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.

North Korea introduces an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

 

Kim Jong-un inspects an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

In May 2025, North Korea demonstrated a new version of its Cheonma-2 main battle tank, which features significant improvements in protection systems, turret design, and optical equipment. These changes underscore Pyongyang's desire to modernize its armed forces and increase the combat capability of its tank units.

Key Cheonma-2 Improvements

The new version of the tank demonstrates a number of important updates that make it more effective on the battlefield.:

1. Advanced protection systems: The tank has received reinforced armor and possibly dynamic protection, which significantly increases its survivability in a collision with modern anti-tank weapons. 

2. Upgraded Turret Design: The new turret shape not only improves aerodynamics, but also increases crew protection. It is also equipped with additional modules to accommodate the equipment.

3. Updated optics and sighting systems: The installation of modern optical and thermal imaging systems allows the crew to more effectively detect targets in any conditions, including at night.

These improvements build on the experience of the previous version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, which has already shown significant progress in firepower and protection.

Comparison with the original 2020 version

The original version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, was focused on increasing firepower and survivability. She received a more powerful cannon capable of hitting modern enemy tanks, as well as improved active defense systems. However, the new version of 2025 goes even further, offering comprehensive solutions to adapt to modern combat conditions.

Significance for the DPRK Armed Forces

The Cheonma-2 remains a key element of North Korea's tank fleet. Its modernization shows that Pyongyang continues to invest in the development of its ground forces, despite economic sanctions and international pressure. Improving the characteristics of the tank is aimed at increasing its competitiveness in comparison with its South Korean and American counterparts.

The improved Cheonma-2 can be used in both defensive and offensive operations. Due to its improved performance, it is able to effectively counter modern threats, including high-precision anti-tank missiles and aircraft. This makes it an important component of North Korea's deterrence strategy.

Unveiled in May 2025, the Cheonma-2 tank version demonstrates North Korea's serious steps to modernize its armed forces. Improvements in security systems, tower construction, and optics underscore Pyongyang's desire to maintain its military might. However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of further escalation of tensions.

The US Army has completed the evaluation of the new XM30 combat vehicle

 The U.S. Army's Next—Generation Inter-Functional Combat Vehicle Group has completed a key Soldier Meeting (STP) involving the XM30 Combat Mechanized Infantry vehicle. Soldier Touchpoints are direct assessment events where military personnel work and evaluate new platforms to provide early feedback. The approach is designed to ensure that new systems are formed based on the operational experience and needs of the troops who will eventually use them. The XM30, formerly known as the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle, is being developed as a replacement for the M2 Bradley. Designed to enhance survivability, lethality, and digital integration, the XM30 is central to the army's broader modernization efforts aimed at next-generation armored formations.

XM30

Patria unveils ARVE: The first Finnish wheeled 155 mm self-propelled howitzer

 

Patria presented its latest development, the ARVE wheeled 155 mm self—propelled howitzer, during the Arctic event, which took place in Rovaniemi, Finland, from March 17th to 19th. This prototype is part of the company's broader efforts to expand Finland's artillery capabilities and demonstrates significant progress in military technology.

The ARVE is Finland's first wheeled 155 mm self-propelled howitzer, which integrates the 155 mm 155K98 howitzer onto the chassis of the SISU E13TP 8x8 truck. This combination ensures high mobility and survivability in a variety of operational environments, making it an ideal choice for modern artillery missions.

One of the key features of ARVE is its high mobility. Using the chassis of the SISU E13TP 8x8 truck allows the howitzer to quickly move around the battlefield and occupy advantageous positions. This is especially important in conditions requiring rapid response and redeployment. In addition, the improved survival rate of the howitzer ensures its effective operation even in difficult conditions.

The Arctic event in Rovaniemi has become an ideal platform to showcase ARVE's capabilities. During the event, various tests and demonstrations were carried out, which confirmed the high efficiency and reliability of the new howitzer. The participants of the event were able to assess the advantages of ARVE and its potential to strengthen Finland's artillery capabilities.

In addition to ARVE, another prototype was presented at the event, as well as a review of Patria defensive systems. Special attention was paid to subarctic operational conditions, which underlines the importance of adapting military equipment to extreme climatic conditions. Patria continues to develop its defensive systems, striving to ensure high efficiency and reliability in all conditions.