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Washington Post

The US Congress recently held a landmark hearing on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs, where officials and experts discussed an issue once confined to the realm of conspiracy theories. As more military officials, intelligence agents, and journalists come forward, the line between scepticism and belief has never been thinner.

Compelling Testimonies and Vanished Evidence

One of the most striking testimonies came from Retired Navy Rear Admiral Timothy Gallaudet. He shared that he’d received an email detailing “multiple near-midair collisions” between military aircraft and a UAP. However, when he went to locate it, the email had vanished, inexplicably deleted. This story echoes the challenges investigators have faced in tracking what some say is a decades-long government cover-up. Gallaudet further testified about a 2017 satellite image showing a disc-shaped UAP. If such images exist, they could be some of the most compelling pieces of visual evidence yet, but the question remains whether the public will ever see them.

Decades of Secrecy Under Fire

Luis Elizondo, a former Pentagon intelligence official with significant experience in the field, spoke out forcefully about “excessive secrecy” around UAPs within intelligence circles. Elizondo argued that these objects have not only been sighted repeatedly but have out-maneuverer even the most advanced U.S. military aircraft, suggesting capabilities that go beyond known adversarial technology. According to him, this secrecy has hampered efforts to understand and address what may pose genuine national security threats.

Security Concerns and Intelligence Risks

Elizondo also shared troubling insights about where these sightings frequently occur near military installations and nuclear sites. The potential for intelligence gaps if these are indeed foreign or extraterrestrial technologies would be massive, potentially even an intelligence failure of historic proportions. The possibility that an advanced, unknown technology could hover near or infiltrate sensitive locations suggests that UAPs may present a far more immediate threat than previously acknowledged.

A Vault of Unseen Evidence

Journalist Michael Shellenberger offered a view into what might be one of the most extensive UAP databases in the world. According to Shellenberger, intelligence agencies have stockpiled hundreds, if not thousands, of high-resolution images and videos of UAPs, stemming from a classified program that began in 2017. He argued that without transparency, public trust erodes and speculation runs rampant. These assets could potentially shed new light on the nature of these phenomena — but they remain hidden from the public eye.

The Plausibility of UFOs: An Evolving Perspective

So, where does this leave us on the question of UFOs? For years, the stigma around “UFO sightings” made it nearly impossible for credible professionals to voice concerns without fear of ridicule. But recent developments, including this hearing, suggest a new era of openness. As credible witnesses describe near-impossible manoeuvres by unidentified objects and a global community of governments and researchers begins to pay attention, dismissing UFOs as mere folklore may no longer be tenable.

The hearing served as a significant step forward, but whether it will lead to transparency, understanding, or even answers is uncertain. Are UFOs real? We might finally be in a position to find out  but only if those holding the secrets are willing to share.

ED: From my inbox from a member in the US. 

Defence Media Release

Australia and Singapore today celebrated the opening of new and expanded facilities at Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

The opening coincided with Exercise Trident, the signature biennial joint training exercise between the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Australia’s Secretary of the Department of Defence, Mr Greg Moriarty AO, and Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Defence, Mr Heng Chee How, opened the new facilities developed under the Australia-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The Shoalwater Bay Training Area has been expanded to meet the future needs of the ADF and facilitate an increased presence of SAF personnel conducting unilateral training in Australia.

Up to 6,600 SAF personnel will now be able to train for a single nine-week period each year, compared to the previous 45-day period.

New infrastructure and range developments at Shoalwater Bay Training Area include:

• two urban operations live fire facilities, the first of their type in Australia,
• combined air-land ranges,
• camp accommodation for up to 2,000 personnel, and
• medical, administration, exercise control facilities and supporting infrastructure.

Mr Moriarty said the new facilities would enhance training outcomes for Australia and Singapore.

“The expansion of the training area will enable the ADF and SAF to concurrently conduct our own unilateral training, and also support enhanced bilateral training and complexity.”

Exercise Trident 2024 is designed to enhance both nations’ ability to project a combined land force from sea-to-shore, manoeuvre inland and secure an objective.

“This is the latest milestone in our nations’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and we welcome the opportunity to continue to learn from each other in a joint exercise environment,” Mr Moriarty said.

Exercise Trident has grown in scope and scale to enhance interoperability between the Australian Defence Force and Singapore Armed Forces since it was first held in 2013.

This year, Exercise Trident 2024 will focus on airmobile, littoral and urban combat operations. It will involve more than 1,900 SAF and ADF personnel, two ships and include a combined science and technology component focusing on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) interoperability.

US Naval News

The Australian Government Picks German and Japanese Firms for Major Frigate Competition

In a significant move aimed at enhancing Australia’s naval capabilities, the Labor government has made its initial selections in the $10 billion AUD ($6.6 billion USD) competition to construct 11 new frigates, a part of the ambitious Sea3000 program. Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) have advanced to the next phase, leaving out South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean and Hyundai Heavy Industries, as well as Spain’s Navantia, according to recent reports.

Though the Australian Department of Defence has not formally confirmed the decision, a spokesperson commented that they are committed to increasing both the size and firepower of the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) surface fleet as mandated by the government in February 2024. The Sea3000 program was developed based on recommendations from the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, focusing on building a general-purpose frigate fleet to strengthen Australia’s maritime security.

According to observers, the German bid may have the advantage due to RAN’s established relationship with German shipbuilders and its experience with the modular MEKO A-200 design. This class, known for its adaptability, would allow for the seamless integration of Australia’s CEA radar technology and SAAB’s 9LV combat management system, used on multiple Australian naval platforms, including the ANZAC and Canberra classes. The current ANZAC fleet consists of nine older MEKO designs, highlighting familiarity and interoperability advantages.

Mitsubishi’s Mogami 30FFM design is also highly regarded in defence circles, but Japan has not yet exported a combat system of such complexity. However, its reputation and Japan’s growing defence partnership with Australia could play in its favour.

Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, RAN Chief, provided some rare insights into the project in August, stating that the new frigates will require “base crews of 90 to 100,” with staffing increasing to 120 personnel when helicopters are onboard. The frigates will replace the aging ANZAC-class ships, with the first three ships built at the winning bidder’s foreign facilities, while the remainder will be constructed at Henderson shipyards in Western Australia. The fourth ship’s build location remains flexible based on Henderson’s readiness. The first frigate is expected to be delivered in 2029.

Despite the anticipated benefits, defence analyst Malcolm Davis from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute has raised concerns over the limited firepower capacity, citing the need for a robust Vertical Launching System (VLS) for optimal effectiveness. He pointed out that, while the RAN is acquiring advanced ships, both the Hunter-class and the proposed GP frigates offer limited VLS capabilities, with only 16 cells per vessel. “In my opinion, we need to maximize bang for buck,” Davis commented, stressing that Australia’s naval assets should prioritize maximum firepower combined with cutting-edge sensors and combat systems.

The ongoing Sea3000 program reflects Australia’s efforts to secure regional stability by enhancing its naval strength. As the competition narrows, the Australian government’s final decision could further redefine its defence posture, emphasizing both strategic partnerships and modern maritime defence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Unveiling of DOGE: An Unexpected New Department

By Robert Whiting – NYM

In a surprising turn of events, President-elect Donald Trump has appointed tech billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This innovative initiative reflects Trump’s aim to streamline the federal government, reduce bureaucratic complexities, and inject a modern, business-minded approach to public administration.

DOGE’s primary mission is clear: dismantle unnecessary bureaucracy, cut through layers of regulation, and restructure federal agencies to improve efficiency and accountability. Musk and Ramaswamy have been tasked with applying their entrepreneurial insights to reimagine and optimize federal structures, shifting the government toward a leaner, faster, and more innovative model. Their work is expected to conclude by July 4, 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, with Trump calling it a “gift” to the American people.

DOGE’s methodology will combine external expertise with high-level coordination within the federal system. Musk and Ramaswamy will provide guidance from outside the traditional governmental framework, consulting closely with the White House and the Office of Management and Budget. The aim is to offer a fresh perspective on longstanding bureaucratic hurdles and make recommendations that empower federal agencies to operate with the agility and effectiveness of top-tier private enterprises.

The establishment of DOGE and the appointment of Musk and Ramaswamy have set an ambitious tone for Trump’s upcoming term, signalling a push for transformative reform. Whether DOGE can achieve its mission by the historic deadline remains to be seen, but the excitement around the department suggests it’s a move that has captured the public’s attention.

ED: Australia could benefit from a comprehensive overhaul of government operations at all levels federal, state, and local. This clean-out would include a forensic audit of government grants, especially those allocated to minority groups, to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the distribution of taxpayer funds. Reducing excessive red tape would be another key focus, streamlining processes to make government more efficient and responsive. There should also be a critical evaluation of any instances where ideological policies, sometimes seen as “wokeness,” may have been prioritized over practical governance.

Additionally, a thorough examination of politicians’ perks and benefits is essential to ensure these privileges are justified and align with taxpayer expectations. To restore trust in the political process, electoral promises could be made binding, holding elected officials accountable for their campaign commitments and making it easier for citizens to see that promises are upheld. Together, these steps could create a more transparent, efficient, and accountable government that truly serves its citizens.

DVA – ANZAC PORTAL

Graham John Edwards AM was born on 18 July 1946 in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.

After school, Graham worked for 5 years as a railway fireman. Inspired by a sense of adventure and the others in his family who had served, he joined the Australian Army in 1968.

In 1970, Graham deployed to South Vietnam. He served as a machine gunner with an assault pioneer platoon of the 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR). The unit’s role was to seek out and destroy the enemy, while preventing enemy access to the civilian population. The work was demanding and very dangerous.

Graham was warned that the biggest danger would be landmines. In May 1970, while out on patrol, his life changed dramatically when he stepped on a ‘jumping jack’ mine. He remembered the excruciating pain that came over him as he waited for his mates to clear a path for his rescue. Back home, his wife Noelene received the bad news in a short telegram.

Graham was flown home 3 weeks after both legs were amputated. He was embraced by his loved ones but went through an emotional and confronting time. He recalled his homecoming as being somewhat underwhelming.

Disappointment and anger intensified when he felt the rehabilitation he was offered was inadequate, incompetent and humiliating. He felt he was considered a problem and that the Army wanted to push him and others like him out of the services to become somebody else’s problem.

Graham did not let his disability get the better of him. He met every challenge head on. He educated himself and, driven by veterans’ welfare, moved into public affairs and politics.

In 1983, he was elected to the Western Australian Legislative Council. After 14 years in state parliament, he was elected to the federal House of Representatives in the West Australian seat of Cowan in 1998.

In 2005, Graham recalled a visit to the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Canberra:

It was a humbling yet balancing experience particularly when you know that but for the Grace of God and a bit of luck your name could well be up there with the others who lost their lives in that unfortunate war.

[Graham Edwards, quoted in the Fifty Australians exhibition, Australian War Memorial, 19 August to 23 October 2005]

In later life, Graham was a member of the Australian Republican Movement, maintaining a strong and active involvement in defence, disability services and veterans’ issues.

In 2012, Graham was made a Member of the Order of Australia for ‘service to the Parliaments of Australia and Western Australia, to veterans through advocacy and support roles, and to people with a disability’.

PART 1

PART 2

https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/graham-edwards-australian-army-land-mines-part-2

On 24 October 2024, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, International Development and the Pacific, introduced Defence’s Net Zero Strategy. This emissions reduction plan offers a pathway toward achieving net zero by 2050 while supporting Defence’s shift to clean energy. It is intended to align with whole-of-Government action on emissions, helping Defence balance sustainability with operational readiness and capability.

However, Defence requires constant, reliable power sources, and the strategy of transitioning to renewable energy may pose risks if reliability is compromised. Defence operations, by nature, depend on uninterrupted and immediate power availability to maintain preparedness and effectiveness. Consequently, an approach relying heavily on variable renewable sources could inadvertently reduce Defence’s capability and resilience.

The Net Zero Strategy identifies four main strategic aims:

• Accelerate emissions reductions using secure, reliable renewable electricity.
• Transition to low-emissions fuel alternatives.
• Enhance energy efficiency and explore carbon sequestration on the Estate to cut emissions and costs.
• Establish a unified, integrated approach to achieving net zero, supported by enabling functions and resources.

In tandem, the Defence Future Energy Strategy outlines Defence’s plan for a measured shift to low-emissions fuels, electrification, and new clean energy technologies. These efforts aim to bolster energy independence and build sovereign supply chains, yet it remains essential to ensure they do not compromise Defence’s unique operational demands for consistency and reliability.

Carolyn Heward, James Cook University

Many women who serve in the military face an unfortunate cycle: they often feel compelled to suppress their femininity to fit into a traditionally male-dominated culture, only to struggle with recognition as veterans once they leave. This dynamic has profound impacts on their mental health and overall sense of identity.

Our research reveals that ex-servicewomen face a “double burden”: while serving, they often feel pressured to conform to a “warrior identity,” one that prioritizes toughness and stoicism over other qualities, like empathy. In many cases, women feel they need to “play a character,” adapting their behaviour and appearance to blend in, which sometimes involves downplaying their achievements to avoid standing out among male peers. Over time, this suppression of identity can lead to significant stress and anxiety, adding to the mental health challenges these women already face.

This internal struggle is compounded when they transition to civilian life. Societal perceptions of veterans still lean heavily male, which leads to female veterans often feeling invisible. For instance, women veterans recount instances of having their medals questioned, a stark reminder that their service is sometimes unacknowledged or misunderstood. This lack of recognition can deepen the psychological impact of military service, leaving some women feeling excluded from veteran support communities.

Recent findings from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlight the severity of this issue, noting that ex-servicewomen are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to civilian women. Additionally, rates of anxiety and PTSD are significantly higher among female veterans than their male counterparts. The data underscores the need for the military to evolve its cultural expectations, especially as the Australian Defence Force faces a recruitment shortage and is actively seeking more women recruits.

The solution is twofold: within the military, leadership must create an environment that values diverse expressions of strength beyond the traditional “warrior” stereotype. Success in military service doesn’t solely depend on toughness—it requires skills like team building, adaptability, and judgment. By recognizing and valuing these qualities, the military can become more inclusive and effective.

In the broader community, we must expand our understanding of who veterans are. For the many women who serve, acknowledgement of their service both during and after their careers is essential—not just for validation, but to mitigate the mental health impacts of identity suppression and social invisibility. Recognizing the full spectrum of service members’ identities is a necessary step toward honouring their contributions and improving their well-being post-service.

Washington Post

On November 12, President-elect Donald Trump announced his choice of Florida Congressman Michael Waltz as his national security advisor. Waltz, a retired Army Green Beret, brings both extensive military experience and a nuanced approach to foreign policy.

As a combat-decorated Green Beret, Waltz continues to serve as a colonel in the U.S. Army National Guard and previously served as a policy advisor at both the White House and the Pentagon. He is the first Green Beret to be elected to Congress. A graduate with honours from the Virginia Military Institute as a Distinguished Military Graduate, Waltz has served over 26 years in the Army. After his commissioning as an Army lieutenant, he completed Ranger School and was selected as a Green Beret. His service includes multiple tours in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa, earning him four Bronze Stars, two of which were awarded for valour.

Waltz has consistently supported Ukraine, though his views on U.S. involvement have evolved. In 2022, he advocated for increased military aid to Ukraine, emphasizing that most Republicans supported efforts to prevent Russian advances into NATO-aligned countries like the Baltics, Poland, and Finland. However, by October 2024, Waltz urged a reassessment of America’s commitment to Ukraine, citing the need to prioritize resources for the Pacific region.

Waltz is also a strong critic of China, aligning with Trump and his allies on prioritizing countering China’s influence over addressing issues with Russia.