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For over four decades, Voyager 1 has been on a quest for interstellar discovery, steadily moving away from Earth and venturing into the unknown parts of the universe. Recently, the spectacular probe sent a strange warning message that has shocked scientists as it points to the possibility of a new elemental force in the cosmos. Michio Kaku, one of the world’s leading physicists, has finally shed light on this mysterious new force and why it specifically appeared now. Join us as we explore the implication of this new force and how it’s connected to the formula that describes all of creation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cu6Fk1Qg2FM

Picture: An Australian Army M1A1 Abrams Tank is loaded onto the USAV SSGT. Robert T. Kuroda at the Port of Darwin, NT, ahead of sailing to Indonesia for Exercise Super Garuda Shield 23. Photo: CAPT Annie Richardson

Australia has decided not to alter or cancel the lease of the Port of Darwin held by Chinese-owned Landbridge, following a national security review. The review, initiated after the 2022 election, has concluded that the existing regulatory framework for critical infrastructure is robust, ongoing monitoring measures are sufficient, and there is no need to modify or terminate the lease. Additionally, the review examined previous findings and risk management arrangements aimed at safeguarding national security interests.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is visiting Beijing, marking the 50th anniversary of the first Australian Prime Minister’s visit to China. During the trip, discussions will encompass economic ties, climate change, and people-to-people connections. Notably, both Australia and China have agreed to suspend a WTO dispute regarding wine duties while a review is conducted over the next five months, with the possibility of resuming the dispute if the duties remain in place. The Prime Minister views the visit as a positive step toward a stable and constructive relationship between the two nations.

The review was carried out by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in collaboration with various government departments, including Defence, Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Attorney-General’s Department, Home Affairs, the Office of National Intelligence, and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.

Established in 1948 during the reign of King George VI, the Royal Australian Infantry Corps (RAInf) has stood as a pillar of strength, unwavering in its commitment to protecting Australia’s sovereignty and contributing to global security. As we celebrate its 75th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on the remarkable journey of the RAInf and the indomitable spirit of its soldiers.

From the rugged battlefields of the Korean War to the dense jungles of Vietnam and the tumultuous terrains of East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, RAInf units have ventured far and wide, answering the call of duty in critical operations. Their legacy stands as a testament to the selfless service of its soldiers, safeguarding Australia’s values not only at home but also across the globe.

The RAInf’s deployments have showcased not only its combat prowess but also its unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts. In times of natural disasters and crises, RAInf units have been at the forefront of providing aid and support to affected communities, exemplifying the dedication to making a positive impact both domestically and abroad.

The 75th anniversary of the RAInf is not just a milestone but a reflection of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have proudly donned its uniform. It is a celebration of the camaraderie that binds soldiers together, the dedication that fuels their efforts, and the resilience that sustains them through challenges.

A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

The RAInf was born out of a necessity to fortify Australia’s defence capabilities in the turbulent post-World War II era. Its formation marked the nation’s commitment to maintaining a strong and professional infantry force. Since its inception, the corps has grown into a symbol of courage and sacrifice, upholding the values that define the Australian spirit.

During the Korean War, RAInf units found themselves on the front lines, braving the harsh conditions of the battlefield, defending South Korea from the advancing North Korean forces. Their bravery and unwavering commitment to the mission became a source of pride for the entire nation.

The jungles of Vietnam witnessed another chapter in the RAInf’s history. In the midst of a complex and gruelling conflict, Australian soldiers from the RAInf demonstrated unmatched resilience and professionalism. Their service and sacrifice were critical in supporting South Vietnam and their allies.

In the later years, the RAInf’s commitment extended to far-flung regions like Somalia, East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In these challenging terrains, Australian infantry units continued to uphold their reputation as professional soldiers, earning the respect of both allies and adversaries alike. The courage and dedication displayed by the RAInf in the face of adversity have become legendary.

A Commitment to Humanitarian Endeavours

While the RAInf has a formidable combat record, it is not defined solely by its battlefield achievements. The corps has also exemplified its commitment to humanitarian efforts, a testament to its mission of making a positive impact on the world.

In the aftermath of natural disasters and crises, RAInf units have been among the first to respond, providing aid and support to affected communities. Whether it’s delivering relief supplies, assisting with rescue operations, or rebuilding infrastructure, the RAInf has consistently demonstrated its dedication to helping those in need, both at home and abroad.

Through peacekeeping missions and humanitarian endeavours, the RAInf has shown that the Australian spirit extends beyond defending borders. The commitment to serving others and making the world a better place is a cornerstone of the RAInf’s legacy.

The Camaraderie, Dedication, and Resilience

The 75th anniversary of the RAInf is an occasion to honour the countless men and women who have served under its banner. It is a celebration of the deep bonds that unite soldiers, the dedication that fuels their unwavering efforts, and the resilience that enables them to overcome the most formidable challenges.

Soldiers in the RAInf do not simply serve; they become part of a tight-knit family. The bonds forged on the battlefield and in the face of adversity create a camaraderie that lasts a lifetime. It is this bond that sustains them through the toughest of times and empowers them to fulfill their duties with unwavering commitment.

In conclusion, the 75th anniversary of the Royal Australian Infantry Corps is an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable journey of courage, sacrifice, and service. The RAInf has consistently upheld Australia’s values, both at home and across the globe, becoming a source of pride for the nation and an embodiment of the Australian spirit. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we pay tribute to the men and women who have donned its uniform, honouring their dedication, camaraderie, and resilience. The legacy of the RAInf continues to shine as a beacon of strength and commitment, guiding Australia towards a brighter future.

Picture: A Royal Australian Air Force aviator from Combat Support Group watches as a Hot Refuel is conducted on a F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft during Exercise Talisman Sabre 23 at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: LAC Chris Tsakisiris

Valued at $76 million, the project was overseen by the United States Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Pacific and constructed by the US-Australian joint venture Nova Nacap JV. The facility, finished in June 2023, enhances operational capabilities and supports training exercises, promoting air cooperation between the two nations under the United States Force Posture Initiatives (USFPI) infrastructure program.

The Enhanced Air Cooperation (EAC) initiative, established in February 2017, aims to deepen air-to-air integration through a range of activities. It includes advanced warfighting capabilities, collaborative airbase operations, combat support, logistics, and regional engagement. EAC creates opportunities for joint engagement with regional partner air forces in training exercises.

The project aligns with the government’s response to the Defence Strategic Review, which prioritizes increasing preparedness, enhancing northern infrastructure, and providing resilient fuel solutions. The review also underscores the importance of the Australian Defence Force’s ability to operate from northern bases.

In line with the Defence Strategic Review’s recommendations, the Australian Army will focus on long-range strike capability and littoral operations in northern land and maritime areas. Meanwhile, the Royal Australian Air Force will support operations in the north, with improvements planned for northern air bases, including runway and apron capacity, fuel supply, storage, accommodation, and security enhancements.

General practitioners (GPs) will be eligible to receive greater incentives to treat members of the veteran community who use their Veteran Card as payment. This is part of the Government’s 2023-24 investment in DVA, to ensure veterans and their families have access to health and wellbeing services they need to live well after service.

The existing Veterans’ Access Payment (VAP) for GPs will be tripled, aiming to boost the number of GPs who treat Veteran Card holders under DVA billing arrangements.

The tripled VAP will apply to general face-to-face consultation greater than six minutes including home visits for people who are homebound, and consultations in residential aged-care facilities.

Additionally, the tripled VAP will apply to video and telephone GP consultations longer than six minutes. For video and telephone consultations longer than 20 minutes, a Veteran Card holder must also be registered with MyMedicare.

If your Veteran Card is accepted, you won’t be charged a gap fee. We encourage Veteran Card holders to confirm their GP accepts their Veteran Card prior to booking an appointment.

We’re proud to work with GPs to ensure veterans have access to health and wellbeing services they need to live well after service. We’d also like to thank the thousands of GPs across the country who accept Veteran Cards for their support and services to our veteran community.

For those Veteran Card holders who don’t already have a regular GP, please get in contact with your local GP practice to find out if they accept DVA Veteran Cards before your visit.

If you’ve served in the Australian Defence Force and don’t have a Veteran Card, please contact us via email at [email protected], or over the phone at 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) to see if you’re eligible.

Picture:  The 72nd TES conducts testing and evaluation of new equipment, software and weapons systems for the B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber. Photo: US Air Force/Airman 1st Class Devan Halstead.

The United States has sanctioned the development of an upgraded version of the B61 nuclear gravity bomb in response to the evolving security landscape, as confirmed by the US Department of Defence.

The newly proposed B61-13 aircraft munition will be manufactured under the purview of the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration, subject to approval and funding from Congress. This gravity bomb variant is designed to be deployable by contemporary aircraft, reinforcing the deterrence capabilities against potential adversaries and bolstering the confidence of allied nations. It is intended for use against more resilient and larger military targets, serving as a replacement for the existing B61-7 munitions with a similar yield.

Assistant Secretary of Defence for Space Policy, John Plumb, expressed that “Today’s announcement is reflective of a changing security environment and growing threats from potential adversaries. The United States has a responsibility to continue to assess and field the capabilities we need to credibly deter and, if necessary, respond to strategic attacks, and assure our allies. The B61-13 represents a reasonable step to manage the challenges of a highly dynamic security environment. While it provides us with additional flexibility, production of the B61-13 will not increase the overall number of weapons in our nuclear stockpile.”

Both the B61-7 gravity bomb and the new B61-13 are reported to possess a yield of approximately 360 kilotons, while the B61-12 munitions are believed to have a yield of 50 kilotons. The decision to pursue this development comes after an extensive period of review, continuous evaluation, and careful consideration and is not a response to any particular current event, according to Mr. Plumb.

The B61-13 will make use of the existing production capabilities that support the B61-12 and will incorporate modern safety, security, and precision features similar to those found in the B61-12.

The impetus for this munition stems from a complex security environment in which US competitors are expanding, diversifying, and modernizing their nuclear capabilities while relying more on nuclear weapons, as outlined in the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review.

It’s worth noting that the introduction of the B61-13 will not result in an overall increase in the number of weapons in the US stockpile, as the production of B61-12s will be adjusted accordingly to maintain the same total number of weapons.

The US Department of Defence clarified that “Deterrence and assurance are enhanced if the United States can continue to deny an adversary sanctuary from attack. The B61-13 will provide the president with additional options against certain harder and larger military targets, even while the department works to retire legacy systems such as the B83-1 and the B61-7.”

I have had quite a few of you contact me for my email address as they forgot to change it when last notified.

Please, if wish to contact me with a story, article, YouTube video or just to say hi my only email address is [email protected]

Please amend your list now … thanks, because I don’t want to miss a single message.

Ray Payne

[email protected]

THE special military relationship between Australia and PNG has reached the next level of maturity with a PNGDF officer appointed to a competitive senior 3rd Brigade role.

LTCOL Boniface Aruma, will become deputy brigade commander, replacing an Australian officer, LTCOL Ken Golder.

A June 1999 Duntroon graduate, his career has paralleled his military college classmates, attending the Australian Command and Staff College in 2016, plus dual master’s degrees in international relations and defence studies from Deakin University and ANU.

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PNG officer’s appointment strengthens ties | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

Hi ALL,

I apologise for the abrupt interruption and failing to post over the last few days. Last Tuesday night, after my routine colonoscopy earlier that day, I experienced severe bladder pain that woke me up around 11 PM. Without hesitation, I drove myself to emergency, where I received excellent care. By around 3 AM, I was feeling better, but the doctor decided to admit me for observation due to some concerns.

As it turns out, my heart rate dropped to around 30 beats per minute, which raised some alarms. A cardiologist was called in to evaluate my condition. While my heart was strong, my heart rate was erratic. The cardiologist recommended that I have a pacemaker implanted to stabilise my heart rate.

I’ve been allowed to leave the hospital for the weekend with strict instructions to rest completely. The pacemaker will be fitted on Tuesday, which coincides with Melbourne Cup Day, bummer! If all goes well, I should be discharged late on Wednesday afternoon and back at my desk on Thursday.

I’m actually feeling quite ok but resting as per their instructions.

Cheers Ray