if appearing out of nowhere.

The tactics of frequent movements and lightning strikes make these installations especially dangerous. And it's not just the firing range, but how difficult it is to catch them. The exercises show that the United States and its allies are seriously preparing for scenarios where control of the islands and a quick reaction decide the outcome of the conflict.

How the United States learns to fight across the Pacific Ocean: new radio stations on tankers and transports

As part of the large-scale Mobility Guardian 2025 exercise, the US Air Force is testing how best to link its cargo and refueling aircraft to each other in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. What for? So that in a real conflict, especially with China, they can work as a single network, and not as separate ships that barely understand each other.

The problem is as old as the world: different planes have different communication systems and software, and they just don't "talk" directly. To transmit data, it is often necessary to climb through satellites or ground centers. And in combat, especially in the Pacific Ocean, where the distances are huge and the enemy can jam signals, it's deadly.

So they're learning in a new way now. New communication equipment is being installed on board transporters like the C-17 and C-130J, as well as on the KC-135 and KC-46 tankers, which allows aircraft to exchange data directly, without unnecessary intermediaries. It's like giving all the members of one big team a single messenger that works even in the wilderness.

The Mobility Guardian exercise is the main event for the USAF transport aviation, held every two years. And now they are not just working out how to quickly deliver soldiers or fuel. Now they learn to coordinate on the go, in real time, over distances of thousands of kilometers — from the west coast of the United States to the most remote islands.

The goal is to transform the fleet of transporters and tankers from a set of separate vehicles into a single, intelligent and living organism capable of surviving and operating even if the satellites are turned off and enemy missiles are flying from all sides.

Because in the future war in the Pacific, the one who transmits information faster and smarter will win. And the United States clearly does not want to lose in this.

Australia Showed Its Teeth: NASAMS System Passed The Fire Test

Australia did not let itself be offended at the latest Talisman Sabre 2025 exercises, which took place from July 13 to August 4. They demonstrated their cool air defense system, NASAMS. This system, as it turned out, can shoot down almost anything that flies.: from airplanes to missiles, and at altitudes up to 15 kilometers. Its AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles are known for their precision, and they really don't miss.

NASAMS is already in service with the Australian forces, where it is served by the 16th Regiment of the Royal Artillery at Woodside Base. They have two such batteries that guard against anything that can come from the sky, from combat aircraft to drones and missiles.

At the Talisman Sabre 2025 exercises, the system proved itself one hundred percent. It worked successfully in real conditions, when the Australians trained together with the Americans and other allies. The exercises brought together more than 35,000 soldiers from 19 countries, which became a record event in the history of Australia. This highlights how important it is to work together now, especially on security and defense issues.

The successful launch of the AIM-120 AMRAAM from the NASAMS ground installation during the exercises showed that Australia is serious about protecting its skies. It has also strengthened its position as an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

China conducted its first public aerial refueling exercises with a Y-20U tanker and H-6N bombers

Y-20U tanker and H-6N strategic bomber

For the first time, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) publicly demonstrated its aerial refueling capabilities by conducting large-scale exercises involving the new Y-20U air tanker and H-6N strategic bombers. These maneuvers have become an important stage in the development of aviation infrastructure and the expansion of the range of Chinese strategic aviation.

Features of the exercises

- The Y-20U tanker is an upgraded version of the Y—20 transport aircraft, equipped with air refueling systems, which significantly increases the operational range of fighters and bombers.

- H—6N strategic bombers - capable of carrying cruise missiles and performing long-range strike missions.

- During the exercises, procedures for refueling in the air were worked out, including docking, fuel transfer and maneuvers in difficult conditions.

The public conduct of such exercises indicates the growth of the PLA's capabilities in the field of strategic aviation and increased readiness for long-range operations. Aerial refueling expands the range of bombers, allowing them to quickly respond to threats far beyond national borders.

The development of air refueling technologies and the expansion of the Y-20U tanker fleet will allow China to conduct larger and longer-term air operations in the future, which will significantly increase its influence on the international arena.

A Russian Mi-17 helicopter of the US special Operations Forces suddenly appeared in Arizona — why is it there?

 

Against the background of tense Russian-American relations and a complete embargo on the supply of military equipment from Russia, an unusual event was recorded in Arizona (USA) — the appearance of a Russian Mi-17 helicopter, painted in a discreet gray coloring and associated with the American Special Operations Forces (SOF).

The incident occurred during recent exercises in an urban environment conducted by the US military. The participation of helicopters of this type in them has aroused the interest of analysts and experts, as it indicates the continued use of Russian-made equipment in secret Pentagon programs even after the complete severance of military-technical cooperation with Moscow.

One of the participants in the exercises, namely the Mi—17, was spotted at the Tucson air base, where US Air Force units supporting special forces operations are based. This particular instance, according to open data, was previously listed as part of a limited number of helicopters acquired by the United States before the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine and modified for the needs of special operations.

Despite the fact that the United States is actively developing its own programs for the creation and modernization of helicopters for special forces (for example, the Sikorsky MH-60 or the new Boeing SB-1 Defiant), the Mi-17 remains in demand in certain scenarios.:

- High reliability and ease of maintenance, especially in remote theaters of military operations;

- Large carrying capacity, allowing to transport special forces groups or equipment in difficult conditions;

- A unique flight technical base that can be used to train counteraction to similar machines used by potential opponents.;

- Secrecy and non-obviousness: in some regions of the world, the use of a "Russian" helicopter can help in misinformation or conceal the true identity of the operation.

According to sources, some of these vehicles are on the balance sheet of the 6th Special Operations Detachment (6th SOS), which is traditionally associated with conducting secret missions that often overlap with the activities of the CIA and other intelligence agencies.

It is noted that this Mi-17 also participated in the preparation for operations in the Middle East, including work in mountainous and desert conditions, where high engine efficiency and maneuverability are important. Such vehicles can be used both for the delivery of special groups, as well as for the evacuation of citizens or the elimination of high-ranking targets.

The People's Liberation Army of China is conducting large-scale exercises with new Type 625 8×8 short-range anti-aircraft missile systems

Type 625E

Chinese state television showed new footage of large-scale exercises of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), during which modern Type 625 8x8 short-range anti-aircraft missile systems were used. About a dozen such hybrid platforms, equipped with both automatic cannons and anti-aircraft missiles, participated in the exercises.

The Type 625E complex is a self-propelled anti-aircraft missile and cannon system built on a highly mobile eight-wheeled chassis, which provides it with excellent cross-country capability and the ability to accompany ground forces in combat conditions. The armament includes a six-barrel automatic cannon of 25 mm caliber with a high rate of fire (up to 4000-5000 rounds per minute) and eight launch containers with FN-10 anti-aircraft missiles.

The FN-10 missiles are equipped with an infrared homing head and are designed to hit air targets at a range of up to 10 km and an altitude of up to 5 km. Thanks to the integration of modern radar and optoelectronic systems, the complex is capable of autonomously detecting, tracking and destroying aerial targets, including drones and low-flying objects.

The exercises were aimed at practicing countering unmanned aerial vehicles and other aerial threats, reflecting the growing importance of short-range air defense systems in modern military conflicts.

The Type 625E is a competitor to systems such as the Russian Pantsir and other modern air defense systems, and is an important element of the PLA's integrated air defense system.

International exercises in Switzerland on joint measurements of radioactivity using helicopters

International exercises organized by the Federal Office of Civil Defense (FOPS) are taking place in Switzerland this week. They are attended by experts from France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Switzerland itself. The main objective of the exercise is to develop joint methods for rapid and effective measurement of radioactivity in large areas using helicopters.

The use of helicopters makes it possible to quickly survey vast areas, which is especially important in case of emergencies related to radioactive contamination. The joint efforts of international teams contribute to the exchange of experience, professional development and improved coordination in responding to potential radiation threats.

F-35A fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force participate in the Baana 25 exercises in Finland

Fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force took part in the international Baana 25 exercises taking place in Finland. This year, for the first time, the exercises include operations on the highway, an important element of preparation for combat operations in conditions of limited infrastructure.

The Dutch F-35A operated in conjunction with Finnish Air Force aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, combat training Hawks and light transport Learjet. The exercises are aimed at working out the interaction of various types of aircraft in difficult conditions, including rapid deployment and the use of roads as runways.

The Baana 25 demonstrates a high level of coordination and compatibility between NATO allied forces and partners, which is especially important in the northern regions with their unique climatic and geographical features. The use of the F-35A makes it possible to practice modern air combat tactics and integrate advanced technologies into joint operations.

Finland, which recently joined NATO, is actively developing cooperation with its allies, and the Baana exercises serve as a platform for strengthening defense readiness and sharing experiences between countries.

Modern US air defense systems deployed in the Arctic and Africa for the first time

 

Self-propelled air defense system Sgt. STOUT

Self-propelled air defense systems Sgt. STOUT*, equipped with Stinger missiles, were involved in live-fire exercises with NATO allies in Norway during the exercise Formidable Shield 2025 to repel the threat from UAVs.  Aerial defenders shot down target drones simulating threats from low altitude during several nighttime live-fire exercises, as with Sgt. STOUT, and from the ground.

Sgt.'s car. The STOUT, formerly known as the Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense, or M-SHORAD, is a Stryker vehicle with mounted Stinger missiles, an on-board radar, and a 30 mm cannon.

Mobile air defense systems Avenger were also deployed in Tunisia as part of the African Lion exercise, which was its first use on the continent.

*In 2024, the Maneuver-Short Range air defense system was renamed in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant Mitchell W. Stout, who died in Vietnam.

The United States and its allies begin large-scale exercises in Europe: focus on the Balkans and Greece

In May 2025, the US Army, together with the armed forces of several European countries, will begin conducting one of the largest exercises in Europe in recent times. The main phase of the multinational maneuvers called LIVEX Immediate Response 2025 will start in the northern region of Greece — in Xanthi, where about 2,000 American troops will be deployed starting from **May 26 to June 6.

The key location is a locality Petrokhory, where the main operational elements will be deployed, including logistics infrastructure, control points and technical support. Not only the United States will take part in the exercises, but also troops from France, Bulgaria, Spain and North Macedonia, which underlines their international character and strategic orientation.

In addition to the main stage, smaller-scale scenarios will be conducted in parallel in a number of countries in the Balkan region: Slovakia, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro and Croatia. These events will demonstrate the readiness of NATO and its partners to respond quickly in the event of an escalation of the situation in eastern and southern Europe.

The LIVEX Immediate Response 2025 exercises are focused on working out joint actions in a hypothetical crisis, including rapid deployment of forces, interaction between allies, as well as protecting the territorial integrity of security partner states.

This series of maneuvers is becoming an important signal for both potential opponents and allies of the United States, demonstrating the strengthening of Washington's military presence in Europe and especially in the Balkans, where a high degree of geopolitical uncertainty remains.

The US Air Force conducts Skyway Chariot exercises to test the combat readiness of the 100th Air Refueling Wing

 

As part of strengthening its global strategic mobility, the US Air Force conducted a large-scale Skyway Chariot exercise, which was attended by American pilots and engineers from the 100th Engineering Squadron. The exercises were held at the base The United Kingdom's Royal Air Force Feltwell in Norfolk County and were sent for a comprehensive assessment of the combat readiness and operational effectiveness of the 100th Air Refueling Wing.

The main objective of the exercise was to test the wing's ability  to generate, apply, maintain and project combat power in conditions of high intensity and  fierce confrontation, which is especially important to ensure long-range operations of modern fighters and bombers.

The participants worked out scenarios for rapid aerial refueling, logistics and technical support in real combat conditions. Special attention was paid to the interaction between the American and British forces, which underlines the importance of international cooperation in the field of defense.

These exercises are part of a broader program to increase the resilience and flexibility of the U.S. Air Force by strengthening logistical and logistical links, especially in Europe, where geopolitical tensions remain high.

North Korea conducted simulated nuclear strike exercises in response to an external threat

The Korean People's Army has launched a series of large-scale exercises aimed at practicing actions on the use of nuclear weapons in response to military aggression against the country. During the maneuvers, KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles were used, which were used to simulate nuclear strikes on targets located at a distance of up to 800 kilometers.

The KN-23 missile system, designed specifically to defeat tactical and operational targets, is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. According to analysts, it can also potentially be equipped with chemical weapons delivery systems, which makes it a versatile and dangerous element of the DPRK's strategic forces.

In addition to ballistic missiles, 600-mm multiple launch rocket systems KN-25 took part in the exercises, providing high-density fire support and capable of delivering massive strikes against front-line targets.

Special attention was paid to the testing of a new system called  "nuclear trigger" — the mechanism of management and control of North Korea's nuclear arsenal. It is assumed that this system ensures the rapid and coordinated deployment of nuclear forces in the event of a threat from external adversaries.

Such actions by the DPRK demonstrate the growing technological maturity of its military program and efforts to consolidate the status of a nuclear power, despite international sanctions and pressure.