Submarines are marvels of engineering that operate under the surface of the sea, often for extended periods. One of the critical aspects of their design is the ability to maintain a breathable atmosphere for the crew. Compressed air is not only vital for breathing but also for the operation of various systems aboard the submarine.

The process of obtaining and storing compressed air in a submarine is quite fascinating. Submarines have several methods to ensure a constant supply of fresh air. Primarily, they use an oxygen generator, which forms oxygen through the electrolysis of water. This is a process where electrical current is used to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen. The oxygen is then released into the submarine’s atmosphere, while the hydrogen is safely vented outside.

In addition to the oxygen generator, submarines are equipped with pressurized tanks that store large volumes of compressed air. These tanks are filled when the submarine is at the surface and can be used to quickly increase the oxygen levels inside the submarine if needed. Moreover, oxygen canisters, which release oxygen through a chemical reaction, are also present as a backup system. These canisters can be activated to provide an immediate supply of oxygen in case of an emergency.

The air inside a submarine is carefully monitored and controlled. Carbon dioxide scrubbers remove CO2 from the air, ensuring that the atmosphere remains safe and breathable. Humidity and other impurities are also regulated to maintain a comfortable environment for the crew.

It’s important to note that while submarines can produce their own oxygen, they still need to surface periodically to replenish their air supplies and ensure all systems are functioning correctly. Modern nuclear submarines, however, can stay submerged for months at a time, thanks to their advanced air regeneration systems.

So the ability to generate compressed air is a testament to the ingenuity of submarine design, allowing these vessels to operate independently beneath the waves, providing a self-sustaining environment for those on board.

Goat Island is a small island located in Sydney Harbour, Australia. It has a rich history dating back to the early colonial period. In 1794, during the early years of European settlement, military fortifications were established on Goat Island to protect Sydney from potential threats. One of the key elements of these fortifications was the installation of cannons and mortars.

The cannons and mortars placed on Goat Island were part of a broader defensive strategy to safeguard the growing colony of New South Wales. The island’s strategic location provided an excellent vantage point to monitor and defend the approaches to Sydney Harbour. The armaments included a variety of artillery pieces, ranging from small cannons to larger mortars, which were capable of firing explosive shells over long distances.

These early fortifications played a crucial role in the defence of Sydney Harbour, particularly during times of international tension and conflict. Over the years, Goat Island continued to serve various military purposes, including as a gunpowder storage facility and a base for the Water Police.

Today, Goat Island is a heritage site managed by the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service. The remnants of the island’s military history, including the 1794 cannon and mortar installations, are preserved as part of the island’s cultural heritage, providing visitors with a glimpse into Sydney’s early colonial and military history.

ED: For those living in Brisbane and surrounds I have attended this event previously and I highly recommend it as a great day. Ray

The Commonwealth government has announced that nearly 300,000 Veteran Card holders can now add their cards to the myGov app. Starting today, Australian service personnel will be able to store a digital version of their Veteran cards in the myGov app wallet.

Previously, Centrelink concessions, Medicare, and other healthcare cards could be added to the myGov app. The addition of digital Veteran cards aims to improve access to services provided by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). Any veteran with a MyService account can add their card to the myGov wallet, provided the two accounts are linked. MyService also allows users to submit and track claims, monitor accepted conditions, arrange transport, and apply for treatment.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh stated that the update “will put those supports right in the palm of your hand.” He encouraged health professionals and service providers to accept the digital cards where offered. Keogh emphasized the importance of improving MyService, highlighting the need for simpler, better, and more accessible online services as a priority for the DVA. MyService is now the primary point of access to DVA’s online services, allowing veterans, families, and representatives to conduct their DVA business online.

Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten noted that 1.2 million digital cards and certificates have already been added to the myGov app wallet. He described the wallet as a convenient option for securely storing important cards and documents, with built-in protections against fraud and theft, including holograms and QR codes to verify the authenticity and validity of the items displayed.

In the 2024 federal budget, the Commonwealth government allocated $630 million over four years and $145 million per year to grow and support myGov.

The Collins class is a fleet of six Australian submarines constructed by Tenix Defence during the 1990s and 2000s. These submarines are recognized as some of the most advanced and capable in the world, boasting cutting-edge features such as stealth technology, air-independent propulsion, sophisticated sensor arrays, long-range operational capabilities, and substantial payload capacities.

The Collins class submarines have demonstrated their prowess through significant achievements, including circumnavigating the globe without the need for refuelling and undertaking critical patrols in strategically vital areas such as the South China Sea. These feats underscore their operational versatility and endurance.

However, the Collins class has not been without its challenges. The submarines have encountered various technical issues and maintenance difficulties over the years, necessitating continuous upgrades to stay abreast of contemporary technological advancements. These challenges have required substantial effort and resources to address.

Despite these obstacles, the Collins class submarines remain a cornerstone of Australia’s national security strategy. Their advanced capabilities and proven performance continue to provide Australia with a potent and reliable underwater defence force, contributing significantly to the nation’s maritime security and defence posture.

ED: From my inbox with the comment “I suspect the same applies here.”

Affirmation of what’s going on all over the world and how uninformed these so-called “College Students” are. [As a parent, I would strongly worry about what kind of education my child is receiving] This is just a small sample of what these so-called institutions of higher learning are teaching and it’s absolutely pathetic and unconscionable of them.  If this is the calibre of students they’re turning out, GOD HELP US ALL

Hyundai Rotem Media Release

Hyundai Rotem reported that another 18 K2 tanks were delivered to Poland’s port of Gdynia. This is part of an order of 180 tanks agreed upon with the Polish Armed Forces Agency in August 2022. So far, Poland has received 46 K2 tanks, including an initial delivery in 2022 and another 18 in 2023.

Hyundai Rotem has been praised for its rapid production and delivery, exceeding local expectations. To ensure top performance, the company conducts rigorous quality control, including weekly diagnostics and incorporating feedback from previous deliveries.

The K2 tank, designed and manufactured in South Korea, is noted for its superior firepower, precision, and advanced protection. It features a 120mm main gun, 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, 12.7mm heavy machine gun, advanced composite armour, and Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA). Weighing 55 tons, it can reach speeds up to 70 km/h and has a range of 450 km.

Technological features include an advanced fire-control system, active protection system, NBC protection, night and thermal vision, and an automatic fire suppression system. It also has a snorkel for limited amphibious operations. The K2 accommodates a crew of three and has dimensions of 10.7 meters in length, 3.6 meters in width, and 2.4 meters in height.

A Hyundai Rotem spokesperson stated their commitment to the success of the Polish K2 tank project, covering production to maintenance and fulfilling obligations to the Polish defence forces.

US Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Stephen T. Koehler attended a discussion in Perth about the collaboration between the US, Australia, and other allies in the Indo-Pacific region. The US Pacific Fleet includes approximately 200 ships, 1,500 aircraft, and 150,000 personnel.

Admiral Koehler highlighted the development of the Submarine Rotational Force-West (SRF-West), a significant initiative of the AUKUS partnership, utilizing Perth’s strategic position. The US has regularly deployed submarines to Australia, including a visit from USS Annapolis in March. Australian sailors are training in the US Navy’s nuclear power program, with three Australian officers stationed on US Virginia Class submarines in Pearl Harbor.

Additionally, 30 skilled workers from ASC in South and Western Australia have been deployed to Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for training in maintaining US Virginia Class nuclear-powered submarines. This follows the Australian government’s selection of ASC as a strategic partner for sustaining and building nuclear-powered submarines in Australia.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles emphasized the opportunities for Australians in education, training, and career development through the AUKUS program. More than 100 Australian shipyard workers are expected to receive naval propulsion training in the US by mid-2025. These workers will return to Western Australia to support the SRF-West, maintaining rotating US and UK nuclear-powered submarines.

One UK Astute Class submarine and up to four US Virginia Class submarines will participate in SRF-West. Australian personnel will continue to work within the country’s legal and non-proliferation obligations as Australia transitions to a future nuclear-powered submarine capability.

On June 19, during a state visit to North Korea, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a groundbreaking defence agreement with North Korea. This pact promises mutual military support if either nation is attacked, marking a significant development in their bilateral relations. While the agreement does not explicitly involve the ongoing war in Ukraine, it raises important questions about North Korea’s future actions and its potential role in global conflicts

As part of the deal, North Korean engineers are set to join Russian forces as soon as next month. This collaboration signals a deepening of military ties between the two countries and suggests a more active North Korean involvement in supporting Russia’s military endeavours.

North Korea has been aiding Russia since 2023, providing weapons and munitions, including ballistic missiles reportedly used against Ukraine. However, the potential deployment of North Korean troops is attracting significant international attention and concern.

On June 25, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder expressed serious concerns about the risks for North Korean forces if they are sent to Ukraine. He labelled them as potential “cannon fodder” in what he described as an “illegal war.” Ryder’s comments highlight the perilous nature of the conflict and the severe consequences that could arise from increased North Korean involvement.

The possibility of North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine introduces a new dynamic to the conflict. If this becomes a norm among nations allied with different factions, the world may have to confront the reality of a broader global war. This development could signify a shift in international alliances and the escalation of military engagements beyond regional disputes.

The recent defence agreement between Russia and North Korea underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape and the potential for increased military cooperation between these nations. As the situation unfolds, the international community will be closely watching the actions and strategies of both countries, aware of the far-reaching implications for global peace and security.