Profile: Gen Asim Munir, Pakistan’s new army chief
Lt Gen Munir is an outstanding officer, but it was earlier believed he would remain the proverbial dark horse in the race for the army chief’s position.
Defence & Security
Indonesia military chief seeks drills to counter China
General Andika Perkasa said that he wanted closer ties with countries such as Brunei and Malaysia that have disputes with Beijing over its claim to the South China Sea.
Japan to increase defence spending to 2% of current GDP target
This is the first time Kishida has specified a concrete target for increasing defence spending.
Nobel Peace laureate calls for weapons to free Ukraine
Oleksandra Matviichuk said international law – her usual weapon for defending human rights – was no longer effective.
Japan’s satellite constellation to be launched in line with counterattack capabilities
The network will be able to frequently observe a specific point, enabling it to closely monitor the movements of opposing forces, such as vehicles and naval vessels equipped with…
Asean-Plus defence ministers agree to improve defence collaboration
The ministers also agreed to maintain the importance of putting in place practical confidence-building measures that could reduce tensions.
LDP forces push defence spending request higher despite Finance Ministry concerns
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has not come to the forefront of the debate despite being the head of the Liberal Democratic Party.
Japan seeks over US$287 billion for next 5-year defence plan
Though Japan is not a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, the figure would put Tokyo on par with the NATO guidelines for its members.
Canada launches new Indo-Pacific strategy, focus on ‘disruptive’ China
The 26-page document outlined a C$2.6 billion (US$1.9 billion) spending that will include boosting Canada’s military presence and cyber security in the region.
India to build tunnels across four high passes in Ladakh
Officials said the move is to protect glaciers and enhance connectivity during snow for the military and civilians, in the region.