Defense News
Defense
Republic of Korea (ROK) Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy Cho Chang-rae, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner, and Japan Director General for Defense Policy Kano Koji came together virtually on April 24, 2024, for the 14th Defense Trilateral Talks. During the meeting, the officials discussed various issues pertaining to security in the region and ways to enhance trilateral security cooperation.One of the key points highlighted was the commitment of the three countries to strengthening their cooperation in deterring the...
Defense
Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III recently engaged in a call with Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson to address crucial security matters. The discussion centered on continued support for Ukraine and other key security issues.During the call, Secretary Austin expressed gratitude towards Minister Jonson for Sweden's significant military assistance to Ukraine. He underscored the importance of Sweden's contributions, noting that "Sweden's efforts, and its new role as the 32nd member of the NATO Alliance, demonstrate its solid commitment to regional security."...
Defense
Pentagon Announces U.S. Forces' Withdrawal from Niger
Per the U.S. State Department, U.S. Ambassador to Niger Kathleen FitzGibbon and Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman, U.S. Africa Command Director of Strategy, Engagement and Programs, will meet with National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland (CNSP) officials on April 25 in Niamey, Niger to initiate discussions on an orderly and safe withdrawal of U.S. forces from Niger. Following this, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict Christopher Maier and Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson, Joint Staff Director for Joint Force Development, will conduct...
Defense
Biden Administration Announces Significant New Security Assistance for Ukraine
The Department of Defense (DoD) has announced a significant new security assistance package for Ukraine, valued at $1 billion, to meet the country's critical security and defense needs. This marks the fifty-sixth tranche of equipment to be provided to Ukraine since August 2021.The package includes a wide range of capabilities aimed at supporting Ukraine's urgent requirements, such as air defense interceptors, artillery rounds, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons. The assistance is part of the Biden Administration's ongoing commitment to bolster Ukraine's defense...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Discusses U.S.-Indonesia Defense Relationship with Indonesian Defense Minister
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of a call between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto. The call, which took place to discuss the U.S.-Indonesia defense relationship, as well as regional and global security issues, highlighted several key points.During the call, Secretary Austin reiterated President Biden's congratulations to Minister Prabowo on his recent victory in Indonesia's presidential election. The two leaders also discussed the importance of Indonesia's military modernization and...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Commends Greek Defense Minister Dendias for Strong Bilateral Relations and Support for Ukraine
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder has disclosed that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III engaged in a significant discussion with Greek Minister of Defense Nikos Dendias, highlighting the robust defense ties between the United States and Greece. The call also touched upon Greece's vital contributions to security in the Red Sea and its unwavering assistance to Ukraine amidst Russia's aggressive actions.Acknowledging the pivotal role played by Greece in bolstering regional security, Secretary Austin expressed gratitude towards Minister Dendias for the...
Defense
Under Secretary of Defense Dr. William LaPlante Strengthens Security Cooperation in Europe
Department of Defense Spokesperson Jeff Jurgensen confirmed that Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Dr. William LaPlante recently embarked on a diplomatic mission to Paris, France, and Brussels, Belgium. Dr. LaPlante's visit aimed to enhance security cooperation with European allies and partners, focusing on current needs and future collaboration in procurement, production, and sustainment.Dr. LaPlante engaged in discussions at the semi-annual NATO Conference of National Armaments Directors (NADs), where progress on the implementation of NATO's...
Defense
U.S. and Slovakia Discuss Defense Cooperation in High-Level Meeting
Department of Defense Spokesman Maj. Charlie Dietz provided a readout of the U.S.-Slovakia High Level Defense Group meeting that took place on April 23, 2024. The meeting was co-chaired by Ms. Lisa Sawyer, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for European and NATO Policy, and Mr. Igor Melicher, State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence for the Slovak Republic, in Bratislava, Slovakia.During the meeting, various topics related to the global security environment were discussed. This included issues such as countering Russian aggression in Ukraine, the influence of the...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Discusses UK's Increased Defense Spending and Support for Ukraine
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of a call between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and UK Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps. During the call, Secretary Shapps announced the UK's commitment to increase defense spending, stating that "the UK will also increase its defense spending from 2.3% to 2.5% by 2030."Secretary Austin responded positively to this news, emphasizing that increased defense spending allows for significant investments in modernization and the defense industrial base. He lauded the decision, highlighting the...
Defense
Department of Defense Announces Winners of the 2024 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards
The Department of Defense has revealed the recipients of the prestigious 2024 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards. Brendan Owens, assistant secretary of defense for energy, installations and environment, emphasized the importance of ensuring that military installations are healthy, safe, functional, and resilient, acknowledging their significant impact on the quality of life of service members.The awards aim to acknowledge outstanding achievements in environmental management strategies that enhance installation resilience and mission readiness. Since 1962, the...
Defense
Department of Defense Recognizes April 2024 as Annual Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month
The Department of Defense (DoD) has officially recognized April 2024 as the Annual Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. This designation serves as a call to action for Service members to actively contribute to preventing and responding to sexual violence within the military community.Dr. Nate Galbreath, acting director of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, emphasized the importance of the ongoing "STEP FORWARD" campaign, stating, "Each of us has a moral duty to step forward to prevent this crime, increase reporting, and advocate for a safer...
Defense
General Officer Announcements
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has made new nominations for general officer appointments in the Army. In an announcement today, Secretary Austin revealed the following appointments:"Army Col. Grant S. Fawcett for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Fawcett is currently serving as deputy commander (Support), 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia; and Operation Atlantic Resolve, Poland.""Army Col. Michael D. Rose for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Rose is currently serving as commander, 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force, Fort Shafter,...
Defense
Flag Officer Announcements
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced today the president's nominations for key positions within the Navy. Navy Vice Adm. Michael E. Boyle has been nominated for reappointment to the grade of vice admiral. If confirmed, he will take on the role of deputy chief of naval operations for Operations, Plans, and Strategy at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Boyle, who is currently serving as commander of the Third Fleet in San Diego, California, brings a wealth of experience to this position.Additionally, Navy Rear Adm. Dion D. English has been nominated for...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Holds Talks with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout on Apr 19, 2024 stating that "Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss efforts to maintain regional stability, the latest developments in Gaza, and measures to accelerate humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza."
Defense
Condolences Extended by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III to Kenya's Cabinet Secretary of Defence Aden Duale
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Kenya Cabinet Secretary (CS) of Defence Aden Duale to offer his condolences on the death of Kenya Chief of Defence Forces General Ogolla and nine other members of the Kenyan military in a helicopter crash on April 18. CS Duale described General Ogolla as a highly valued leader who worked hard to make sure U.S.-Kenya Defense Cooperation was strong. CS Duale expressed appreciation for Secretary Austin's call.
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Urges NATO Allies to Take Immediate Action on Air Defense for Ukraine
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:"On April 19, 2024, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III joined NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov, and NATO Allies virtually for a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council in Defense Ministers format."During the meeting, Secretary Austin underscored the urgent need for air defense assistance for Ukraine in light of Russia's relentless aerial attacks on critical infrastructure and civilians. He emphasized...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Discusses Regional Threats and Humanitarian Aid with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III engaged in discussions with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant regarding pressing issues in the region. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder revealed that the conversation centered around "regional threats and Iran's destabilizing actions in the Middle East."In addition, the Pentagon Press Secretary disclosed that "The Secretary also discussed the importance of increasing and sustaining the flow of humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians, including via the new route from Ashdod Port in Israel." This highlights the...
Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Meets With Norwegian Minister Of Defence, Discusses Bilateral Defense Relationship
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosted Norwegian Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram at the Pentagon, where they discussed various aspects of the bilateral defense relationship between the United States and Norway. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of the meeting.During the meeting, Secretary Austin thanked Minister Gram for Norway's commitment to long-term assistance in developing Ukraine's capabilities. The two officials exchanged views on ensuring continued military assistance to Ukraine both bilaterally and through the Ukraine...
Defense
Defense Innovation Board Holds Spring 2024 Meeting
The Defense Innovation Board (DIB) convened its Spring Board Meeting virtually on April 17th, 2024. Chaired by Mr. Mike Bloomberg, the meeting, which commenced at 12:30 pm Eastern Time, focused on crucial studies and insights shared by key stakeholders and experts.The Allies and Partners study, exploring DoD's collaboration with allies and partners, delved into various aspects such as capability integration, technology sharing, and fostering trust. Mr. Sander Oude Hengel, Defense Cooperation Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, highlighted challenges...
Defense
Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on the Death of Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has expressed his condolences following the tragic death of Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla. In a statement, Secretary Austin said, "On behalf of the Department of Defense, I send my deepest condolences to the people of Kenya and the Kenya Defence Forces on the tragic death of Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla."He also acknowledged the loss of other individuals in the accident, stating, "We also mourn the loss of his teammates who died Thursday when their military helicopter crashed."...
Your news, delivered.
Subscribe and personalize your weekly Newswire round-up.