China Threat Prompts Japan To Prepone Acquisition Of US Tomahawk & Type-12 Anti-Ship Missiles By 1 Year, Eurasian News reports

 Japan's Ministry of Defense (MoD) has accelerated the deployment of the upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile (SSM) from 2026 to 2025 to fortify its standoff defense capabilities amid rising military threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. The MoD signed a contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for the development and mass production of enhanced Type 12 SSMs, allocating JPY33.8 billion (US$235 million) in the 2023 budget. The total research and development cost is estimated at JPY150 billion. The extended-range Type 12 SSM, with a planned range of at least 900 kilometers, will feature a reduced radar cross-section for stealthiness.

Japan aims to have hypersonic standoff missiles in service within a decade and considers standoff missiles and drones crucial for its future defense. The decision to expedite the missile deployment aligns with Japan's National Defense Strategy, addressing the growing threats and geopolitical challenges posed by North Korea, China, and Russia. Additionally, the US has approved the sale of 400 advanced Tomahawk missiles and air-to-air missiles to Japan, reinforcing its deterrent capabilities and enhancing its counterstrike capabilities. The missiles will be deployed on Japan's F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, F-15J Eagles, and F-15DJ Eagles, as part of Tokyo's ongoing military modernization efforts to strengthen its defense against potential invasion and address evolving security concerns.

Here is the link to the original article:

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/china-threat-prompts-japan-to-prepone-acquisition-of/

Russia Added 1500 MBTs To Fight NATO-Backed Ukraine; Tu-160M, IFVs, Subs Also Delivered – Shoigu, Eurasian Times reports

 Amid the Ukraine conflict, Russia has strengthened its military capabilities, delivering 1,530 new and upgraded tanks to the Ground Forces in 2023, partially compensating for the loss of 2,200 tanks since the invasion. The T-90M Proryv main battle tanks, known for survivability, were supplied to offset these losses. In contrast, Ukraine claims to have destroyed over 5,000 Russian tanks during the invasion.

Russia also reinforced its naval forces, adding the nuclear submarine Imperator Aleksandr III and a Borei A-class vessel equipped with Bulava missiles. The Russian Navy received four modern submarines and eight surface ships in the past year.

Aerial capabilities were enhanced with 237 aircraft and helicopters, 86 anti-aircraft weaponry units, and 67 radar sites for the Aerospace Forces. Notably, four Tu-160M strategic bombers were almost fully delivered to the strategic nuclear forces, coinciding with President Vladimir Putin's claim that 95% of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces are equipped with new weapons. The Tu-160M, actively used in the conflict, signifies heightened nuclear posturing. In response, NATO has strengthened its nuclear forces near Russia. These developments underscore escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

Here is the link to the original article:

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/russia-added-1500-mbts-to-fight-nato-backed-ukraine/

Czech Republic wants to piggyback on German Leopard 2A8 tank buy, Defense News reports

 Czech Defence Minister Jana Černochová has revealed plans for joint negotiations with Germany to acquire Leopard 2A8 tanks, enhancing the procurement process in terms of pricing and delivery time. The collaboration is expected to yield clearer outcomes in the coming year. Previously, the Czech Republic donated T-72 tanks to Ukraine in 2022 and engaged in Berlin's "Ringtausch" program, receiving Leopard 2A4s to maintain combat capabilities. Negotiations for the purchase of up to 77 Leopard 2A8 tanks have been ongoing since July. Additionally, Černochová outlined military acquisition priorities, including the intention to finalize a deal for two C-390 Millennium aircraft from Embraer in 2024 and the imminent conclusion of a contract for 24 F-35s for the Czech Air Force within weeks. These procurement initiatives signify the Czech Republic's commitment to modernizing its military capabilities through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

Here is the link to the original article:

https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/12/20/czech-republic-wants-to-piggyback-on-german-leopard-2a8-tank-buy/

US Army to field new rifle, machine gun and optic in 2024, Defense News Reports

 The Army's latest rifle and automatic rifle, designated XM7 and XM250, are undergoing soldier testing and are set to be officially deployed to their first unit in 2024. Delivered to a platoon in the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, in September, the weapons and their advanced optic, the XM157 fire control, underwent user tests over subsequent months. The XM7 is designed to replace the M4 for close combat units, while the XM250 is set to replace the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon. Both new weapons and optics are expected to be fielded without the "X" designation by the second quarter of fiscal year 2024. These advancements involve a transition from the 5.56mm round to the recently developed 6.8mm cartridge, aiming to enhance accuracy, lethality at longer ranges, and the ability to penetrate enemy body armor and barriers effectively. Developed by Sig Sauer under a 10-year contract with a ceiling value of $4.5 billion, the weapons also incorporate the Vortex Optics/Sheltered Wings XM157 fire control, offering computer-aided ballistics for improved accuracy and rapid fire adjustment. The Marine Corps is closely monitoring the Army's development and fielding of these weapons.

Here is the link to the original article:

https://www.defensenews.com/news/your-army/2023/12/20/army-to-field-new-rifle-machine-gun-and-optic-in-2024/