Latest news with #Defence
United News of India
2 hours ago
- Politics
- United News of India
India, Madagascar discuss boosting defence ties with focus on maritime security
New Delhi, June 28 (UNI) Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth held a bilateral meeting with Minister of Armed Forces of Madagascar Lt Gen Sahivelo Lala Monja Delphin and discussed ways to strengthen defence cooperation, particularly in the areas of maritime security and capacity building. Seth led a high-level Indian delegation on an official visit to Antananarivo, Madagascar, from June 25 to 27. During the visit, he represented India at the celebrations marking the 65th anniversary of Madagascar's Independence and the creation of the Malagasy Armed Forces, a Defence Ministry statement said. He also called on Prime Minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay and conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 65th anniversary of the Independence of Madagascar. Besides, the Minister also took part in an Indian community reception organised by the Embassy in Antananarivo. He briefed the members of the Indian diaspora on India's recent developments and ongoing economic transformation. India and Madagascar, as close neighbours and fellow developing nations in the Indian Ocean Region, share deep-rooted bonds of friendship and strong people-to-people ties. India remains a steadfast and committed partner in Madagascar's development journey. The visit by the Minister of State for Defence reaffirmed India's commitment to deepening its partnership with Madagascar, in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
![[UPDATED] Armed Forces must be prepared with latest defence technology](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fimages%2Farticles%2FSultan_Ibrahim2806_1751083949.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
![[UPDATED] Armed Forces must be prepared with latest defence technology](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fassets%2FNST-Logo%402x.png%3Fid%3Db37a17055cb1ffea01f5&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
New Straits Times
6 hours ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
[UPDATED] Armed Forces must be prepared with latest defence technology
KUALA LUMPUR: The increasingly challenging and uncertain global political landscape requires that the Armed Forces (MAF) remain ever ready and equipped with the latest defence technology to face any eventuality. His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, said the Iran-Israel war and prolonged conflict in Gaza clearly show that international laws are no longer sufficient to safeguard global peace. "It is crucial for the MAF to always be prepared and equipped with the latest technology to deal with any possibility, as we don't know who is a friend and who is an enemy," His Majesty said. The King said this when officiating the commissioning parade and presentation of appointment letters to Armed Forces cadet officers at Kem Perdana, Sungai Besi here today. At the same time, Sultan Ibrahim reminded the government to ensure that there is no political interference or influence from suppliers in all defence procurement processes. "MAF top leadership, too, must always act with integrity and steer clear of corrupt practices. As the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, I will not tolerate anyone who abuses their position for personal gain," said His Majesty. Sultan Ibrahim also expressed concern over the culture of social media use among military personnel and reminded them not to share everything online, particularly information related to troop deployments, unit locations and other sensitive details. He said the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel showed how both sides have easily exploited information obtained through technology companies, smart applications and social media to launch attacks. "I want this to stop immediately. Use sound judgment and refrain from disclosing unnecessary information to the public. It is better to be cautious now than to regret later," His Majesty said. Meanwhile, Sultan Ibrahim congratulated the 509 cadet officers who completed their training today and reminded them that a career in the military demands great sacrifices, personal strength, honesty and unwavering loyalty to the king and country. His Majesty also called on them to be leaders who uphold discipline, train their personnel effectively, and prioritise their welfare, while also expressing appreciation to the parents who entrusted their beloved children to serve in the MAF. The ceremony was also attended by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Khaled Nordin, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar, Army Chief Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, Navy Chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain and Air Force Chief Gen Datuk Muhamad Norazlan Aris. — Bernama
Mid East Info
9 hours ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
The H Dubai Champions Future-Ready Hospitality Through the One Million Prompters Programme - Middle East Business News and Information
To celebrate becoming the first hotel in Dubai to have its entire management team complete the initiative, The H Dubai hosted an award ceremony in partnership with Dubai Future Foundation Dubai, UAE : Located in the pulse of one of the world's most modern cities, The H Dubai champions forward-thinking hospitality built around meaningful guest experiences. As emerging technologies continue to redefine the hotel industry, this dynamic property is evolving in step, having recently become the first hotel in Dubai to have its executive and management team complete the One Million Prompters programme by Dubai Future Foundation. The achievement was marked with a special award ceremony, positioning The H Dubai and its tech-savvy team at the forefront of the next era of tech-driven hospitality. Launched in 2024 under the vision of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), 'One Million Prompters' is an initiative aimed at training one million individuals in AI prompt engineering. As the first and largest of its kind, the programme is divided into four key modules, each designed to equip participants with the critical skills to leverage AI in the modern workplace. On 23rd June , The H Dubai held a celebratory award ceremony to congratulate the 30 executive and management team members who completed the programme, starting with a welcoming speech from General Manager Yassin Mahmoud. The One Million Prompters team were also in attendance to share their remarks on the achievement. Finally, each graduate received their certificate before the ceremony wrapped up with a group photo. Reflecting on this milestone, Yassin Mahmoud, General Manager of The H Dubai, said, 'This achievement is a natural step in our ongoing journey to stay in tune with the world around us and the evolving needs of our guests. From embracing AI to introducing sustainable practices like our biodigester and becoming the first hotel in Dubai to receive the Certified Autism Center designation, we're always looking for ways to grow as a team. We're incredibly proud of everyone who completed the programme, and we're excited to see how this knowledge helps us enhance the way we work while maintaining a personal touch.' As the first hotel in Dubai to have its full management team complete the One Million Prompters programme, The H Dubai sets a new standard for AI adoption in the region's hospitality landscape. By aligning with government initiatives, the property continues to evolve alongside the city and meet the shifting expectations of modern travellers, all while staying true to the personalised, memorable experiences guests have come to know and appreciate. About The H Dubai: Located at Sheikh Zayed Road, The H Dubai is a gateway to the Middle East's most dynamic city. Renowned for its eclectic and vibrant selection of dining and nightlife experiences; the award-winning Santai Spa by Mandara; world-class rooms, suites and residences, a luxury commercial business tower and a diverse events centre –The H Dubai is the ultimate destination for business and leisure.
NDTV
15 hours ago
- Politics
- NDTV
Danish General Says He Is Not Losing Sleep Over US Plans For Greenland
Copenhagen: The head of Denmark's Arctic command said the prospect of a US takeover of Greenland was not keeping him up at night after talks with a senior US general last week but that more must be done to deter any Russian attack on the Arctic island. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested the United States might acquire Greenland, a vast semi-autonomous Danish territory on the shortest route between North America and Europe vital for the US ballistic missile warning system. Trump has not ruled out taking the territory by force and, at a congressional hearing this month, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth did not deny that such contingency plans exist. Such a scenario "is absolutely not on my mind," Soren Andersen, head of Denmark's Joint Arctic Command, told Reuters in an interview, days after what he said was his first meeting with the general overseeing US defence of the area. "I sleep perfectly well at night," Anderson said. "Militarily, we work together, as we always have." U.S. General Gregory Guillot visited the US Pituffik Space Base in Greenland on June 19-20 for the first time since the US moved Greenland oversight to the Northern command from its European command, the Northern Command said on Tuesday. Andersen's interview with Reuters on Wednesday were his first detailed comments to media since his talks with Guillot, which coincided with Danish military exercises on Greenland involving one of its largest military presences since the Cold War. Russian and Chinese state vessels have appeared unexpectedly around Greenland in the past and the Trump administration has accused Denmark of failing to keep it safe from potential incursions. Both countries have denied any such plans. Andersen said the threat level to Greenland had not increased this year. "We don't see Russian or Chinese state ships up here," he said. DOG SLED PATROLS Denmark's permanent presence consists of four ageing inspection vessels, a small surveillance plane, and dog sled patrols tasked with monitoring an area four times the size of France. Previously focused on demonstrating its presence and civilian tasks like search and rescue, and fishing inspection, the Joint Arctic Command is now shifting more towards territorial defence, Andersen said. "In reality, Greenland is not that difficult to defend," he said. "Relatively few points need defending, and of course, we have a plan for that. NATO has a plan for that." As part of the military exercises this month, Denmark has deployed a frigate, F-16s, special forces and extra troops, and increased surveillance around critical infrastructure. They would leave next week when the exercises end, Andersen said, adding that he would like to repeat them in the coming months. "To keep this area conflict-free, we have to do more, we need to have a credible deterrent," he said. "If Russia starts to change its behaviour around Greenland, I have to be able to act on it." In January, Denmark pledged over $2 billion to strengthen its Arctic defence, including new Arctic navy vessels, long-range drones, and satellite coverage. France offered to deploy troops to Greenland and EU's top military official said it made sense to station troops from EU countries there. Around 20,000 people live in the capital Nuuk, with the rest of Greenland's 57,000 population spread across 71 towns, mostly on the west coast. The lack of infrastructure elsewhere is a deterrent in itself, Andersen said. "If, for example, there were to be a Russian naval landing on the east coast, I think it wouldn't be long before such a military operation would turn into a rescue mission," he said.
The Advertiser
17 hours ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
Defence Minister Richard Marles celebrates a win amid Coalition criticism
With a cloud hanging over the AUKUS submarine deal and the Opposition attacking the government for refusing to bow to United States pressure to lift Defence spending, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles is preparing to celebrate a win. The Albanese government's plan for a larger and more lethal surface combatant fleet for the Royal Australian Navy will hit a milestone on Saturday with the addition of the HMAS Arafura. Built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia at the Osborne Shipyard in South Australia, the vessel entered Fremantle this week ahead of a commissioning ceremony on Saturday, following testing and evaluation by Defence. Mr Marles said the commissioning of HMAS Arafura "marks an important milestone" and meant the Navy could "continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders". "We will continue to see the Navy introduce new vessels into its fleet," he said. It is the first Arafura class offshore patrol vessel of the Navy's surface fleet, with a second - NUSHIP Eyre - having been built and awaiting acceptance by the Navy. On Friday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese resisted pressure to commit a higher proportion of GDP to defence spending, as the US insisted its allies increase their share. The Opposition heaped criticism on Mr Albanese this week over defence spending and the Prime Minister's inability, to date, to secure a make-up meeting or phone call with United States President Donald Trump, who cancelled a face-to-face last week as he left the G7 Leaders' Summit early to deal with the Israel-Iran crisis. Mr Albanese had been expected to seek Mr Trump's ongoing support for Australia's $368 billion AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, which has been subjected to a Pentagon review. Australia is contracted to buy three off-the-shelf nuclear submarines from the US before making eight of its own, with the first submarine not expected to join the Australian fleet for years. The US only has to deliver the submarines if it has enough for the US Navy's use - and American shipyards are not on track to meet domestic targets, leading to fears the deal could fall over. On Friday, the Prime Minister said his government was "making sure that Australia has the capability that we need". "We've increased it by $57 billion over the medium term and by more than $10 billion in the short term as well," he told reporters in Sydney. Foreign Minister Penny Wong is preparing to fly to the US for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of discussions between the foreign ministers of Quad alliance nations. Four more Arafura class offshore patrol vessels are under construction at the Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia. They boast a greater range of 4000 nautical miles and can perform roles that previously required numerous vessels, with improved living quarters and amenities to better support personnel. The procurement of the new fleet responds to recommendations of the Independent Analysis into Navy's Surface Combatant Fleet. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her defence spokesman Angus Taylor this week blasted the government for refusing to commit to higher defence spending. On Friday, Mr Taylor said boosting spending levels was not about doing what the US wanted. "This is not about being bullied," he said. "This is about doing the right thing for our great country, and that's what we want to see." NATO member countries announced this week that they had agreed to spend 5 per cent of their economic output on defence and security, after calls to do so by Mr Trump. This led to increased pressure on Washington's Indo-Pacific allies to do the same, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying countries such as Australia should follow suit. "If our allies in Europe and our NATO allies can do that, I think our allies and our friends in the Asia-Pacific region can do it as well," she said. NATO nations will be expected to spend 3.5 per cent of their gross domestic product on core defence and a further 1.5 per cent on broader security. Australia's defence spending is set to rise from 2 per cent of GDP now to 2.3 per cent by 2033/34, with the Coalition calling for a 3 per cent target within 10 years. With AAP With a cloud hanging over the AUKUS submarine deal and the Opposition attacking the government for refusing to bow to United States pressure to lift Defence spending, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles is preparing to celebrate a win. The Albanese government's plan for a larger and more lethal surface combatant fleet for the Royal Australian Navy will hit a milestone on Saturday with the addition of the HMAS Arafura. Built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia at the Osborne Shipyard in South Australia, the vessel entered Fremantle this week ahead of a commissioning ceremony on Saturday, following testing and evaluation by Defence. Mr Marles said the commissioning of HMAS Arafura "marks an important milestone" and meant the Navy could "continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders". "We will continue to see the Navy introduce new vessels into its fleet," he said. It is the first Arafura class offshore patrol vessel of the Navy's surface fleet, with a second - NUSHIP Eyre - having been built and awaiting acceptance by the Navy. On Friday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese resisted pressure to commit a higher proportion of GDP to defence spending, as the US insisted its allies increase their share. The Opposition heaped criticism on Mr Albanese this week over defence spending and the Prime Minister's inability, to date, to secure a make-up meeting or phone call with United States President Donald Trump, who cancelled a face-to-face last week as he left the G7 Leaders' Summit early to deal with the Israel-Iran crisis. Mr Albanese had been expected to seek Mr Trump's ongoing support for Australia's $368 billion AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, which has been subjected to a Pentagon review. Australia is contracted to buy three off-the-shelf nuclear submarines from the US before making eight of its own, with the first submarine not expected to join the Australian fleet for years. The US only has to deliver the submarines if it has enough for the US Navy's use - and American shipyards are not on track to meet domestic targets, leading to fears the deal could fall over. On Friday, the Prime Minister said his government was "making sure that Australia has the capability that we need". "We've increased it by $57 billion over the medium term and by more than $10 billion in the short term as well," he told reporters in Sydney. Foreign Minister Penny Wong is preparing to fly to the US for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of discussions between the foreign ministers of Quad alliance nations. Four more Arafura class offshore patrol vessels are under construction at the Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia. They boast a greater range of 4000 nautical miles and can perform roles that previously required numerous vessels, with improved living quarters and amenities to better support personnel. The procurement of the new fleet responds to recommendations of the Independent Analysis into Navy's Surface Combatant Fleet. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her defence spokesman Angus Taylor this week blasted the government for refusing to commit to higher defence spending. On Friday, Mr Taylor said boosting spending levels was not about doing what the US wanted. "This is not about being bullied," he said. "This is about doing the right thing for our great country, and that's what we want to see." NATO member countries announced this week that they had agreed to spend 5 per cent of their economic output on defence and security, after calls to do so by Mr Trump. This led to increased pressure on Washington's Indo-Pacific allies to do the same, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying countries such as Australia should follow suit. "If our allies in Europe and our NATO allies can do that, I think our allies and our friends in the Asia-Pacific region can do it as well," she said. NATO nations will be expected to spend 3.5 per cent of their gross domestic product on core defence and a further 1.5 per cent on broader security. Australia's defence spending is set to rise from 2 per cent of GDP now to 2.3 per cent by 2033/34, with the Coalition calling for a 3 per cent target within 10 years. With AAP With a cloud hanging over the AUKUS submarine deal and the Opposition attacking the government for refusing to bow to United States pressure to lift Defence spending, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles is preparing to celebrate a win. The Albanese government's plan for a larger and more lethal surface combatant fleet for the Royal Australian Navy will hit a milestone on Saturday with the addition of the HMAS Arafura. Built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia at the Osborne Shipyard in South Australia, the vessel entered Fremantle this week ahead of a commissioning ceremony on Saturday, following testing and evaluation by Defence. Mr Marles said the commissioning of HMAS Arafura "marks an important milestone" and meant the Navy could "continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders". "We will continue to see the Navy introduce new vessels into its fleet," he said. It is the first Arafura class offshore patrol vessel of the Navy's surface fleet, with a second - NUSHIP Eyre - having been built and awaiting acceptance by the Navy. On Friday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese resisted pressure to commit a higher proportion of GDP to defence spending, as the US insisted its allies increase their share. The Opposition heaped criticism on Mr Albanese this week over defence spending and the Prime Minister's inability, to date, to secure a make-up meeting or phone call with United States President Donald Trump, who cancelled a face-to-face last week as he left the G7 Leaders' Summit early to deal with the Israel-Iran crisis. Mr Albanese had been expected to seek Mr Trump's ongoing support for Australia's $368 billion AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, which has been subjected to a Pentagon review. Australia is contracted to buy three off-the-shelf nuclear submarines from the US before making eight of its own, with the first submarine not expected to join the Australian fleet for years. The US only has to deliver the submarines if it has enough for the US Navy's use - and American shipyards are not on track to meet domestic targets, leading to fears the deal could fall over. On Friday, the Prime Minister said his government was "making sure that Australia has the capability that we need". "We've increased it by $57 billion over the medium term and by more than $10 billion in the short term as well," he told reporters in Sydney. Foreign Minister Penny Wong is preparing to fly to the US for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of discussions between the foreign ministers of Quad alliance nations. Four more Arafura class offshore patrol vessels are under construction at the Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia. They boast a greater range of 4000 nautical miles and can perform roles that previously required numerous vessels, with improved living quarters and amenities to better support personnel. The procurement of the new fleet responds to recommendations of the Independent Analysis into Navy's Surface Combatant Fleet. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her defence spokesman Angus Taylor this week blasted the government for refusing to commit to higher defence spending. On Friday, Mr Taylor said boosting spending levels was not about doing what the US wanted. "This is not about being bullied," he said. "This is about doing the right thing for our great country, and that's what we want to see." NATO member countries announced this week that they had agreed to spend 5 per cent of their economic output on defence and security, after calls to do so by Mr Trump. This led to increased pressure on Washington's Indo-Pacific allies to do the same, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying countries such as Australia should follow suit. "If our allies in Europe and our NATO allies can do that, I think our allies and our friends in the Asia-Pacific region can do it as well," she said. NATO nations will be expected to spend 3.5 per cent of their gross domestic product on core defence and a further 1.5 per cent on broader security. Australia's defence spending is set to rise from 2 per cent of GDP now to 2.3 per cent by 2033/34, with the Coalition calling for a 3 per cent target within 10 years. With AAP With a cloud hanging over the AUKUS submarine deal and the Opposition attacking the government for refusing to bow to United States pressure to lift Defence spending, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles is preparing to celebrate a win. The Albanese government's plan for a larger and more lethal surface combatant fleet for the Royal Australian Navy will hit a milestone on Saturday with the addition of the HMAS Arafura. Built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia at the Osborne Shipyard in South Australia, the vessel entered Fremantle this week ahead of a commissioning ceremony on Saturday, following testing and evaluation by Defence. Mr Marles said the commissioning of HMAS Arafura "marks an important milestone" and meant the Navy could "continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders". "We will continue to see the Navy introduce new vessels into its fleet," he said. It is the first Arafura class offshore patrol vessel of the Navy's surface fleet, with a second - NUSHIP Eyre - having been built and awaiting acceptance by the Navy. On Friday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese resisted pressure to commit a higher proportion of GDP to defence spending, as the US insisted its allies increase their share. The Opposition heaped criticism on Mr Albanese this week over defence spending and the Prime Minister's inability, to date, to secure a make-up meeting or phone call with United States President Donald Trump, who cancelled a face-to-face last week as he left the G7 Leaders' Summit early to deal with the Israel-Iran crisis. Mr Albanese had been expected to seek Mr Trump's ongoing support for Australia's $368 billion AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, which has been subjected to a Pentagon review. Australia is contracted to buy three off-the-shelf nuclear submarines from the US before making eight of its own, with the first submarine not expected to join the Australian fleet for years. The US only has to deliver the submarines if it has enough for the US Navy's use - and American shipyards are not on track to meet domestic targets, leading to fears the deal could fall over. On Friday, the Prime Minister said his government was "making sure that Australia has the capability that we need". "We've increased it by $57 billion over the medium term and by more than $10 billion in the short term as well," he told reporters in Sydney. Foreign Minister Penny Wong is preparing to fly to the US for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of discussions between the foreign ministers of Quad alliance nations. Four more Arafura class offshore patrol vessels are under construction at the Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia. They boast a greater range of 4000 nautical miles and can perform roles that previously required numerous vessels, with improved living quarters and amenities to better support personnel. The procurement of the new fleet responds to recommendations of the Independent Analysis into Navy's Surface Combatant Fleet. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her defence spokesman Angus Taylor this week blasted the government for refusing to commit to higher defence spending. On Friday, Mr Taylor said boosting spending levels was not about doing what the US wanted. "This is not about being bullied," he said. "This is about doing the right thing for our great country, and that's what we want to see." NATO member countries announced this week that they had agreed to spend 5 per cent of their economic output on defence and security, after calls to do so by Mr Trump. This led to increased pressure on Washington's Indo-Pacific allies to do the same, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying countries such as Australia should follow suit. "If our allies in Europe and our NATO allies can do that, I think our allies and our friends in the Asia-Pacific region can do it as well," she said. NATO nations will be expected to spend 3.5 per cent of their gross domestic product on core defence and a further 1.5 per cent on broader security. Australia's defence spending is set to rise from 2 per cent of GDP now to 2.3 per cent by 2033/34, with the Coalition calling for a 3 per cent target within 10 years. With AAP
