International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Since there seems to be some interest in threads on this, I thought I might give it a home. This strictly covers defence only papers.
UK MOD Green paper on budget:
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature77197/
Russian White paper concerning military doctrine for 2010:
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1208/ This was prepared by NATO.
Brazilian White Paper on national defence strategy:
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1056/
These all require Adobe software to download the PDF files.
Enjoy and happy reading!
Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Three more for your review.
U.S. 2010 Quadrennial Defence Review WP:
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...port/file1281/
Turkey seems to be on the rise, this 2007 Defence WP might give some perspective on what they thought then, and where they are at today:
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ation/file967/
Since I hope to be there for my 25th "WA", Ireland WP why not?
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1030/
Education leads to understanding, understanding leads to perspective which in turn leads to wisdom, well hopefully anyway.
Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Thought there might be some interest in this article as it concerns the third largest defence spending country in the world:
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature85252/
A thought that U.S. consumerism has lead to the rise of the Chinese Military:
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature59052/
Finnish Security and Defence Policy from 2009:
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1035/
Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Not paid much attention to recently but USA certainly help fund China, in the turmoil the financal world is in at the moment guess who probably is suffering the least.
Consumerism yes Chinas GDP follows a general rise but what about debt who do you think USA owes a lot of those Trillions to.
The West no we are in the same shape try Asia if I remember correctly China & Japan own nearly half of the USA treasury so it makes sense to put the money made from that into the militrary for when you decide its time to stop lending.
What happens then USA collapses as no one underwrites the debt, then China says dont default on the payments or else. Give it a year or 2 to go pear shaped then ask for land in payment as it is now worth a fraction of what it was.
Who needs to invade now instead of Hong Kong being their gateway to the world they can revive the USA following the legal battle.
Hyperthetical of course

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Some more light reading.
1. ADF outlook until 2030. Focuses on naval requirements, overseas commitments and where they see themselves in Asia.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1105/

2. NATO research paper on Russian Federation military doctrine with it's concerns over NATO and it's place in the world community.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1208/

3. A very good article on Norways outlook thiss year and beyond.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/12437/

Got to get back to some World Cup!
Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Been awhile.
1. A very interesting article on why NATO shouldn't back down on the missile defense program due to the Russian overwhelming advantage in tactical nukes.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/629/

2. The role of the Danish Military 2010-2014 as presented by their government.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ural/file1439/

3. A very interesting read from President Sarkozy on Frances reintergration into NATO.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1376/

I'll have more on France in another thread, something I predicted (Through good research.) that will also answer a question of a certain type of munitions being developed. FRES anyone?

Good Night!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

A three interesting articles though targeted on topic, reflect the problems we're seeing in most of our countries to some extent generally across the board.

UK within NATO possibly becoming a second tier military?
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/18145/

U.S. acquisition programs to be further reformed or do we start over?
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/18144/

U.S. Cyberwarfare and Cyberterrorism a new strategic approach needed?
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ware/file1552/


Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Again fairly targeted articles that however reflect the issues many of our countries are dealing with. I especially found the last interesting. The first two just worry me more to some degree.
1. How the U.S. can potentially save 960Bn dollars on defence over the next 9yrs.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1631/

2. Countering the EMP threat, are we willing to do this?
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...iles/file1615/

3. Finally a speech given by Norway's DM on defence and security threats. A good read.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/18310/

Good Night and have a GREAT weekend!!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Just finished reading part two a few minutes ago (Part one last night.) and feel many can benefit from these two thorough articles for basic+ knowledge and maybe for game design purposes as well. It made me think about Singapores' TERREX IFV as this was one of the first "publicly advertised" combat vehicles to operate with a modern REALIABLE 360 threat assessment and threat counter system on board.

1. Part 1: http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/664/

2. Part 2: http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/665/

And because I do this in three's, and don't ask why because like they say at work "Because that's what Pat does!?!" a very interesting article facing the the British and French and part of the title says it best concerning the two "Entente or Oblivion?" go beyond the teaser story and click onto the RUSI link at the end.

3. http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/662/

Remember the mind is a terrible thing to waste, appreciate it while you got it!!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Good find Pat AMAP-ADS looks a leap in the right direction welcome to the world of superconductors & capacitors.
No ammo, minimal extra risk to freindlys, incredibly quick reaction time allowing short range intercepts & by the sounds of it even spoils kinetic projectiles. If it does what it says with any efficency weapon design is back to the drawing board. Say hello to our freind Mr CM arty to overwhelm or strip it, otherwise its EMP if feasable or serious jamming.

The taken with a grain of salt till now British Electric Armor may in fact work on a similar principle for defeating the projectile just as it hits so no sensors.

You could have posted this a few years back

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I posted a couple of articles a short time back where within them thay specifically stated that CM/Smart arty was going to be the immediate counter measure. I just posted a couple of months ago in the SPA/SPAA thread the upgrade to our 155mm towed arty targeting system that'll allow a one shot one kill at 5 miles
(~8.5Km?) for a conventional round. Lets not forget about EXCALIBUR and other similar rounds again an over the horizon one shot one kill munition that we've been using it quite regularly in Afghanistan. All it really needs is a camera with GPS and your dead. But I believe the new multi purpose 120mm round now being used by the IDF for the upgraded MERKAVA 4 and Germany with the upgraded Leopard can counter some of this. See the second "Future Weapons" video I posted under the MBT thread in one of my last posts concerning the MERKAVA when we were in the troop carrying discussion on it. But there's always KISS, rely on conventional targeting to minimise targeting transmissions and go with your "gut and training" aim and shoot, providing they still teach those methods!?! Bottom line arty will be viable for sometime to come to counter the armored threat.

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Alright a new system here that falls in line with the defpro.com articles I posted earlier this week Pt I & II on armor protective systems. Before you read this I want you to have this thought in your head, you're walking along in the desert but your properly outfitted as you planned well and it's a good thing because this just saved your life. You were distracted by your surroundings and didn't hear the rattle, you happen to look down and there's a western diamondback rattlesnake ready to strike, you try to avoid it, thank god you had a pair of snake boots on. Why? Because by the time you saw it and your mind perceived the threat, it has already struck and has recoiled to strike again, all in less then half a second. These systems react in milliseconds. This system I'm sure is in line with what I would think is the reaction time for TROPHY, IRONFIST and others coming on line.
1. http://www.defpro.com/news/details/18590/
Pic:
Attachment 10542

Australias election of it's you PM and it's possible affects.
2. http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature97383/

The LAF in a post Syrian enviroment.
3. http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature97383/

Remember a well read person is a well rounded person. Or was that a well fed person...anyway have a GREAT weekend all!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

This first is a summary article of the programs cut and or saved by the 8% reduction in Britain's defence budget. The link to the full article published yesterday is included which also shows troop level reductions etc. The question now is who's next with these kind of reductions? We're close by about half I believe now. For the game all RAF HARRIER types will be retired by the end of 2011. Recommend end date change to Dec. 2011 to keep things simple.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/677/

Next analysis of being "reasonable" in peacekeeping citing the issues of Britain and the question of Northern Ireland.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/669/

Next a good article on countering the Bio-Terrorism threat, take advantage of the linked articles at the bottom.
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature98029/

Take care and have a great weekend!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Well it's been awhile, though the focus of these are on air power issues this is the place for these and not the JET...thread. The source is familiar (First two.) but it's their "air" side I accidentally stumbled upon while looking into a couple of the "JET" issues I was dealing with in the last patch post.
EFAPS up to and beyond 3035.
http://www.airforce-technology.com/d...sion/file1011/
Alternatives for modernising US fighter forces.
http://www.airforce-technology.com/d...ance/file1698/
Israel and the F-35.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/...4714eb8e09c95b

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Sorry of course 3035 should be 2035. That would've been one helluva crystal ball!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

For those wanting more with a bonus today on a topic I've covered for sometime now and have offered my own opinions on as well. But first up...

1. 2009 UK paper on countering international terrorism.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ures/file1170/

2. EU Security and Defence issues for 2010-2020. It's a scary world out there!! Well maybe, maybe not.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...rity/file1480/

3. Bulgaria and it's military as it's entering NATO.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1955/
I'll have more on them in "the news of the last week" APC thread.

And here's your bonus: India is to increase it's defence budget by 11.6 percent during 2011 - 2012. Think about that number in this economic environment, that's commitment.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/...8?pageNumber=1
Taken from the "did.com" site. Also Defpro reported on 1 Mar.
the Indian MOD got it's increase.

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

This is as good a place as any for these stories of the past week, let's follow the money. There's enough out there to back up that 2010 was a banner year for the defence industry. These quick articles will show who made out and who has decided to spend more.

1. Russia sets a record in export arms sales.
http://www.defensenews.com/story.php...70&c=POL&s=TOP

2. Finland and Argentina to spend more on defence.
http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...-Opportunities
http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...-Opportunities

3. Have to get to three, though the program died, arose again, and is probably dead again is beside the point. This is more about defence industry adaptability and ultimatley survival. Going beyond the norm, thinking outside of the box and diversifying.
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature1719/

Have company might be it for today, enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I've been talking about arms procurement for awhile now because the real life issues here will directly affect the game in the long run with upgrades to existing and purchasing/development of new equipment.

1. China keeping up with the "Jones".
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/22611/

2. How to save a buck, get a red pencil! Some of this I've already covered.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/21729/
A. What about the U.S. with the Asian situation?
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/22818/

3. And you ask how Russia broke it's all time arms sales record in 2010? Well just ask the #1 arms importer in the world! The second ref breaks it down nicely and it is from one of the world's most respected think tanks.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/...8d869b2e7a7212
http://www.sipri.org/media/pressreleases/armstransfers

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

News of the last couple of weeks:

I don't think most mind having a few shorter type articles to read in here for a change.

1. What ever happened to the good old days?
http://ajaishukla.blogspot.com/2011/...tans-army.html

2. If you want to buy new military hardware that's easy "...but it's obsolete..."!
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Sec...0021300192511/

3. Some "old" players and one "newer" one.
http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...efense---Top-5

News articles from the "DID" site.

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

1. The restraints of the EU regarding weapons procurement...
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/785/

2. China opening up by releasing text of their 2010 defence white paper, off the "DID" site...
http://eng.mod.gov.cn/TopNews/2011-0...nt_4235292.htm
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23355/

3. Time for a new START...
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...cles/file2099/

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

As most know been busy "over" in Korea now it's catch up time with news of the LW+.

The general theme is arms procurement and disarmament, the winners and the losers and some other issues. Sorry have to break the "Rule of Three" but these are just articles.

1. The world is up! South America keeps on spending while most of Europe is in decline. Also see my "My Case for can Venezuela..." on Pg. 2 WinSPMBT main page thread for further details.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/792/

2. Russia looking for further expansion into South America they have after all a major defence modernization and Carrier program to pay for among other projects.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23676/
http://en.rian.ru/mlitary_news/20110413/163504009.html

3. You broke your arms export sales record last year, your looking to expand your markets elsewhere, so what to do with that extra money? Spend 705 Billion on modernizing your military of course!
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23580/

4. Not happy that the Japanese are trying to negotiate to get back their Northern Islands or that China is expanding it's military especially the Navy with Carriers and modern Submarines within the next ten years? Then project the power first with Carriers of your own from France-yes the deal is now done. These are very capable ships and countries like Georgia are very worried about them, check your maps you'll understand why.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23761/

5. Asia is very busy to as I've reported on so I'm resubmitting this again as posted earlier today in the MBT thread.
http://www.timeslive.co.za/world/art...pons-purchases.

6. The U.S. is streamlining and killing programs to keep things going, note the source in the UR corner then note Para. 6.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23746/

7. Yes I've reported on this before, those "pesky" Chinese have everyone dare I say it, up in arms! Or in this case building and improving IAFB's along it's borders.
http://ajaishukla.blogspot.com/2011/...rnise-air.html

8. With India's MMRCA program pending isn't it a good thing for them that Libya came along so that they had a chance to evaluate most of the fighters on their short list in a combat situation. Sadly to some extent, sometimes it's just about timing and location, location... The articles are from "DID" site.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/...4?pageNumber=1
8a. A bonus here for you developers and I know someone is contemplating a "Libyan Liberation" scenario, here's some weapons info for you.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011...-weapons-qatar

9. Now for Europe it's bad over there if you're in the uniform. Portugal is expected to be maybe the next to go after Greece and Ireland in regards to the EU stepping in to keep them solvent, we'll know by the Fall or have a clearer picture by then.
http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...ulting-Defense

10. Also from the MBT thread for the tank issue this belongs here as well. The Dutch are making major cuts in their military also given the size of it. I think most of the equipment will be sold. This might give Canada a further buy opportunity. They are being frugal but have taken advantage of earlier buy opportunities for LEO tanks from the Dutch and Swiss earlier.
http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...ulting-Defense
http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/defen...bilities/8772/

11. I've saved the BEST for last, it's back to the Korean Peninsula!!! :clap::haha::cheers::banana::party:
And yes there was much rejoicing!?! Good ole MP & The HG!?!
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23657/

In the Planes and Jets thread in the next couple of days I'll tell you how you can get a head start on that new inground swimming pool you've always wanted!?!

Going to be bed-Good Day all!!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

The news from the LW+:

There just has been so much going on so my apolizies, as I've gotten behind. The underlying theme remains the same defence and program cuts. This is the new reality. And if the U.S. should come close to or actually allows it to default for even a short time it could trigger a world wide recession. I don't think it'll happen but the possibility is certainly there if people decide to play politics over the realities of the situation. The only upside I see is that certain people like myself will have less work for Don and Andy to do, well don't celebrate yet it's almost time to get my first PP for 2011/2012 started!?!
Anyway here we go:

1. A snapshot on the UK defence industry. Like what happened to the RAF HARRIERS where several hundred million dollars was spent on system upgrades in the last five years or so of service, could the same fate face the GR.4 TORANDOS? The F3 version was just retired.
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature115959/

2. The USA harvesting tech from cancelled programs to better existing ones i.e. NLOS 155mm to the PALADIN PIM.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/23843/

3. The "new", old threats and options to counter it for the U.S.
http://www.cnas.org/node/5022
http://www.cnas.org/node/6003

4. Something we do in recruiting as well to a lesser extent, but a major tool for Al Qaeda. An interesting perspective.
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/article...craft?page=0,0

5. This is a good one how the law and defence budget is guided by it, these are the type of reports the SECDEF and Congress looks at to determine the future of programs. The highlights SLAMRAAM completes development with FMTV Launcher and is shelved until we need it, MEADS to complete developmental phase until
FY 2014 (Oct. 2013.), SECNAV ordered to smoothly shutdown and cancel the EFV and the F-35 is at a "critical" over budget limit. I'll have more on it in the JETS and PLANES... thread but, the F-35 is delayed further as announced by the program manager until the end of 2016 this could put back the operational date to 2018.
http://www.defense.gov/releases/rele...eleaseid=14411

6. SECDEF has been directed by the President to further find defence spending cuts above what is being done to this point already as announced on 6 Jan. 2011. These additional cuts are to go through 2023. Though the article does not provide for how much of the 400 billion is to come from defence, the national media has already reported estimates as high as 200 billion more in cuts.
http://www.defensenews.com/story.php...10&c=AME&s=TOP

7. Germany arguably the strongest economy in Europe is facing the reality of the economic crisis in it's military as well.
http://www.defensenews.com/story.php...23&c=EUR&s=LAN

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

News of the LW+

MORE ON THE ARTICLE SIDE, AGAIN.

1. Updated Iraqi order of battle, you designers need to pay attention while "Uncle Sam" is still providing this info.
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...ay-2011-06861/
The BTR-4s have been delivered as already reported in the APC thread.

2. Saudi Arabia keeping up with the "Jones" in case being the UAE. I guess I could be busy in the helo department? We'll see. Though of interest here will be if the Saudis become the first country outside the U.S. to get the APACHE Block III.
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...l-guard-02462/

3. FY12 National Defence Authorization Bill PDF. The blank pages are the stuff we don't get to see, it's that old "need to know" thing.
http://armedservices.house.gov/index...f-ed2fa468b791

4. USA acquisition issues. Ties into #3 as discussed.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/24072/

5. This next is an in depth view of India's military dealing in the political, equipment and acquisition and procurement process. I think a good overview of most countries in general if you've been following along with these posts over the last couple of months or so.
http://ajaishukla.blogspot.com/2011/...y-road-to.html

"The value of a man resides in what he gives and not in what he is capable of receiving" - Ana. from my calendar at work.

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

1. PLA disarming? Only if you believe the sky is falling!
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/24297/

2. Overview of Australia's and Norway's upcoming defence budgets.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/24337/
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/24276/

3. A good read on Taiwan's efforts to modernize it's military.
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...ization-04250/

4. Are joint forces the way of the future? Ask the UK and France!
http://www.army-technology.com/features/feature118448/

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

It's hot, more humid and it feels like I lose 20lbs. very time I go to work so I need a change of pace so...it's been awhile since I've posted here and I needed to learn more things.

1. The logic of Warfighting Experimentation.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ation/file926/

2. All about that STRATCOM stuff. Background, issues etc.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...iles/file2589/

3. Oh that GPS made my world work, but there are issues involved. The threats and the cures, GPS is everywhere and controls more then you think.
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...ures/file2553/

Some bonus articles defence related procurement (Or loss of.) and budget issues. Items from papers are from the DID site.

A. Someone call UPS please!! This situation is not unique to the UK by a long shot, just find a mirror.
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/...ee8ac06750ac90

B. There's no such thing as a "safe" weapons program, the history of the "weapons program highway" is littered with them, and there will be more to come.
http://www.defenseprocurementnews.co...program-costs/
http://www.defensenews.com/story.php...89&c=AME&s=TOP

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I bet somebody buys me a beer for this because I can be a sneaky sort of guy let's see who catches on to these actually very good articles on the topics presented as these two countries try to keep up in challenging times. Besides it's been a long time since I've posted here. But we again can have fun with these! ;)
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1076/
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...tion/file1086/
http://www.army-technology.com/downl...nd-and-status/
This ought to keep some busy on those slow days.

To expand your mind is too expand your horizons-by me-who knows?

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

The results of the cuts in the DOD Defence budget are released, DI provides an overview of them. For further info click on the links within the para of concern for additional background or other leading to the conclusions made.
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...preview-07285/

A companion short article on the Ukraine 2012 Defence Budget. Putting to use partly the recent arms sales to Iraq and Thailand I would think.
http://www.dmilt.com/index.php?optio...rope&Itemid=57

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Well I'll provide fair warning if you don't have an interest in how the geopolitical economic situation has affected defence spending, then this post isn't for you. Russia has or will overtake China in the export of tanks and jets within the last year, where political realities in the U.S. has the DOD scrambling to figure out ways to maintain a premier military force and determine it's future composition, abilities and equipment needs to meet those goals. Many countries are on the rise, others are maintaining while still others are drastically cutting back. So a little defence economics 101 and house cleaning for me...

First an overview then a little "TIT for TAT" between Russia and Algeria...
http://www.armyrecognition.com/febru...2_1702121.html
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...everage-02024/

Tha Panda is still rising...
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/32999/

Shared information makes the process of weapons procurement easier and cheaper "lessons learned" if you will though the next is a little out of the ordinary between India and Brazil...
http://www.dmilt.com/index.php?optio...rica&Itemid=58

A series of stories on the U.S. DOD Budget. How does it work and a look at the 2011-2013 budgets...
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...slation-07303/
http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2011/
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/31711/
http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/...a4c92215277e27
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/...-budget-07304/

A look at how the USAF is dealing with this...
http://www.af.mil/shared/media/docum...120201-027.pdf

If you can't afford to buy, try a lease as Hungry has done for the GRIPEN. The original lease is now extended until 2026.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/31785/

Austria has armor? Well yes but not much after 2013...
http://www.army-technology.com/news/...hicles-by-2013

Well this should keep some of you busy!?!

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Well its been a longtime since I posted anything here but, I think it's time to separate out items like the below that work their way into the more equipment orientated threads I use for my submission work and for others as they see fit. So this will be more for the "bigger picture" items.

1. EU President calls for a unified EU Army and Air Force. The article concerning a unified AF is more in depth as it appears in full length and touches on the first issue. Once in a while JANES will present you with a gift and the latter is just that.
http://www.janes.com/article/49843/e...-european-army
http://www.janes.com/article/49838/a...pean-air-force

2. The next is perspective on Germany's military situation, recently Lithuania had asked for light armor but, last week was refused for a variety of reasons to include internal security. However it's likely they will still receive the PHZ- 2000 SPA units also requested. For background I've included Lithuania's situation as well driven by Russia's resurgence in Europe.
http://www.janes.com/article/49362/l...e-conscription
http://www.armyrecognition.com/febru...ania_army.html
http://www.defence24.com/news_german...itzers-anyway#
http://www.defence24.com/analysis_ge...the-bundeswehr

3. Eurocorps Commander warns that Europe cannot continue to rely on "soft power"...
http://www.janes.com/article/49619/e...ommander-warns

4. Is it time for us to come back to Europe with more armor?
http://www.defence24.com/news_americ...eastern-europe

5. Is the "Hybrid War" in Ukraine working for Russian?
http://www.janes.com/article/49469/u...ine-is-working

This is a good start for now. Any feedback on Defence24 from Items 2 and 4 would be appreciated here by SERIOUS readers please.

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I can see where the eastern Europeans would probably like to have some US units (I doubt they really care what kind, just as long as they're US) permanently stationed inside their borders.
But, of course certain western European nations (bet you can guess which ones) will be totally opposed.

The real question is - Does anyone think Russia is actually going to attempt to reoccupy it's former satellites?

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

This next is an in-depth report on the top 15-20 acquisition programs of the 2000's and how they died by sequestration and other means tied to the budget (See page 4/Table 1-PDF page 10.) and future acquisitions into the 2030's again by all services. The source is well respected. For most of you Pg. 4 might be enough as Table 1 also shows how much was spent and what the alternative to the cancelled program was as well. Beyond that it's how the budget has dictated the future acquisition programs of the various services as described above. Just started it myself and am finding it interesting, but, of course that's me!?!
https://csis.org/files/publication/1...zation_Web.pdf

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

As of early 2016 I don't see very much chance of unified EU Armed Forces, nor do I think they would be a good thing.

NATO is the basis of Western European security and I think it should remain so.

The UK is, of course, due to vote on leaving the EU in June. I for one support the UK leaving and regaining real political independence, while remaining a full part of NATO and continuing to cooperate with our friends and allies on Defence and security.

http://grassrootsout.co.uk/

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

1. Let's just call these...He kept his word...
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/...id=mailsignout

2. Austria seeing "shadows"...
http://www.janes.com/article/58745/a...efence-decline

3. ISIS and the use of "technicals"...
http://www.army-technology.com/featu...-isis-4789324/

Regards,
Pat

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Europe will you please allow us to send more troops there? This and more for what I've called the "Warm War" for awhile, it seems it's getting "chillier" as time goes on. Russia in it's long history has always looked to the West to provide a "buffer" to "Mother Russia" it's understandable to some degree given their long history of invasion. They've lost that option now with the break up of the Soviet Union and collapse of the Warsaw Pact. So with NATO to the West and China to the East you can see things are getting harder. Crimea will I believe be lost to the West for a very longtime and maybe beyond due to it's strategic location and it's importance to it's NAVY, which has been more actively involved in operations in the Mediterranean than it has probably going back to the end of the Cold War. Georgia would become a flash point as well, it would be hard for Russia to accept Georgia as a member of NATO, and I wonder if the process was to start if the Russians wouldn't just change the landscape there. It's a hypothetical, but what's not is though requested by Georgia to become a member, NATO has thus far only taken it under "advisement" if that far.

Now there's a campaign maybe for someone to tackle!?!

Anyway here's the latest on what the U.S. hopes to accomplish in the city of my birth. "I "R" ARMY Brat after-all!" I've also posted from NATO the current members list-somehow I missed Croatia getting in.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/...id=mailsignout
http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/nato_countries.htm

This next I thought might be interesting to some, I seem to remember a similar controversy over this topic I thought a few years back along the same lines without identifying the personnel involved. Anyway something a little different for a change anyway.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/mar...id=mailsignout

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

As you say Russia tends to be a little on the paranoid side due to the number of times it's been invaded. Their mania for buffer states is totally justified and reasonable from their perspective. As are their recent aggressive aerobatic and naval displays, can't have the neighbors thinking you're weak! The problem is I don't think some (many?) members of their government realize that no one in the West has any particular interest in invading them anymore.

##########

As to the claim that one of the people on Suribachi has been misidentified all these years ...
The three survivors (Bradley, Hayes, and Gagnon) never commented on the matter once they themselves were correctly identified, and I tend to give someone that was actually there and knew the men involved a lot of credibility.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Here is a very detailed account of the claim..........

http://dataomaha.com/media/news/2014/iwo-jima/

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I'm interested in your take on this when the evidence is reviewed some of it is compelling, others not so much

There were LOTS of marines around during the second flag raising.....the "Gung Ho" shot proves that but "clue #2" that Bradley's helmet does not show a soft cap inside and there isn't one on his head during the "Gung Ho" shot proves nothing since you don't see his left hand and that could easily have the cap in it OR when he raised the helmet the cap fell out and is on the ground when the shot was taken OR if you look at the second group shot under clue #4 he is holding his helmet by the right side of the brim and his thumb could easily be holding his soft cap tight against the inside of the helmet

BUT

The cuffed / uncuffted pants is significant and "Clue No. 4: Sousley's helmet, belt and uncuffed pants " is very significant and I am inclined to think that is Sousley not Bradley.... but Bradley WAS there during the raising of that there is no doubt

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Given the information in the detailed account you provided I have to agree it's probable that wasn't Bradley on the flag.
With two flags being raised and a battle raging at the time I'd say it was an honest mistake on his (and everyone's) part.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Every Marine on Suribachi that day " helped raise the flag " and Bradley was there for both of them. Given Hayes reluctance ( to put it mildly......) to be named initially and what seems like a general lack of interest by any Marine there to step into the spotlight it seems posssible ( this is conjecture on my part ) that Sousley and Bradley agreed it would be Bradley named since he was there for both and leave it at that as nobody I'm aware of ( I admit limited knowledge ) involved ever went on to make a big deal out of their participation in the events that day . ( The Marines......the goverment and media are another matter...)

EDIT......I have seen this " I don't want to talk about it.........the past is past" attitude personally. I had an uncle who was a DonR ( motorcycle dispatch rider ) wounded in Normandy when a truck full of infantry he was following hit a big AT mine and he just happened to move when the following troops were sorting through the resulting carnage and he spent the rest of the war in hospital...... I tried once to talk with him about it ....I was curious what bike he rode most....and he refused to talk about it so I can see how someone might tell a battle comrade " Leave me out of this please" and that's where the matter ends for them.

It's significant as well that both of the guys who initiated this have no axe to grind....they just both noticed things that didn't add up and came forward with their findings. What's far less impressive is the reaction of some of the "historians" unwilling to even look at the evidence.

Don

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Well I just found where the Iwo Jima went I was looking for when the final results of the USMC review board found Schulz was at the 2nd flag raising and not Bradley. Much like the below ended up in the Venezuela Thread just below this in Thread order. So I award myself (And the Olympics are on after all. ;)) another Gold Medal in the :doh: category. Michael Phelps eat your heart out, I now have more "DAaaa" "DOHhhh" combined Gold Medals then you have Olympic ones. Guess I showed him!?! :D

Anyway...

"Don't worry I'm not advocating for Russian armored trains to be entered in the game, but this next is after all something you don't hear about everyday. Note the look of the soldier on the right in the picture, I wonder is he thinking "I'm not feeling as protected as my comrades inside the train!?!" Probably he's just bored! Anyway...
http://www.armyrecognition.com/augus..._11508161.html"

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

P.S.
Maybe it was just this...:typing: or :pc:? Nah,definitely the above.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

404 error.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I think the correct link is http://www.armyrecognition.com/augus..._11508161.html

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Thank you!

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

I wanted to get this out there because of the possibilities this will raise in the next couple of years but basically Vietnam is going Indian. When you see what the value is in American dollars as compared to the local currencies this is huge in currency vs potential buying power for the Vietnamese Govt. Though it's still a lot of money it could be less if this is of course structured on the U.S. Dollar. Bottom-line I see the potential to see the ARJUN, HAL TEJAS and their new 155mm/52 field arty gun being possibly exported which India has considered doing for some time now.
http://www.janes.com/article/63444/i...ence-equipment

For me it'll be interesting how they'll struture the deal and what gets bought.
http://www.military-today.com/tanks/arjun.htm
http://www.military-today.com/aircraft/hal_tejas.htm

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Would make a good deal of sense for India that has China as a major potential enemy, on the basis that 'my enemies enemy is my friend'.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Also parts and ammo would probably be easier to get from India then the US, both logistically and politically.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Just a little something about two "old friends" one is rising and one is just trying to maintain itself.
http://www.army-technology.com/featu...roops-5645850/

An easy understanding of modern armor options.
http://www.army-technology.com/featu...eight-4939190/

The "bumpy" road of the Boxer's journey to the UK Army.
http://www.army-technology.com/projects/mrav

A different kind of fat is "eating away" at the military.
http://www.army-technology.com/opini...oblem-4951081/

NATO the current issues (Minus what might be our future role in it.) from this years main conference.
http://www.army-technology.com/opini...focus-4990357/

Note the sites new look.

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Greece, white paper for the armed forces: http://www.resdal.org/Archivo/d000007e.htm

While this one is a bit old (1997), the general premise hadn't changed much.

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Came across this this while reading my "newspapers", though the data is a couple of years old, it is telling on the state of the Russian defense industry from the numbers taken from 2014. This doesn't bode well for their military certainly in the early to the mid term goals in the modernization and development of equipment. It's a "cautionary tale" to definitely follow that will/or could affect when these pieces of equipment actually get into the field.
http://tass.com/infographics/7274

Long "day at work" so good night/morning and enjoy your weekends!!

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: International Defence Green and White Papers
 

Common cause for two countries that don't want to revisit the past. Much stronger ties and cooperation for the common good has been in play for the last 2-3yrs in particular and are expanding currently to the benefit of both.
http://www.defence24.com/453755,ukro...olish-industry

Regards,
Pat
:capt: