Summary: Iran's recent attack on Israel, involving 300 drones and missiles, represents a strategy termed "kinetic diplomacy," where military actions serve symbolic rather than tactical roles. Despite fears of escalating into World War III, the attack had limited strategic impact, with over 99% of the projectiles intercepted. This event, like others in the modern era, underscores the importance of nuanced media consumption and understanding geopolitical tactics. Kinetic diplomacy aims to demonstrate... Читать дальше...
Summary: The Soviet-era Yankee class was a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine introduced in the 1960s, designed to rival the West's Polaris submarines. Armed with 16 SLBMs and torpedoes, the Yankee was quieter and more streamlined than its predecessors. Operating until 1995, it was a key part of Soviet nuclear deterrence. However, the class is notably remembered for the K-219 tragedy in 1986. Suffering a missile tube seal failure near Bermuda, which led to a catastrophic explosion, the... Читать дальше...
Summary: The Oscar-class submarine, a Soviet-era nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine, first entered service in 1980. Originally designed to target NATO aircraft carriers with P-700 Granit missiles, this class includes the Oscar I and the more advanced Oscar II. The Oscar II is longer, featuring enhanced electronics and quieter propulsion. Only two Oscars remain active today. Despite their age, plans for modernization were announced in 2011, with upgrades including replacement of the Granit missiles with newer Kalibr or Oniks missiles. Читать дальше...
Summary: Over the weekend, Iran escalated tensions by launching over 300 drones and missiles at Israel. Despite the successful interception of most projectiles by Israel’s defense systems, several missiles hit the Nevatim Airbase, targeting the F-35I Adir fighters, known for their advanced capabilities. These aircraft, crucial in maintaining Israeli air superiority, have been instrumental against Iranian threats previously, including intercepting UAVs aimed at Israel. The F-35I Adir’s unique features... Читать дальше...
Summary: Iran's recent direct missile and drone attack on Israel marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, showcasing Tehran's growing missile capabilities and willingness to engage openly rather than through proxies. The barrage targeted the Nevatim airbase, a strategic site housing Israel's F-35I jets, although Israel's defense systems, notably the Arrow, managed to intercept most of the threats. This incident highlights Iran's continued development and expansion of its missile arsenal... Читать дальше...
Summary: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports the lifetime cost of the F-35 Lightning II is now projected to exceed $2 trillion, a rise attributed to inflation and extended service expectations through 2088. The fifth-generation stealth aircraft, with an acquisition cost of $442 billion, is facing increased sustainment costs and reduced flight hours due to high operational expenses. Despite its advanced capabilities, the F-35’s operational affordability remains a challenge, with... Читать дальше...
Summary: The vulnerability of U.S. Navy nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to "carrier killer" missiles developed by China and Russia raises concerns about safety, environmental risks, and the potential for catastrophic damage. Despite the Navy's assurances of robust safety features in their reactors, the unpredictable outcomes of a successful missile strike create significant uncertainties. The reactors are designed to withstand extreme conditions, but the real-world implications of a direct hit remain unknown. Читать дальше...
Any serious observer of the Middle East knows that, long before Hamas’ October 7 terror campaign and the resulting military offensive in the Gaza Strip, Israel was already embroiled in an undeclared war with another regional actor: the Islamic Republic of Iran. Jerusalem and Tehran have been waging a clandestine conflict throughout the region for decades. Over the years, that “shadow war” has entailed a great many things, from covert action to cyberattacks to targeted military strikes. But until now... Читать дальше...
