The South Korean army is facing a crisis due to a shortage of young men

The South Korean army is facing a serious crisis related to the shortage of young people of military age, which is caused by demographic problems, including a decrease in the birth rate and an aging population. This demographic decline raises serious concerns about the country's ability to maintain an adequate level of military readiness and ensure national defense.

The crisis combines several factors:

- Decrease in the number of men of military age due to the sharp drop in the birth rate over the past decades;

- Difficulties in recruiting young people to the army against the background of the changing social climate and the level of motivation for service;

- Increasing demographic pressure on the national security system, which requires adaptation of military policy and revision of conscription mechanisms.

These problems are compounded by the political and social crisis that South Korea has experienced in recent months: in December 2024, President Yoon Seok-yeol was removed from power, emergency measures were introduced and quickly lifted, and internal political conflict intensified. All this creates instability and requires reforms in various areas, including defense.

The South Korean authorities and military leadership declare the need to adapt the military strategy and look for solutions to preserve the army's combat capability in the face of a reduction in the available contingent of conscripts.

Chinese military men now wear "iron suits": Exoskeletons on PLA ships take over the cargo

The Chinese army is keeping up with the times — now soldiers of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) on ships are working in exoskeletons so as not to break their backs when loading and unloading heavy boxes, ammunition and equipment. This is no longer fiction and not just a test at a training ground — real military personnel use these "mechanical suits" in real conditions, where every meter of space is worth its weight in gold, and loads are not easy.

Exoskeletons work as an invisible helper: they do not move due to batteries or motors, but cleverly redistribute the load from the muscles and spine of the soldier to their design. Imagine: you lift a 50-kilogram box, but you feel like you're carrying half as much. It's not because you've become stronger— it's because the exoskeleton takes on the brunt, redirecting it through the frame directly into the ground.

Such devices are passive exoskeletons, meaning they are not autonomous, but enhance the movements of the person himself. No wires, batteries, or complicated electronics. It's just smart mechanics that turn on with every movement, reducing fatigue and, most importantly, minimizing the risk of back and joint injuries. And on a rocking ship, where you need to keep your balance and drag cargo through narrow passages, this is especially valuable.

For the army, this is not just a convenience, but an increase in efficiency and endurance. A soldier can work longer, faster, and without exhaustion. This means that the ship is ready for combat or for the transfer of cargo many times faster. This is especially important in an environment where every minute counts and people's physical resources are limited.

China is not the first to use exoskeletons, but it is actively and systematically introducing them into the army. Such technologies are already being used not only in the navy, but also in logistics — in China, for example, loaders in Beijing and Shanghai have long been working in "robosuits" in warehouses. Even in Russia and the USA, their use is being discussed. And in China, this is already part of the daily service.

This is another step towards the "smart army of the future," where a soldier is not just a fighter, but part of a high-tech system. And if earlier the victory depended on the number of people, now it depends on how well the car helps the person.

The South Korean Army demonstrates the launch of a kamikaze FPV drone from a Surion helicopter to intercept aerial targets in flight

The South Korean army recently conducted a live demonstration of the launch of a kamikaze aerial drone with a first-person view (FPV) from aboard a multi-purpose KUH-1 Surion helicopter. During the exercises, a drone equipped with a live explosive charge was launched from a helicopter into the air, after which it was remotely controlled by an operator to intercept and destroy an aerial target — a special RC-MAT target drone simulating enemy unmanned systems.

The purpose of the training was to test the very procedure for launching a drone in flight from a helicopter, as well as to assess the tactical value of using such drones to destroy aerial targets right in the air. According to the Second Operational Command of the Army of the Republic of Korea, the main focus was on confirming the operational feasibility of aerial deployment of kamikaze drones and practical testing of remote control in real conditions.

This use of drones demonstrates the growing role of unmanned strike systems, which can be quickly deployed from aircraft and used as an effective means of protecting and responding to threats from the air. Such exercises help to develop new tactics and technologies that can increase the combat effectiveness of the South Korean army in modern air conflicts.

China has revealed how its VU-T10 combat robot is causing hell on the battlefield

 

VU-T10

China continues to actively increase the pace in the development of robotic systems for the army — and the latest striking example is the new tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UAV) VU-T10, which recently passed field tests. Footage from these tests was published by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), one of the leading Chinese weapons developers.

Imagine: an 11-ton combat robot that maneuvers through difficult terrain without human intervention, accurately identifies targets and strikes them. All this is within the framework of the Chinese strategy for the introduction of robotics in modern and future scenarios of warfare. The VU-T10 is not just a toy, but a full—fledged participant in the battle.

The device is equipped with a remote—controlled modular combat turret armed with a serious 30-mm cannon, which is excellent for both fighting with manpower and for hitting lightly armored targets. A twin 7.62 mm machine gun is mounted next to it, an additional tool for suppressing enemy infantry.  

But that's not all. For self-defense, the VU-T10 has electric smoke grenade launchers, which allow the device to hide from observation or distract the enemy at a critical moment.

The VU-T10 is not just an experimental prototype. This is an important step forward in China's plans to modernize its army. Such vehicles can be used as scouts, firing points accompanying infantry, or even as autonomous attack platforms.  

In addition, all this suggests that Chinese engineers are actively working to make robots not just auxiliary tools, but full—fledged participants in combat operations - without risking the lives of soldiers.

The VU-T10 is a prime example of how rapidly military robotics is developing in China. And if such devices begin to en masse to the troops, it can seriously change the face of modern combat.

Russia expands Laser Air Defense Forces: The "staff" shoots down drones without ammunition and on any armor

 

(Posoh) the "Staff" laser system

Against the background of the growing threats from unmanned aerial vehicles, a new promising anti—drone system has appeared in the Russian armed forces - the "Staff" laser system (Posoh). It is reported that the new weapon is capable of effectively disabling small UAVs at a distance of up to 2 km, providing high mobility and autonomy of use.

Unlike the Peresvet laser system already in service, which is used in stationary or semi-stationary conditions, the Staff is a more compact and mobile solution. The installation is powered by batteries and can be placed on almost any armored vehicle, making it ideal for operational deployment in the field.

The principle of operation of the system is the pinpoint effect of a laser beam on key elements of the drone.:

- failure of electronics; 

- melting of wires and structural parts;  

- damage to engines and impaired aerodynamics.

According to experts, the advantage of the laser is that it does not require traditional ammunition — the "ammunition" does not run out, and shooting is possible an unlimited number of times, as long as there is energy. This makes the system cost-effective and highly efficient in the face of intense drone counteraction.

The creation of such technologies demonstrates Russia's desire to reach a new level of countering drones, especially in modern warfare, where strike and reconnaissance UAVs play a key role.

Given the successful development of laser technologies and their implementation in tactical units, we can expect further development of this area in the Russian defense industry.

IndoDefence 2025: German armored infantry vehicle Marder 1A3 will become the backbone of Indonesia's mechanized forces

Marder 1A3

At IndoDefence 2025 in Jakarta, it was announced that the German armored infantry vehicle Marder 1A3 will be a key platform for the modernization of the mechanized forces of the Indonesian army. This move reflects Indonesia's desire to strengthen its ground forces with modern and reliable armored personnel carriers.

The Marder 1A3 is a time—tested infantry fighting vehicle with high mobility, protection, and firepower. She is able to effectively carry out the tasks of transporting personnel, fire support and participation in combat operations in various conditions.

The choice of the Marder 1A3 indicates Indonesia's intention to increase the combat capability of its mechanized units and integrate modern technologies into the country's defense industry. In addition, cooperation with German manufacturers opens up opportunities for technical support and local maintenance of equipment.

The Army will decommission all turboprop reconnaissance aircraft and switch to business jets for aerial surveillance

By the end of this year, the army plans to completely decommission its fleet of turboprop reconnaissance aircraft, which have been used for aerial surveillance and reconnaissance for many years. Instead, new business jets specially adapted for aerial reconnaissance tasks will be purchased.

However, despite plans to upgrade the fleet, the army will be able to receive only six such business jets, which is significantly less than the previous number of turboprop aircraft. This is due to the abandonment of a larger fleet that provided broader coverage and exploration capabilities.

The choice in favor of business jets, such as Bombardier Global 6500 modifications, is due to their higher speed, flight range and modern equipment for reconnaissance and surveillance. These aircraft are capable of performing tasks within the framework of programs aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of aerial reconnaissance.

However, the reduction in the number of aerial platforms raises questions about maintaining the volume and quality of intelligence data, especially in the face of growing threats and the need for rapid response.

The transition to business jets also reflects the trend of modernization and optimization of military aviation, where mobility, adaptability and integration of modern intelligence systems play a key role.

PREFACE TO "THE THIRD MYSTERY OF FATIMA - THE HOLY LAND"

 

Russia is the stronghold of the Almighty, the army of the Almighty on earth. 

Moreover, the army is spiritual, which is why Russia has the most spiritual people, and Russia is under the direct control of the Almighty. 

When the time comes for Satan to come, the Almighty will use his Heavenly army, which is what the inhabitants of Russia are. All the demons, servants of Satan, are now fleeing Russia en masse, because the last battle is approaching, and some consciously, but most of them, I think, unconsciously feel such a need to emigrate from Russia. And the fact is that the Almighty will not allow Satan to win, He will not allow it with our hands. However, most Russians do not realize this, they do not understand, and Putin, most likely, also does not fully understand what is really happening. Since the Almighty will not appear to Putin and sort everything out, the Almighty speaks to us in the language of life circumstances. The Almighty will not allow Satan to reign, and even if we, sincere people, do not cope, he will intervene, he still has an Army of Angels. At a critical moment, if necessary, he will intervene. Before that, on Earth, he will solve his problems with the help of Russia. Russians do not understand this because they are deceived, and no one tells them the truth. But the truth is the uterus, it's a very complicated thing. 

Well, for example, why do Orthodox Christians have a procession and Catholics have crusades? We never wondered what the difference was. Why is it, for example, that the Orthodox crucifix worn by our people always depicts Jesus Christ, while Catholics do not necessarily have this, there may just be such a crosshair? And why did all the armies that attacked Russia over the centuries have a cross on their banners? Remember that on the Fascist tanks, like the Crusaders, for some reason they have a cross all the time. Not the crucifixion with Jesus Christ, but the cross. This is because they wanted to put a cross on Russia. And it seems that, according to official history, all the crusades were carried out on the Holy Land, supposedly to punish the Jews for crucifying Christ. But why did they all end up in Russia, and all the battles took place on Russian soil, on Russian soil? 

So, the fact is that the Holy Land is Russia, not Jerusalem and Israel. 

Russia is a place of holiness. 

It's just that Russia needs to purify itself and understand this. 

They, all these crusaders, want to desecrate the sanctity of Russia, and what is happening now is another crusade. 

And they will not leave Russia alone. 

Russians need to return to their roots and understand their mission. 

And the Russians have a very big mission, and they have a lot to do. 

This earthly world will not belong to Satan. 

And it is Russia that will prevent this, whether we want it or not. 

Even if the last Russian or the last Russian dies. 

Putin, for example, cannot say this directly, he only hints all the time. 

Well, now I think you should understand the true meaning of his words, that we will go to heaven, and they will just die. 

This is such a hint, because he cannot say directly, declare a holy war, which in fact is taking place. 

In this case, he will be accused of ambitions similar to those of Hitler, who wanted to create a holy Reich for the whole world. 

Please think about this, dear friends, compare the facts, read about the Fatima phenomena, the dates when certain events took place, and much will become clear and understandable to you.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the restructuring of the U.S. Army

 

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the army to restructure itself to create a "more compact" force. The April 30 memorandum, titled "Army Transformation and Procurement Reform," calls for radical changes in the service, including the unification of commands, the cancellation of several programs, and the allocation of additional resources to use and counter drones. Some of the measures outlined, such as the expansion of drones and anti-drone systems into maneuverable units and an increase in electronic warfare capabilities, build on programs already underway. Others are expanding broader military objectives, including deploying an army in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China.

John Mearsheimer on the conflict in Ukraine: diplomacy won't help

 

John J. Mearsheimer

John J. Mearsheimer, a well-known international relations theorist and professor of political science at the University of Chicago, views the current conflict in Ukraine with harsh realism, devoid of illusions about an early diplomatic resolution. His analysis, often available on his Substack platform ( substack.com/@mearsheimer ), paints a picture of a protracted confrontation, the outcome of which, in his opinion, will be decided not at the negotiating table, but on the battlefield. Mearsheimer argues that a diplomatic solution is currently unattainable. He stresses Russia's intransigence on its key demands, a position from which, in his assessment, Moscow will not back down. On the other hand, neither Ukraine nor its European allies are ready to accept these conditions. This fundamental impasse, according to Mearsheimer, makes negotiations futile at this stage.

In this context, the figure of Donald Trump seems to Mearsheimer to be a potential, albeit peculiar, catalyst for change. He admits that Trump, unlike the current European and Ukrainian leadership, could make concessions to Russia or, more likely in his analysis, end American military and intelligence support for Ukraine. Such a step, according to Mearsheimer, would radically change the dynamics of the conflict. He believes that even with the current level of American aid, Russia is already gaining the upper hand on the battlefield. Cutting off the supply of weapons and intelligence from the United States would put Ukraine in an even more desperate situation. Mearsheimer points out that Russia is actively building up and training its armed forces, equipping them with modern weapons and accumulating valuable combat experience. He refers to statements by high-ranking military officials, such as General Cavoli, confirming that the Russian army is much more powerful today than at the beginning of the conflict in 2022.

Analyzing Vladimir Putin's recent statements, Mearsheimer sees confirmation of his point of view. He interprets the Russian leader's words about expanding and modernizing the military-industrial complex, adapting tactics and weapons based on combat experience as a clear signal: Russia is preparing for a long war, not diplomacy. Putin, in his opinion, demonstrates confidence in Russia's ability not only to continue the war, but also to stay "one step ahead" by studying global military trends and adapting its army to future conflicts. Mearsheimer contrasts this Russian focus on military reality with what he perceives as unfounded optimism in the West and in Ukraine about Kiev's chances of victory.

He believes that Europeans and Ukrainians, as well as a significant part of the American national security establishment, continue to believe in the possibility of a turning point on the battlefield in favor of Ukraine – a belief that Mearsheimer himself considers illusory. According to him, only Trump and a narrow circle of his associates are ready to recognize the harsh reality and look for ways to end the conflict, even if this means concessions to Russia. This gap in perception and strategy, according to Mearsheimer, condemns the war to continue. He predicts that without American support, the balance of power will finally shift in favor of Russia, which will lead to the seizure of new territories and, ultimately, the collapse of the Ukrainian army. In such a situation, he believes, Ukraine will be forced to seek peace on terms dictated by Moscow.

Mearsheimer also expresses skepticism about Europe's ability to act effectively without strong American leadership, pointing to potential problems of collective action and disagreements between key European powers – Germany, France and Britain. Moreover, he extends his criticism to the American national security apparatus itself, including the military, whose analytical work and performance since the first Gulf War he considers unconvincing. In his opinion, there is a deep systemic problem in the West's approach to assessing military realities and developing a strategy.                 

Thus, Mearsheimer's analysis is a sober, albeit gloomy, assessment of the situation, where the outcome of the conflict is seen as a predetermined balance of military forces and the determination of the parties to continue the struggle, rather than diplomatic efforts or hopes for a turning point. He expects a further Russian offensive and believes that Ukraine's ability to resist, especially if American aid is cut off, is extremely limited.

Lockheed Martin integrates foreign missiles into Mark 41 VLS systems

 

Lockheed Martin is working to satisfy foreign interest in Mark 41 VLS road-mobile systems. To make the export of various systems more likely, a leading defense company is ready to integrate non-American missiles, such as those produced by the European MBDA or the Israeli IAI.

The United States' allied partners are showing significant interest in the expeditionary capabilities that Lockheed Martin is currently providing with its Mark 41 VLS family of road mobile systems., At the same time, the company is working on integrating new foreign missiles into various expeditionary systems to meet international interests in the field of air defense.

Lockheed Martin's expeditionary family includes the US Army's Medium Range Capability (MRC; formerly known as Typhon), the US Navy's Mark 70 Payload Delivery System (PDS), and the US Marine Corps' Long Range Fires Launcher (LRFL). All three systems are manufactured and assembled at the Lockheed Martin plant in Moorestown, New Jersey.

The systems use common launch equipment and can be recharged horizontally, eliminating the need for cranes and allowing for rapid reloading using a specialized logistics vehicle that uses rails to load and unload missile containers from the launchers.

For the US Army, interest is focused on Tomahawk and Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) cruise missiles. For the US Marine Corps, interest is primarily focused on Tomahawk cruise missiles from their single-element LRFL carriers. For the US Navy, the entire Aegis missile family is integrated to support increased lethality for Littoral combat ships.

With growing interest from foreign countries, foreign missiles from allied partners are being integrated as part of efforts to develop expeditionary air defense systems. Lockheed Martin was unable to disclose the countries involved, but confirmed that there are interested partners in Asia and Europe. Lockheed Martin's expeditionary launchers can serve as air defense systems for interested customers, Dobek said.

Portugal to purchase five UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for the army for 50 million euros

 Portugal will purchase five new UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for the Portuguese Army's support, protection and evacuation program at an estimated cost of 50 million euros. The announcement was made by Portuguese Minister of National Defense Nuno Melo during a meeting of the parliamentary Defense commission on February 25, 2025.                                                                                                          

This purchase follows previous acquisitions of UH-60A Black Hawk helicopters by the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) for aerial firefighting.                            

 The helicopter support, protection and evacuation program marks the first time that the Portuguese Army will operate its own helicopters, including the UH-60 Black Hawk, with units expected to be based at the Tancos military facility.

UH-60 Black Hawk