Yak-130M light combat jet.

Russian Yak-130M light combat aircraft is attracting increasing interest

Russia’s state arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, reports a consistent demand for its upgraded Yak-130M light combat jet and trainer, with current market interest estimated at approximately 40 units. Alexander Mikheev, the Director General of Rosoboronexport, indicated that potential buyers from the Asia-Pacific region and Africa have expressed interest in this aircraft. Mikheev emphasized that the Yak-130M is tailored for combat operations in low-intensity conflicts, providing an … Continue reading Russian Yak-130M light combat aircraft is attracting increasing interest

China has charged Australia with intentional provocation in the South China Sea

China accused Australia on Friday of intentionally provoking tensions with a maritime patrol in the contested South China Sea earlier this week, claiming that Australia was disseminating “false narratives.” In contrast, Australia asserted that its actions were in compliance with international law. The incident involved a statement from Australia’s defense minister, who reported that a Chinese PLA J-16 jet released flares within 30 meters (100 … Continue reading China has charged Australia with intentional provocation in the South China Sea

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters before signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, while flying over the gulf aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl.

Trump is set to declare a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum as part of the latest escalation in trade tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday his intention to implement new tariffs of 25% on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States, in addition to the existing duties on metals, marking a significant escalation in his trade policy reforms. While en route to the NFL Super Bowl in New Orleans, Trump addressed reporters aboard Air Force One, stating that he would unveil … Continue reading Trump is set to declare a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum as part of the latest escalation in trade tensions

The ASEAN flag is placed alongside the flags of its member countries ahead of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Langkawi, Malaysia.

Malaysia takes the lead in ASEAN while balancing expectations regarding Myanmar and the South China Sea

Southeast Asian foreign ministers convened for a private retreat in Malaysia on Sunday, marking the country’s inaugural meeting as the chair of the ASEAN regional bloc. This gathering occurs against the backdrop of a worsening civil conflict in Myanmar and ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. As Malaysia assumes the rotating chairmanship of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the bloc faces challenges … Continue reading Malaysia takes the lead in ASEAN while balancing expectations regarding Myanmar and the South China Sea

Philippines urges ASEAN and China to address complex issues regarding the South China Sea code

The ASEAN regional bloc and China need to make progress on the long-standing code of conduct for the South China Sea by addressing critical “milestone issues,” such as its scope and the potential for it to be legally binding, according to the Philippines‘ foreign minister on Saturday. The South China Sea continues to be a point of contention between China and its neighboring countries, including … Continue reading Philippines urges ASEAN and China to address complex issues regarding the South China Sea code

Type 076 amphibious assault ship, China

China’s introduction of a ‘monster ship’ raises concerns, according to a Philippines security official

The Philippines expressed concern over the presence of China‘s largest coast guard vessel within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), viewing it as a troubling act intended to intimidate local fishermen near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea. “We were taken aback by the escalating aggression displayed by the People’s Republic of China with the deployment of this massive ship,” stated Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson … Continue reading China’s introduction of a ‘monster ship’ raises concerns, according to a Philippines security official

Indonesia remains committed to pursuing BRICS membership despite potential tariff threats from Trump

Indonesia is proceeding with cautious determination to join BRICS, despite a warning from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump regarding potential tariff increases on members of the Russia- and China-led coalition if it continues to pursue its aim of creating an alternative to the U.S. dollar in global trade. During a parliamentary meeting this month with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, lawmakers voiced their apprehensions about Trump’s threats. … Continue reading Indonesia remains committed to pursuing BRICS membership despite potential tariff threats from Trump

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping attend a family photo opportunity by heads of the delegations at the 16th BRICS summit in Kazan

Russia and China are deepening their relationship. What does this mean for India?

Russia and China, two vast neighboring nations occupying the largest expanse of land in Asia, share a multifaceted historical relationship marked by both competition and practical collaboration. Since the conclusion of World War II, their relationship has fluctuated significantly, heavily influenced by external factors. In response to the West’s coercive tactics—such as urging Russia to launch a military operation in Ukraine—Moscow has increasingly found common … Continue reading Russia and China are deepening their relationship. What does this mean for India?

Philippine supply boat sails during a resupply mission for Filipino troops stationed at a grounded warship in the South China Sea

Philippines claims China is pressuring it to give up its territorial claims in the South China Sea

China is intensifying its efforts to pressure the Philippines into relinquishing its sovereign rights in the South China Sea, stated Manila’s Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on Tuesday following discussions with his Australian counterpart in Canberra. This meeting marks the fifth since August 2023 and underscores the strengthening security collaboration between the two nations, both of which have expressed concerns regarding Chinese activities in regions of … Continue reading Philippines claims China is pressuring it to give up its territorial claims in the South China Sea

Myanmar's junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing presides over an army parade on Armed Forces Day in Naypyitaw, Myanmar.

Myanmar’s military leader will make his first visit to China since taking power

Myanmar’s junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, is set to visit China this week to participate in regional summits, as reported by state media on Monday. This marks his first trip to the significant neighboring country since he took control following a coup in 2021. Since the coup, Myanmar has experienced significant turmoil, particularly in regions bordering China, where an armed resistance movement has allied with … Continue reading Myanmar’s military leader will make his first visit to China since taking power