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How Israel and allied defenses intercepted more than 300 Iranian missiles and drones

Almost all the ballistic missiles and drones Iran launched at Israel in an unprecedented attack late Saturday were intercepted and failed to meet their mark, according to Israeli and American officials, highlighting the formidable, and multi-layered missile defense deployed by the two allied partners.

Most of the more than 300 Iranian munitions, the majority of which are believed to have been launched from inside of Iran’s territory during a five-hour attack, were intercepted before they got to Israel, more than 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometers) from their launch points.

Israel’s military said Sunday that “99%” of projectiles fired by Iran were intercepted by Israel and its partners, with only “a small number” of ballistic missiles reaching Israel.

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How Israel and allied defenses intercepted more than 300 Iranian missiles and drones | CNN

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Survey Reveals Majority Oppose Further Migration

Nearly three quarters of Australians surveyed express opposition to increased immigration, citing concerns over the cost of living crisis, reveals a recent study conducted on 3000 participants. The findings shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding population growth and its impact on various facets of Australian life.

The survey highlights a prevailing sentiment among Australians that the country does not require additional migrants, with many attributing the cost of living crisis to mass immigration. As migration statistics indicate a steady increase in population, with a growth rate of 2.5 percent in the year leading up to September 30, 2023, concerns over issues such as traffic congestion, housing affordability, and strain on public services continue to escalate.

Permanent migrants, entering through the Migration Program for skilled and family migrants or the Humanitarian Program for refugees, contribute to this growth. Additionally, net overseas migration (NOM) accounts for a significant portion of population increase, with forecasts suggesting a continued influx, potentially reaching 893,000 over two years by June 2024.

The rapid population growth is fueled by various factors, including job security, immigration, natural population increase, and internal migration from rural areas to major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. While some argue that Australia’s challenges stem from urban planning, infrastructure investment, and resource management rather than sheer population size, a substantial portion of surveyed Australians maintain that the country is already “too full.”

Critics of the overpopulation narrative advocate for strategic planning and investment to accommodate a larger population without exacerbating current issues. However, the survey reflects widespread skepticism, with over 70 percent of respondents expressing concerns over the perceived strain on resources and infrastructure.

In contrast, a minority—14 percent—favour maintaining high migration levels, while 13 percent remain undecided. Notably, the survey also delves into voter sentiments regarding the government’s “progressive agenda,” implemented since the Albanese administration assumed office in 2022.

Furthermore, the study explores the impact of increased financial insecurity and housing stress on voter behavior, particularly among young people. A significant proportion of non-homeowners, primarily young voters, express difficulty in achieving financial stability, with many gravitating towards parties like Labor and the Greens.

The survey underscores the complex interplay between immigration policies, socioeconomic factors, and political preferences, shaping the ongoing discourse on Australia’s population trajectory and its implications for the future.

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Major task ahead of Vice Admiral David Johnston

Vice Admiral David Johnston begins his term as Australia’s Defence Force chief amidst significant challenges. The federal government has entrusted him with the task of addressing plummeting morale and stagnant recruitment, set against the backdrop of unprecedented strategic uncertainty. Despite his anticipated short tenure, Johnston’s reputation as an industrious leader suggests he will implement much-needed reforms during his time in office.

With experience as Joint Operations chief and Defence Force vice chief, Johnston is well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted issues ahead. His appointment as the first naval leader to head the Defence Force in two decades reflects the recognition that contemporary challenges largely revolve around Australia’s maritime capabilities.

Key challenges include the pressing workforce crisis characterized by recruitment shortfalls and low morale. The Defence Force aims to increase its personnel by 30% by 2040, but current numbers fall short, necessitating concerted efforts to attract and retain talent.

Improving morale involves addressing cultural issues within the Defence Force and the department, a task Defence Minister Richard Marles has committed to tackling. Johnston emphasizes the importance of creating a respectful and supportive environment for personnel.

Budgetary considerations are crucial to bolstering morale, as insufficient support and unrealistic expectations contribute to dissatisfaction. Marles proposes cuts and restructuring to align resources with actual needs, aiming to instil confidence in the workforce.

Johnston’s tenure coincides with the release of a report on internal cultural issues, including veteran suicides, underscoring the imperative for reform and improved support mechanisms. The Defence Force’s participation in the Royal Commission reflects a commitment to enhancing its culture.

The Prime Minister highlighted the need for effective leadership in navigating a complex global strategic environment, particularly in responding to regional tensions. Johnston’s appointment signifies a shift in focus from the war on terror to new challenges, requiring adaptive leadership and strategic vision.

 

 

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Vietnam War: Battle of Balmoral – Australia assists recovery of Vietnamese remains – 2024

As you know, I’ve written several articles on the 1968 Battles of Coral and Balmoral  – principally analyzing the Vietnamese accounts – see free-to-read: https://www.scribd.com/document/374639182/Vietnam-War-The-Battles-of-Coral-S%E1%BB%9F-H%E1%BB%99i-and-Balmoral-%C4%90%E1%BB%93ng-Tram-May-1968-The-Vietnamese-Communist-Accounts-including-three-sketch-maps – 56 pages with maps etc.

I ‘ve noticed a recent item on a local NSW website – https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/illawarra-breakfast/carl-robinson/103689052 that recounts recent Australian-assisted efforts assisting the recover of bodies/remains  of the Vietnamese casualties from the Battle of Balmoral in Binh Duong Province ie:  “Australia Helps Vietnam Find Fallen Soldiers from the Battle of Balmoral”. The short article notes: “After 15 years of search efforts, a team including Australian veterans have helped authorities to identify the resting place, in Binh Duong province, of a large number of fallen Vietnamese soldiers from the Battle Of Balmoral.(Andrew Goledzinowski, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam).” The article shows an Australian Army major (? RAEME) assisting Vietnamese searchers at a site in Binh Duong.

Regards, Ernie Chamberlain

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Here’s hoping ADF is in ‘safe pair of hands’

MEMO to Hon Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence.

Dear Richard (if I may be so bold), there are moments when personal and political ambition versus national interest, sometimes opposing concepts, collide.

One has arrived, and you have made what may be the most important ministerial decision affecting the ADF’s future direction and leadership.

It is so critical your entire stewardship may be judged by future generations on the basis of that decision alone.

Forget about AUKUS, Hawaiian shirts and cocktails at the Hale Koha Club, Waikiki or golf at the Navy-Marine Club, Pearl Harbour, or even how many VIP jets the PM needs, this will be your Rubicon.

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Here’s hoping ADF is in ‘safe pair of hands’ | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

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“Redefining Australian Defense: A Shift Towards Tactical and Strategic Deterrence”

Amidst the unveiling of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, a significant departure from Australia’s traditional defense stance emerges, emphasizing tactical and strategic deterrence. Central to this shift are the concepts of “impactful projection” and “national defense,” redefining Australian deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles elaborated on the notion of “impactful projection,” stressing the need for the defense force to hold adversaries at risk far from Australian shores, signaling a departure from past strategies.

This paradigm shift is echoed in the Defense Strategic Review’s assertion that Australia lacks effective defense capabilities against higher threat levels, advocating for collaboration with the United States and other key allies to maintain regional stability and deter aggression.

While efforts to reshape the Australian Defence Force are underway, the Royal Australian Air Force appears to face a gap in survivable long-range strike capabilities, a concern heightened by the region’s escalating security risks.

Despite discussions about the B-21 Raider, the review deems it unsuitable for acquisition, leaving a void in Australia’s defense capabilities. However, alternative options exist, including large, sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles developed by the United States Air Force in collaboration with defense companies.

As Australia navigates evolving security challenges, exploring viable alternatives becomes imperative to ensure robust defense capabilities in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.

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“Up There: Australia’s New Defence Recruitment Drive Takes Flight”

Australia’s Defence Department unveiled its latest recruitment campaign on March 17th, urging Australians to consider careers in aviation, medical, intelligence, space, or cyber fields within the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The initiative showcases various aircraft from the RAAF fleet, including F-35A Lightning II and F/A-18F Super Hornet jets, an E-7A Wedgetail, and a C-17A Globemaster heavy airlifter.

What sets this campaign apart is its innovative use of technology. Filmed from an L-39 jet equipped with a high-definition gimbal camera, it marks the first time this advanced equipment has been deployed in Australia for such purposes.

Federal Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh, emphasized the campaign’s focus on highlighting the diverse range of roles within the Air Force. Beyond piloting, it encompasses technical positions such as mechanics, technicians, electronic warfare specialists, cyber experts, and space domain professionals.

Keogh emphasized the importance of recruiting individuals with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills, aligning with the evolving technological landscape not only within the Defence Force but also across broader society.

The campaign aims to attract individuals from various backgrounds, including high school students considering their future career paths and mid-career professionals seeking a change. Keogh stressed the significant support and benefits offered to those joining the Defence Force, including financial assistance for education, housing support, and healthcare benefits.

Air Marshal Robert Chipman, Chief of Air Force, emphasized the modern and technologically advanced nature of the Air Force, urging young Australians to consider the challenging and purposeful career opportunities it offers.

Major General Wade Stothart, Acting Chief of Personnel, highlighted the campaign’s target demographic of Australians aged 16 to 35. He emphasized the appeal of Air Force careers, offering opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology, receive world-class training and education, and enjoy benefits such as competitive salaries, job security, and flexible hours.

Stothart also outlined the various recruitment pathways available, catering to individuals at different stages of their careers, from recent school leavers to mid-career professionals seeking a new direction.

With its blend of technological innovation, diverse career opportunities, and comprehensive support, the “Up There” campaign aims to bolster recruitment efforts and attract top talent to serve in Australia’s Defence Force.

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US Sees Imminent Missile Strike on Israel by Iran, Proxies

The US and its allies believe major missile or drone strikes by Iran or its proxies against military and government targets in Israel are imminent, in what would mark a significant widening of the six-month-old conflict, according to people familiar with the intelligence. The potential assault, possibly using high-precision missiles, may happen in the coming days, the people said, requesting anonymity to discuss confidential matters. It is seen as more a matter of when, not if, one of the people said, based on assessments from US and Israeli intelligence. Brent crude, the global benchmark, spiked more than 1% to trade above $90 a barrel following the news. Oil is up 16% this year, buoyed by war risk premium since the conflict in the Middle East began. Iran has threatened to hit Israel in retaliation for an attack on a diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital of Damascus last week that killed senior Iranian military officials. Israel has not explicitly acknowledged it was behind that attack, though it has traditionally followed a policy of ambiguity on operations in Syria, Lebanon and elsewhere. Israel’s Western allies have been told Israeli government and military facilities may be targeted but civilian facilities are not expected to be, they said. US officials are helping Israel on planning and sharing intelligence assessments, the people said. Israel has told allies it is waiting for this attack to take place before launching another ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah in Gaza, though it’s not clear how soon that operation may begin. US and Western intelligence indicates an attack from Iran and its proxies may not necessarily come from Israel’s north, where Tehran’s ally Hezbollah in Lebanon is located, the people said. Israeli officials are in agreement with the allied view. They’ve also publicly threatened Iran that if it hits Israeli soil, Israel will hit Iranian soil. Earlier on Wednesday Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei repeated a vow to retaliate against Israel for the Damascus strike, which he said was tantamount to an attack on Iranian territory. Foreign diplomatic missions already are preparing for the potential strikes, making contingency plans for evacuation amid requests from Israeli authorities about emergency supplies like generators and satellite phones, one of the people said, noting that they were not aware of any western missions planning immediate evacuation. While the US has pushed Israel for a cease-fire in Gaza, the Biden administration has also signalled it’s prepared to back the country in the event of an attack by Iran or its proxies.
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