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13 Nov 23. Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. In 1953 the United States and Republic of Korea (ROK) signed the Mutual Defense Treaty pledging to promote peace, defend against external threats, and strengthen collective defense in the Pacific region. Seventy years later, the U.S.-ROK Alliance now stands as one of the world’s premier alliances. Its presence is a staple for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region and a stalwart protector of international norms. In recognition of the changing security environment, the Alliance must adopt a forward-looking posture that is responsive to its foundational and most pressing threat — the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) — while also contributing to the security of the region and the world.
The Alliance has successfully deterred conflict on the Korean Peninsula for 70 years. The United States continues to demonstrate its extended deterrence commitment starting with the 28,500 U.S. service personnel stationed in the ROK and appreciates ROK contributions to support the stable stationing of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). Together, the Alliance stands ready to “fight tonight” alongside the United Nations Command, which stands firm in its pledge to demonstrate international solidarity in defense of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The weight of this commitment safeguards the safety and security of the American and Korean people from adversarial attempts to undermine peace in the region.
Our Alliance is now broadening in scale and scope. Looking forward, the United States and the ROK will continue to withstand the strains of broader geopolitical dynamics, protect democratic values, and uphold the rules-based order. Together, the Alliance will proactively seek out an agenda for cooperation to shape discussions and activities in the region and around the globe in line with our common values and goals. We will also maintain a shared commitment to the security and growing prosperity of countries in the region as we pursue our primary objectives of maintaining a stable and peaceful Korean Peninsula and advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
In commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin affirm this vision will address the Alliance’s most pressing defense priorities and establish a shared security outlook ahead of its centennial in the decades to come. The Defense Vision seeks to build on the momentum of the 2023 Washington Declaration and Camp David Summit to outline a transformational way forward for the security and defense of the two countries.
First, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin reaffirm the importance of deterring strategic attacks and aggression from hostile actors in the region, including the DPRK, through continued extended deterrence efforts. To this end, the United States commits to uphold its ironclad extended deterrence commitment as set out by the Washington Declaration. This includes close consultations by way of bilateral deterrence dialogues such as the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) and the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG). The Alliance intends to work to enable joint execution and planning for ROK conventional support to U.S. nuclear operations in a contingency to enhance the integrity of deterrence capabilities against the DPRK. The revised Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS) should inform the Alliance’s mutual approach to deterrence and provide a stronger and more flexible strategic framework to deter the DPRK. The Alliance also intends to increase the scale and scope of combined exercises and training, including combined joint live-fire exercises, to demonstrate combined defense capabilities and readiness.
Second, the United States and the ROK are determined to modernize capabilities to strengthen the combined defense architecture of the Alliance. This includes supporting ROK efforts to increase its defense capabilities for the systematic and stable transition of operational control (OPCON), thus strengthening the Alliance combined defense. Through existing bilateral dialogues, our two nations resolve to optimize defense industrial cooperation and supply chain resiliency to not only achieve interoperability and interchangeability of defense systems, but also bolster economic security in the region. The Alliance intends to continue to upgrade missile response capabilities by reinforcing the ROK 3K Defense, which enhances our combined abilities to effectively deter and respond to DPRK missile threats, and utilize consultative mechanisms such as the Counter Missile Working Group (CMWG) to maintain close bilateral consultations on missile defense. In addition to maintaining close space and cyber cooperation, the United States and the ROK also seek to expand science and technology collaboration by leveraging the U.S. and ROK positions as high-end security partners to bring cutting-edge technologies to the warfighter.
Finally, the United States supports the ROK vision to increase its contributions to the Indo-Pacific as a Global Pivotal State. As such, the Alliance seeks to play a more active role in contributing to regional security, including by bolstering defense cooperation with Southeast Asia and Pacific Island Countries to cultivate a well-networked region, which is critical to protect the values of freedom, peace, and prosperity. The United States and the ROK intend to hold close consultations to reflect synergies in each nation’s respective Indo-Pacific strategies and identify lines of effort through consultative bodies such as the Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG). Secretary Austin and Minister Shin also recognize the importance of increasing trilateral security cooperation with Japan as stated in the Camp David Principles, which will preserve stability and defend against threats in the region.
To more effectively advance these three strategic priorities, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin seek to restructure existing bilateral Alliance dialogue mechanisms to ensure that the Alliance is well-postured for the future.
Our vision is that of a peaceful Korean Peninsula and a free and open Indo-Pacific region in which the United States and the ROK stand together at the forefront of tackling the most significant and consequential security challenges. Allies are a critical part of promoting democracy, maintaining a rules-based order, and mitigating threats posed by adversaries. Working in concert with and through our allies and partners based on the U.S.-ROK Alliance has a compounding effect.
By identifying our priorities and aligning our respective defense strategies, the U.S.-ROK Alliance commits to capitalize on synergies and operate across the region with greater bilateral and multilateral political-military alignment to realize this vision of a true global comprehensive strategic Alliance and a lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula. (Source: U.S. DoD)
13 Nov 23. 55th Security Consultative Meeting Joint Communique.
1. The 55th United States (U.S.)-Republic of Korea (ROK) Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) was held in Seoul, ROK, on November 13, 2023. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and ROK Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik led their respective delegations, which included senior defense and foreign affairs officials. On November 12, 2023, the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Q. Brown Jr., and ROK Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Kim Seung-Kyum, presided over the 48th ROK-U.S. Military Committee Meeting (MCM).
2. The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that the U.S.-ROK Alliance is the linchpin of peace, stability, and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and beyond based on our shared values including freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. Both sides assessed that these shared values have underpinned the Alliance for the past 70 years and contributed to its position as one of the most dynamic and premier alliances in the world. In particular, the two leaders reaffirmed the shared vision of “developing into a global comprehensive strategic Alliance” as stated in the historic April 2023 “Joint Statement in Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea,” which was adopted by the presidents of the two countries. They emphasized that the Alliance will jointly respond to threats and challenges by promoting wide-ranging cooperation, deepening regional engagement, and expanding our strong bilateral relations. They highlighted the various exercises and events planned and organized by the two defense ministries on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Alliance, including the Combined Joint Live-Fire Exercise, Combined Amphibious Operation, and Incheon Amphibious Landing Operations Commemoration Ceremony. Both sides assessed that these exercises demonstrate the progress in our combined defense posture and Alliance coordination on the Korean Peninsula.
In commemoration of the 55th SCM during the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance, the two leaders endorsed the “Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance” as a blueprint for the future in preparation for the Alliance’s 100th anniversary. Through the announcement of the Defense Vision, the two sides presented three key pillars of Alliance cooperation for the next 30 years: enhancing extended deterrence efforts against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), modernizing Alliance capabilities by evolving into a science and technology alliance, and strengthening solidarity and regional security cooperation with like-minded partners.
The Secretary and the Minister assessed that the current U.S.-ROK Alliance is stronger than ever and reaffirmed the two nations’ unwavering mutual commitment to a combined defense posture as stated in the U.S-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty to defend the ROK, and as reflected in the Washington Declaration. The two leaders also resolved to continue to strengthen the Alliances’ deterrence and response posture against DPRK aggression and promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.
The Secretary and the Minister noted that the SCM plays a pivotal role in the continued development of the U.S.-ROK Alliance as the main venue to discuss and affirm Alliance commitments and issues, as well as provide strategic guidance to the combined force. Both sides pledged to continue to develop the Alliance into a deeper and globally comprehensive strategic relationship based on the SCM.
3. The Secretary and the Minister reviewed the current security environment in and around the Korean Peninsula and discussed cooperative measures between the two nations. The Minister expressed grave concern that the DPRK has recently diversified its nuclear delivery systems and publicly reiterated its refusal to abandon nuclear weapons and to advance nuclear capabilities by adding its nuclear force policy to its constitution last September. The two sides condemned the DPRK’s multiple missile launches, including ballistic missiles, its attempted launch of a DPRK-claimed “Space Launch Vehicle,” and Russian-DPRK arms trade as clear violations of existing UN Security Council Resolutions. They noted that these actions present profound security challenges to the international community and pose an increasingly serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as around the world. Both leaders called on the international community to hold DPRK accountable for its actions. Secretary Austin reiterated the firm U.S. commitment to provide extended deterrence to the ROK, utilizing the full range of U.S. defense capabilities, including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities. He noted that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime in line with the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review declaratory policy. They applauded the growing cooperation in our extended deterrence activities, including information sharing, enhancing our consultation mechanisms, joint planning and execution, as well as regularizing strategic asset deployments based on the Washington Declaration. The two sides also pledged to strengthen the combined defense architecture and accelerate expanding the ROK-side role in preparation against DPRK’s nuclear and other WMD use and conventional threats.
The two leaders assessed bilateral mechanisms such as the U.S.-Korea Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD), the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG), and the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) serve to strengthen the Alliance combined deterrence posture. They pledged to continue close consultation through these mechanisms to identify means to further strengthen extended deterrence. The two leaders also agreed to continue to assess ways to synchronize and align U.S.-ROK bilateral defense mechanisms and engagements in support of Alliance objectives more effectively and efficiently.
The Secretary and the Minister endorsed the 2023 Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS), which was revised for the first time in ten years. They recognized that the 2023 TDS revisions render it into a flexible and robust document that serves as a strategic framework to effectively deter and respond to advancing DPRK nuclear and other WMD and non-nuclear capabilities with strategic impacts. Also, both leaders noted that the 2023 TDS reflects guidance on ways to leverage the full range of U.S. military capabilities, including U.S. nuclear capabilities and ROK conventional capabilities, in preparation against DPRK nuclear and other WMD attacks across armistice, crisis, and wartime. The two leaders agreed that the 2023 TDS will further strengthen Alliance posture and capabilities in preparation for any possible DPRK nuclear employment scenarios, as a document to inform our respective planners. The Secretary and the Minister applauded the successful DSC Table-top-exercise (TTX) held last February in Washington, D.C., which focused on a DPRK nuclear use scenario for the first time and pledged to hold simulations and TTXs regularly involving U.S. and ROK policy, government, and military personnel to continue the joint planning and coordination process. The two leaders assessed the work of the newly inaugurated NCG following the Washington Declaration and agreed that the NCG will serve a key role in developing combined defense posture as a bilateral consultative body to strengthen extended deterrence, discuss nuclear and strategic planning, and manage DPRK threats to the Alliance and to the nonproliferation regime posed by the DPRK. In particular, the Secretary and Minister recognized that the ROK and United States have been formulating the Alliance’s effective response measures in preparation of the DPRK’s nuclear use through the NCG of which work streams include joint execution and planning for ROK conventional support to U.S. nuclear operations in a contingency. In addition, both leaders noted they look forward to continued close coordination in the NCG and receiving regular updates on NCG progress activities at future SCMs.
4. The Secretary and the Minister agreed to pursue expanded cooperation of the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS) to enhance the Alliance’s detection capabilities against advanced DPRK missile threats. They also commended the work of the Counter-Missile Working Group (CMWG) and agreed to initiate a “Joint Study” to further develop the Alliance’s comprehensive counter-missile strategy. Further, they assessed the work of the Program Analysis Working Group for the U.S.-ROK Missile Defense (PAWG), which addresses evolving DPRK missile threats, and pledged to continue relevant cooperation.
5. To achieve the complete denuclearization of the DPRK, the two sides pledged to continue coordinating on efforts to deter DPRK’s nuclear threat with the Alliance’s overwhelming strength, while continuing to pursue efforts through sanctions and pressure to dissuade DPRK’s nuclear development, and pursue dialogue and diplomacy. In this regard, Secretary Austin expressed support for the ROK’s Audacious Initiative as well as the vision for a unified Korean Peninsula. The two sides pledged to continue coordinating on efforts to encourage the DPRK regime to move toward denuclearization.
Both leaders stressed the importance of the international community’s role in driving the complete denuclearization of the DPRK and emphasized full implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs) by the entire international community, including the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Russia, both permanent members of the UNSC. The two sides emphasized the need for the international community to actively impede and counter the DPRK’s reckless activities so that DPRK will choose to abandon its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile development. To this end, the two leaders agreed to work closely with each other and the international community to combat the DPRK’s malicious cyber activities, cryptocurrency theft, overseas laborer dispatches, and ship-to-ship transfers. The Secretary and the Minister concurred that the Armistice Agreement remains in effect as an international norm guaranteeing the stable security order on the Korean Peninsula, and that all parties of the Korean War should abide by it while it remains in force. Minister Shin further conveyed the ROK’s position that the Northern Limit Line (NLL) has been an effective means of separating ROK and DPRK military forces and preventing military tension. The two leaders reaffirmed that they would continue to closely cooperate in pursuit of these objectives, recognized diplomatic efforts as the most preferred path to secure peace on the Korean Peninsula, and concurred that such diplomatic efforts must be backed by a robust and credible combined defense posture by the two countries’ defense authorities.
6. The Secretary and the Minister also reflected on the critical role that U.S. forces in the ROK have played for more than 70 years and reaffirmed that U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) continues to play a decisive role in preventing armed conflict on the Korean Peninsula, and in promoting peace and stability in Northeast Asia.
Secretary Austin also noted that the Indo-Pacific region is the Department of Defense’s priority theater and reiterated the U.S. commitment to maintain current USFK force levels to defend the ROK. He highlighted the increased frequency and routinization of U.S. strategic asset deployments this year, including a U.S. SSBN’s visit to the ROK for the first time in more than 40 years, and two iterations of Carrier Strike Group deployments. The Secretary also reaffirmed that these strategic asset deployments are consistent with President Biden’s commitment to enhance rotational deployments of U.S. strategic assets in and around the Korean Peninsula, as tangible evidence of the U.S. commitment to defend the ROK. In addition, the two leaders reaffirmed the two defense authorities will work closely together to implement the commitment from the Washington Declaration that the United States will further enhance the regular visibility of strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula as well as expand and deepen coordination between their militaries.
Secretary Austin and Minister Shin reaffirmed the role of the United Nations Command (UNC) in implementing, managing, and enforcing the 1953 Armistice Agreement, deterring DPRK aggression, and coordinating multinational contributions to security on the Korean Peninsula. Both leaders shared a common understanding that UNC remains a model for international solidarity to enable peace, security, and stability on the Korean Peninsula. They reaffirmed that the UNC has successfully contributed those aims for over 70 years and will continue to carry out its mission and tasks with the utmost respect for ROK sovereignty. Both sides applauded the first “ROK-UNC Member States Defense Ministerial Meeting” to be held in Seoul this year on the 70th anniversary year of the Armistice Agreement. The Secretary and the Minister also expressed their expectation that this meeting will serve as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and solidarity between the ROK, as the host nation of the UNC, and UNC Member States moving forward. In this regard, the two leaders agreed to explore ways to expand combined exercises and enhance interoperability between the ROK and UNC Member States to increase UNC’s contributions to security on the Korean Peninsula, while seeking ways to support UNC in implementing the Armistice Agreement. To these ends, the two leaders agreed to seek to broaden UNC membership through the participation of like-minded countries that share the same values with the ROK and the United States, anchored in the principles and mandates of the UN Charter.
7. The Secretary and the Minister received and endorsed the MCM Report to the SCM presented by the U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command (CFC) Commander, General Paul J. LaCamera. Based on the report, they committed to enhance combined defense capabilities against DPRK threats, strengthen nuclear and WMD deterrence and response posture, conduct the systematic and stable transition of operational control (OPCON), develop relevant operation plans (OPLANs), and expand U.S.-ROK-Japan security cooperation. The two leaders also assessed that there was significant progress in effectively responding to a variety of security challenges following changes to the strategic environment.
8. The Secretary and Minister assessed that the Freedom Shield 23 (FS 23) and Ulchi Freedom Shield 23 (UFS 23) exercises contributed to bolstering combined readiness. In particular, the Alliance conducted UFS 23 under a realistic operational environment that reflected the DPRK’s advancing nuclear and missile threats as well as the possibility of a rapid transition to wartime conditions, significantly enhanced the Alliance’s crisis management and all-out war execution capabilities. The two sides also assessed that the combined field exercises performed in conjunction with FS and UFS exercises enhanced combined operation execution capabilities. Further, considering DPRK’s advancing nuclear and missile capabilities and institutionalization of its nuclear force policy, they pledged to further discuss the inclusion of a DPRK nuclear use during a future U.S.-ROK combined exercise. Both leaders pledged to work closely to expand the scale and types of field exercises in line with combined exercises in 2024, noting that training for defensive and deterrent purposes is a critical component of maintaining Alliance readiness. The two sides assessed that the U.S.-ROK Alliance must continue to focus on combat readiness and on the combined defense posture to address dynamic changes on the Korean Peninsula.
9. The Secretary and the Minister emphasized that ensuring stable training opportunities for USFK is critical to maintaining a strong combined defense posture. Secretary Austin noted the efforts of ROK MND to improve the training conditions for U.S. and South Korean troops and concurred on the importance of maintaining ongoing communication and close cooperation between USFK and MND to coordinate the joint use of ROK facilities and airspace for U.S. and ROK training.
10. After reviewing the progress on directed tasks from the Conditions-based Wartime OPCON Transition Plan (COTP), the two leaders discussed the way forward for wartime OPCON transition to the Future Combined Forces Command (F-CFC). The Secretary and the Minister also reaffirmed that the conditions stated in the bilaterally approved COTP must be met before the wartime OPCON is transitioned in a stable and systematic manner.
The two leaders applauded the progress made in completing the annual U.S.-ROK bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems for conditions #1 and #2 based on the assessment criteria and standards bilaterally agreed through the joint study and confirmed the progress had been made in many areas. Regarding condition #3, the Secretary and the Minister concurred that meaningful progress had been made in conducting the first assessment of the regional security environment, based on the bilaterally agreed assessment methods and criteria. The two leaders agreed to further advance the assessment process of the regional security environment through close coordination.
They also confirmed that notable progress had been made on conducting the Full Mission Capability (FMC) assessment of the Combined Ground Component Command (CGCC) and the Full Operational Capability (FOC) assessment of the Combined Special Operations Component Command (CSOCC) during Freedom Shield (FS) and Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercises in 2023. The two leaders pledged to redouble collective efforts to pursue CGCC, CSOCC and Combined Military Intelligence Support Operations Component Command (CMISOCC)’s transition to standing component commands under close consultation.
The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that F-CFC FOC certification would be pursued when the results of the bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems of conditions #1 and #2 meet the bilaterally agreed-upon levels. In addition, they concurred on the need to closely cooperate to advance the comprehensive and interoperable capabilities of the Alliance. Both sides pledged to engage in regular evaluation and review of the progress in wartime OPCON transition implementation through annual MCM’s and SCM’s to strengthen the Alliance and combined defense capabilities via the Alliance’s collective efforts to meet the conditions.
11. The Secretary and the Minister decided to continue strengthening cooperation in space and cyber, to ensure an effective combined response against growing threats and to bolster comprehensive Alliance response capabilities. The Secretary and the Minister acknowledged the efforts of the respective defense authorities working to promote the security of critical infrastructure, including information and space systems. The two leaders applauded the work of the Space Cooperation Working Group and pledged to further strengthen the Alliance’s space cooperation including expanding space situational awareness information sharing. The two sides also acknowledged that the Space Cooperation TTX, held this September for first time in six years, contributed to deepening discussions on the direction of bilateral space cooperation while enhancing common understanding of deterrence and threats in the space domain. As the leaders of the two countries committed to expand the Alliance’s cooperation into cyberspace with the signing of the Cybersecurity Cooperation Framework in April this year, the Secretary and the Minister pledged to expand defense cyber cooperation to strengthen the joint response posture against cybersecurity threats. They highlighted the work of the May 2023 Cyber Cooperation Working Group and committed to further deepen coordination in the defense cyber domain including the establishment of the first bilateral cyber exercise and participation of the ROK in the annual U.S.-led Cyber Flag exercise.
12. The Minister and the Secretary concurred on the need to strengthen the national defense capabilities of the Alliance, and to establish more efficient and effective collaboration in the development, acquisition, and employment of these capabilities. While recognizing the increasingly significant linkages between advanced technology and national security, the two sides agreed to strengthen the Alliance’s interoperability and interchangeability and continue to strengthen readiness through expanding cooperation in the areas of defense research and development, industrial cooperation, and capability acquisition. The two leaders noted the previous efforts to strengthen the connection between the two countries’ defense industrial bases, including the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), which will soon be concluded, and called for efforts to conclude a U.S.-ROK Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreement to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry. They also concurred on the need to expand additional cooperation on weapon systems including ships to enhance security capacity in the Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders reaffirmed that U.S.-ROK defense science and technology cooperation has expanded in various domains such as space, quantum, cyber defense, artificial intelligence, autonomy, and directed energy. They also pledged to continue the dialogue between the MND and the DoD to use future-generation wireless communication technologies for combined operations. The Secretary and the Minister pledged to continue exchange activities between U.S-ROK consultative bodies that address defense research and development, as well as industrial cooperation, capability acquisition, lifecycle logistics, and technology security. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to evaluate and evolve bilateral consultative bodies to strengthen efficacy and timeliness of cooperation in the aforementioned areas. In particular, they noted the beginning of discussions on the establishment of a senior-level consultative body to enhance policy and strategic cooperation in science and technology between the DoD and MND and pledged to continue to work together to advance the common interests of the two countries.
13. The Secretary and the Minister shared a common understanding that U.S.-ROK security cooperation plays a critical role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient. To this end, the Secretary and the Minister pledged to continue promoting security cooperation to better respond to the increasingly complex regional and global security situation. In this context, the two leaders committed to share the two countries’ policy direction and cooperation status and seek specific cooperation in implementing the ROK’s Strategy for a Free, Peaceful, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific Region and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, lawful unimpeded commerce, and respect for international law including freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful use of the seas, including the South China Sea and beyond. The Secretary and the Minister also acknowledged the importance of preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as reflected in the April 2023 “Joint Statement in Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea.” They pledged to continue promoting regional defense and security cooperation. They also reaffirmed support for Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) centrality and the ASEAN-led regional architecture. In particular, the two leaders noted the importance of creating cooperative synergies as part of implementing both the ROK and U.S. respective strategies for the Indo-Pacific. They agreed to leverage the newly established Korea – United States Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG) to strengthen defense cooperation with ASEAN members and work together with the Pacific Island Countries to contribute to maritime security.
The two leaders concurred on the need to promote democracy, safeguard human rights, and the rule of law. They assessed that various efforts, including counter-piracy operations, stabilization and reconstruction efforts, peacekeeping operations, regional security cooperation initiatives, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity to the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
14. The Secretary and the Minister concurred that the Camp David Summit marked a new chapter in U.S.-ROK-Japan security cooperation and reviewed the progress of the defense-related deliverables agreed upon by the three leaders. The two sides applauded the finalization of the trilateral arrangement to share DPRK missile warning data in real time. They also reviewed the status of institutionalizing a multi-year trilateral military exercise plan and pledged to conduct trilateral exercises in a systematic manner from next year based on the exercise plan after finalizing the exercise plan by the end of 2023. The Secretary and the Minister also reaffirmed their commitment to continuing to promote and expand trilateral security cooperation including senior-level policy consultations, trilateral exercises, information sharing, and defense exchange cooperation.
15. Amidst the DPRK’s continued development of nuclear and missile programs, the Secretary and the Minister recognized the need for sanctions enforcement in the region and welcomed continued multinational contributions to counter-proliferation activities in the region. The Secretary expressed appreciation for the ROK’s contribution to global security efforts, including hosting the Proliferation Security Initiative’s 20th Anniversary High-level Political Meeting and Multinational Maritime Interdiction Exercises. Both leaders concurred on the importance of upholding and fully implementing all relevant UNSCRs. The Secretary and the Minister applauded the work done over the last year in the U.S.-ROK Counter WMD Committee (CWMDC) to enhance the Alliance’s combined response capabilities by expanding information sharing to practically respond to DPRK’s WMD threats and pursuing cooperation in the area of consequence management. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation to address existing DPRK sanctions evasion tactics and illicit cyber activities, and committed to seek additional opportunities for responding to WMD threats from the DPRK. Additionally, the two leaders resolved to continue strengthening cooperation to enhance CWMD capabilities through measures including CWMDC and U.S. DOD Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) programs, which have enhanced Alliance CWMD capabilities
16. The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that expediting the relocation and return of U.S. military bases in the ROK is in the interests of both countries to ensure the balanced development of the ROK and the conditions for the stationing of U.S. forces in the ROK, and agreed to work closely on relevant matters to ensure the timely return of the bases in accordance with the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) and related agreements. The two leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to expedite the return of Yongsan Garrison for the complete construction of Yongsan National Park, and to discuss the return of other U.S. military bases through regular consultations through SOFA channels to reach mutually acceptable outcomes in the future.
17. Secretary Austin expressed his gratitude that the ROK is contributing toward ensuring a stable environment for U.S. Forces Korea. The Secretary and Minister also assessed that the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) has greatly contributed to the strengthening of the U.S.-ROK combined defense posture.
18. Secretary Austin and Minister Shin expressed appreciation for the courtesy, hospitality, and work by both sides that contributed to the success of this year’s SCM. Both leaders affirmed that the discussions during the 55th SCM and the 48th MCM contributed to substantively strengthening the U.S.-ROK Alliance and further developing the bilateral defense relationship. Both sides expect to hold the 56th SCM and 49th MCM in Washington, D.C., at a mutually convenient time in 2024. (Source: U.S. DoD)
13 Nov 23. United States-Japan-Republic of Korea Trilateral Ministerial Meeting Unilateral Press Statement. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Shin Wonsik, and Japanese Minister of Defense Kihara Minoru convened a Trilateral Ministerial Meeting on November 12, 2023. Secretary Austin and Minister Shin met in Seoul, South Korea, with Minister Kihara joining the meeting virtually. The leaders discussed shared regional security concerns and reviewed the implementation of trilateral security cooperation lines of effort agreed to at the historic Camp David Summit on August 18, 2023.
During the meeting, the three leaders assessed regional security issues, including the growing nuclear and missile threats from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). In particular, the Secretary and the two Ministers strongly condemned the DPRK’s space launch vehicle tests as they violate United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) that prohibit any launch using ballistic missile technology. The three leaders discussed ways to strengthen trilateral security cooperation to address these kinds of security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.
The three leaders stressed the importance of the rules-based international order and expressed strong opposition to any unilateral actions that seek to alter the status quo by force or coercion. They reaffirmed their commitment to stand with Ukraine against Russia’s unprovoked and brutal war of aggression, and recognized that Russia’s actions are a serious violation of sovereignty that undermine the fabric of the international order.
Additionally, the Secretary and the two Ministers emphasized the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as indispensable to security and prosperity in the international community. They shared concerns on activities that are inconsistent with international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and condemned recent dangerous activities against the vessels, ships, and aircraft operating in and over the East and South China Seas.
The three leaders assessed that trilateral partnership between the United States, Japan, and the ROK is stronger than ever following the Camp David Summit and reviewed implementation progress for trilateral security cooperation initiatives announced at the summit.
The Secretary and the two Ministers decided on a mechanism to facilitate the exchange of real-time missile warning data and improve each country’s ability to monitor missiles launched by the DPRK. They confirmed that the data sharing mechanism is in the final stages of testing and agreed to fully operationalize the mechanism by the end of December.
They also encouraged accelerated development of a multi-year trilateral exercise plan, which is currently being formulated to conduct trilateral exercises more systematically and efficiently and is scheduled to be finalized by the end of 2023.
The Secretary and two Ministers noted the success of a trilateral aerial exercise held in October 2023 between the three countries and emphasized the importance of continuing these activities to demonstrate the three countries’ strong will and capacity to respond to threats in the Indo-Pacific.
Secretary Austin reaffirmed the United States steadfast alliance and extended deterrence commitments to Japan and the ROK backed by the full range of U.S. capabilities, including nuclear capabilities. Minister Kihara and Minister Shin highlighted the importance of their bilateral ties in addition to trilateral cooperation to protect and advance their shared security goals. The Secretary and the Ministers committed to continue working closely together to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and around the world. (Source: U.S. DoD)
13 Nov 23. US, South Korea revise deterrence strategy, boost drills over North Korea threat. South Korea and the United States on Monday revised a bilateral security agreement aimed at deterring North Korea’s advancing nuclear and missile threats, and vowed to maintain pressure on Pyongyang despite global distractions.
South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik and his U.S. counterpart, Lloyd Austin, signed the updated Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS) at security talks in Seoul, the defence ministry said.
The revision was considered necessary because the existing strategy did not adequately address rapid advancements in North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs, it said.
The Defence Ministry did not immediately specify what had been updated in the agreement, which holds that the United States will use strategic military assets, including nuclear forces, to defend its allies.
First established in 2010, the TDS has taken on greater significance as North Korea pushes ahead with its ballistic missile and nuclear programs.
The two leaders also said they agreed to boost joint drills, as well as cooperation with Japan, to deter and better prepare for any North Korean attack.
Austin said recent visits by a U.S. nuclear ballistic missile submarine and a B-52 to South Korea were “milestones” in deterrence efforts and that the tempo of such deployments could continue despite other global crises.
“We will continue to do the things that we’ve promised to do,” Austin told a briefing, adding that over the past year the U.S. military had deployed more to the Indo-Pacific region than in the past and was “more capable to respond to anything that could happen”.
This year South Korea and the United States have deepened nuclear planning discussions to better coordinate an allied nuclear response during a war.
Recent changes in North Korean and Chinese capabilities and intentions are likely to “dramatically” increase the risk that U.S. and South Korean deterrence could fail within the next decade, and the allies must undertake major steps to strengthen deterrence, the Atlantic Council think tank said in a study last week.
That study, which convened more than 100 experts, found that although an all-out nuclear attack is the least likely scenario, Pyongyang could feel emboldened to escalate with more limited military actions, including possible nuclear strikes.
DIVIDED ATTENTION
The Israel-Hamas war and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine also cast a shadow over Monday’s meeting amid Pyongyang’s growing military cooperation with Moscow and questions about the North’s support for Hamas militants.
“Despite conflicts that are happening in many parts of the world, our alliance is the most powerful alliance in history and in the world,” Shin said at the briefing.
He noted that recent live fire drills were the largest in the allies’ history, and that boosting joint exercises would ensure that North Korea can be punished “immediately and powerfully” if it attacks.
On Sunday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said at a dinner that the allies must stand ready for any provocations by North Korea, including a “Hamas-style surprise attack”.
At the reception, Austin reaffirmed that the U.S. commitment to defending South Korea involved the full range of American military capabilities, Yoon’s office said.
“The region is concerned about the focus of the United States,” said Bonnie Glaser, an Asia expert at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.
“We’re involved in two wars,” Glaser said. “And then a second layer of concern … is our presidential election next year and whether this emphasis on the Indo-Pacific and an emphasis on cooperating with allies, building these coalitions, whether that’s really going to be sustained.”
The defence meetings come as North Korea is believed to be preparing to launch a military reconnaissance satellite after two failures.
Pyongyang is also accused of shipping munitions to Russia for use in the war with Ukraine in return for technical support to help its weapons programs.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a recent summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that Russia would help North Korea build satellites, but did not elaborate.
The defence chiefs from South Korea, Japan and the United States agreed on Sunday to start a real-time data sharing scheme on North Korean missiles in December, South Korea’s defence ministry said.
“We’re seeing more trilateral cooperation than we’ve ever seen,” Austin told a briefing on Monday, hinting at announcements in the coming weeks.
(Source: Reuters)
10 Nov 23. Investigation: Russia Violates Promises of Pay, Pardons for Contract Soldiers. Some have lost a limb or their life, others their freedom. But in multiple cases, Russian contract soldiers and their families have received none of the benefits promised by the state for signing up to fight in Ukraine — no combat bonus pay, no pardons of convictions, no compensation for injury or death, and no documentation to prove they ever fought at all, RFE/RL’s Russian investigative unit, Systema, has found.
The findings are based on evidence that includes conversations which Systema and Current Time conducted with soldiers, former soldiers, and relatives.
The hundreds of thousands of people who have signed agreements with the Russian Defense Ministry to fight in Ukraine play a crucial role in the Kremlin’s efforts to maintain manpower without resorting to a mass call-up like the one President Vladimir Putin ordered in September 2022. That mobilization proved highly unpopular, prompting large numbers of young Russians to flee the country, and analysts say Putin is particularly wary of such a move ahead of the March 2024 presidential election.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov recently attributed what the state says is an increase in the number of people willing to sign contracts this year in part to what he called the “very, very attractive” terms of the agreements.
Mobilized recruits and volunteers who sign short-term contracts with the Defense Ministry to fight in Ukraine and are supposed to receive the same pay and benefits as professional armed services personnel who have signed contracts. The salary is a minimum of 195,000 rubles ($2,115) per month – nearly three times the average monthly wage.
On top of payments, the mercenary group Wagner promised prisoners pardons as well — some 32,000 convicts had received clemency as of June, according to the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. After Wagner discontinued its penal recruitment program in February, Defense Ministry officials apparently continued to seek out prisoners willing to sign short-term contracts.
Relatives of those who signed contracts to fight in Ukraine, however, frequently complain in online chats and to their legislative representatives that the promised payouts and pardons never came.
Exactly how widespread these broken promises are is unclear, and neither the Russian Defense Ministry nor the office of Russia’s human rights commissioner responded to RFE/RL’s questions.
The complaints recorded by Systema show that the problem persists.
‘I Just Happened To Slip Up’
For a 52-year-old with a record of petty offenses, the chance to cut short a prison sentence for theft and battery may have seemed too good to miss. But Yury Motorny, a resident of the Krasnodar region in southern Russia, never received a pardon.
Wounded shortly after he was sent to the front last spring, he died in a hospital in Russian-occupied Crimea in September.
His widow, Anna Motornaya, said that she was not told where he was sent when he was wounded and was not allowed to see him in the hospital when she found out a month later. After his death, she said, she received no documents confirming he fought in Ukraine, no combat pay, and no compensation of any kind.
“I don’t even know what unit he served in or the number of his contract,” Motornaya said.
“He wasn’t on the Defense Ministry’s payroll, and the [military] prosecutor’s office hasn’t said a word so far.”
The Defense Ministry has proposed legalizing the recruitment of prisoners for military service — a practice that Olga Romanova, head of the prisoner rights organization Russia Behind Bars, has likened to “a game of Russian roulette with the highest stakes.”
Soldiers who survive sometimes struggle to receive any benefits.
Dmitry Yefimov had six years left on his sentence on a drug charge when he signed a contract with the Russian military in May and was released from prison in the Perm region. Before he was even sent to the front, he had his left hand blown off by a TNT charge in a training “game,” he said, and his face was also damaged in the blast.
As of September, Yefimov was in a Crimean hospital, still waiting for documents that would entitle him to compensation for the time he spent in training.
His commanders do not answer his questions and the military prosecutor’s office had only just begun to look into his case, he told Systema.
“I knew what I was doing. It’s all or nothing. I just happened to slip up,” Yefimov said. “I didn’t want to get out of prison at the age of 30, like I was supposed to. Without a family, an apartment, a car. And with a conviction like that hanging over my head.”
Treatment ‘Worse Than for Ukrainian Prisoners of War’
In December 2022, after five months without leave or the promised combat bonus, volunteer Nikolai Troshin, 45, exercised his right not to prolong his contract with the Russian Defense Ministry.
The response was brutal, said his wife, Oksana Troshina. Troshin, she said, was put into a “pit” — a cellar or large hole in the ground where the soldiers are sometimes confined without food, water, or medical treatment as a disciplinary measure.
Soldiers’ rights activist Yelena Popova told RFE/RL’s Russian Service that officers use this “simply medieval” measure to “force you to go to the front again.”
In Troshin’s case, there was no need — the Defense Ministry automatically renewed his contract despite his written request for a discharge, his wife said.
Troshina claimed that after she complained to the military prosecutor’s office and the Commissioner for Human Rights about the treatment of her spouse, she received e-mails from officers in his unit who called him “a coward” and an “alcoholic.”
She alleged that her spouse’s commanding officers also beat him and tore off his insignia. “The treatment is worse than for Ukrainian prisoners of war,” Troshina charged. “And he’s not the only one like this.”
She added that he still had not been given leave or received any payment apart from his monthly salary of 28,411 rubles ($308). Russia’s official monthly minimum wage is 16,242 rubles.
The wife of Junior Sergeant Sergei Prokudin, 37, recounted a similar experience. Prokudin, she said, signed a contract in September 2022 out of “patriotism — not for the money,” but after being wounded twice, refused to return to the front for the remaining time in his contract.
“They held him for 11 days in a basement for this, but he doesn’t want to go back,” Anastasia Prokudina said.
Prokudin’s contract, too, was automatically extended without his receiving any combat bonuses, his wife claimed.
After several tries, Prokudina, who was pregnant with the couple’s fourth child when Systema/Current Time spoke to her, said that she managed to get her husband’s unpaid combat bonuses through the military prosecutor’s office.
But he remained in Ukraine, his return date unknown.
Denied Documents
The families of mobilized soldiers, fearing reprisals, contact journalists to share their problems less frequently than the families of volunteers and ex-convicts. Their relatives, however, describe similar problems — in at least two cases recounted to Systema, individuals sent into combat received no combat bonuses.
As of August, the defense committee in the State Duma, Russia’s lower parliament chamber, had received 829 appeals about nonpayment to mobilized soldiers since November 2022, the official government newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta reported, citing committee member Dmitry Kuznetsov.
In one instance related to RFE/RL, the soldier, who was wounded, does not have the papers needed for his family to receive compensation.
That dilemma extends to some of the soldiers recruited by Redut, a purported a private military company that Systema and Schemes, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian investigative unit, found is actually a recruitment system coordinated and funded by the Russian military and its intelligence agency, known as the GRU.
Putin posthumously awarded Redut-recruited sniper Aleksandr Kopyltsov an Order of Courage in November 2022, but the Defense Ministry and military prosecutors still deny any record of his fighting in Ukraine, his relatives said.
Bureaucratic Bungling
Finding information about how many military personnel have not received promised payments from the Defense Ministry is nearly impossible. Complaints go to the military prosecutor’s office, which does not publish information about the number of related court cases.
“The payments take place after they process the paperwork, and the army has always had problems with this,” said Sergei Krivenko, director of the Moscow-based advocacy group Citizen.Army.Law. The fact that unit commanders now are in a combat zone “only exacerbates the paperwork problems,” he added.
A local resident take bottles with drinking water from humanitarian aid delivered by volunteers at the side of a damaged residential building in the town of Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region on November 8.
Another lawyer who works on such cases agreed that commanders do not always have time to enter data about their subordinates into the Defense Ministry’s Alushta personnel-accounting database.
These bureaucratic snags mean that Russian military personnel “very often” are left without money they are due, and the wounded without documents that confirm that they were injured during combat, added the lawyer, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject.
The same extends to compensation for the families of volunteer soldiers killed in combat, he added. “This wasn’t foreseen in the law. And this also isn’t in the contracts; same with the timing of pardons.”
Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova stated in late October that she has received 5,746 appeals from Russians fighting in Ukraine, but how many of these communications have to do with payments or pardons is unclear. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty)
10 Nov 23. Austin Marks ‘Transformative’ Ties With India at Talks in New Delhi.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III lauded the strong partnership between the U.S. and India following his talks today with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.
The two leaders met amid what Austin described as a “transformative period in U.S.-India relations” as the two countries expand their defense industrial cooperation and enhance interoperability between their militaries.
Following the daylong discussions, which also included meetings alongside Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar, Austin announced further steps the two countries will be taking to deepen ties.
Those steps include a new agreement to move forward with the co-production of armored infantry vehicles, the leaders announced, building upon progress highlighted this summer when the two countries announced they would partner in producing jet engines.
The two countries also discussed steps to strengthen supply chain security and integrate the distribution of goods from U.S. and Indian firms, Austin said following today’s talks.
“From working together in space, to harnessing cutting edge innovation, the U.S. and Indian cooperation is stronger than ever,” he said. “This is my third visit to India as secretary of defense, and every time we’ve taken new steps to advance our defense partnership with India.”
At the core of that progress, is both countries’ commitment to innovation and enhancing interoperability.
Over the summer, the U.S. and India released their road map for expanding their defense industrial cooperation and enhancing interoperability through the India-U.S. Defense Acceleration Ecosystem, or INDUS-X.
The road map identified key areas for cooperation between the countries’ defense industrial sectors, including cooperation on technology related to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, undersea domain awareness, air combat and support, munitions systems and mobility.
Earlier this week, ahead of Austin’s visit, officials from the U.S. Defense Department and Indian Defense Ministry met in New Delhi to participate in the first investor strategy session under the INDUS-X strategic platform.
As part of the session, Defense Innovation Unit Director Douglas A. Beck and Vivek Virmani, chief operating officer for the Indian Defense Ministry’s Innovation for Defense Excellence, or iDEX, joined investors for discussions on harnessing private capital to propel defense innovation.
DIU and iDEX also launched the INDIS-X Gurukul Education Series, which will include monthly events where government officials and private sector leaders meet with start-ups from both countries to discuss business and technology development, regulations and investor pitches.
The event builds upon recent collaboration between the two innovation groups on joint challenges that enable start-ups from both countries to develop technological solutions for shared defense challenges. The challenges culminate in financial awards and potential procurement opportunities for the most promising technology.
Austin also noted steps between the two countries to increase interoperability between the U.S. and India’s militaries.
He said the U.S. is standing up new liaison positions at key commands to streamline communication. He also noted the two countries have participated in increasingly complex combined exercises that promote the sharing of best practices and strengthen the readiness of both forces to meet a variety of challenges.
“It’s no secret that we all face a challenging global security environment. That’s more reason why the progress in our partnership with India is so important, and why the United States is committed to making it even stronger,” Austin said. “That’s what today’s meeting was all about and I’m confident that we’re going to have many more important conversations ahead with our Indian partners.” (Source: U.S. DoD)
10 Nov 23. Joint Statement on the Fifth Annual India-U.S. 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and India on the occasion of the Fifth Annual U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in 2023.
Begin text:
Minister of Defense Rajnath Singh and Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar welcomed Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III for the fifth U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi.
The Ministers noted the substantial progress in transforming U.S.-India relations across domains, based on trust and mutual understanding. Building upon the June 2023 and September 2023 visits of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden, the Ministers reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership in ensuring international peace and security. The Ministers also underlined their strong commitment to safeguarding a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific through mechanisms like the Quad.
As natural and trusted partners with a shared commitment to advance democracy, human rights, and pluralism, and growing convergence of strategic interests, the United States and India reaffirmed their resolve to promote a resilient, rules-based international order with respect for international law, including the UN Charter, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to ensure peace and prosperity for all.
The Ministers discussed developments in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, Ukraine among other regions. The ministers expressed mutual deep concern over the war in Ukraine and its tragic humanitarian consequences. They again underscored the growing impacts of this war on the global economic system and food security, with consequences predominantly affecting the global South. Both countries further pledged to continue humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine and concurred on the need for post-conflict reconstruction in Ukraine.
Noting horrific terrorist attacks against Israel, the Ministers reiterated that the United States and India stand with Israel against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including with regard to the protection of civilians. They called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. The Ministers committed to continue coordinating with partners in the region on humanitarian assistance to meet the urgent needs of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. They expressed support for humanitarian pauses and committed to continue close diplomatic coordination, including with key partners in the region, to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace.
Strengthening the Major Defense Partnership
The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the multifaceted defense partnership through wide-ranging dialogues and military exercises of increasing complexity and sophistication, accelerated joint projects initiated under the June 2023 Roadmap for U.S.-India Defense Industrial Cooperation and expanded collaboration in emerging domains, such as space and artificial intelligence. They expressed satisfaction with the pace of cooperation in Maritime Domain Awareness and looked forward to identifying pathways to promote stronger service-to-service ties and share technologies to address an array of maritime challenges, including in the undersea domain.
The Ministers reaffirmed the Roadmap for Defense Industrial Cooperation as a catalyst for strengthening India’s capabilities, enhancing its indigenous defense production, facilitating technology-sharing, and promoting supply chain resilience.
The Ministers accordingly appreciated the commencement of negotiations for a commercial agreement between General Electric (GE) Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture GE F-414 jet engines in India. Such partnerships exemplify the type of defense industrial cooperation that the two countries look forward to pursuing as an enduring pillar of the defense partnership. Looking ahead, the Ministers welcomed the progress achieved towards co-production and co-development of defense systems, noting their mutual interest to co-develop and co-produce ground mobility systems as they bring the two countries’ respective defense sectors closer together while enhancing Indian capabilities. They look forward to additional proposals from Indian and U.S. companies to develop and produce systems in the priority areas established in the Roadmap.
Both sides recommitted to spurring investment in India’s growing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector, which encompasses aircraft maintenance and mid-voyage repair of U.S. naval vessels. They welcomed commitments from the U.S. industry to further increase India’s MRO capabilities, including for the repair of aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Ministers also pledged to implement commitments by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi to undertake regular efforts to address export control issues while expanding defense industrial cooperation and supporting India’s goals of emerging as a global defense hub. Both sides look forward to further discussions about export control and technology transfers in the Strategic Trade Dialogue and its affiliated working groups.
The Ministers looked forward to the finalization of a Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), a key priority in the Roadmap, which will further integrate the defense industrial ecosystems of both countries while strengthening supply chain resilience.
The Ministers commended the breadth of partnerships under the U.S.-India Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) since the initiative was launched in June 2023. The Ministers specifically welcomed the Investors Strategy Session convened in New Delhi on November 8, 2023. The event provided an opportunity for private investors to mobilize capital for funding innovation in cutting-edge technology to address critical security needs. The Ministers further welcomed the launch of the INDUS-X Gurukul Education series to enable startups to leverage opportunities in the defense ecosystems of the United States and India. The Ministers also took note of the recent launch of the INDUS-X joint challenges initiative, which will unleash the talent and innovative drive of commercial sectors in both countries to strengthen the respective defense industry ecosystems.
The Ministers lauded continuing advances in interoperability, noting that the United States and India are setting up new liaison positions to facilitate seamless communication and cooperation between their armed forces. The Ministers welcomed India’s full membership of the multinational Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), headquartered in Bahrain.
The Ministers also welcomed further discussions to maximize the shared benefits of the Logistics and Exchange Memorandum Agreement (LEMOA), and identify reciprocal steps both countries can take to enhance the reach of their respective militaries.
Bolstering Counter-terrorism and Law Enforcement Cooperation
The Ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism, and the use of terrorist proxies and logistical, financial or military support to terrorist organizations, which could be used to launch or plan terrorist attacks, including international attacks. The United States and India reiterated their condemnation of the 26/11 Mumbai attack and the Pathankot attack and called for bringing the perpetrators of these attacks to justice. The Ministers also called for concerted action against all terrorists, including through designations of individuals affiliated with groups that are listed by the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee, such as Al-Qa’ida, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Ministers emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, consistent with Financial Action Task Force Recommendations. Both countries reiterated their commitment to work together in FATF and other multilateral platforms. They expressed determination to counter new and emerging forms of terrorism and violent extremism and the use of emerging and evolving technologies such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the internet for terrorist purposes.
The Ministers decided to convene the 20th Meeting of the U.S.-India Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism and the 5th Designations Dialogue at a mutually convenient date early next year. Both sides are looking forward to the next edition of the Homeland Security Dialogue in 2024, where leaders will advance security cooperation, through capacity building and other activities.
The Ministers welcomed the upcoming meeting of the bilateral Cyber Dialogue, expressed their concern about ransomware and other cyber-related crimes, and recognized the need to bolster protection of critical networks and information infrastructure.
Building Science and Technology Partnerships
The Ministers welcomed the rapid progress made under the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) to build science and technology and critical technology value chain collaborations in both the commercial and defense sectors and look forward to the second iteration of iCET in New Delhi in early 2024. They applauded many breakthrough advances in the U.S.-India technology partnership, including major U.S. private sector investments in India’s semiconductor ecosystem since the launch of iCET this year. They called on the respective governments, academic, research, and corporate sectors to continue to proactively build these strategic partnerships in emerging technologies like quantum, telecom, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors to accelerate global innovation and benefit the economies of both countries. They welcomed the early meeting of the Strategic Trade Dialogue Monitoring Mechanism.
The Ministers applauded the recent developments in further strengthening space collaborations by establishing a fifth sub-working group, under the U.S.-India Civil Space Joint Working Group, to focus on ‘Space Commerce’ and hailed a partnership-building event early next year. They also welcomed adding ‘Planetary Defense’ as a topic under the U.S.-India Civil Space Joint Working Group led by NASA and ISRO, and India joining the multilateral Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG) and International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) by the end of the year.
The Ministers appreciated the recently held Mineral Security Partnership Principals’ Meeting in London which aimed to catalyze public and private sector investment to build diverse, secure and responsible global critical mineral supply chains. Reaffirming U.S. support for the mission of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Secretary Blinken pledged to continue working with the Government of India, IEA members, the IEA Secretariat, and other relevant stakeholders toward IEA membership for India in accordance with provisions of the Agreement on an International Energy Program.
The Ministers welcomed further strengthening of U.S.-India Science & Technology cooperation under the 2019 bilateral Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation and looked forward to a Joint Committee Meeting on Science and Technology in 2024.
The Ministers noted the growing partnerships amongst education and research institutions on both sides propelled by the Joint Task Force led by the Association of American Universities and the IIT Council of India to advance collaborations in the fields of sustainable energy and agriculture, health and pandemic preparedness, semiconductor technology and manufacturing, advanced materials, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, quantum science and critical and emerging technologies.
Expanding Health and Trade Dialogues
The Ministers praised the recent fifth U.S.-India Health Dialogue, which was held on October 11-13, 2023, in Washington, D.C. The two sides identified several areas for future cooperation, including multilateral cooperation, pandemic preparedness and response, health safety and security, universal health coverage, access, equity, and communicable and non-communicable diseases for future cooperation. The Ministers celebrated concrete steps taken to kickstart cooperation under the Cancer Moonshot program.
The Ministers applauded the growing trade and commercial partnership and noted that in 2023, bilateral trade has the potential to cross US$ 200 bn despite a challenging global trade environment. They appreciated the reinvigorated work of the U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum (TPF) and the use of that mechanism to resolve long-standing trade concerns during 2023 and announcement of “Innovation Handshake” under the Commercial Dialogue to enhance their dynamic start-up ecosystems as well as promote innovation and post-pandemic economic recovery and job growth, particularly in critical and emerging technologies (CET). The Ministers looked forward to convening of next ministerial TPF and Commercial Dialogue meeting early next year. They also welcomed the steady progress of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), and looked forward to the upcoming IPEF Ministerial meeting in November 2023.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties
The Ministers appreciated the U.S. Department of State’s launch of a pilot program in 2023 to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas, including for Indian nationals.
The Ministers welcomed the opening of a new Indian Consulate in Seattle and appreciated that the United States has initiated discussions with the Government of India on opening new consulates in the cities of Bengaluru and Ahmedabad.
Afghanistan
The Ministers called on the Taliban to adhere to their commitment to prevent any group or individual from using the territory of Afghanistan to threaten the security of any country; and noted UNSC Resolution 2593 (2021), which demands that Afghan territory not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists, or to plan or finance terrorist attacks. The Ministers urged the Taliban to respect the human rights of all Afghans, including women, children, and members of minority groups; and uphold freedom of travel. They also emphasized unhindered access to deliver humanitarian assistance and recommitted to having consultations on Afghanistan to help facilitate an inclusive and peaceful future for all Afghans.
Multilateral Diplomacy and Connectivity
The Ministers reaffirmed the importance of a free, open, inclusive and resilient Indo-Pacific and renewed their shared desire to consolidate their dialogue and collaboration through the Quad. They emphasized the important role of the Quad as a force for global good for the peoples of the Indo-Pacific. The Ministers look forward to India hosting the next in-person Quad leaders’ Summit in 2024.
The Ministers affirmed the importance of exchanging perspectives on shared global challenges, such as cooperation in multilateral fora and promoting respect for human rights globally, and look forward to the Ministry of External Affairs and the U.S. Department of State holding the next U.S.-India Global Issues Forum in New Delhi in early 2024.
The Ministers appreciated the ongoing efforts of the I2U2 countries to enhance food and energy security and improve the movement of people and goods across hemispheres. The Ministers also noted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will enhance connectivity between Asia and Europe and will unlock new potential for economic growth in the two continents. They welcomed the relaunch of consultations between the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the U.S. Department of State on Africa, aimed at exploring potential trilateral cooperation in Africa. They also looked forward to convening the next round of East Asia Consultations between the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the U.S. Department of State at an early date.
Secretary Blinken and Secretary Austin lauded India’s G20 Presidency for addressing contemporary global economic issues, inclusion of the African Union as a member, and prioritizing development challenges. The Ministers welcomed India hosting a virtual G-20 Summit in November 2023 to follow up on G-20 Summit outcomes.
The United States reaffirmed its continued support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed UNSC and again extended welcome to India’s candidature for the UNSC non-permanent seat in 2028-29.
The United States looks forward to hosting the next 2+2 Ministerial. (Source: U.S. DoD)
10 Nov 23. Colombia: FARC dissidents continue attacks on troops, undermining peace negotiations. On 9 November, General Commander Helder Giraldo stated that FARC dissidents, led by their commander Ivan Mordisco, have attacked army units at least six times in Antioquia and Cauca departments since 6 November. Giraldo indicated that communities in these areas are being manipulated into provoking assaults on military personnel by Mordisco’s group. The announcement comes after a recent clash with the military in El Plateado (Cauca department) on 4 November, which resulted in the kidnapping of troops and further attacks on public services. The soldiers were released on 5 November. Government security forces will remain deployed in contentious zones like El Plateado, providing security to the local population. Tensions are likely to escalate further. Colombia’s peace process will be further undermined by continued clashes over criminal economies and turf wars, raising volatility within the country’s security environment. The risk of attacks is sustained in Cauca in the medium term.
(Source: Sibylline)
09 Nov 23. U.S. Strikes Enemy Weapons Storage Facility in Syria. U.S. military forces conducted a self-defense strike, Nov. 8, on a facility in eastern Syria used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated groups. This strike was conducted by two F-15 aircraft against a weapons storage depot, said Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in a statement yesterday.
“This precision, self-defense strike is a response to a series of attacks against U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria by IRGC-Quds force affiliates,” he said.
“The United States is fully prepared to take further necessary measures to protect our people and our facilities. We urge against any escalation. U.S. personnel will continue to conduct counter-ISIS missions in Iraq and Syria,” Austin added.
Yesterday, a senior defense official said that the Nov. 8 strikes in eastern Syria were in response to ongoing threats and attacks directed at U.S. bases in both Syria and Iraq by the IRGC and Iran-aligned militia groups.
“While our defensive measures have proven effective in countering unmanned aerial vehicle attacks on our personnel, we remain vigilant and concerned about the potential for escalation or bypassing these defenses. We have fortified our U.S. bases with additional Patriot batteries and increased defensive counter air patrols to further deter attacks and defend our forces,” the senior defense official said.
“In light of heightened tension stemming from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, we have undertaken additional measures to communicate directly with Iran, Iran-aligned groups in Iraq, Lebanon and our regional partners. We aim to clarify that our military actions do not signal a change in our approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict, and we have no intentions of escalating conflict in the region. Our commitment to self-defense and the protection of U.S. personnel remains the same,” the senior defense official said.
Regarding the attacks by the two F-15s yesterday against a weapons storage facility, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, who held a news conference today, said that the damage from the battle is still being assessed, but it is known that multiple secondary explosions occurred following the strike.
If attacks by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated groups continue, the U.S. reserves the right to defend its troops by taking further measures at a time and place of its choosing, she said.
Between Oct. 17 and today, 56 U.S. personnel have been injured by these attacks in Syria and Iraq. The injuries are a combination of traumatic brain injury and minor injuries, she said, adding that all have been treated and returned to duty. (Source: U.S. DoD)
09 Nov 23. Defense Official Said U.S. Won’t Hesitate to Defend Its Troops in Middle East.
Over the last three weeks, Iran-backed militia groups have attacked U.S. bases and facilities in Iraq and Syria 41 times. The U.S. has defended itself against those attacks and will continue to do so, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East said.
“On October 26, at President Biden’s direction, U.S. forces conducted precision, self-defense strikes on facilities in eastern Syria used and operated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, IRGC, and its affiliates,” said Dana Stroul during testimony yesterday before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “We will not hesitate to take further necessary measures to protect our people.”
Following the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by the terrorist group Hamas, Stroul said the department has organized efforts in the Middle East along four lines of effort, including protecting U.S. forces and interests in the region, supporting Israel’s right to defend itself, coordinating with Israel on hostage recovery efforts, and containing the ongoing conflict to Gaza.
U.S. force enhancements in the Middle East, include recently deployed Terminal High Altitude Area Defense and Patriot missile defense systems, additional fighter squadrons, two carrier strike groups, and an Ohio-class nuclear-powered guided missile submarine, Stroul said.
“We also placed over 2,000 personnel and a range of units on a heightened state of readiness, some of which subsequently deployed,” Stroul said. “These deployments demonstrate our commitment to Israel’s security, to regional stability, and to deterring those who seek to widen this conflict. It also bolsters the department’s ability to respond quickly to the evolving security environment.”
The department’s commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself from terrorism is “ironclad,” and the department is working daily to help Israel do that, Stroul told lawmakers.
“We are working around-the-clock to determine which munitions and equipment from U.S. inventory can quickly be made available,” Stroul said. “Air defense is a high priority, as are medical supplies, artillery, ammunition and precision-guided munitions. Deliveries are taking place on a near daily basis.”
Since the initial attack, Stroul said Hamas has been using civilians as human shields, has blocked the delivery of humanitarian aid, and continues to hold at least 200 civilians.
“The Department of State designated Hamas a foreign terrorist organization in 1997,” she said. “Hamas is responsible for the abhorrent terrorist attack in Israel. And Israel is executing military operations to ensure that Hamas is never again able to perpetuate a terrorist attack like it did in October.” (Source: U.S. DoD)
09 Nov 23. Japan to be third global military power despite currency devaluation. Japan’s surge in defence spending protects major military programmes from sequestration, even after a 20% currency fall this year.
While concerns had spread that Japan’s planned defence budget could be affected by the recent currency devaluation of the Yen by an average of 20% since 2022 against other major currencies, GlobalData instead finds that major ongoing procurement programmes, including the Global Combat Air Programmes, the F-35A/B, Mogami-glass Frigates, C-2 and V-22 osprey transport aircraft, and P-1 maritime patrol, are unlikely to be affected by sequestration.
Following the recent doubling of it’s defence budget cap – from 1% to 2% of GDP – should Japan stick to its current spending plan for the next five years it will have the third largest military in the world, behind the US and China, with a defence budget that surges from $39.5bn in 2022 to $85.9bn by 2028.
However, according to GlobalData’s Fleet Size dashboard, Japan’s military fixed-wing aircraft fleet has already surpassed thirty years in service. China’s growing dominance in the Indo-Pacific is stirring the urgent need to replace and modernise these aging assets, including F-15J/DJ, C-1, C-130H, and E-2C airframes.
“To address this challenge, Japan is likely to continue to invest in its ongoing F-35A/B programmes and ensure a steady supply of advanced fighter jets to replace the older aircraft,” says Harpreet Sidhu, aerospace and defence analyst at GlobalData. “However, defence budget sequestrations may lead to a delay in the deployment of the sixth-generation aircraft by a few years, which was originally planned for 2032.”
While Japan’s currency devaluation may pose certain challenges in the near future, it is crucial for Japan’s security interests to maintain a relevant defence posture in the Indo-Pacific region. “Therefore, barring a few aspirational programmes like the sixth-generation aircraft, Japan is unlikely to cull critical procurements of defence assets,” says Sidhu.
Japan’s military modernisation
Japan’s armed services have made significant strides in enhancing their defence capabilities by adopting a multi-dimensional approach for joint operations. Its three service services have made procurements recently in capabilities that could support global deployments.
In the air domain, Japan inducted the Kawasaki P-1 in 2013and has 33 of the aircraft in service, with an additional 60 ordered to replace the country’s P3-C fleet. Additionally, in 2013, Japan entered into an agreement with Lockheed Martin to procure 42 F-35B aircraft. This agreement was later expanded in 2019 to include a total of 105 F-35A and 42 F-35B variants. In the year 2020, a significant agreement was reached with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, designating them as the primary developer for nearly 100 units of the sixth-generation F-X stealth fighter.
In the naval domain, Japan is enhancing its blue-water capabilities by transforming the Izumo-class helicopter carriers into fully-functional aircraft carriers capable of accommodating the F-35B fighter aircraft. The surface fleet of this country has a considerable number of frigates and destroyers, totalling more than 40. Japan also possess Sōryū-class submarines as part of their subsurface assets.
While these assets demonstrate a significant naval force capable of global deployment, Tokyo has chosen to allocate a considerable portion of these capabilities towards safeguarding its homeland, particularly focusing on protecting its southwestern islands that face potential challenges from Chinese activities. The Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) and US forces are increasingly aligning their approaches in island chain defence, including the potential defence of Taiwan, as part of their broader integration within the overall US strategy. (Source: army-technology.com)
09 Nov 23. Mali: Further drone strikes will heighten physical security risks for NGO staff, assets in Kidal. On 7 November, military drone strikes in Kidal (Kidal region) killed at least 12 civilians. One strike reportedly missed a military base recently vacated by the UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA); its munition allegedly fell in the vicinity of a school. The strikes are among the first signs of conflict since the CSP-PSD coalition of Tuareg armed groups seized a military base in Kidal region on 31 October; this occurred after MINUSMA began withdrawing from Aguelhok and Tessalit (both Kidal). Tuareg rebels have previously impeded the military’s efforts to re-establish its presence via bombings, shelling and small-arms attacks. However, the security forces and the Wagner Group, a Russian private military company (PMC) that operates alongside government troops, have deployed hundreds of soldiers, vehicles and resources to Kidal. Fighting will almost certainly persist in the near term; further drone strikes will significantly elevate collateral risks for assets and increase physical security risks for bystanders, particularly NGO staff. (Source: Sibylline)
09 Nov 23. Burkina Faso: Increasing ties with Moscow indicate likely Wagner Group deployment in near term. On 7 November, the Burkinabe defence minister agreed to strengthen the country’s defence ties with Russia during a visit to Moscow (Russia). This comes amid increasing ties between Burkina Faso and Russia. In early October, Burkina Faso hosted a series of meetings with Russia’s deputy defence minister in the capital Ouagadougou. On 13 October, Burkina Faso signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Rosatom (Russia’s state nuclear agency) regarding the construction of a nuclear power plant. Growing bilateral ties point to a likely deployment by the Wagner Group, a Russian private military company (PMC), to Burkina Faso in the coming weeks. As in Mali, a Wagner Group deployment would almost certainly result in increasing threats of violence targeting civilian communities perceived to have ties to jihadist groups. Widespread human rights abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence, would worsen the security environment and significantly elevate risks for the safety of NGO staff. (Source: Sibylline)
09 Nov 23. Blinken says has profound concerns over Russia-North Korea military ties. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday he and South Korea’s foreign minister Park Jin share “profound” concerns about the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
Blinken and Park also said they discussed working together to implement a so-called extended deterrence strategy of countering threats from North Korea and furthering strategic cooperation with Japan.
“Already our three countries are taking steps to improve our joint response through real-time sharing of DPRK missile warning data, trilateral defence exercises and efforts to counter DPRK’s malicious cyber activities.”
DPRK, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is North Korea’s official name.
The United States, South Korea and Japan have condemned what they say is the flow of arms and military equipment from North Korea to Russia, saying movements of cargo from the reclusive state to Russia was evidence.
North Korea and Russia have denied any arms deals though their leaders pledged closer military cooperation when they met in September in Russia’s far east.
Park also said after his meeting with Blinken the two foreign ministers urge the North to call off a plan to launch a spy satellite.
North Korea is preparing to launch a spy satellite after having failed twice this year to put one in orbit. South Korea said last week North Korea was in the final stages of preparations for a launch after apparently getting technical help from Russia.
South Korea’s military said on Monday it was on alert after North Korea designated Nov. 18 as “missile industry day” to mark its launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile last year.
Blinken’s two-day visit to South Korea is the first by a U.S. secretary of state in two-and-a-half years and part of a broader Asia trip that will include a stop in India. He was in the Middle East before Japan.
(Source: Reuters)
08 Nov 23. Putin lauds Russia’s ‘high-tech’ military cooperation with China.
- Summary
- Putin praises China cooperation
- Meets close ally of Xi in Moscow
- Says cooperation is to ensure strategic security
- Zhang says China respects Putin
MOSCOW, Nov 8 (Reuters) – President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday lauded what he described as important “high-tech” Russian military cooperation with China at a meeting in Moscow with a top Chinese general who is a close ally of President Xi Jinping.
China and Russia declared a “no limits” partnership in February 2022 when Putin visited Beijing just days before he sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine, triggering the deadliest land war in Europe since World War Two.
Receiving General Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Putin sent his best wishes to Xi, saying the two leaders had developed a good friendship and working relations.
“Russia and China are not building any military alliances along the lines of the Cold War,” Putin told Zhang at his Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow, adding that the Russian-Chinese relationship was a stabilising force for the world.
The United States casts China as its biggest competitor and Russia as its biggest nation-state threat while U.S. President Joe Biden argues that this century will be defined by an existential contest with between democracies and autocracies.
Putin, who heads the world’s biggest nuclear power, said military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing was increasing and focused on high-tech areas that would ensure strategic security.
“Of course, our cooperation, our contacts in the military and military-technical sphere are also becoming increasingly important, as for military-technical cooperation, here, of course, our work in high-tech spheres comes first,” Putin said.
“I mean space, including high-orbit groupings, I also mean modern and promising weapons which will certainly ensure the strategic security of both Russia and the People’s Republic of China.”
A bipartisan panel appointed by the U.S. Congress said last month that Washington must prepare for possible simultaneous wars with Moscow and Beijing by expanding its conventional forces, strengthening alliances and enhancing its nuclear weapons modernisation programme.
Putin accused the United States of stoking tensions in Asia by trying to form military alliances, a reference to the “AUKUS” security alliance of the U.S., Australia and Britain.
“We see all this, and together with our friends, including, first of all, from the People’s Republic of China, we react to it calmly, carefully, and strengthen our defence capability, including through joint naval and air exercises,” Putin said.
Zhang told Putin through a translator that China respected Russia for its ability to withstand what the West casts as its most stringent sanctions every imposed on a major economy.
“The Russian Federation, under your leadership, stubbornly stands in the face of Western sanctions, which shows that no difficulty bends you and Russia,” Zhang said. “For this, the Chinese side expresses respect to you.”
Zhang said that his delegation had come in order to implement important agreements and further strengthen bilateral military cooperation. (Source: Reuters)
08 Nov 23. German military exports to Israel up nearly 10-fold as Berlin fast-tracks permits. German defence export approvals to Israel so far this year have risen nearly tenfold from last year, with Berlin treating permit requests as a priority since Hamas militants attacked Israel last month, a German government source said on Wednesday.
As of Nov. 2, the German government has approved the export of close to 303m euros’ ($323 m) worth of defence equipment to Israel. By comparison, 32m euros’ worth of defence exports were approved in all of 2022.
The majority of individual export permits – 185 out of 218 – were granted after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
“Following the terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, applications for the export of military equipment to Israel are being prioritised and approved by the federal government,” said the source.
Even with the increase, Israel accounts for a minor share of Germany’s military exports, which totalled 8.76 bn euros in the first nine months of 2023.
Germany primarily supplies Israel with components for air defence systems and communications equipment, according to the German press agency dpa, which first reported on the figures. ($1 = 0.9376 euros) (Source: Reuters)
07 Nov 23. Myanmar: Offensive against junta will continue to drive security risks. On 6 November, a joint operation conducted by local civilian militias, including the People’s Defence Force, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Arakan Army, successfully seized the town of Kawlin (Sagaing region) from the junta’s control. Kawlin is the first administrative district capital to be captured from the junta since the 2021 coup. The development follows the launch of Operation 1027 by the ‘Three Brotherhood Alliance’ of ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) in northern Shan state on 27 October. This operation has reportedly resulted in significant losses for the junta. However, retaliation by the security forces will significantly raise security threats. Displaced Kawlin residents have not been permitted to return due to the threat posed by airstrikes, while transport routes to and from the town have also been disrupted by fighting. Meanwhile, six civilians were reportedly killed in junta airstrikes in Mong Koe district (Shan) on 4 November. As fighting is unlikely to ease imminently, particularly in Shan and Sagaing, physical threats to personnel and infrastructure, as well as transport and communication disruption risks, will remain significantly heightened. (Source: Sibylline)
07 Nov 23. Colombia: ELN takes up arms in Chocó, underscoring risk of clashes between paramilitary groups. On 5 November, the ELN guerrilla group declared that it will take up arms for a period of 72 hours in the Baudo River region (Chocó department). In a statement, the ELN said the move responds to alleged violations of the government’s ceasefire agreement by Clan del Golfo paramilitaries. Clashes occurred in Mojaudo village early on 5 November. At least 200 families were impacted by the Baudo clashes. The ELN claims that government security forces have permitted Clan del Golfo’s operations, thereby violating the ceasefire. There is a sustained risk that dissident factions will breach the ceasefire agreement, elevating risks to bystanders in the Chocó department. There is also an increased risk of organised crime in the region as armed mobilisations persist. (Source: Sibylline)
07 Nov 23. Two years on, AUKUS retains broad public support as voters see economic and industrial dividends from security pact.
* CT Group global poll finds continuing high public support across Australia, the UK and the US for the AUKUS security alliance two years on.
* Australians, in particular, see benefits for their domestic economy through job creation and skills development.
* Britons are supportive of advanced military capabilities that could be achieved through AUKUS, while Americans are strongly in favour of promoting innovation and the advancement of new technologies in defence.
* Voters in all countries show strong backing for information and technology sharing with allies.
* Eugene Curley CMG OBE, Executive Director at CT Group, says evolving security environments require a “broader mobilisation” of national resources beyond conventional military capabilities.
* CT Group is launching AUKUS Advantage, a premium service to help clients secure long-term business advantages from the AUKUS framework.
Two years since its inception, the AUKUS security pact continues to enjoy strong voter support across Australia, the UK, and the US – with support further increasing when people consider the industrial and economic dividends from enhanced defence capabilities, according to new research.
While the headline element of the AUKUS agreement was the delivery of conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarines to the Royal Australian Navy, the research finds the “Advanced Capabilities” or “Pillar Two” elements of the agreement have even stronger public support. This shows voters grasp the urgency of evolving defence policy to deter adversarial threats and ensure security of the alliance membership.
The research was conducted across Australia, the UK and the US by global consultancy CT Group and is the first to explore underlying drivers of public sentiment and support for the AUKUS security pact.
Australian voters are mostly supportive, followed by those in the UK. Awareness of AUKUS was also highest in Australia – an expected outcome given the significant enhancement of the Royal Australian Navy’s capabilities through the addition of conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarines and the strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific region.
Comparatively, US voters have lower awareness of AUKUS, although the research finds strong support amongst American voters when they are given summary information about the tripartite pact.
There is agreement across all markets that defence co-operation and information sharing between the member countries will be enhanced under AUKUS. And critically, AUKUS will help stimulate allied technological innovation and enhance research and development for emerging technologies.
There is overwhelming net agreement in Australia (+59), the UK (+57), and the US (+62) that AUKUS will enhance defence cooperation and information sharing between allies, and a belief that each country’s position will be strengthened as a defence power in Europe, Asia, and internationally.
CT Group has launched AUKUS Advantage, a premium service offering that will position clients to secure long-term business advantages from the AUKUS framework. CT Group teams in Washington D.C., London and Canberra will support clients in navigating government processes and relations, and with market entry and positioning.
Eugene Curley CMG OBE, Executive Director at CT Group, said the modernisation of sovereign defence frameworks requires focused efforts beyond conventional military policy, funding and domains.
“The AUKUS alliance, with its focus on meeting the challenges of the modern age, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, has strong foundational support,” Mr Curley said. “But achieving its multi-decade mission is going to require ongoing leadership and focus across governments, supported by the armed forces, defence industry, academic institutions and beyond.
“In all three nations party to AUKUS the public grasps that national defence and security in the modern age will involve an industrial and economic evolution. The poll findings show that across all three markets there is room to grow awareness of AUKUS through public advocacy and communications that clarify its value to defence industry and to national security.
“This research is significant in that it shows broad understanding that Australia, Great Britain and the United States have a great deal to gain by the sharing and exchanging of skills and expertise, and collaborative research when it comes to national and regional security.
“Events in recent weeks have shown that preparedness and posture for conventional armed forces remains as important as ever. However, the nature of today’s global security environment requires a broader mobilisation that ensures supply chain security and acknowledges the role of the private sector in national preparedness.
“In the process of delivering AUKUS, there is an expectation that each member country will select an industry ‘leader’ to support the execution of the partnership. This is a unique opportunity for companies to influence multilateral policy and trade,” Mr Curley said.
The research involved a survey of over 3100 voters across Australia, the UK and the US, as well as interviews with defence industry executives and other AUKUS stakeholders over June and July this year.
After voters are given a summary of AUKUS, net favourability increases dramatically by +37pts in the UK and +51pts in the US. Favourability in Australia also increases by 18pts, from an existing high base of net +33pts.
Net support for providing Australia with nuclear-powered submarine capability using UK and US design and technology stands at +54pts in the US, +43 pts in the UK, and +41pts in Australia.
Notably, the so-called “Pillar Two” activities – which involve the development of joint advanced military capabilities including cyber defence, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies – enjoy higher net favourability at +57pts (US), +65pts (UK), and +61pts (Australia).
Australians also believe the partnership will help the country protect itself and have a stronger defence force. More than in other markets, AUKUS is seen as a likely contributor to the creation of jobs and skills development.
Interviews with key defence industry personnel found that while support for AUKUS is strong, there is a need to articulate the opportunities for industry to aid the successful delivery of AUKUS, especially across the “Pillar Two” lines of activity.
With inflation high across the developed world, the survey found cost of living was the dominant concern of voters in all three markets with voters wary about the potential costs associated with the AUKUS rollout. Healthcare and national security consistently featured at the top of the issue agenda, although employment and pensions were also important to Australian voters.
06 Nov 23. RoK Military Detects Signs of NK Supplying Ballistic Missiles to Russia. The South Korean military on Thursday said it has detected indications that North Korea has delivered short-range ballistic missiles, in addition to artillery shells and rockets, to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The South Korean military disclosed that North Korea is suspected of supplying a variety of weapons and equipment to Russia by holding a closed-door briefing on arms trade and military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, marking the first such instance since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in February 2022.
South Korea has identified signs of North Korea’s supply of short-range ballistic missiles to Russia based on information “from various sources,” one senior military official said on condition of anonymity when asked by The Korea Herald whether Seoul has evidence of such transfers.
North Korea appears to still be supplying Russia with SRBMs, according to the official. “We are monitoring the potential transportation of short-range ballistic missiles by both train and aircraft, as this mode of transportation is deemed feasible,” the official noted, adding, “We are closely watching the situation, and we are currently detecting emerging signs.”
The official explained that North Korea would face logistical challenges in transporting SRBMs by ship due to the dimensions of the shipping containers bound for Russia, which are approximately 6 meters in length and 2.5 to 2.6 meters in width.
For comparison, the KN-23 SRBM can measure 7.5 meters in length, according to the database provided by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.
The South Korean military assesses that North Korea might seek to transport a trio of newly developed SRBMs to Russia. These missiles include the KN-23, the KN-24 and the “super-large caliber” multiple-rocket launcher known as the KN-25, which South Korea categorizes as a ballistic missile system.
The military additionally indicated that North Korea is presumed to have supplied 122-millimeter shells suitable for multiple rocket launchers, along with 152mm artillery shells that are mutually compatible with both countries.
“It is estimated that around 2,000 containers have been dispatched to Russia through the Rajin Port to date,” the official shared Seoul’s assessment. The delivery is thought to have been initiated in August.
“Assuming these containers are loaded with 122 mm shells for multiple rocket launchers, the estimate exceeds 200,000 rounds. If these containers are loaded with 152 mm shells, the estimate surpasses 1 m rounds.”
Furthermore, North Korea is suspected of having provided Russia with T-series tank ammunition, including T-55 and T-62 models.
The military’s assessment also suggests that North Korea might potentially offer to Russia a range of other weapons, including multiple rocket launchers, field artillery, rifles, machine guns, portable anti-aircraft and anti-tank missiles.
Evidence of North Korea’s weapon supplies to Russia first emerged around mid-2022, but it significantly intensified, especially in August, just ahead of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s September visit to Russia.
In line with this pattern, containers originating from Russia have been detected not only in the vicinity of North Korea’s northeastern Rajin Port, a key maritime gateway connecting Russia and North Korea but also in multiple locations across North Korea since August.
“It is worth noting that containers are emerging in nearly every region of North Korea,” the unnamed official said, characterizing the situation as “unusual.”
“We have (seen) a notable presence of containers in proximity to North Korean ammunition facilities, indicating the possibility of a significant quantity of ammunition and related materials being transported (to Russia).”
Russian containers are also primarily found in areas adjacent to railroad tracks, often used for storage, sorting, and the loading and unloading of railroad cars.
The use of sea routes for weapons trade between Russia and North Korea has become noticeably more active since October.
During the period from August to September, it was common for a single ship to undertake a weekly voyage.
However, in October, the frequency increased, with three to four ships frequently shuttling between Russia and North Korea. A ship regularly berths at Rajin Port every three to four days.
The unnamed official explained that, on average, two of these ships typically enter the North Korean port per week.
As a reciprocal arrangement, the military believes that Russia has been providing technical guidance to North Korea concerning the third launch of what North Korea claims to be a military reconnaissance satellite. This launch was initially planned for October.
North Korea could be seeking assistance in various domains, such as Russia’s support for the development of satellite technology, nuclear-related technology transfers and collaboration, aid in the realm of fighter aircraft or their components, and support for the establishment of air defense systems, according to the South Korean military.
Pyongyang could also potentially request captured Western weapons from Russian forces in Ukraine in exchange for their lethal weapons supplies, as the country might be interested in “obtaining the technical information contained within these weapons,” the official explained.
The military assesses that “North Korea is expected to prioritize receiving initial support in the form of food and fuel to ensure regime stability and navigate through the upcoming winter” in a document.
“Following this, both will have discussions encompassing the transfer of military technology, the modernization of conventional military capabilities, and the organization of joint training exercises.”
(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ The Korea Herald)
06 Nov 23. Sudan: RSF’s territorial gains will further undermine prospects for successful peace talks with SAF. From 4-5 November, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) took control of two Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) bases; one in the capital Khartoum and one in El Geneina (the state capital of West Darfur). In Khartoum, the RSF took control of the SAF Armoured Corps base, which previously housed the majority of SAF vehicles and ground offensive weaponry. In El Geneina, the takeover of the SAF headquarters resulted in the relocation of SAF resources to Kulbus (West Darfur). The capture of El Geneina represents the third Darfur state capital the RSF has captured in the past week after seizing Nyala (South Darfur) on 26 October. The RSF’s control of El Geneina will almost certainly elevate risks for civilians and NGO workers, and intensify pressure on humanitarian resources in neighbouring Chad, where thousands of Sudanese civilians travelled to over the weekend. The RSF’s territorial gains will also almost certainly undermine ongoing peace talks with the SAF. (Source: Sibylline)
06 Nov 23. Myanmar-China: Intensification of clashes near border will drive security risks, humanitarian concerns. On 6 November, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged Myanmar to collaborate on border stability following intensified conflict between Myanmar’s junta and ethnic armed oganisations (EAOs) in the northern Shan state. This appeal came after the death of a Chinese citizen and the injury of several others on 4 November due to a misfired Myanmar military shell landing on the Chinese side of the border. Clashes have been reported in and around several Burmese cities since the 27 October offensive began, including Kunlong, Hseni, Chin Shwe Haw, Laukkaing, Namhkan, Kutkai and Lashio (all Shan state). Thousands have been displaced by the fighting and have crossed the border into China’s Yunnan province to seek shelter. The displaced individuals are facing food and water shortages. The recent developments in Shan have heightened security concerns for China, especially around its southern border. Furthermore, the intensification of the conflict, and consequent instability, will possibly drive the risk of transnational organised criminal activities, such as drug trafficking and smuggling of goods and people. (Source: Sibylline)
06 Nov 23. Colombia: EMC suspends peace talks with government, underscoring increased risk of attacks. On 5 November, the FARC dissident group Estado Mayor Central (EMC) announced the suspension of peace talks with the Colombian government. In a statement, EMC cited ‘constant breaches’ of prior commitments and a ‘lack of seriousness’ by the government at the negotiating table. EMC has rejected the continued presence of Colombian military personnel in territories under its influence, given that the deal requires troop withdrawals. The suspension underscores challenges in building trust in the fragmented peace process. The risks of attacks and localised violence are highly likely if talks collapse. Government assets are likely to be targeted, while the overall elevated risk environment will increase risks to personnel and assets in EMC-controlled areas. (Source: Sibylline
06 Nov 23. UK strengthens maritime commitment to Pacific region with Indo-Pacific Minister visit to Australia. Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, will reinforce the UK’s maritime commitment to the Pacific region in her visit to Australia
- Attending the International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, the Minister will highlight UK-Australia collaboration, including through AUKUS
- The visit will fortify UK-Australia bilateral ties and strengthen existing partnerships in the region, highlighting the shared goal of supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific
To underline the UK’s steadfast commitment to Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Island Countries, UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, will arrive in Sydney today (6 November) for a two-day programme focused on government engagement, maritime security, and the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific.
Attending the Indo-Pacific International Maritime Exposition, Minister Trevelyan will showcase the UK’s dedication to fostering trade opportunities and reinforcing our commitment to the AUKUS partnership at meetings with UK and international businesses developing key infrastructure for the naval industry.
The Minister will visit HMS Tamar, currently docked in Sydney. HMS Tamar and HMS Spey are UK Naval vessels positioned in the region to increase the UK’s long-term presence in the Indo-Pacific and help tackle regional security challenges. Working alongside partners and allies, the ships are conducting defence engagement and training with partner nations to enhance regional security.
AUKUS is integral to UK efforts to support a free, peaceful and stable region. The UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, recently accompanied Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles, on a visit to Rolls-Royce’s nuclear reactor manufacturing site in Derby to meet the first group of Australians training alongside UK experts to understand how the next generation of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines will be developed.
UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “Our close collaboration with Australia is testament to our shared vision for stability, growth and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. AUKUS will allow us to deliver on our defence and security commitments, including in the maritime domain, to benefit our nations and the wider region.”
Engaging with countries in the Indo-Pacific is a key UK government priority. On 7 November the Foreign Secretary will be in Japan for the G7 Foreign Minister’s Meeting in Tokyo. With around 60% of global shipping passing through the Indo-Pacific, ensuring maritime security is critical to the Prime Minister’s priority of growing the UK’s economy. Increased engagement in the Indo-Pacific is now a permanent pillar of the UK’s international policy.
Today’s visit underscores the depth of the UK partnership with Australia, building on the Minister’s work to boost regional trade earlier this year in Perth and Darwin. In September, she met government officials, business leaders and defence experts to discuss the UK’s increased engagement in the region.
Following her engagements in Australia, the Minister will travel to New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Fiji and Tonga, where she will meet counterparts to discuss shared challenges facing the region. The Minister will represent the UK as a Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum, taking place in the Cook Islands from 6-10 November. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
07 Nov 23. Progress of landmark UK-Japan treaties driven forward as Defence Secretary visits Tokyo. The visit is the latest in a series of high-level UK-Japan bilateral engagements this year, driving progress on two major treaties. Driving forward advanced technology and cooperating closely to promote freedom and democracy is at the heart of the defence relationship between the UK and Japan, which Defence Secretary Grant Shapps hailed in a meeting with his counterpart in Tokyo.
The Defence Secretary met his counterpart, Minister of Defense Minoru Kihara, for a series of meetings to further progress on two major treaties which will increase interoperability between the UK Armed Forces and Japan Self Defence Forces and cement our commitment to shared security.
It follows the signing and implementation of the ground-breaking Reciprocal Access Agreement by the Prime Minister earlier this year, which will underpin our shared defence activity by enabling the UK and Japan to operate and exercise together more easily, as well as continued work on developing a framework agreement for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
The UK and Japan are each other’s closest security partner in Europe and Asia respectively, a commitment reaffirmed in the Hiroshima Accord announced by PM Sunak and PM Kishida on the margins of the G7 Summit this summer.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Amid increasing tension and instability across the world – it is more clear than ever that the threats we face are global, and it’s particularly important we strengthen our relations with our international partners and allies.
In my meetings with Minister Kihara, we discussed how to further deepen our cooperation through these two landmark treaties and reaffirmed our commitment to building a truly next-generation combat aircraft through GCAP. Despite the distance between us, the UK and Japan stand closer together than ever before in support of peace, stability, and the rules-based international order.”
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has also been in Japan for a meeting of the G7 and both UK ministers joined their Japanese counterparts for a combined meeting, during which shared security interests such as support for Ukraine in its defence against Putin’s illegal invasion and condemnation of the Hamas attack against Israel, were discussed.
The UK remains the only European partner to have a bilateral exercise on Japanese soil, and the Army and Japanese Ground Self Defense Forces (GSDF) are currently planning Exercise Vigilant Isles 2023, which will see more than 150 UK personnel deploy to Japan this month – further demonstrating the UK’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, as set out through this year’s refreshed Defence Command Paper.
At sea, persistently deployed Offshore Patrol Vessels HMS Tamar and HMS Spey have enabled the UK to operate closely with Japan and regional partners to promote maritime security.
Work between the UK, Japan, and Italy continues on developing GCAP, which will futureproof our Combat Air sectors and deliver enhanced investment in our people and technology, deepening integration of supply chains. It will bring together defence and security expertise from across our three nations to strengthen our defence industrial base and secure high skilled jobs. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
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Founded in 1987, Exensor Technology is a world leading supplier of Networked Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) Systems providing tailored sensor solutions to customers all over the world. From our Headquarters in Lund Sweden, our centre of expertise in Network Communications at Communications Research Lab in Kalmar Sweden and our Production site outside of Basingstoke UK, we design, develop and produce latest state of the art rugged UGS solutions at the highest quality to meet the most stringent demands of our customers. Our systems are in operation and used in a wide number of Military as well as Homeland Security applications worldwide. The modular nature of the system ensures any external sensor can be integrated, providing the user with a fully meshed “silent” network capable of self-healing. Exensor Technology will continue to lead the field in UGS technology, provide our customers with excellent customer service and a bespoke package able to meet every need. A CNIM Group Company
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