More from Ryan Robertson
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US Navy shot down its own jet in ongoing Red Sea conflict
The U.S. Navy says two of its aviators were shot down over the Red Sea by friendly fire. It happened on Dec. 22, while U.S. forces were conducting airstrikes on the Houthis in Yemen. Both of the aviators are recovering after they ejected from their two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet. The Navy said one suffered minor… -
Pakistan’s long-range missile plans raise alarm in Washington
The Biden administration has raised concerns about Pakistan’s development of long-range ballistic missiles, warning that the program could eventually create a capability to strike the United States. Officials released intelligence about the program and imposed sanctions on entities linked to it, citing failed diplomatic efforts to address the issue. Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer… -
78% of Americans believe government is withholding drone details
A recent CBS News/YouGov poll reveals that 78% of Americans believe the government is withholding information about the recent surge in drone sightings along the U.S. East Coast. About half of respondents view the drones as a potential national security threat, with concerns heightened among those suspecting foreign involvement. According to federal agencies, residents have… -
Biden admin to announce final Ukraine military aid package worth $1.2B: Report
The Biden administration is expected to announce its final Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package worth $1.2 billion, according to an exclusive report from Reuters on Friday, Dec. 20. The aid will reportedly feature air defense receptors and artillery munitions. Reuters reports the equipment will come via the USAI program, which means the weapons will… -
Finland to open 300 shooting ranges as national defense interest grows
Finland plans to build more than 300 new shooting ranges by 2030 as part of its efforts to strengthen national defense. The government announced the initiative in February 2024, citing increased interest in defense preparedness following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Finland’s NATO membership, formalized in April 2023. Finland currently has 670 civilian shooting ranges,… -
South Korea and Ukraine join laser weapons club
Let loose the lasers. After some fairly rapid development, both South Korea and Ukraine recently announced their militaries were deploying lasers to active duty units. South Korea In South Korea, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration said a system called Cheongwang, or Skylight in Korean, is now deployed with front-line units in Seoul. Made by Hanwha,… -
Corruption scandal halts China’s military modernization: Pentagon
China’s ambitious goal to modernize its military by 2027, as directed by President Xi Jinping, is encountering significant challenges, including widespread corruption within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), according to a new Pentagon report. Between July and December 2023, at least 15 senior Chinese military officials and defense industry executives were removed from their positions.… -
US releases Guantanamo Bay detainees as government works to close facility
The Department of Defense has released three detainees from Guantanamo Bay, a U.S. military prison in Cuba, after they spent several years in confinement. One is headed to Kenya while the other two will serve more time in a Malaysian prison for their roles in suspected terrorist attacks. The two played a part in deadly… -
Billions in Ukraine aid uncertain as US leadership changes hands
The Biden administration is nearing the end of its term and faces a tight timeline to use the remaining $5.6 billion in military aid allocated for Ukraine. According to senior Defense Department officials, it is unlikely all the funds can be utilized to deliver munitions and other supplies to the battlefield before President-elect Donald Trump… -
New weapon system aims to make every shot count: Weapon of the Week
Historians often credit Col. William Prescott with the famous command, “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes.” He supposedly gave the advice to British troops marching on Bunker Hill. However, whether he actually said it is subject to debate among historians. What’s not up for debate is the phrase’s intention, make your… -
The new submersible redefining the US Navy’s operations: Weapons and Warfare
This week on Weapons and Warfare, host Ryan Robertson explores the U.S. Navy’s use of Boeing’s Extra Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV), the Orca. See how this autonomous submersible enhances naval strategies with reconnaissance, surveillance and strike capabilities. As global tensions rise, learn how the Orca could redefine naval engagements. Tune in for an insightful… -
Boeing’s Orca, the next evolution in submarine warfare?
Submarines have long been iconic elements of advanced naval fleets, and have also made their mark on the big screen. From “The Hunt for Red October” to “Crimson Tide” and even the ill-fated “Down Periscope,” submarines have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. While Hollywood can play at high stakes on the high seas, real-world… -
Russia ‘burning the faces’ of dead soldiers from North Korea: Kyiv
Ukraine has accused the Kremlin and its soldiers of plenty of heinous acts throughout the war. The latest accusation involving soldiers from both Russia and North Korea may even rank up with the Bucha massacre if proven true. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted a video on X captured by a Ukrainian drone. The video appears…