Southern Vanguard 2025 exercises: mountain troops from the United States, Chile, Argentina and Peru practice survival and combat operations in extreme conditions

Exercise conditions: cold, altitude and difficult terrain

The first nine days of the Southern Vanguard 2025 joint military exercises were held in the extreme conditions of the South American Andes. The participants faced severe frosts, sudden temperature changes, high mountains and difficult terrain. These factors create a realistic environment for practicing survival, logistics, and combat operations in winter.

Special attention is paid to winter combat techniques, including skiing, setting up camps in snowy conditions and coordinating actions in conditions of limited visibility.

The participants of the operation are mountain units of four countries

Elite mining units from four countries are taking part in the exercises: Chile, the USA, Argentina and Peru. They are organized with the support of the Chilean army and are aimed at strengthening regional military cooperation and compatibility of tactics, equipment and communications.

For the United States, this is an opportunity to adapt its standards to the conditions of the Southern Hemisphere, and for Latin American partners, it is a chance to share experiences with one of the world's leading armies.

The FIT stage — from preparation to real action

After completing the initial stage of training, the so—called Functional Integration Training (FIT) stage began - comprehensive training. At this stage, the units work out the coherence of interaction, joint planning of operations and the application of tactical procedures in realistic scenarios.

FIT serves as a bridge between basic training and full-fledged field exercises.

Exercise Completion: Final Field maneuvers (FTX)

The exercises culminate with Final Exercise (FTX), large—scale field maneuvers simulating real combat operations. During FTX, scenarios for the search and destruction of a simulated enemy, evacuation of the wounded, radio exchange in the mountains and rapid deployment of forces are being worked out.

The completion of the Southern Vanguard 2025 is scheduled for August 29. The results of the exercises will be used to improve tactical doctrines and strengthen interstate trust.

Sources

1. Libertador.ru — details of “Southern Vanguard 2025” mountain-warfare exercises in the Antuco area (11–29 Aug) involving Chile, USA, Argentina and Peru, focusing on winter and high-altitude training.

British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles on parade in Warsaw: a demonstration of NATO's strength and solidarity

British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles drove through Warsaw as part of the parade dedicated to the Day of the Polish Armed Forces. The move highlighted the close cooperation between the UK and Poland within the framework of NATO, demonstrating both interoperability and a clear demonstration of solidarity between the allies.

Close cooperation between Great Britain and Poland within the framework of NATO

The participation of British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles in the Warsaw parade has become an important symbol of cooperation between the UK and Poland. These vehicles were taken from the British Ground Forces Advanced Combat Group in Poland, deployed by NATO to strengthen deterrence on the alliance's eastern flank. Their presence in the Polish capital underlined not only the military might, but also the deep mutual support between the two countries.

Interoperability and demonstration of solidarity

The UK Ministry of Defence mission to Poland noted that Jackal participated under the banner of BG Poland's Advanced Ground Forces. This participation demonstrated "UK-Poland defense cooperation during the Polish Armed Forces Day parade." Such a demonstration of strength and unity is important for strengthening NATO's position on the eastern flank, where tensions remain high.

The significance of Jackal's participation in the parade

The participation of British cars in the parade was not only symbolic, but also of practical importance. It showed that the allies are ready to work together and can effectively interact in various scenarios. This is especially important in the context of modern threats, where interoperability and rapid response play a key role.

Prospects for further cooperation

The Warsaw parade was an important step in strengthening cooperation between the UK and Poland. In the future, we can expect further development of joint initiatives aimed at improving defense capability and readiness to respond to potential threats. Such cooperation will help strengthen NATO's position and ensure stability in the region.

Saudi Arabia asks Greece to extend the ELDYSA mission with Patriot systems until 2026

Saudi Arabia has officially asked Greece to extend the stay of its military personnel in the kingdom. We are talking about the mission of the Greek armed forces in Saudi Arabia, known as ELDYSA (Hellenic Armed Forces in Saudi Arabia), which can be extended until November 2026.

The central element of the mission is the Greek Patriot missile battery deployed as part of Saudi Arabia's long-range air defense system. This system plays a key role in protecting the kingdom's strategically important facilities from aerial threats, including ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles.

Negotiations on cooperation between the two countries began in 2019 at the technical level and subsequently moved to the diplomatic plane. An official memorandum of understanding detailing the terms of deployment was signed in April 2021. Already in September of the same year, ELDYSA soldiers were transferred from the military base in Tanagra (Greece) to the territory of Saudi Arabia.

The extension of the mission until 2026 demonstrates a high assessment of the effectiveness of Greek specialists and the strengthening of bilateral defense cooperation. For Greece, such a mission is also of strategic importance, expanding its international military presence and strengthening partnerships with key players in the region.

India faced three opponents during Operation Sindoor: China and Turkey supported Pakistan

During the recent Indian military operation called Sindur, the situation on the border escalated dramatically when India unexpectedly faced not only Pakistan, but also the indirect intervention of China and Turkey. According to intelligence sources, these two countries provided assistance to Pakistan, which significantly complicated the situation for the Indian armed forces. This event was a vivid reminder that regional security requires increased combat readiness and interagency coordination.

Operation Sindoor began against the backdrop of escalating border conflicts between India and Pakistan, which repeatedly occurred in 2025, including shootings in late April and missile attacks using drones in May. However, the involvement of China and Turkey in supporting Pakistan has become a new and dangerous element in this equation. Experts suggest that such a coalition against India may be linked to the increasing geopolitical pressure on the country from states interested in weakening its strategic position in South Asia.

The operation involved modern air defense systems, including the Russian S-400 Triumph, which proved highly effective in repelling Pakistan's missile strikes. In turn, India also retaliated against air defense systems and radars in Pakistan. However, reports that some of the targets had been lost, including the destruction of some equipment, caused concern among the military leadership.

The fact that China and Turkey are involved in military support for Pakistan is particularly important, as it points to the formation of new strategic alliances in the region. China, in particular, has long supported Pakistan in the military-technical sphere, supplying it with modern air defense systems such as the HQ-9, which creates additional difficulties for India.

Given the scale of the threat, experts recommend that India accelerate the modernization of its air defense system and develop closer military cooperation with other democratic powers in order to maintain a balance of power in the region.

Egypt plans to deploy Chinese HQ-9B air defense system: strategic turn to the East

 

Launch of the Chinese HQ-9B air defense system

According to sources, a former senior official of the country's armed forces said that Egypt intends to deploy the Chinese HQ-9B long-range anti-aircraft missile system on its territory. This decision has caused a wide resonance in the international military and political community, as it may indicate a shift in the geopolitical balance in the Middle East region.

According to analytical estimates, Cairo's choice of the Chinese system is due to a combination of strategic, economic and political factors. After years of dependence on Western arms supplies, especially from the United States and France, Egypt is facing increasing restrictions from Western countries. These measures are often linked to demands for respect for human rights and other political conditions that threaten continuity of supply.

In addition, China offers modern technologies without harsh political conditions, which makes it an attractive partner for many states seeking to modernize their armed forces regardless of external pressure. The HQ-9B is one of the most advanced air and missile defense systems capable of intercepting aerial targets at a distance of up to 200 kilometers.

This agreement could also be an important step in strengthening bilateral military-technical cooperation between China and Egypt. The deployment of such a system is expected to have an impact on the balance of power in North Africa and the Middle East, especially in the face of growing tension between various regional players.

In addition, this step can be seen as a signal to other countries that also face problems accessing advanced military technology due to geopolitical constraints. China continues to expand its influence in the global defense market, offering an alternative to traditional suppliers such as the United States, Russia and European countries.

Thus, the deployment of the HQ-9B system in Egypt may become an important precedent in international military supplies and indicates a further strengthening of China's position in the region.

Saudi Arabia activates the American THAAD system to counter the missile threat from Iran

Amid growing tensions in the Persian Gulf and increased missile activity from Iran, Saudi Arabia has decided to deploy and activate the modern THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile defense system. It is reported that the first battery was purchased as part of a military deal with US President Donald Trump during his first term, which also provides for the supply of six more THAAD batteries, 44 launchers and 360 interceptors.

This system, developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles at high altitude both inside and outside the atmosphere, providing reliable protection against medium and ballistic missiles. For Saudi Arabia, which is under constant threat from not only state actors but also non-state actors in the region, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis, THAAD represents an important strategic asset.

It is interesting to note that military-political cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia is developing against the background of long-term economic ties. The United States is the Kingdom's largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is the largest export market in the Middle East for American goods and technology. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has also seen an increase in investment activity in the United States, which can amount to up to $770 billion, although accurate data is difficult to verify from open sources.

The delivery of THAAD was part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities, especially after numerous attacks on the country's oil infrastructure, including the famous attack on ARAMCO facilities in 2019. These events have highlighted the need to strengthen air and missile defense, as well as expand bilateral military cooperation with key allies, including the United States.

In addition, the increased use of THAAD systems is taking place against the background of statements by the Trump administration about the revision of global trade policy, which could affect many countries, but experts note that Saudi Arabia has the potential to adapt to new conditions and even find new opportunities for cooperation with the United States.

British F-35Bs will test the deck of the Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga during joint exercises

 

British F-35B carrier—based fighters may soon land and take off from one of Japan's de facto aircraft carriers, JS Kaga, as members of the British aircraft carrier strike group are scheduled to arrive in Japanese waters in August as part of the final phase of a multi-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that part of the joint activities will be the landing and take-off of F-35B fighters from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales onto the deck of the Japanese JS Kaga, as the fleets of the partner countries seek to increase interoperability and strengthen military cooperation.

Recall that JS Kaga has already been upgraded to operate F-35B aircraft, and in October 2024, an American F-35B successfully landed on its deck during sea trials. In turn, the British F-35B, based on HMS Prince of Wales, has a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, which makes them compatible with aircraft carriers of this type. 

The planned cooperation between the UK and Japan could be an important step in developing a bilateral military partnership and deepening the presence of allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Starting from 2029-2030, the full-fledged start of F-35B operations from Japanese aircraft carriers is also expected.

: North Korea plans to send additional troops to Russia: analysis of Ukrainian intelligence services

 North Korea plans to send an additional 25-30 thousand troops to Russia in the coming months, according to an analysis by the Ukrainian special services. According to Kiev, these troops may be involved not only in Russia, but also directly in the fighting in Ukraine, which will significantly strengthen the Russian group in certain areas of the front.

These new forces will join a contingent of about 11,000 North Korean troops already in Russia, who arrived last year to support the Russian army. It is reported that about 4,000 of them have already been killed or injured in the fighting, mainly in the Kursk region, where they took part in local operations along with Russian units.

Ukrainian intelligence also indicates that Russia is actively preparing to integrate new North Korean troops into its military structures. To do this, Moscow allegedly provides them with the necessary ** weapons, ammunition and organizes joint training ** to ensure their effective interaction with Russian units.

Earlier, South Korea transmitted information to its allies that North Korea could send additional troops to Russia as early as July or August 2025, which coincides with the current estimates of the Ukrainian side. Such a large-scale step could become an important factor in the further development of the military conflict, especially if the DPRK begins to take a more active part in hostilities on the side of Russia.

Turkey supplied armored vehicles to the Syrian army: Otokar Cobra and Cadillac Gage Commando spotted in Aleppo

At the recent graduation ceremony of the 76th Division of the Syrian Army in Aleppo, new Turkish-made armored vehicles were presented — wheeled armored vehicles Otokar Cobra and Cadillac Gage Commando. This event aroused great interest among military analysts, since previously such vehicles were used mainly as part of the Turkish army or were transferred to groups supported by Ankara on Syrian territory.

The Otokar Cobra armored vehicle, developed by the Turkish company Otokar, is a multifunctional vehicle designed to transport personnel and ensure their safety in high-risk conditions. The machine has a high degree of protection against mines and improvised explosive devices, which makes it effective in urban and mining operations. Her appearance in the ranks of the Syrian government army may indicate the beginning of a new stage of cooperation between Turkey and Damascus, despite the historically tense relations between the countries.

In addition, amphibious vehicles **Cadillac Gage Commando** with a 4x4 wheel formula were seen. These vehicles are usually used for internal security, riot control, and patrol tasks. Their use in Syria may be related to the need to strengthen measures to stabilize the situation in regions where there is a risk of renewed local conflicts.

It is worth noting that Turkey has repeatedly sent military equipment to various anti-government groups in Syria, especially in the Idleb province area of responsibility, where well-armed formations supported by Ankara were located. However, the fact that modern armored vehicles are being supplied directly to the regular Syrian army may indicate a restructuring of Turkey's foreign policy aimed at normalizing relations with the regime of Bashar al-Assad.

Some experts suggest that this may be part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional stability and reduce tensions in northern Syria. It is also possible that Turkey is seeking to participate in the process of rebuilding the country after years of war, using military-technical cooperation as an instrument of influence.

Chinese J-10 fighter jets have arrived in Egypt to participate in the Eagles of Civilization 2025 exercise

 

Chinese J-10 fighter jets

As part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between China and Egypt, J-10 fighter jets from the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLA Air Force) recently arrived in Egyptian territory to participate in the Eagles of Civilization 2025 joint exercises. This event was an important step in the development of military cooperation between the two countries and a demonstration of Beijing's growing influence in the international arena.

In the coming days, Chinese combat aircraft will hold a series of events with Egyptian Air Force fighters, including joint training flights, tactical maneuvers, and experience sharing. Special attention will be paid to cooperation with Russian-made Egyptian MiG-29M/M2 fighters, which underlines the multipolarity of modern military-political relations.

The Eagles of Civilization 2025 exercises are aimed not only at increasing the level of interoperability between the aviation of the two countries, but also at demonstrating the technological capabilities of Chinese J-10 fighters. These vehicles, equipped with modern control and weapons systems, are one of the key elements of the combat potential of the PLA Air Force. Their participation in the exercises provides a unique opportunity to share best practices and technologies.

Experts note that this event is of strategic importance. On the one hand, it strengthens China's position as a global security and defense player. On the other hand, it strengthens trust between Cairo and Beijing, which can help expand cooperation in other areas, including economics and technology.

At the same time, the participation of Russian MiG-29M/M2 fighters in the exercises adds an additional geopolitical context. This demonstrates the complex dynamics of international relations, where countries are actively seeking a balance between various allies and partners.

The United States and South Korea conducted large-scale joint exercises involving B-1B bombers

 

Rockwell B-1 Lancer

On April 15, the United States and South Korea conducted joint air exercises, demonstrating their military might over the Korean peninsula. The maneuvers involved B-1B Lancer strategic bombers, as well as American and South Korean F-16 and F-35A stealth fighters. This step was aimed at confirming the readiness of the two countries to counter potential threats in the region.

South Korea's Ministry of National Defense stressed that the exercises were conducted to demonstrate "the continued visibility of the expanded deterrence of the United States." The choice of the date for the mission is also not accidental: the exercises were held on the birthday of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. This decision is intended to send a clear signal to Pyongyang about the determination of Washington and Seoul to protect their interests.

The maneuvers involved a B-1B Lancer strategic bomber capable of carrying up to 57 tons of conventional ammunition. This aircraft is known for its high speed and range, making it an indispensable tool for deterrence missions. In addition, F-16 multirole fighters and modern F-35A stealth fighters participated in the exercises, enhancing the capabilities of the joint air group.

The main purpose of the exercises was to confirm the readiness of the United States and South Korea to act together in the event of a military threat. The deployment of strategic bombers over the Korean Peninsula symbolizes the US commitment to its "enhanced deterrence" policy, which guarantees the protection of allies using the most advanced military technologies.

The exercise has raised tensions in the region, especially given North Korea's recent actions, including ballistic missile tests. For Seoul and Washington, this was an important step in demonstrating strength and unity in the face of growing threats from the DPRK.

The joint exercises confirmed the strength of the military alliance between the United States and South Korea. In the future, the countries plan to continue holding such events in order to strengthen their defense strategy and ensure stability in the region.

The April 15 exercises were a prime example of how the United States and South Korea coordinate their actions to counter threats. The deployment of B-1B strategic bombers and stealth fighters underscores the seriousness of the two countries' intentions. In the context of growing tensions on the Korean peninsula, such steps play a key role in ensuring peace and security.

$180 million deal: Rolls-Royce engines for Israeli Eitan AFV armored vehicles

 

The Eitan is an armored combat vehicle designed to replace the obsolete M113 armored personnel carrier in the Israel Defense Forces

The US State Department has approved a large-scale deal worth 180 million dollars, under which modern Rolls-Royce Eitan Powerpack engines will be supplied to Israel. This decision underscores the deepening military cooperation between Washington and Jerusalem, as well as Israel's desire to modernize its ground forces to conduct modern combat operations.

The Eitan is the latest model of Israeli AFV (Armored Fighting Vehicle) class armored vehicles, designed to perform a wide range of tasks, including patrolling, transporting personnel, and battlefield support. However, the key element of successful operation of any armored vehicle is its engine. That is why the choice fell on the Eitan Powerpack from Rolls-Royce, which combines power, reliability and energy efficiency.

These engines provide high maneuverability and endurance, which is especially important for the difficult terrain conditions typical of the Middle East region. In addition, the use of modern technologies makes it possible to minimize fuel consumption and simplify maintenance.

The approval of the $180 million deal demonstrates the U.S. commitment to supporting Israel's defense capabilities. This is not just a commercial transaction, but an important step in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Modern armored vehicles equipped with Rolls-Royce engines will become an important element of the Israeli ground forces, contributing to their readiness to face modern threats.

The Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) are actively modernizing their units to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The Eitan armored vehicles, equipped with Eitan Powerpack engines, will significantly increase the mobility and firepower of the ground forces. This is especially important in the context of growing threats from neighboring Countries and ongoing conflicts in the region.

The delivery of Rolls-Royce engines is only part of a larger plan to upgrade Israel's armored fleet. Further expansion of cooperation between the United States and Israel in the field of defense technology is expected in the future. This may include joint development of new weapons systems, staff training, and joint exercises.

Algeria becomes the first international customer of the Russian Su-57 fighter jets: A new stage of military cooperation

 Su-57

Algeria has officially confirmed the acquisition of Russian fifth-generation Su-57 Felon fighters, making it the first country outside Russia to purchase this advanced combat aircraft. The announcement was made via Algerian state television, which also reported that Algerian pilots were already being trained in Russia to operate the new machines. Deliveries are expected to begin at the end of this year. This event opens a new chapter in the development of military cooperation between Algeria and Russia, as well as strengthens Algeria's position as one of the key military powers in the region.

The Su-57 is a fifth—generation Russian fighter aircraft developed by Sukhoi Corporation. It has unique characteristics, including the ability for super maneuverability, high speed and low radar visibility (stealth fighter). This aircraft is equipped with modern electronic systems, communications equipment and the latest generation of weapons, which allows it to effectively carry out the tasks of air supremacy, interception of targets and strikes against ground targets.

Algeria's choice of the Su-57 demonstrates the country's desire to upgrade its fleet and increase the combat capability of its Air Force. Fifth-generation fighters provide significant advantages in today's environment, where stealth technology plays a crucial role in achieving success on the battlefield.

Algeria has long held a leading position among African countries in terms of the level of armament and technical equipment of its army. The acquisition of the Su-57 will be an important step in strengthening the country's defense capabilities, especially in the context of instability in the North African region. Threats from terrorist organizations, illegal armed groups and possible conflicts with neighboring countries require Algeria to continuously improve its military capabilities.

Obtaining the Su-57 will allow the Algerian Air Force not only to protect the country's airspace, but also to significantly expand its capabilities to conduct operations beyond national borders, if necessary. It will also strengthen Algeria's position as one of the main players in ensuring regional security.

Russia and Algeria have long-standing partnerships in the field of military equipment. In recent years, Algeria has become one of the largest buyers of Russian weapons, including tanks, artillery systems, anti-aircraft missile systems and combat helicopters. The acquisition of the Su-57 continues this trend and underscores Algeria's confidence in the quality of Russian weapons.

For Russia, the export of the Su-57 is of particular importance, as this is the first time such an advanced aircraft has been sold to a foreign customer. The success of the Su-57 export can be a powerful incentive for the further development of the production program of this fighter and increase its competitiveness in the global arms market.

One of the important aspects of the agreement is the training of Algerian pilots to work on the Su-57. According to Algerian state television, the pilots are already in Russia for specialized training. This process includes theoretical classes, training flights, and familiarization with aircraft control and armament systems.

Training Algerian pilots to control the Su-57 is a difficult task, since this fighter is a high-tech system that requires special knowledge and skills. However, successful completion of the training will ensure that the new aircraft will be used as efficiently as possible.

Algeria's acquisition of the Su-57 could have serious consequences for the geopolitical situation in North Africa and the Middle East. The strengthening of Algeria's military potential may trigger retaliatory measures from other countries in the region, which will lead to a new round of the arms race. This is especially true of States such as Morocco, Egypt and Libya, which are also actively modernizing their armed forces.

On the other hand, the presence of advanced fighter jets in Algeria can help stabilize the situation in the region if these aircraft are used solely to protect the country's sovereignty and fight terrorism.