us military commander

A top us military commander met Cuban military officials near Guantanamo Bay, a rare high-level engagement amid escalating US pressure on Cuba. The meeting occurred as the Trump administration intensified sanctions and rhetoric, despite ongoing, albeit limited, diplomatic contacts. A new contingent of US sailors and Marines is also deploying to the Caribbean.

In a bold move against drug trafficking, US military forces have launched a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of transporting narcotics in the eastern Pacific, leading to the demise of several individuals involved. This operation underscores a renewed effort to dismantle Latin American drug cartels and halt the relentless influx of illegal drugs into the United States.

Iranian media said the drone was detected while attempting to carry out hostile operations and was subsequently shot down by the country's air defence systems. The claim comes days after the IRGC declared that it retained the "legitimate and definite" right to respond to any violation of the ceasefire by the United States. On Tuesday, the force also announced that its air defence units had downed a US MQ-9 drone.

Tensions in West Asia surged as Iran's IRGC claimed to target a US military base, while Washington announced fresh strikes on Iranian radar and command-and-control sites. Kuwait's air defense systems also responded to drone and missile attacks amid ongoing exchanges and diplomatic efforts.

Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (Retd) assumed charge as India's Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding Gen Anil Chauhan. He pledged to drive military modernization through innovation, collaboration, and greater integration across sectors, emphasizing the welfare of soldiers and national security.

Embracing the forefront of military technology, the Indian Army has introduced 'Kautilya' and 'Q-FORCE', innovative digital frameworks poised to revolutionize decision-making and logistical efficiency. By leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, these systems are set to improve battlefield dynamics significantly.

The US warned of renewed military action against Iran if necessary, with President Trump demanding a permanent end to Tehran's nuclear ambitions. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts and a fragile ceasefire, tensions remain high, exacerbated by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and continued fighting in Lebanon.

An Iranian missile struck Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait. The attack damaged two US MQ-9 Reaper drones, with one destroyed and another severely damaged. Several American personnel sustained minor injuries. Kuwaiti air defenses intercepted the missile, but debris fell onto the base.

The US is making a massive investment in autonomous warfare, requesting $54.6 billion for its new Defence Autonomous Warfare Group (DAWG). This initiative aims to counter the growing threat of drone swarms, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine and the US-Iran tensions. The focus is shifting towards affordability and mass production to maintain a credible defence.

According to images examined by Reuters, China has built more than 80 launch pads along with three large octagon-shaped facilities near the Hami nuclear missile silo field in the country's north-west. The launch pads could be used by mobile missile launchers and air-defence systems, while the larger facilities may support communications, electronic warfare and military command functions, according to security analysts who reviewed the imagery.

In a dramatic turn of events, Kuwait's air defense forces successfully neutralized incoming missile and drone threats, reflecting the heightened tensions between the US and Iran. This incident unfolds in the wake of Iran's announcement about attacking a US airbase, a reaction to previous American strikes near Bandar Abbas where four Iranian drones met their demise.

Africa's premier military drill, African Lion 26, illustrated the revolutionary role of artificial intelligence in joint operations. Across the landscapes of four nations, 5,600 troops from 40 different countries experienced AI-powered technologies that streamlined real-time surveillance and facilitated seamless communication.

Oil prices fluctuated as US-Iran talks showed signs of progress, clashing with US military strikes on Iranian missile sites and vessels. Hopes for the Strait of Hormuz reopening were dampened by fresh clashes, adding to market uncertainty after a major energy shock.

An IRGC-trained operative, allegedly seeking revenge for Qasem Soleimani's death, was arrested in Turkey and extradited to the US. Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi is accused of plotting to assassinate Ivanka Trump, even possessing a blueprint of her Florida home. He reportedly made threats against Americans online.

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) launched fresh waves of airstrikes across Lebanon, hitting more than 70 Hezbollah infrastructure sites, using around 85 munitions

A significant $14 billion arms package for Taiwan has been put on hold by the US Navy, prioritizing munitions for operations against Iran. This decision sparks concerns about wavering US resolve amid escalating Chinese pressure. The pause, while attributed to operational needs, raises doubts for Taiwan about American support, especially with China's 2027 invasion readiness warnings.

Questions are mounting over Supreme Leader Khamenei's direct involvement in Iran's ongoing US negotiations, with reports citing "serious ambiguities" about coordination. This uncertainty follows trips by Iranian officials and a reluctance to hold talks in Tehran or Pakistan, fueling speculation about who is directing the diplomatic process amid heightened Gulf tensions and ongoing clashes.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's India visit highlights a deepening defence partnership, now a comprehensive strategic alliance in the Indo-Pacific. Discussions focused on sustained progress and regional security. India is a vital US partner, with cooperation in security, trade, and technology central to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Key agreements and joint exercises are enhancing interoperability and information sharing.

A recent Iran conflict has significantly depleted US high-end missile stockpiles, raising alarms in Washington. Critical systems like Tomahawks and Patriots may take years to replenish, creating a 'window of vulnerability' amid rising tensions with China. Production bottlenecks and allied demands complicate rebuilding efforts, impacting future defense readiness.