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Military forces worldwide are utilizing a British company's wargame software, inspired by Tom Clancy novels, to simulate battle scenarios. The software, Command: Professional Edition, allows for testing various tactics and equipment, exploring hypothetical situations like nuclear warfare, and improving decision-making skills. The Pentagon and other military entities have adopted this software for training, education, and analysis, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing military preparedness and strategic planning. [Extracted from the article]

NATO's new leader, Mark Rutte, has pledged continued support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia's invasion and has vowed to pressure China to curtail its support of Moscow, regardless of the outcome of the U.S. presidential election. Rutte, who recently took over as secretary-general of NATO, praised both U.S. presidential candidates for their commitment to defending Ukraine. He also emphasized the importance of defending Ukraine, boosting NATO's capabilities, and addressing global challenges to Euro-Atlantic security. Rutte plans to increase cooperation with Indo-Pacific allies and invite their defense ministers to a regular gathering of NATO defense ministers. [Extracted from the article]

According to top U.S. generals, Russia's recent gains in Ukraine do not indicate a breakthrough for Moscow. While Russian forces have advanced into Ukrainian territory near Kharkiv, American military leaders believe that Russia lacks sufficient troops to launch a large assault on the city. Instead, the push seems aimed at protecting Russian territory and tying down Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces are already stretched thin, and Russia's offensive could create opportunities for a breakthrough elsewhere. However, the U.S. generals express confidence that Ukrainian defenders will be able to hold the line and thwart further Russian progress. [Extracted from the article]

Russia has launched armored attacks in Ukraine's northeast, creating a new front against Ukrainian forces. The attacks come at a critical moment for Ukraine, as they await U.S. military aid and struggle to hold the line against mounting Russian offensives. Ukrainian troops are outnumbered and facing a shortage of weaponry, while Russian forces are gradually advancing in the east. The situation is further complicated by Russia's lack of coordination between its air force and ground troops. Ukraine must now make difficult choices about where to deploy its limited resources to defend against Russian advances. [Extracted from the article]

Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, NATO's top military officer, is taking on a new role as a business executive due to the urgency of management concerns in achieving NATO's defense goals. Bauer is engaging with executives and policymakers to address alliance shortfalls, particularly in Europe's insufficient and inefficient military spending. He emphasizes the need for the private sector to play a fundamental role in defense and advocates for greater cooperation and rationalization of defense industries in Europe. Bauer also highlights the challenges of funding military production due to sustainability goals and the exclusion of military contractors by investment companies. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the frustration expressed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after the US and its allies defended Israel against an Iranian attack, highlighting the limited support Ukraine has received from the West. Ukrainian cities have been under attack from Russian missiles and drones for over two years, while aid from the US remains stalled in Congress. Ukrainian officials have refrained from publicly criticizing US policy, but some have expressed frustration at the lack of support compared to the defense of Israel. The article also explores the differences in security relationships between the US and Israel versus the US and Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Russia is launching probing attacks against Ukrainian forces along the front line, taking advantage of recent battlefield victories and Ukraine's shortage of ammunition and personnel. Ukrainian troops are responding by digging trenches and fortifying their positions, replicating the physical obstacles that Russia created on its side of the front. However, Ukraine's campaign to build fortifications has not yielded significant results, and the absence of progress is proving to be a liability as Russia intensifies its assaults. Russia is pushing along multiple axes in Ukraine's east, aiming to wear down Ukrainian forces and exhaust their manpower reserves. While Russia has more men and resources, it struggles to focus them and relies on poorly prepared soldiers, resulting in high casualties. Ukraine is also facing manpower problems and struggles to mobilize troops. Russia is adding around 30,000 men to its armed forces each month, but it is also losing men at a rapid pace. The capture of Avdiivka came at a high cost for Russia, with thousands of casualties and the loss of heavy armor. Despite the losses, Russia has the forces to continue its advance. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing a battle to keep its businesses running amidst the ongoing war with Russia. The conflict has left the country with shattered infrastructure and a struggling economy. Entrepreneurs like Igor Liski are facing challenges in securing project finance due to banks' reluctance to lend during the war. The European Union and international financial institutions are providing support, but Ukraine still needs significant funding to continue fighting and rebuild. The country is also focusing on energy projects, such as wind farms, to promote self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. [Extracted from the article]

Sweden's approach to national security, which includes engaging teenagers, retirees, teachers, and police officers in the country's defense, offers a model for other European countries concerned about Russian aggression. Sweden's "total defense" strategy involves conveying the need for security to ordinary people, which also garners broad support for its military industry. The decision for Sweden and Finland to join NATO was prompted by Russia's threats and invasion of Ukraine. Sweden's all-of-society approach to defense is notable because it shares no land border with Russia and previously sought engagement with Moscow. The new Nordic members bring a different mindset to NATO and have been urged as an example for other members due to growing threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries. Sweden's popular support for the armed forces is high, and it has provided significant military support to Ukraine. Sweden's defense industry is at the cutting edge due to broad support for the military and the country's booming civilian tech sector. Sweden's defense industry is self-sufficient and has become one of the world's top arms exporters. The country also integrates civilian technologies into military equipment. Sweden's innovation, defense industry, and top-tier technology make it a valuable addition to NATO. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the potential impact of Donald Trump's criticism of European NATO members for not spending enough on defense. It raises the question of whether shaming allies strengthens or weakens the alliance. While the attacks may prompt countries to increase military spending, NATO's unity and credibility are also important factors in its success. The article highlights the historical significance of NATO in maintaining peace and prosperity in Europe and emphasizes the potential consequences of undermining the alliance. It concludes by discussing the ongoing efforts to strengthen NATO through increased defense spending and large-scale military exercises. [Extracted from the article]

European NATO members are increasing their military spending in response to the threat of a second Trump administration and Russian aggression. However, there is still a long way to go for Europe to reduce its dependence on US military support. European countries have pledged to spend 2% of their GDP on their militaries this year, but there is wide variation in the actual spending levels. While the increase in spending benefits American producers, Europe needs to spend its money more effectively and improve cooperation among member states. Joint procurement of military equipment among EU members currently accounts for only about 5% of their total military spending. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing a shortage of ammunition and equipment as Russian forces continue to advance. Ukrainian troops are being outshot by Russian forces, with a ratio of about 10 Russian shells to every one fired by Ukraine. The scarcity of shells, missiles, and rockets is hindering Ukraine's efforts to hold back Russian advances. Despite some success in the air and sea war, Ukraine's defenses are weakening, and there is concern about the fragility of the front line. Congress's inability to agree on more military aid for Ukraine is exacerbating the situation. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the increasing threats to freedom of navigation on the high seas, which has been a fundamental principle of the international order for centuries. Security crises in various regions, such as the Red Sea, Black Sea, Horn of Africa, and South China Sea, have disrupted sea traffic and raised concerns about the future of global trade. The article highlights the importance of maritime security and the challenges faced by navies in maintaining safe passage for ships. It also emphasizes the economic implications of these disruptions, including rising freight rates and potential impacts on global food prices. The article concludes by raising questions about the sustainability of freedom of navigation and the need for international cooperation to ensure the continued flow of global trade. [Extracted from the article]

World leaders are bracing themselves for the possibility of a second Trump administration. Many leaders are concerned about a potential administration that would ignore diplomatic norms and traditions, as well as the potential for a reduction in the U.S. security umbrella. Foreign governments are working to understand who might join Trump's inner circle and what their policy ideas look like. Some leaders see potential benefits in a president who emphasizes business-world pragmatism, while others are worried about a more inward-looking U.S. There are concerns about how a second Trump presidency would affect relationships with foreign powers, particularly in Asia, where allies are worried about a possible American pullback from the region. [Extracted from the article]

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is using his veto power to disrupt European Union (EU) plans and push for changes in EU policy. Orban's opposition to EU support for Ukraine has complicated decision-making within the bloc. He aims to reshape the EU from within and has built a dominant political position at home. Despite EU pressure, Orban has managed to retain influence and secure EU funds for Hungary. He hopes to become a leading player in the anti-EU, anti-liberal political movement. However, uniting hard-right EU parties may prove challenging. Orban's limited power means that he cannot completely block EU decisions, but he can delay them. [Extracted from the article]

European Union leaders have pledged to continue providing financial aid to Ukraine, despite failing to agree on a proposed $54 billion funding package. The disagreement stems from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's opposition to the aid package. While the EU did agree to begin accession talks with Ukraine, the funding issue will be revisited in late January or early February. The failure to agree on funding was a disappointment for Ukraine, but the start of accession talks was seen as a win for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has agreed to begin membership talks with Ukraine, a move that is seen as a political victory for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, the EU failed to reach an agreement on a new long-term package of budget support for Ukraine. Talks on Ukraine's accession to the EU could start in the coming months, but the process is expected to take years. The decision to start membership talks with Ukraine is seen as a resounding endorsement of the country's efforts to join the West and distance itself from Russia. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing multiple challenges as it prepares for a prolonged period of defensive warfare against Russia. Despite a costly campaign to push back Russian forces, the front lines have not shifted significantly, and support from the US and Europe is now uncertain. President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered the construction of battlefield fortifications, acknowledging the difficulty of regaining occupied territories. The US funding fight and delays in European aid further complicate Ukraine's situation. While Ukraine's Western allies emphasize its successes, the country is bracing for a long and difficult war. [Extracted from the article]

The US, the European Union, Brazil, and Canada have agreed to limit export subsidies on jetliners, making it more expensive for airlines to receive government guarantees on commercial loans to buy jetliners. Aircraft makers said the new measure may result in lower output and possible layoffs.

An oil leak was the cause of an engine explosion that disabled the flight computers aboard a Qantas flight last month, but decisive action from the flight's crew averted disaster. Article discusses how training programs may be inadequately preparing pilots to cope with emergency situations in the absence of automated flight controls.

Sources say that the World Trade Organization will likely find that Boeing Co. accepted illegal subsidies from the U.S. government. Allegations by the European Union state that Boeing received tax breaks totaling approximately $24 bil. The finding would come a little more than one year since the WTO found that Airbus S.A.S. had also accepted illegal European subsidies.

Investors and lenders are beginning to pour money into the aviation sector once again, possibly resulting in a high number of orders from airplane-leasing companies shopping at the Farnborough International Airshow.

The World Trade Organization has ruled that $20 billion in loans given by the European Union to aircraft maker Airbus to develop six passenger jet models were illegal export subsidies. The European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co. - Airbus's parent company - may be forced to repay some of the loans or risk higher tariffs in the U.S. on imports from Europe.

Emirates Airline of Dubai ordered 32 additional Airbus jetliners at a total price of $11.5 billion. The announcement was made in Germany, where Emirates Airline is lobbying to be granted greater market access despite opposition from rival Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

Beating rival Lockheed Martin Corp., Thales S.A. of France won a $2.1-billion contract to build 72 communication satellites for Iridium Communications Inc. Iridium will also award $800 million in contracts to launch the satellites.

In interview, Airbus's Chief Executive Tom Enders discusses his company's production management as demand for jetliners begins to recover. Despite the recession, Airbus's jetliner deliveries rose 3% in 2008.

The high cost of producing its A380 superjumbo jetliner continues to affect Airbus's profit, which plummeted 39% in the first three months of 2010. With each jetliner delivery, Airbus loses money, but the airplane maker is expected to break even within five years. Airbus delivered its first A380 to Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

A volcanic eruption in Iceland brought European air travel to a standstill, damaging the Continent's fragile economic recovery, and prompting airlines to take measure to minimize the damage. More than 63,000 flights have been canceled since Thursday.

The cabin crews of British Airways PLC held a second strike on Sunday, while labor unions called on management to restart negotiations to avoid another strike next weekend. BA is resisting changes in its labor practices as its struggles to cut costs and streamline its operations. It is estimated the strikes are costing BA 10 million pounds sterling a day in revenue.

Aircraft makers Airbus and Boeing Co. have avoided major production cuts by juggling orders and deferring deliveries of airplanes. If the financial position of airlines worsens, jet makers will be forced to reduce capacity drastically and lay off additional workers.

The U.S. Department of Transportation tentatively approved a proposal by American Airlines, British Airways PLC, and the Oneworld alliance of airlines to expand their cooperation in trans-Atlantic flights, including coordinating fares and schedules. The carriers would be required to give up some slots at London's Heathrow Airport.

Boeing Co. and Airbus - backed by the U.S. and the European union respectively - are joining forces to oppose Canada's plan to finance the sales of a new aircraft by Canadian maker Bombardier Inc. The U.S. and EU claim that Canada's proposal gives an unfair advantage to Bombardier.

United Airlines placed an order for 25 of Boeing Co.'s 787 Dreamliner, and 25 of Airbus's A350 model at a combined value of more than $10 billion. The planes will be delivered between 2016 and 2019. United also made arrangements to buy 50 more of each jetliner model.

In interview, Ryanair Holdings Ltd.'s chief executive Michael O'Leary discusses measures he has implemented or is considering implementing to keep airfares low and slash operating expenses while remaining profitable.

Aircraft lessor International Lease Finance Corp. (ILFC) is discussing the possible purchase of $4 billion in planes from its parent company American International Group Inc. ILFC has $30 billion in debt and its aircraft fleet is valued at $40 billion. AIG's efforts to sell ILFC to raise funds to pay back loans from the U.S. government have been unsuccessful.

After failing to negotiate a settlement, the UK's Serious Fraud Office will bring charges of corruption against defense contractor BAE Systems PLC. The government alleges BAE paid bribes to obtain public contracts in Eastern Europe and Africa.

Airplane-leasing company AerCap Holdings N.V. has agreed to acquire rival Genesis Lease Ltd. for $303 million -$8.81 for each Genesis share- creating the world's third largest airplane lessor by fleet size. Article discusses how major airplane-leasing firms' limited credit may clear the way for a wave of consolidation among midsize companies.

After shelving plans to boost output this year and trimming production on some aircraft models as much as 22%, aircraft maker Airbus may need to further cut output next year because of poor market conditions and limited access to credit. Airbus had 21 cancellations against 147 new orders through August 31, and 777 net orders last year.

Following the crash of an A330 jetliner into the Atlantic killing 228 people, Air France has asked its U.S. partner Delta Air Lines Inc. to help evaluate internal safety practices. Article discusses the investigation of the crash and what Air France is doing to address safety concerns.

In a case filed by the U.S. against the European Union, the World Trade Organization issued a preliminary judgment against the EU for illegally subsidized Airbus's development of its A380 passenger jet. The ruling may affect the EU's plans to grant Airbus 2.9 billion euro to help it develop its A350 long-range aircraft.