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الوسم: military parade

  • US awards $488M F-16 radar support contract to Pakistan and allies

    The US Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation a $488 million contract to provide engineering and technical support for F-16 radar systems as part of the Foreign Military Sales program, with Pakistan listed among the recipient countries. The contract supports both the APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems and is scheduled for completion by March 2036. Work will be conducted at the company’s location in Linthicum Heights, Maryland.

    This contract encompasses support for the F-16 System Program Office’s foreign military sales, including requirements of the Air Force and Navy. It involves multiple allied nations, such as Bahrain, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Morocco, the Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Thailand, and Turkey.

    The award was made on a sole-source basis, with $2.64 million in fiscal 2026 non-appropriated funds allocated at the time of the award. The contract is managed by the Air Force Lifecycle Management Center at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, with the official award date recorded as April 27, 2026.

    This development occurs several months after the US approved a $686 million sale of advanced technology and support services to Pakistan’s F-16 fleet in December 2025. The package includes Link-16 data links, cryptographic equipment, avionics upgrades, training, and extensive logistical support, aligning with the US government’s strategic interests. It aims to modernize Pakistan’s Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade F-16 aircraft, ensuring operational safety and maintaining their capability to counter emerging threats by updating and refurbishing their existing fleet.

  • Tajikistan neutralizes four terrorists near Afghan border

    Tajikistan neutralizes four terrorists near Afghan border

    Tajik service members participate in a military parade near the Afghanistan border in Khorog (Khorugh), Tajikistan. — Reuters/File

    – Incidents along Tajikistan’s 1,350-kilometer border with Afghanistan are increasing.
    – Attacks have resulted in the deaths of guards and Chinese workers.
    – Tajikistan is calling on the Taliban to help control cross-border militancy.

    Tajik officials announced Sunday that they “neutralized” four terrorists who had crossed from neighboring Afghanistan, in an area where recent weeks have seen a surge in deadly events, according to state media reports.

    Located in Central Asia, Tajikistan shares a rugged, mountainous border with Afghanistan and maintains strained relations with the Afghan Taliban government.

    Sources in Tajik security services, as reported by the state news agency Khovar, said that “four terrorists were neutralized” after refusing to lay down their weapons in the southern Khatlon region.

    Since November, Tajikistan’s border has witnessed at least five deadly incidents along its lengthy, mountainous frontier—stretching roughly 840 miles (1,350 kilometers). An AFP tally, based on official figures, reports a total of 16 deaths, including Tajik border guards, Chinese nationals, and individuals Tajik authorities label as “smugglers” and “terrorists.”

    In response to attacks targeting Chinese citizens in November, Tajik authorities urged the Taliban to implement measures to stabilize the volatile border zone, where traffickers and militant groups are active.

    While other Central Asian leaders are deepening ties with the Taliban, Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon—who has held power since 1992—publicly criticizes Afghanistan’s authorities and urges respect for the rights of ethnic Tajiks, who represent about a quarter of Afghanistan’s population.

    Despite his criticisms, Tajikistan is also taking steps towards cooperation with Kabul through initiatives like electricity supplies, opening border markets, and holding meetings between Taliban officials and local authorities.

    Relations deteriorated further after five Chinese nationals were killed and several wounded in attacks along the Tajik-Afghan border in late November and early December. A UN report from December highlighted that a militant group, Jamaat Ansarullah, has fighters operating across various Afghan regions with the primary objective of destabilizing Tajikistan.

    Tajik authorities have expressed concerns about the presence of Daesh fighters in Afghanistan’s Khorasan region.

  • One security officer killed, two injured in Aleppo suicide attack

    One security officer killed, two injured in Aleppo suicide attack

    A suicide bomber attacked a police patrol in Aleppo, resulting in one fatality and injuring two security personnel, according to a Syrian government spokesperson on Wednesday.

    Nour al-Din al-Baba, spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, stated to the state news agency Al Ekhbariya that the individual who triggered an explosive belt during the patrol is believed to have ideological or organizational ties to Islamic State (ISIS). The investigation into the attacker’s identity is still ongoing.

    The terrorist blew himself up while being searched following suspicions raised during the patrol, as reported by Ekhbariya TV, citing security sources.

    No group has claimed responsibility for the assault.

    Earlier this month, two U.S. Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in Syria by a suspected ISIS attacker who targeted a convoy of American and Syrian forces before being shot dead.

  • Three Chinese Nationals Die in Tajik-Afghan Border Skirmish

    Three Chinese Nationals Die in Tajik-Afghan Border Skirmish

    Tajikistan has a tense relationship with the Taliban, marked by multiple recent border skirmishes. Last year, a Chinese worker was killed in an attack originating from Afghanistan near their shared border.

    Tajik officials reported that three Chinese employees were killed during an assault involving firearms and a drone loaded with grenades in the southern part of the country. Dushanbe typically refrains from issuing detailed public statements on such incidents and has not publicly suspected any particular group of perpetrators.

    Extremist militants remain active in the rugged mountain border region, which stretches approximately 840 miles (1,350 kilometers) between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. As a Muslim-majority and among the poorest nations in the former Soviet Union, Tajikistan has expressed ongoing concerns about the potential rise of militancy since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021.

    President Emomali Rakhmon, who has been in power since 1992, has openly criticized the Taliban, urging the group to respect the rights of ethnic Tajiks, who constitute about a quarter of Afghanistan’s population of around 40 million. Despite these tensions, Tajikistan has maintained a cautious engagement strategy, including diplomatic talks, opening markets in border regions, and supplying electricity across the border.

    The Tajik government stated that criminal groups in neighboring Afghanistan continue to carry out actions aimed at destabilizing border areas. Several Chinese companies operate within Tajikistan, mainly in mining and natural resources, often located in the mountainous border zones. Last year’s deadly attack near the Afghan border underscores the ongoing security challenges faced in the region.

  • Is SCO Evolving into a New Military-Economic Alliance?

    Is SCO Evolving into a New Military-Economic Alliance?

    The SCO summit has sparked concern across Europe and caught the attention of the United States. There were compelling reasons behind this reaction.

    Primarily, President Xi Jinping indirectly criticized the US without naming any adversary, emphasizing security concerns and signaling that the SCO might eventually establish its own IMF and military alliance, distancing itself from Western influence.

    To understand the summit’s broader implications and its historical victory over Japanese aggression, I asked His Excellency Yang Yundong, the Chinese Consul General in Karachi, a few questions.

    Q: Last week, China hosted the SCO summit, gathering leaders and representatives from over 20 countries and 10 international organizations to celebrate the national victory over fascism and Japanese aggression. What message did this send to the West, especially the US?

    A: The Tianjin SCO summit was a crucial event for China during its presidency. Leaders from numerous nations attended and adopted the Tianjin Declaration. President Xi Jinping shared key proposals, like maintaining unity amid diversity, mutual benefits, openness, justice, and practical cooperation, while also advancing the Global Governance Initiative (GGI).

    He emphasized that SCO should lead as a stabilizing force in a volatile global environment, promoting openness, economic inclusiveness, and civilizational exchanges. Xi made it clear that SCO must oppose hegemony and power politics, champion genuine multilateralism, and support a move toward multipolarity and democratic international relations. These ideas received widespread support and recognition worldwide.

    Q: During the victory parade, the world saw advanced weaponry, with President Xi Jinping stating, “China will not be intimidated by bullies; it will always move forward.” Were these gestures directed at Washington?

    A: China organized a grand military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the broader Anti-Fascist War. The goal was to remember history, honor heroes, cherish peace, and foster a better future. History teaches us that humanity rises and falls together. Only by nations treating each other equally—living in peace and supporting one another—can we ensure security, eradicate war’s root causes, and prevent past tragedies.

    Today, humanity faces a choice between peace and conflict, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum games. China is committed to peaceful development and will strengthen its military to safeguard sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, supporting national rejuvenation and global peace.

    Q: President Xi discussed a “Global Governance Initiative,” indicating that global governance faces a new crossroads. He called for opposition to hegemonism and power politics and the practice of true multilateralism. Does this signal a move toward an SCO military alliance?

    A: The world is experiencing regional unrest, slow economic growth, backlash against globalization, and governance gaps. In this context, discussions on reforming and improving global governance are increasingly important.

    Xi Jinping outlined core principles for the GGI: respecting sovereignty, abiding by international law, practicing multilateralism, focusing on people-centered approaches, and taking concrete actions. The GGI adds to China’s global contributions, alongside three major initiatives focused on development, security, civilization, and governance—each reinforcing the others to bring stability in a turbulent world.

    China promotes an independent, peace-oriented foreign policy based on “partnership over alliance,” fostering international cooperation to support peace and shared development.

    Q: Russian President Vladimir Putin believes SCO has revived true multilateralism, creating a new Eurasian political and economic system that considers the interests of many nations without prioritizing one at others’ expense. Is that accurate?

    A: Since its founding 24 years ago, SCO has remained committed to openness, transparency, and partnership, avoiding military blocs and rejecting Cold War mentalities. It advocates for comprehensive, sustainable security that’s universal—security for some shouldn’t come at others’ expense, nor should nations seek absolute security by compromising others’ safety.

    Respecting sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, along with non-interference in internal affairs, is central. The SCO aims to ensure global stability and promote security that benefits all, not just a select few.

    Q: At the SCO summit, China proposed establishing a new SCO Development Bank. It also announced plans to provide $280 million in aid and $1.4 billion in loans to member countries. Is this an attempt to create an SCO version of the IMF or World Bank, reducing dependence on the US dollar and US sanctions?

    A: The SCO’s goal is regional stability and development, and strengthening economic cooperation among members. The proposed development bank aims to support infrastructure, connectivity, and livelihood projects—an entirely normal, mutually beneficial initiative. It’s an independent effort to serve regional needs, not a geopolitical move aimed at undermining the dollar or US sanctions.

    China advocates for a fairer international financial system that reflects the voices of emerging markets and developing nations. Our financial cooperation within SCO seeks regional well-being, free from geopolitical agendas.

    Q: Following this summit, the US leader claimed that ‘India and Russia seem lost to the deep and dark China.’ Is China a “Deep State” or “Dark State,” as claimed by former President Trump?

    A: Under the Communist Party’s leadership, China is pursuing modern development to rejuvenate the nation and improve people’s lives. At the same time, China actively contributes to global peace and progress. We abide by an independent, peace-oriented foreign policy and aim to build a community with a shared future for humanity. Our actions are transparent and uphold historical and factual integrity.

    Q: Regarding India, the US suggests India is hedging, balancing between its Quad partnership with the US and its participation in SCO. Can India be viewed the same way?

    A: Some countries view international relations with a zero-sum mindset, but today’s world is multipolar. It’s natural for nations to develop friendly ties with multiple partners based on their interests. Guided by the Shanghai Spirit—trust, mutual benefit, equality, respect for diversity, and shared development—SCO remains open and inclusive, not targeting any third party.

    We welcome India’s active participation and hope it contributes constructively to regional stability, without aligning against others.

    Q: The U.S. trade office reports that in 2024, US trade with India reached about $212 billion, up over 8% from the previous year. Does this indicate that India’s engagement with China is a bargaining chip against Washington?

    A: China and India are both crucial developing countries and parts of the Global South. We are ready to work with India, following shared principles, to deepen high-level exchanges, foster trust, enhance cooperation, manage differences, and ensure steady bilateral growth. Development between China and India isn’t aimed at any third party, nor should it be influenced from outside.

  • China Demonstrates Military Power with Cutting-Edge Weapons

    China Demonstrates Military Power with Cutting-Edge Weapons

    China showcased its military strength on Wednesday as world leaders gathered in Beijing for the country’s largest-ever military parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory Day — the victory in the Anti-Fascist War. Chinese President Xi Jinping, flanked by Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, described the resurgence of the Chinese nation as “unstoppable” and warned that the world faces a choice between peace and conflict.

    During the event, Xi inspected troops and military hardware from an open-top limousine along Beijing’s expansive Chang’an Avenue, before returning to a viewing area above Mao Zedong’s portrait at Tiananmen Square, near the Forbidden City. The parade featured a display of an extensive array of military vehicles and heavy artillery, with footage broadcast showing soldiers marching in precision formations and jumping in and out of armored vehicles.

    Beijing residents lined the streets to observe a spectacular flyover involving numerous fighter jets and helicopters, some forming the number “80.”

    PM Shehbaz Sharif with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin during the military parade at Tiananmen Square on September 3, 2025 — AFP

    Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin pose for a group photo along with other international dignitaries at the Beijing military parade — AFP

    Balloon releases added a festive air as they floated above the city during the parade. The event also included detailed displays of the Chinese military’s advanced equipment, such as tanks, drones, laser weapons, hypersonic missiles, and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles—all synchronized in a meticulously choreographed show.

    Members of the People’s Liberation Army observed formations of unmanned ships and unmanned aerial vehicles, including aerial refueling tankers, hypersonic missile systems like the YJ-19, and nuclear delivery platforms such as the DF-31BJ and DF-61. The parade highlighted China’s focus on modern warfare technology, with displays of laser weaponry and sophisticated anti-ship systems.

    The display culminated with the movement of the Aerospace Force personnel, emphasizing China’s expanding reach into space and missile technology. Throughout the event, banners of national pride fluttered, underscoring China’s growing military capability and strategic ambitions.

  • PM Shehbaz joins 26 world leaders at China’s largest military parade

    PM Shehbaz joins 26 world leaders at China’s largest military parade

    Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is among 26 world leaders attending China’s largest-ever military parade on Wednesday. The event, orchestrated by President Xi Jinping, showcases China’s expanding military strength and the country’s growing influence on the international stage.

    The parade kicked off at Tiananmen Square, with Xi Jinping making his way down a red carpet flanked by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Xi, dressed in a Mao-style suit, greeted international guests including Indonesia’s Prabowo Subianto, who appeared unexpectedly despite recent protests in his country. During the greetings, Xi exchanged pleasantries in English, saying “Nice to meet you” and “Welcome to China.”

    This carefully choreographed “Victory Day” celebration lasts approximately 70 minutes and features aerial displays, marching troops, and advanced military technology such as hypersonic missiles, drones, and armored tanks. Thousands of spectators gathered in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to witness the spectacle, with many roads and educational institutions shutting down ahead of the event after weeks of meticulous security planning and rehearsals.

    Prior to the parade, Xi inspected the troops assembled at the square and is scheduled to deliver a major speech from atop the Gate of Heavenly Peace, with a portrait of Mao Zedong overlooking the scene. The occasion marks 80 years since Japan’s defeat at the end of World War II, a milestone Xi frames as part of China’s “great rejuvenation,” emphasizing the nation’s overcoming of past invasions and humiliation to emerge as a global power.

    In his address, Xi is anticipated to highlight China’s and the Soviet Union’s roles in defeating fascism and maintaining the post-war international order. Recently, Xi detailed his vision for a new world system at a regional security summit, calling for unity and denouncing “hegemonism and power politics,” a critique often directed at the United States and recent U.S. tariffs.

    Other world leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, used this platform to deepen energy cooperation and support North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, respectively. Kim’s attendance marks the first time a North Korean leader has participated in a Chinese military parade in over six decades. Notably, Kim’s daughter Ju Ae, considered a potential successor, made her first international appearance, walking with her father at the event.

    To ensure security and a smooth procession, Chinese authorities mobilized thousands of volunteers and Communist Party members across cities. Experts suggest that Xi aims to demonstrate the military’s loyalty and strength, reinforcing his leadership claims amid a global environment of strategic competition.

  • Putin and Kim Jong Un Join Chinese Parade as Western Protest Fades

    Putin and Kim Jong Un Join Chinese Parade as Western Protest Fades

    A collage depicts Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by Reuters. Xi is scheduled to oversee military personnel and equipment at Tiananmen Square. The upcoming parade commemorates the anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II, observed on September 3. Notable leaders from Belarus, Iran, Indonesia, and Serbia are expected to attend.

    In Beijing, both Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un will make their first public appearance alongside President Xi Jinping in a display of unified resistance amid Western diplomatic and economic scrutiny. Unlike previous events, no Western heads of state or government will join, except for Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, representing the European Union.

    This parade, set against China’s expanding military capabilities, emphasizes solidarity not only between China and the Global South but also with Russia and North Korea, both subject to extensive Western sanctions. Russia’s economy has been strained since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and Putin, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court, last visited China in 2024. North Korea, under UN sanctions since 2006 due to nuclear and missile development, last sent Kim to China in January 2019.

    Leadership from Belarus, Iran, Indonesia, and South Korea, along with Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic, will attend the event. The United Nations will be represented by Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua, a seasoned diplomat and former Chinese ambassador.

    On parade day, Xi will review thousands of troops in Tiananmen Square with international officials and senior Chinese officials present. The event will be one of China’s most grandiose in recent years, showcasing advanced military technology including fighter jets, missile defense systems, and hypersonic weapons.