southfront--2020-06-12--US Department Of Defense Announces Another $250 Million Of Military Assistance To Ukraine

The Department of Defense announced today its plans for $ 250 million in Fiscal Year 2020 Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative ( USAI ) funds for additional training , equipment , and advisory efforts ‘ to strengthen Ukraine ’ s capacity to more effectively defend itself against Russian aggression ’ .
The statement declares that the USAI reaffirms the long-standing defence relationship between the United States and Ukraine – a critical partner on the front line of strategic competition with Russia .
The United States remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine ’ s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 125 million of which was conditional on Ukraine ’ s progress on military reforms – will provide equipment to support ongoing training programs and operational needs .
This includes capabilities to enhance Ukraine ’ s defensive lethal capabilities and situational awareness in the maritime domain , air surveillance systems to monitor sovereign airspace , command and control and survivability of Ukraine ’ s Land and Special Operations Forces through the provision of counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment , military medical treatment and combat evacuation procedures , and cyber defence and strategic communications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ misinformation .
These efforts are complemented by increased security assistance support from key NATO Allies and partners .
The United States continues to urge all allies and partners to enhance their support for Ukraine ’ s security and defence sector .
The United States also welcomes recent Ukrainian investments in US defence articles that further strengthen our strategic partnership .
The official statement claims that these security cooperation programs are made possible by Ukraine ’ s continued progress on key defence institutional and anti-corruption reforms .
LINK The Ukrainian Embassy in the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US Department of Defense portal : Since 2014 the U.S. has provided more than $ 1.6 billion in security assistance to help Ukraine defend its territorial integrity , deter further Russian aggression , and progress toward NATO interoperability .
Alongside key NATO allies , the U.S. is training and advising Ukrainian security forces in western Ukraine through the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine to help improve Ukraine ’ s internal defense capabilities and develop an institutional training capacity in accordance with NATO standards… The U.S. and Ukraine co-host two annual military exercises : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multinational exercise focused on situational training and field training , and Exercise Sea Breeze , a multinational maritime exercise held in the Black Sea to strengthen regional maritime security .
LINK Global Research notes that US and NATO military involvement in Ukraine since 2014 has included US military training and advisors ( initially at battalion level , later at brigade level ) , weapons sales and closer involvement with Ukraine ’ s special forces units .
U.S. weapons manufacturers have been providing the UAF with specialized small arms and sniper rifles chambered in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high- powered rifle rounds .
Russian equivalent rocket-propelled grenades ( RPG ) systems and projectiles manufactured in the U.S. have also been provided .
Most recently , President Trump approved the sale of Javelin ATGMs to Kiev .
The initial $ 47 million sale consists of 210 missiles and 37 launch units .
While some analysts see this more as a symbolic move meant to send a message to Russia that U.S. foreign policy under Trump is still one of containment of Russia , by expanding NATO right up to Russia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it as an initial “ testing of the waters ” .
Will Russia acquiesce to the sale or respond in kind by supplying the DPR/LPR with another high-tech weapon system ?
Regardless , Ukraine is becoming a de-facto NATO military camp , along with the Baltic States , Poland and Romania .
Ukraine special operations forces have clearly undergone a transformation since U.S. military involvement in the country .
UAF special operators more closely resemble those of NATO nations .
They are now wearing U.S. military issue Operational Camouflage Pattern ( OCP ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gear , and are increasingly using western manufactured firearm accessories , optics , and night vision equipment .
More notably , the UAF special operations units have adopted a number of small arms and sniper weapons systems that utilize NATO standard ammunition such as the 5.56x45mm intermediate rifle round and the 7.62x51mm rifle round .
Sniper rifles chambered in .308 Winchester and .338 Lapua have also been adopted in limited numbers .
Ukraine Special Forces , the SBU , and a number of airborne forces have adopted the Israeli Tavor TAR-21 , built @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firearms manufacturer .
The Fort assault rifles have been manufactured and issued in both 5.45x39mm Russian caliber and 5.56x45mm NATO calibre .
A more alarming trend from the point of view of the Russian Ministry of Defense ( MOD ) is the growing presence of U.S. special operations soldiers on Russia ’ s borders .
The deployment of these highly trained operators has increased nearly 300 % in just 11 years .
According to a report published in in October of 2016 , European deployments of U.S. special operations forces accounted for 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing to 12 % by 2017 .
These elite soldiers were deployed to nations all along Russia ’ s Western and South Western borders , in countries such as Latvia , Estonia , Lithuania , Poland , Romania , Bulgaria , Moldova , Georgia , and even Finland .
Just as they have increased training regimens with Ukrainian special forces , they have increased inter-operability with special forces in many other European nations .
In 2016 alone , U.S. Special Operations Command ( SOCOM ) conducted no less than 37 Joint Combined Exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European continent , with 18 such exercises in nations bordering Russia .
LINK The latest announcement was made just weeks after the Ukraine participated in a NATO long-range strategic bombing exercise allowing access to Ukrainian air space .
MORE ON THE TOPIC • US strategic bombers trained for strikes on Russia when they were intercepted over the Black Sea

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The Department of Defense announced today its plans for $250 million in Fiscal Year 2020 Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) funds for additional training, equipment, and advisory efforts ‘to strengthen Ukraine’s capacity to more effectively defend itself against Russian aggression’.
The statement declares that the USAI reaffirms the long-standing defence relationship between the United States and Ukraine – a critical partner on the front line of strategic competition with Russia. The United States remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
The USAI funds – $125 million of which was conditional on Ukraine’s progress on military reforms – will provide equipment to support ongoing training programs and operational needs. This includes capabilities to enhance Ukraine’s defensive lethal capabilities and situational awareness in the maritime domain, air surveillance systems to monitor sovereign airspace, command and control and survivability of Ukraine’s Land and Special Operations Forces through the provision of counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment, military medical treatment and combat evacuation procedures, and cyber defence and strategic communications to counter Russian cyber offensive operations and misinformation.
These efforts are complemented by increased security assistance support from key NATO Allies and partners. The United States continues to urge all allies and partners to enhance their support for Ukraine’s security and defence sector. The United States also welcomes recent Ukrainian investments in US defence articles that further strengthen our strategic partnership.
The official statement claims that these security cooperation programs are made possible by Ukraine’s continued progress on key defence institutional and anti-corruption reforms. LINK
The Ukrainian Embassy in the US released a statement saying:
“We appreciate the continued strong support of our U.S. partners aimed at strengthening defense capabilities of Ukraine, which is fighting with Russian aggression. The reform of the national security and defense sector remains one of the major priorities of the Government of Ukraine.”
According to the US Department of Defense portal:
Since 2014 the U.S. has provided more than $1.6 billion in security assistance to help Ukraine defend its territorial integrity, deter further Russian aggression, and progress toward NATO interoperability. Alongside key NATO allies, the U.S. is training and advising Ukrainian security forces in western Ukraine through the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine to help improve Ukraine’s internal defense capabilities and develop an institutional training capacity in accordance with NATO standards… The U.S. and Ukraine co-host two annual military exercises: Exercise Rapid Trident, an annual, multinational exercise focused on situational training and field training, and Exercise Sea Breeze, a multinational maritime exercise held in the Black Sea to strengthen regional maritime security. LINK
Global Research notes that US and NATO military involvement in Ukraine since 2014 has included US military training and advisors (initially at battalion level, later at brigade level), weapons sales and closer involvement with Ukraine’s special forces units.
U.S. weapons manufacturers have been providing the UAF with specialized small arms and sniper rifles chambered in NATO standard ammunition as well as non-standard high- powered rifle rounds. Russian equivalent rocket-propelled grenades (RPG) systems and projectiles manufactured in the U.S. have also been provided. Most recently, President Trump approved the sale of Javelin ATGMs to Kiev. The initial $47 million sale consists of 210 missiles and 37 launch units. While some analysts see this more as a symbolic move meant to send a message to Russia that U.S. foreign policy under Trump is still one of containment of Russia, by expanding NATO right up to Russia’s borders in every region, other see it as an initial “testing of the waters”. Will Russia acquiesce to the sale or respond in kind by supplying the DPR/LPR with another high-tech weapon system? Regardless, Ukraine is becoming a de-facto NATO military camp, along with the Baltic States, Poland and Romania. Ukraine special operations forces have clearly undergone a transformation since U.S. military involvement in the country. UAF special operators more closely resemble those of NATO nations. They are now wearing U.S. military issue Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) “multicam” battle dress uniforms and gear, and are increasingly using western manufactured firearm accessories, optics, and night vision equipment. More notably, the UAF special operations units have adopted a number of small arms and sniper weapons systems that utilize NATO standard ammunition such as the 5.56x45mm intermediate rifle round and the 7.62x51mm rifle round. Sniper rifles chambered in .308 Winchester and .338 Lapua have also been adopted in limited numbers. Ukraine Special Forces, the SBU, and a number of airborne forces have adopted the Israeli Tavor TAR-21, built under license in Ukraine by the Fort firearms manufacturer. The Fort assault rifles have been manufactured and issued in both 5.45x39mm Russian caliber and 5.56x45mm NATO calibre. A more alarming trend from the point of view of the Russian Ministry of Defense (MOD) is the growing presence of U.S. special operations soldiers on Russia’s borders. The deployment of these highly trained operators has increased nearly 300% in just 11 years. According to a report published in The Nation in October of 2016, European deployments of U.S. special operations forces accounted for 3% of the total in 2006, increasing to 12% by 2017. These elite soldiers were deployed to nations all along Russia’s Western and South Western borders, in countries such as Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Georgia, and even Finland. Just as they have increased training regimens with Ukrainian special forces, they have increased inter-operability with special forces in many other European nations. In 2016 alone, U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) conducted no less than 37 Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) exercises on the European continent, with 18 such exercises in nations bordering Russia. LINK
The latest announcement was made just weeks after the Ukraine participated in a NATO long-range strategic bombing exercise allowing access to Ukrainian air space.
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southfront--2020-06-12--US President Donald Trump Authorizes Sanctions Against Members Of ICC

The White House authorized economic sanctions against members of the International Criminal Court on Thursday 11 May over what officials say are politically motivated investigations into alleged war crimes committed by U.S. troops in Afghanistan .
International Criminal Court officials directly engaged in any effort to investigate or prosecute American military personnel will also be barred from entering the US , the White House press secretary said in a statement .
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on the matter this week , calling the threat the international court poses to US personnel ‘ a national emergency ’ .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Attorney General William Barr , addressed the investigation into U.S. troops ’ alleged crimes in Afghanistan on Thursday .
The US has never accepted the court ’ s jurisdiction over its military personnel , Esper said : “ Our nation and this administration will not allow American citizens who have served our country to be subjected to illegitimate investigations… Instead , we expect information about alleged misconduct by our people to be turned over to U.S. authorities so that we could take the appropriate action , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past… Rest assured that the men and women of the United States Armed Forces will never appear before the ICC and nor will they ever be subjected to the judgments of unaccountable international bodies .
LINK A March International Criminal Court ruling allowed an investigation into possible wrongdoing by U.S. troops in Afghanistan to begin , a move that The New York Times reported “ infuriated the Trump administration.
” The court investigates and tries people over allegations of genocide , war crimes , and other crimes against humanity .
The court ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is enough information to provide a “ reasonable basis ” that American service members and CIA officials “ committed acts of torture , cruel treatment , outrages upon personal dignity , rape and sexual violence against conflict-related detainees in Afghanistan and other locations , principally in the 2003-2004 period.
” The probe is also investigating possible crimes committed by members of the Afghan government and Taliban .
The March ruling that allowed the court to proceed with the investigation marked the first time US forces faced the possibility of becoming defendants in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to The New York Times .
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had recently foreshadowed the move , stating that the US will go to great lengths to prevent any attempt by the International Criminal Court ( ICC ) to prosecute Americans and Israelis on two separate criminal cases related to the seventeen-year US War in Afghanistan and Israeli actions on the territory of the West Bank .
Pompeo declared that the Trump administration would address the matter in the near future , and promised US efforts to stop the ICC trials .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ corrupted and is attempting to go after the young men and women of the United States of America who fought so hard [ … ] And they think that the ICC ought to be able to haul these young men and women in .
We will never let that happen .
We ’ re working along many fronts to prevent it from happening.
” In March of this year Pompeo , who previously served as director of the CIA , took the denunciations a step further , threatening the family members of ICC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managing director for research and policy at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft , drew attention to the “ shocking attack ” on Twitter .
This blatant US threat against the family members of International Criminal Court prosecutors is part of a longer historical pattern of Washington attacking multilateral institutions .
At the beginning of the George W. Bush administration ’ s so-called war on terror , in 2002 , the US Congress passed a bill called the American Service-Members ’ Protection Act — more commonly known as the “ Hague Invasion Act.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the US government unilaterally grants itself the right to militarily invade the Hague if a citizen of the United States or any allied country is prosecuted by the court .
MORE ON THE TOPIC • US Pressures International Criminal Court Prosecutor In Attempt To Sabotage Investigation Of War Crimes In Afghanistan • Taliban car bomb leaves at least 7 intelligence officers dead in Eastern Afghanistan

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The White House authorized economic sanctions against members of the International Criminal Court on Thursday 11 May over what officials say are politically motivated investigations into alleged war crimes committed by U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
International Criminal Court officials directly engaged in any effort to investigate or prosecute American military personnel will also be barred from entering the US, the White House press secretary said in a statement. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on the matter this week, calling the threat the international court poses to US personnel ‘a national emergency’.
Defence Secretary Mark Esper, along with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Attorney General William Barr, addressed the investigation into U.S. troops’ alleged crimes in Afghanistan on Thursday. The US has never accepted the court’s jurisdiction over its military personnel, Esper said:
“Our nation and this administration will not allow American citizens who have served our country to be subjected to illegitimate investigations… Instead, we expect information about alleged misconduct by our people to be turned over to U.S. authorities so that we could take the appropriate action, as we have consistently done so in the past… Rest assured that the men and women of the United States Armed Forces will never appear before the ICC and nor will they ever be subjected to the judgments of unaccountable international bodies. LINK
A March International Criminal Court ruling allowed an investigation into possible wrongdoing by U.S. troops in Afghanistan to begin, a move that The New York Times reported “infuriated the Trump administration.” The court investigates and tries people over allegations of genocide, war crimes, and other crimes against humanity.
The court’s top prosecutor in 2017 said there is enough information to provide a “reasonable basis” that American service members and CIA officials “committed acts of torture, cruel treatment, outrages upon personal dignity, rape and sexual violence against conflict-related detainees in Afghanistan and other locations, principally in the 2003-2004 period.” The probe is also investigating possible crimes committed by members of the Afghan government and Taliban.
The March ruling that allowed the court to proceed with the investigation marked the first time US forces faced the possibility of becoming defendants in a war-crimes prosecution by the ICC, according to The New York Times.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had recently foreshadowed the move, stating that the US will go to great lengths to prevent any attempt by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prosecute Americans and Israelis on two separate criminal cases related to the seventeen-year US War in Afghanistan and Israeli actions on the territory of the West Bank. Pompeo declared that the Trump administration would address the matter in the near future, and promised US efforts to stop the ICC trials.
“And now this court has become corrupted and is attempting to go after the young men and women of the United States of America who fought so hard […] And they think that the ICC ought to be able to haul these young men and women in. We will never let that happen. We’re working along many fronts to prevent it from happening.”
In March of this year Pompeo, who previously served as director of the CIA, took the denunciations a step further, threatening the family members of ICC staff.
“We want to identify those responsible for this partisan investigation and their family members who may want to travel to the United States or engage in activity that’s inconsistent with making sure we protect Americans,” Pompeo said, according to the US State Department’s official transcript.
Sarah Leah Whitson, the managing director for research and policy at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, drew attention to the “shocking attack” on Twitter.
“This isn’t just unlawful collective punishment against family members; it’s not just a disturbing attack on staff of a judiciary — where the US has voted to refer other nations for prosecution; it’s abuse of federal authority to use sanctions against actual wrongdoers.” Whitson called on Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders to “condemn this US State Department assault on the staff and FAMILIES of ICC – abuse of sanctions authority in flagrant attack on judicial independence, unlawful collective punishment.” LINK
This blatant US threat against the family members of International Criminal Court prosecutors is part of a longer historical pattern of Washington attacking multilateral institutions.
At the beginning of the George W. Bush administration’s so-called war on terror, in 2002, the US Congress passed a bill called the American Service-Members’ Protection Act — more commonly known as the “Hague Invasion Act.”
This unprecedented piece of legislation declares that the US government unilaterally grants itself the right to militarily invade the Hague if a citizen of the United States or any allied country is prosecuted by the court.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Over 100 Killed In Two Separate Attacks In Northern Nigeria

Police in Nigeria ’ s north-western state of Katsina say 20 people were killed and 20 injured during an attack carried out by bandits on a remote community late on Tuesday 9 June .
Earlier the same day , suspected jihadists in the north-eastern Borno state killed 81 people – one of the biggest attacks on the civilian population this year .
In Katsina , 150 gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on residents , looting shops and stealing cattle in the village of Kadisau .
Police spokesman Isah Gambo said that a ceasefire between the bandits and the state government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said the bandits came from other states as well as neighbouring Niger .
The news comes after the official death toll from an attack carried out by jihadists in the north-eastern Borno state rose from 69 to 81 – one of the biggest attacks on the civilian population this year .
Acording to news reports , fighters drove into remote Felo village in Gubio district , about 80 kilometres from the regional capital of Maiduguri , on Tuesday afternoon , opening fire on residents .
No group has yet claimed the attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ villagers of sharing information about their movements to security forces , while AFP said jihadist fighters had been killed by locals trying to protect livestock .
According to a report quoting residents from the community affected : Our people were caught off guard by the gunmen who surrounded them , ” the leader said .
“ It is an open field with nowhere to hide , ” he said .
“ They couldn ’ t escape , they couldn ’ t outrun the vehicles.
” Residents told reporters on Wednesday the attack was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing of members of an armed group by a local self-defence unit formed to protect against attacks and the theft of herd animals in the village and surrounding area .
While it is unclear who carried out the attack , both the jihadist group Boko Haram and an offshoot which fights under the banner of the Islamic State group have carried out deadly attacks in the north-east of Nigeria .
According to a report by the BBC , as civilians were targeted , security analyst Bulama Bukarti believes Tuesday ’ s attack bore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said that if the Islamic State West Africa Province ( Iswap ) , another armed group operating in the region , was behind the attack it would mark a significant shift in the way they operate , as the group doesn ’ t usually target civilians unless they are working with Western aid agencies , or suspects them of providing information to the Nigerian army .
Last month , Nigeria ’ s military said it had launched air strikes to halt a number of attacks and was claiming success in combatting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ north of the country .
Growing insecurity in the north-west of the country adds to the challenge of containing an Islamist insurgency in the north-east .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC

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Police in Nigeria’s north-western state of Katsina say 20 people were killed and 20 injured during an attack carried out by bandits on a remote community late on Tuesday 9 June. Earlier the same day, suspected jihadists in the north-eastern Borno state killed 81 people – one of the biggest attacks on the civilian population this year.
In Katsina, 150 gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on residents, looting shops and stealing cattle in the village of Kadisau.
Police spokesman Isah Gambo said that a ceasefire between the bandits and the state government had broken down in recent weeks.
He said the bandits came from other states as well as neighbouring Niger.
The news comes after the official death toll from an attack carried out by jihadists in the north-eastern Borno state rose from 69 to 81 – one of the biggest attacks on the civilian population this year.
Acording to news reports, fighters drove into remote Felo village in Gubio district, about 80 kilometres from the regional capital of Maiduguri, on Tuesday afternoon, opening fire on residents.
No group has yet claimed the attack.
Reuters reported that the militants suspected villagers of sharing information about their movements to security forces, while AFP said jihadist fighters had been killed by locals trying to protect livestock.
According to a report quoting residents from the community affected:
Our people were caught off guard by the gunmen who surrounded them,” the leader said. “It is an open field with nowhere to hide,” he said. “They couldn’t escape, they couldn’t outrun the vehicles.” Residents told reporters on Wednesday the attack was thought to be retaliation for the earlier killing of members of an armed group by a local self-defence unit formed to protect against attacks and the theft of herd animals in the village and surrounding area.
While it is unclear who carried out the attack, both the jihadist group Boko Haram and an offshoot which fights under the banner of the Islamic State group have carried out deadly attacks in the north-east of Nigeria.
According to a report by the BBC, as civilians were targeted, security analyst Bulama Bukarti believes Tuesday’s attack bore the hallmarks of Boko Haram tactics.
He said that if the Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap), another armed group operating in the region, was behind the attack it would mark a significant shift in the way they operate, as the group doesn’t usually target civilians unless they are working with Western aid agencies, or suspects them of providing information to the Nigerian army.
Last month, Nigeria’s military said it had launched air strikes to halt a number of attacks and was claiming success in combatting the armed groups terrorizing the communities in the north of the country.
Growing insecurity in the north-west of the country adds to the challenge of containing an Islamist insurgency in the north-east. LINK
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southfront--2020-06-12--U.S. Protests Focus On “True Enemy”: Any Reminder Of Its Racist Past

On June 10th and 11th , protesters in the US appear to have singled out their true enemy : confederate statues , as well as those of Christopher Columbus .
Spurred by the Black Lives Matter protests , municipal authorities throughout the United States have ordered century-old statues commemorating defenders of slavery to be removed .
Most of these orders were needless , since protesters took things into their own hands .
In Virginia ’ s capital , Richmond , protesters toppled the statue of Jefferson Davies , the first and only Confederacy president .
The bronze statue had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders in a matter of weeks , but demonstrators didn ’ t want to wait , tying ropes around its legs and toppling it onto the pavement .
The Davis monument was a few blocks away from a massive equestrian statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee that the state of Virginia is trying to take down .
In the week ending on June 7th , Democratic Gov .
Ralph Northam ordered its removal , but a judge blocked such action for at least 10 days .
“ The men who served under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their brothers and their cousins .
So it is my family , ” he said .
“ What if a crowd of any other group went and found the symbols of someone they didn ’ t like and decided to tear them down ?
Everybody would be appalled .
But I don ’ t know why it ’ s acceptable , why people who are descended from the Confederate Army and the Confederate soldiers , it ’ s accepted in this country that you can do anything to us you want.
” On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virginia , beheaded and then pulled down four statues that were part of a Confederate monument as a brass band played in the streets and demonstrators danced .
Richmond was the city where the statue of Christopher Columbus was pulled down , spray painted , set on fire and thrown into a lake on June 9th .
In Boston , a statue of Columbus was found beheaded on June 10th .
And in St. Paul , Minn. , indigenous activists threw a rope around a 10-foot bronze statue of Columbus on the grounds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off its pedestal .
Authorities did not intervene as the statue came tumbling down , and activists danced in a circle around it , singing native songs .
Supporters of Confederate monuments and other statues that are being defaced have argued that they are important reminders of history , while opponents contend they glorify those who led a rebellion to preserve slavery .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Less Violence And More Changes While U.S .
Protests Continue • Seattle Protesters Storm City Hall After Running Cops Out Of Precinct , Establishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Protesters Deface , Set On Fire , And Throw Columbus Statue In A Lake For Being Racist

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On June 10th and 11th, protesters in the US appear to have singled out their true enemy: confederate statues, as well as those of Christopher Columbus.
Spurred by the Black Lives Matter protests, municipal authorities throughout the United States have ordered century-old statues commemorating defenders of slavery to be removed. Most of these orders were needless, since protesters took things into their own hands.
In Virginia’s capital, Richmond, protesters toppled the statue of Jefferson Davies, the first and only Confederacy president.
The bronze statue had been all but marked for removal by city leaders in a matter of weeks, but demonstrators didn’t want to wait, tying ropes around its legs and toppling it onto the pavement.
The Davis monument was a few blocks away from a massive equestrian statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee that the state of Virginia is trying to take down.
In the week ending on June 7th, Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam ordered its removal, but a judge blocked such action for at least 10 days.
“The men who served under Robert E. Lee were my great-grandfathers or their brothers and their cousins. So it is my family,” he said. “What if a crowd of any other group went and found the symbols of someone they didn’t like and decided to tear them down? Everybody would be appalled. But I don’t know why it’s acceptable, why people who are descended from the Confederate Army and the Confederate soldiers, it’s accepted in this country that you can do anything to us you want.”
On June 10th, protesters in Portsmouth, Virginia, beheaded and then pulled down four statues that were part of a Confederate monument as a brass band played in the streets and demonstrators danced.
Richmond was the city where the statue of Christopher Columbus was pulled down, spray painted, set on fire and thrown into a lake on June 9th.
In Boston, a statue of Columbus was found beheaded on June 10th.
And in St. Paul, Minn., indigenous activists threw a rope around a 10-foot bronze statue of Columbus on the grounds of the state capitol and dragged it off its pedestal. Authorities did not intervene as the statue came tumbling down, and activists danced in a circle around it, singing native songs.
“For healing to happen, this needed to happen,” Mike Forcia, chairman of the Twin Cities American Indian Movement and a member of the Bad River Band of Ojibwe said. “It was here for far too long. It’s a slap in the face to all Native people and all people of color.”
Supporters of Confederate monuments and other statues that are being defaced have argued that they are important reminders of history, while opponents contend they glorify those who led a rebellion to preserve slavery.
THOSE THAT DENY THEIR HISTORY ARE DOOMED TO REPEAT IT! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2020
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southfront--2020-06-12--Turkey Delivers Weapons To Libya Via Air And Sea, Despite Embargo, Prepares To Push Sirte

On June 11th and in the early hours of June 12th , relative calm remains around Libya ’ s Sirte .
The Libyan National Army ( LNA ) has it under its control and has only carried a few airstrikes on GNA convoys near Abu Qurayn .
French fighter jets were detected in the airspace above Libya , but France said that they weren ’ t theirs .
The Government of National Accord ( GNA ) , however , continues sending troops towards the area , in preparation for a larger push on Sirte .
In order to support the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planes , as well as a ship loaded with weaponry and equipment arrived in Misrata on June 11th .
Turkish warships in the Mediterranean prevented a Greek frigate from inspecting a suspicious ship traveling to Libya .
In a very apparent attempt to spread some propaganda , Turkish national news outlet Anadolu Agency reported that approximately 500,000 Libyans have been displaced and around 120,000 houses were damaged as a result of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar ’ s offensive on Tripoli .
Abdul-Bari Shinbaru , Libya ’ s undersecretary of the Ministry of Local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of displaced families is 85,000 .
He also stated that almost half of Tripoli ’ s population , between 2.5 to 3 million , were under the fire and shelling of Haftar ’ s militia , especially in southern parts of the capital .
Additionally , an alleged mass grave was reportedly discovered by GNA and Turkish forces in Tarhuna , which was recently captured by the GNA .
Finally , an inscription saying “ Glory to Ukraine ” was discovered , and it is reportedly an attempted by Russian mercenaries from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pretend as if they ’ re from Ukraine , but , of course , nobody ’ s buying it .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Fighting Throughout Libya Stalls , As Diplomatic Games Take Place

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On June 11th and in the early hours of June 12th, relative calm remains around Libya’s Sirte.
The Libyan National Army (LNA) has it under its control and has only carried a few airstrikes on GNA convoys near Abu Qurayn.
Libya: GNA reinforcement countine to Sirte line — Gohar Nawaz Khan (@goharkhan47) June 11, 2020
French fighter jets were detected in the airspace above Libya, but France said that they weren’t theirs.
#Libya: French Ministry of Defense @florence_parly says #Rafale fighters seen today in Libyan airspace do not belong to the French Air Force, previous Fr fighter jets were tracked by Italians, note that #Egypt and #Qatar,also operate Rafale war planes ✈ pic.twitter.com/0zYJsVCKWi — Amor Shabbi عمر شابي (@AmorShabbi) June 12, 2020
The Government of National Accord (GNA), however, continues sending troops towards the area, in preparation for a larger push on Sirte.
In order to support the GNA further, three Turkish military cargo planes, as well as a ship loaded with weaponry and equipment arrived in Misrata on June 11th.
Tanzanian flag roro Cirkin is arriving to #Misrata #Libya from Istanbul. The vessel left Port of Haydarpaşa on June 7th. @BenKendim1 https://t.co/ZWAsZEl1do pic.twitter.com/MAxfLcDuEY — Yörük Işık (@YorukIsik) June 11, 2020
Turkish warships in the Mediterranean prevented a Greek frigate from inspecting a suspicious ship traveling to Libya.
#بروكسل — الاتحاد الأوروبي: سفن تركية منعت فرقاطة يونانية من تفتيش سفينة مشبوهة — ا لـ حـ ـد ث (@AlHadath) June 11, 2020
In a very apparent attempt to spread some propaganda, Turkish national news outlet Anadolu Agency reported that approximately 500,000 Libyans have been displaced and around 120,000 houses were damaged as a result of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar’s offensive on Tripoli.
Abdul-Bari Shinbaru, Libya’s undersecretary of the Ministry of Local government, said in a statement the number of displaced families is 85,000.
He also stated that almost half of Tripoli’s population, between 2.5 to 3 million, were under the fire and shelling of Haftar’s militia, especially in southern parts of the capital.
Additionally, an alleged mass grave was reportedly discovered by GNA and Turkish forces in Tarhuna, which was recently captured by the GNA.
Finally, an inscription saying “Glory to Ukraine” was discovered, and it is reportedly an attempted by Russian mercenaries from the mythical “Wagner PMC” to pretend as if they’re from Ukraine, but, of course, nobody’s buying it.
من كتابات فاقنر الروسية على جدران بيوت الناس جنوب طرابلس pic.twitter.com/SSDNMEE7Yp — libyan.man (@msysmark) June 11, 2020
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southfront--2020-06-12--Convenience Of Modular Gavia-Type Autonomous Underwater Vehicle In Underwater Warfare

Written by V. Spiridonov ; Originally appeared at Foreign Military Review # 4 2019 , translated by AlexD exclusively for SouthFront The modular autonomous underwater vehicle ( AUV ) with low maintenance and operation costs allows for operational flexibility ( i.e .
multi-functionality ) , which was not available in the previous generation of AUVs , manufactured as a whole and monobloc product .
Fully modular vehicles were first used in the oil and gas industry in the early 2000s .
By the end of 2012 , there were a significant number of them .
They worked at depths of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commercial systems have provided a significant reduction in maintenance costs , the ability to perform new , unexpected tasks .
The applied technologies have proved that AUVs can be quickly adapted to military needs .
This will facilitate storage , transportation , reduce the number of maintenance specialists and the use of a variety of modular sensor units , as well as ensure the adaptation of the AUVs to actions in various water areas .
The consumer can use different sources of electricity ( batteries , fuel cells ) in the form of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintenance and replacement , as well as do not impair operational capabilities .
In addition , new sensor systems can be built into a standard module , which is then installed on the AUV , providing an expansion of their combat capabilities .
This approach allows the units to be serviced at a lower cost during operation by replacing individual modules due to obsolescence and the emergence of better technologies , or changing the requirements for them , without decommissioning , while increasing their capabilities throughout its life cycle .
The Gavia modular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reykjavik , Iceland ( currently Teledyne Gavia ehf . )
in the late 1990s .
This was the first commercial fully modular and compact AUV capable of operating at great depth .
The basic version of the vehicle is designed as a cylinder with a diameter of 20 cm , length from 1.85 m ( weight 60 kg ) and up to 3.2 m ( 100 kg ) , depending on the modules used .
Currently , the AUV is in service in many countries , including NATO members , and carries out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ objects on the bottom .
In addition , it is used a s simulator for training purposes .
It is adapted to the task by replacing the sensor and navigation modules .
The basic version is a set of modules that can be mounted on the ship ’ s deck to solve any special task , taking into account the emerging situation .
The layout is accomplished by adding or removing one or more sensors , navigation aids , battery pack modules using unique connectors and interfaces .
The water impermeability is provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre of them is an electrical connector .
The AUV in the standard basic configuration has a small positive buoyancy .
In can operate at depths of up to 1000 m. The fully modular concept of the AUV involves different layout options and a certain sequence of actions with the system to obtain the desired result .
It is based on the following principles : • the capabilities of an AUV are determined by the characteristics of the modules used ; • modules must be moved from one unit to another in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; • storage of unused modules and components on the base ; • the formation of any vehicle by combining the functional modules of the existing set ; • assembly and disassembly of the AUV is carried out using the standardised universal interface located on the functional modules .
The requirements for the AUV and module correspond to the task being performed , the length and weight of the vehicle , the number and type of modules ( with battery packs ) , which , in turn , determine the autonomy .
Gavia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selected module type .
The basic minimum version of the vehicle layout includes the nose end and a number of modules : the battery pack , control system and propulsion system .
In this layout , it has a length of 1.8 m and a weight of 50 kg .
In the extended version ( with the inclusion of an inertial navigation system in the AUV , multi-beam side-view sonar station , profilometer and two modules with battery packs ) , the length of the vehicle can be up to 3.5 m , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ condition for a complete modular architecture is the presence of a standard set of interfaces designed to connect .
This involves rapid development of a prototype ( both the module and the vehicle as a whole ) and the adaptation of various improvements within the modules and AUVs , which are combined through a standard matching interface .
This means that the design and production of a series of modules is less difficult without conflict between previous modifications and that the production process of an upgraded version of the AUV can be quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several prototypes of the vehicle , often necessary for small-scale modern production .
Moreover , the principle of modularity provides the flexibility and use of latest developments from other companies .
A well-established and standardised interface ( including input signals ) designed for docking , power supply and data transfer allows designing and testing of sensor modules in geographically remote laboratories .
Integrated modeling systems and test benches accelerate the process of designing and implementing a promising sensor in the module in offline mode and connecting it to vehicle in the field .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ each new sample can be quickly mounted with any Gavia vehicle operated in the field .
This allows a high level of technology to be maintained for sensors , energy and the ability to perform complex tasks .
As a rule , inspection and preparation of vehicles for work require significant material costs .
Modularity is the way to reduce the cost of work for the customer within the life cycle of the unit , as the new generation of modules extends the life of the unit and expands its functionality .
Using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that best meet the technical and operational requirements .
Modularity makes it possible to quickly change the purpose of the AUV directly in the field by replacing and adding modules .
Thus , when purchasing the basic version of the AUV designed for detecting mines in shallow waters , the side view sonar station can be reoriented to solve bathymetry issues in the presence of a bathymetric acoustic module .
Modularity allows maintenance specialists to select technologies by selecting sensors that are better suited to a specific task and match the capabilities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require that the AUV ’ s operational capabilities match them , meaning that they must have the architectural and technological flexibility to adapt to new threats and challenges .
Using this principle , service professionals can transport only those sensor modes ( modules ) that are required for the task , but if necessary , have additional modules in case of changing tasks .
The AUV can be assembled to perform any task at the point of its application .
The dimensions of the Gavia modules make them easy to transport and store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ containers ) weighing from 15 to 30 kg .
In the standard version , there are up to 10 containers , including shore equipment .
A simplified logistics concept that allows rapid deployment and use of vehicles involves the use of conventional vehicles with a small team performing work manually , that is , without the use of complex tools and mechanisms .
In the standard version , the team consist of three specialists : an operator , a technician and a specialist in sensor modules .
The pronounced modular nature of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good structuring and basic scheme for the interface when planning a task .
Observation models can be drawn with simultaneously developed parameters to determine its execution and installed from a single user interface .
The control centre also has tools for performing system checks , initiating self-monitoring mode and quick verification of accumulated data .
A standard set of modules that provide monitoring and data collection can be installed on any Gavia AUV and allows the specialist to make a choice based on the task .
This set contains modules with a side-view @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as modules that include video cameras .
Tasks and requirements may change during work , as well as the duration of its work .
If a different set of modules is required , it can be quickly delivered to its destination and attached to any vehicle in the field at the point of application If the duration of search operations needs to be increased , the AUV has the ability to quickly dock the additional module with the battery pack .
In the standard version , the vehicle can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two are installed in the AUV and two are for replacing the removed modules during the charging period ( a pair of lithium-ion battery packs – 1.2 kW , 40 A – ensure the operation of the vehicle for 5-8 hours , depending on the speed and payload ) .
To work for 24 hours , it must have six battery packs : two for the AUV , two for replacement during the charging period of the removed ones , and two in readiness for quick replacement .
In case of damage or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disassembled and replaced with a workable one , which will avoid disrupting the task .
For training and simulations , a specialised set of payload modules is used , made according to the standards approved for the AUV .
The technology used in the AUV , is developing rapidly .
This applies to sensors , battery packs , propellers and control systems .
The introduction of new technologies through modularity is moving much faster and at a lower cost than in monobloc AUVs .
In Gavia , the general modular interface allows for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get the next generation of vehicles .
This reduces financial costs and technological risks , and accelerates the process of innovation implementation .
The development of a sonar target for sonar training for the Norwegian Navy ( Sonar Training Target – SST ) is an example of this .
As part of this idea , a new head end ( module ) was developed for Gavia .
The AUV hydroacoustic system records the received signals , amplifies them , reproduces the registered pulses , simulates the corresponding target taking into account its size @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play back previously recorded files with the noise of submarines , openings of torpedo tubes and launches .
This is used during training and evaluation of the training of surface vessels crews , and also makes it possible to train in extreme conditions in the presence of a variety of AUVs and UAVs .
The modular design provides a redundancy for retrofitting , increases the reliability and system suitability of all available AUVs .
If there is a hardware malfunction in one module , it is not difficult to quickly replace it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ machines , the modules can be “ borrowed ” from machines not involved in the operation .
Their repair in the field or return to the repair facility is easy my means of simple logistics and a small footprint of one module .
Its weight is 30 kg in a portable container , allowing the module to be transported by one person during transshipment and transport .
These labour costs are not comparable to the effort spent on transporting monobloc AUVs , where the entire vehicle must be transported if , for example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modular design affects their maintenance .
It can be planned taking into account the characteristic features of the operation of individual modules within their life cycles without removing the devices from the existing ones .
This approach allows for timely replacement of AUVs and contributes to their improvement by installing new generation modules without downtime .
This simultaneously reduces the financial costs of operation throughout the entire life cycle of AUVs , affects the expansion of their functionality and rapid implementation of new technologies , as well as the adaptation of vehicles to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sensor modules can be included in the existing arsenal and thus will contribute to the expansion of the functionality of vehicles without creating new ones .
Modern commercial sensor modules are currently quite affordable , meet the requirements of military systems , and therefore can be used on military AUVs .
In general , the modular architecture allows the operation of the vehicles for decades due to the gradual replacement of outdated modules .
The concept of full modularity is implemented in serially produced commercial products and material and technical support of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well in underwater coverage over the past few years , including providing short-term inspection of various engineering structures on the high seas .
The basic configuration of the AUV serves as the basis for performing various operations due to a constantly updated set of modules , taking into account the tasks set .
Modular design allows the implementation with minimal effort the simplest , universal version of integration of new technologies and software , as well as the principle of “ plug and play ” due to a standardised physical ( docking module @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and bus ( data transfer ) interface , which allows to quickly and effectively carry out modular modernisation .
Fully modular design is most advantageous when performing military tasks .
Currently , a significant number of AUVs serve several teams that perform tasks such as mine search , reconnaissance , rescue operations , sonar testing and training .
In the future , it is planned to implement a strategy of continuous improvement of vehicles throughout the entire life cycle by replacing modules with more advanced ones .
Increasing the flexibility of the AUVs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicles as necessary , as well as increase their combat and functional capabilities .
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Written by V. Spiridonov; Originally appeared at Foreign Military Review #4 2019, translated by AlexD exclusively for SouthFront
The modular autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) with low maintenance and operation costs allows for operational flexibility (i.e. multi-functionality), which was not available in the previous generation of AUVs, manufactured as a whole and monobloc product. Fully modular vehicles were first used in the oil and gas industry in the early 2000s. By the end of 2012, there were a significant number of them. They worked at depths of up to 1000m.
Designed fully modular commercial systems have provided a significant reduction in maintenance costs, the ability to perform new, unexpected tasks. The applied technologies have proved that AUVs can be quickly adapted to military needs. This will facilitate storage, transportation, reduce the number of maintenance specialists and the use of a variety of modular sensor units, as well as ensure the adaptation of the AUVs to actions in various water areas. The consumer can use different sources of electricity (batteries, fuel cells) in the form of modules that do not present difficulties during maintenance and replacement, as well as do not impair operational capabilities.
In addition, new sensor systems can be built into a standard module, which is then installed on the AUV, providing an expansion of their combat capabilities. This approach allows the units to be serviced at a lower cost during operation by replacing individual modules due to obsolescence and the emergence of better technologies, or changing the requirements for them, without decommissioning, while increasing their capabilities throughout its life cycle.
The Gavia modular vehicle was developed by Hafmynd Ltd., Reykjavik, Iceland (currently Teledyne Gavia ehf.) in the late 1990s. This was the first commercial fully modular and compact AUV capable of operating at great depth.
The basic version of the vehicle is designed as a cylinder with a diameter of 20 cm, length from 1.85 m (weight 60 kg) and up to 3.2 m (100 kg), depending on the modules used. Currently, the AUV is in service in many countries, including NATO members, and carries out mainly search tasks for mines and various objects on the bottom. In addition, it is used a s simulator for training purposes. It is adapted to the task by replacing the sensor and navigation modules.
The basic version is a set of modules that can be mounted on the ship’s deck to solve any special task, taking into account the emerging situation. The layout is accomplished by adding or removing one or more sensors, navigation aids, battery pack modules using unique connectors and interfaces.
The water impermeability is provided by two O-ring seals. In the centre of them is an electrical connector. The AUV in the standard basic configuration has a small positive buoyancy. In can operate at depths of up to 1000 m.
The fully modular concept of the AUV involves different layout options and a certain sequence of actions with the system to obtain the desired result. It is based on the following principles:
the capabilities of an AUV are determined by the characteristics of the modules used;
modules must be moved from one unit to another in the field without the use of special equipment;
storage of unused modules and components on the base;
the formation of any vehicle by combining the functional modules of the existing set;
assembly and disassembly of the AUV is carried out using the standardised universal interface located on the functional modules.
The requirements for the AUV and module correspond to the task being performed, the length and weight of the vehicle, the number and type of modules (with battery packs), which, in turn, determine the autonomy. Gavia’s sensor capabilities depend on the selected module type.
The basic minimum version of the vehicle layout includes the nose end and a number of modules: the battery pack, control system and propulsion system.
In this layout, it has a length of 1.8 m and a weight of 50 kg. In the extended version (with the inclusion of an inertial navigation system in the AUV, multi-beam side-view sonar station, profilometer and two modules with battery packs), the length of the vehicle can be up to 3.5 m, and weigh 120 kg.
The main condition for a complete modular architecture is the presence of a standard set of interfaces designed to connect. This involves rapid development of a prototype (both the module and the vehicle as a whole) and the adaptation of various improvements within the modules and AUVs, which are combined through a standard matching interface. This means that the design and production of a series of modules is less difficult without conflict between previous modifications and that the production process of an upgraded version of the AUV can be quickly adjusted without the production and running-in of several prototypes of the vehicle, often necessary for small-scale modern production.
Moreover, the principle of modularity provides the flexibility and use of latest developments from other companies. A well-established and standardised interface (including input signals) designed for docking, power supply and data transfer allows designing and testing of sensor modules in geographically remote laboratories.
Integrated modeling systems and test benches accelerate the process of designing and implementing a promising sensor in the module in offline mode and connecting it to vehicle in the field.
Given that the modules are interchangeable, each new sample can be quickly mounted with any Gavia vehicle operated in the field. This allows a high level of technology to be maintained for sensors, energy and the ability to perform complex tasks.
As a rule, inspection and preparation of vehicles for work require significant material costs. Modularity is the way to reduce the cost of work for the customer within the life cycle of the unit, as the new generation of modules extends the life of the unit and expands its functionality. Using this principle, modules can be selected that best meet the technical and operational requirements.
Modularity makes it possible to quickly change the purpose of the AUV directly in the field by replacing and adding modules. Thus, when purchasing the basic version of the AUV designed for detecting mines in shallow waters, the side view sonar station can be reoriented to solve bathymetry issues in the presence of a bathymetric acoustic module.
Modularity allows maintenance specialists to select technologies by selecting sensors that are better suited to a specific task and match the capabilities of the data transmission system.
Emerging threats require that the AUV’s operational capabilities match them, meaning that they must have the architectural and technological flexibility to adapt to new threats and challenges.
Using this principle, service professionals can transport only those sensor modes (modules) that are required for the task, but if necessary, have additional modules in case of changing tasks. The AUV can be assembled to perform any task at the point of its application.
The dimensions of the Gavia modules make them easy to transport and store. They are placed in cases (containers) weighing from 15 to 30 kg. In the standard version, there are up to 10 containers, including shore equipment. A simplified logistics concept that allows rapid deployment and use of vehicles involves the use of conventional vehicles with a small team performing work manually, that is, without the use of complex tools and mechanisms.
In the standard version, the team consist of three specialists: an operator, a technician and a specialist in sensor modules.
The pronounced modular nature of the software allows control protocols to have a good structuring and basic scheme for the interface when planning a task. Observation models can be drawn with simultaneously developed parameters to determine its execution and installed from a single user interface. The control centre also has tools for performing system checks, initiating self-monitoring mode and quick verification of accumulated data.
A standard set of modules that provide monitoring and data collection can be installed on any Gavia AUV and allows the specialist to make a choice based on the task. This set contains modules with a side-view sonar station that registers the bottom relief, as well as modules that include video cameras. Tasks and requirements may change during work, as well as the duration of its work.
If a different set of modules is required, it can be quickly delivered to its destination and attached to any vehicle in the field at the point of application
If the duration of search operations needs to be increased, the AUV has the ability to quickly dock the additional module with the battery pack. In the standard version, the vehicle can be transported with four battery pack modules: two are installed in the AUV and two are for replacing the removed modules during the charging period (a pair of lithium-ion battery packs – 1.2 kW, 40 A – ensure the operation of the vehicle for 5-8 hours, depending on the speed and payload).
To work for 24 hours, it must have six battery packs: two for the AUV, two for replacement during the charging period of the removed ones, and two in readiness for quick replacement.
In case of damage or malfunction, the module can be quickly disassembled and replaced with a workable one, which will avoid disrupting the task.
For training and simulations, a specialised set of payload modules is used, made according to the standards approved for the AUV.
The technology used in the AUV, is developing rapidly. This applies to sensors, battery packs, propellers and control systems.
The introduction of new technologies through modularity is moving much faster and at a lower cost than in monobloc AUVs. In Gavia, the general modular interface allows for the development of new modules and thus get the next generation of vehicles. This reduces financial costs and technological risks, and accelerates the process of innovation implementation.
The development of a sonar target for sonar training for the Norwegian Navy (Sonar Training Target – SST) is an example of this.
As part of this idea, a new head end (module) was developed for Gavia.
The AUV hydroacoustic system records the received signals, amplifies them, reproduces the registered pulses, simulates the corresponding target taking into account its size and range. The system can also play back previously recorded files with the noise of submarines, openings of torpedo tubes and launches. This is used during training and evaluation of the training of surface vessels crews, and also makes it possible to train in extreme conditions in the presence of a variety of AUVs and UAVs.
The modular design provides a redundancy for retrofitting, increases the reliability and system suitability of all available AUVs. If there is a hardware malfunction in one module, it is not difficult to quickly replace it. Even if a failure occurrs on several machines, the modules can be “borrowed” from machines not involved in the operation. Their repair in the field or return to the repair facility is easy my means of simple logistics and a small footprint of one module. Its weight is 30 kg in a portable container, allowing the module to be transported by one person during transshipment and transport.
These labour costs are not comparable to the effort spent on transporting monobloc AUVs, where the entire vehicle must be transported if, for example, the sensor breaks down. The modular design affects their maintenance. It can be planned taking into account the characteristic features of the operation of individual modules within their life cycles without removing the devices from the existing ones.
This approach allows for timely replacement of AUVs and contributes to their improvement by installing new generation modules without downtime. This simultaneously reduces the financial costs of operation throughout the entire life cycle of AUVs, affects the expansion of their functionality and rapid implementation of new technologies, as well as the adaptation of vehicles to sudden needs.
A new generation of sensor modules can be included in the existing arsenal and thus will contribute to the expansion of the functionality of vehicles without creating new ones.
Modern commercial sensor modules are currently quite affordable, meet the requirements of military systems, and therefore can be used on military AUVs. In general, the modular architecture allows the operation of the vehicles for decades due to the gradual replacement of outdated modules.
The concept of full modularity is implemented in serially produced commercial products and material and technical support of the Gavia AUV, which has proven itself well in underwater coverage over the past few years, including providing short-term inspection of various engineering structures on the high seas. The basic configuration of the AUV serves as the basis for performing various operations due to a constantly updated set of modules, taking into account the tasks set.
Modular design allows the implementation with minimal effort the simplest, universal version of integration of new technologies and software, as well as the principle of “plug and play” due to a standardised physical (docking module cases), electrical (power) and bus (data transfer) interface, which allows to quickly and effectively carry out modular modernisation.
Fully modular design is most advantageous when performing military tasks. Currently, a significant number of AUVs serve several teams that perform tasks such as mine search, reconnaissance, rescue operations, sonar testing and training. In the future, it is planned to implement a strategy of continuous improvement of vehicles throughout the entire life cycle by replacing modules with more advanced ones. Increasing the flexibility of the AUVs resource base will allow to upgrade the vehicles as necessary, as well as increase their combat and functional capabilities.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Ukraine To Put Three R-360 Neptune Anti-Ship Missile Systems On Combat Duty

Ukraine is to put three R-360 Neptune missile divisions on combat , the director of the Ukrainian state-owned enterprise NPO Pavlograd Chemical Plant , Leonid Shiman said .
Shiman said that during a visit to the plant by Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov .
“ … I think that in the coming weeks we will , once again , begin to produce missile systems for the needs of the Ministry of Defense … This also applies to Neptune , because there has been an order to put three divisions on combat duty , ” Shiman said on June 6th when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data , the division of the coastal anti-ship missile system Neptune includes 6 USPU-360 launchers with 24 cruise missiles , and the corresponding number of transport-loading ( TZM-360 ) and transport vehicles ( TM-360 ) .
In general , one division is armed with 72 R-360 cruise missiles ( 4 anti-ship missiles on each of the 6 vehicles – USPU-360 , TZM-360 and TM-360 ) .
Thus , according to a statement by Leonid Shiman , it is planned to produce at least 216 missiles for the coastal version of the complex , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which together include 24 launchers .
Given the full ammunition at the storage bases , the number of missiles ordered can be several times more .
Currently , the land-based version of the Neptune missile system is undergoing state tests with practical missile launches at sea targets .
According to the original plan , they should be completed in the second quarter of 2020 .
In particular , over April and May 2020 , three flight tests were carried out at the State range of the Armed Forces of Ukraine “ Alibey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ missiles were launched .
The possibilities of hitting a sea target at a distance of about 100 km were tested .
The tests involved radio interference for the homing head of the anti-ship missiles and the simultaneous launch of two missiles at different targets that were located at a distance of more than 20 km from each other .
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Ukraine is to put three R-360 Neptune missile divisions on combat, the director of the Ukrainian state-owned enterprise NPO Pavlograd Chemical Plant, Leonid Shiman said.
Shiman said that during a visit to the plant by Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov.
“… I think that in the coming weeks we will, once again, begin to produce missile systems for the needs of the Ministry of Defense … This also applies to Neptune, because there has been an order to put three divisions on combat duty,” Shiman said on June 6th when Avakov was visiting.
According to preliminary data, the division of the coastal anti-ship missile system Neptune includes 6 USPU-360 launchers with 24 cruise missiles, and the corresponding number of transport-loading (TZM-360) and transport vehicles (TM-360).
In general, one division is armed with 72 R-360 cruise missiles (4 anti-ship missiles on each of the 6 vehicles – USPU-360, TZM-360 and TM-360).
Thus, according to a statement by Leonid Shiman, it is planned to produce at least 216 missiles for the coastal version of the complex, which will arm the three RK-360MC divisions, which together include 24 launchers.
Given the full ammunition at the storage bases, the number of missiles ordered can be several times more.
Currently, the land-based version of the Neptune missile system is undergoing state tests with practical missile launches at sea targets. According to the original plan, they should be completed in the second quarter of 2020.
In particular, over April and May 2020, three flight tests were carried out at the State range of the Armed Forces of Ukraine “Alibey,” during which seven R-360 cruise missiles were launched.
The possibilities of hitting a sea target at a distance of about 100 km were tested. The tests involved radio interference for the homing head of the anti-ship missiles and the simultaneous launch of two missiles at different targets that were located at a distance of more than 20 km from each other.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Al-Qaeda Factions In Syria’s Greater Idlib Establish New Operations Room

Several al-Qaeda-affiliated factions have established a new operations room in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib .
In a statement released late on June 12 , the factions said that the new operations room , dubbed “ Fa Ithbatu , ” [ be steadfast ] was formed to “ repel the assaults of the aggressors and break the plots of the occupiers.
” The operations room ’ s factions were named as the following : The Fa Ithbatu operation room will likely be succeeding the so-called wa-Harid al-Mu ’ minin operations room , which was formed in 2018 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Ansar al-Islam , were founders of wa-Harid al-Mu ’ minin .
The new operations room , however , will also include factions led by terrorists who recently defected from Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham .
Liwa al-Muqatlin al-Ansar is being led by Abu Malek al-Tali , a prominent field commander that left HTS earlier this year .
Sources in HTS claimed that al-Tali returned to the group later .
However , these claims were not apparently accurate .
Tansiqiyat al-Jihad is led by Abu al-Abd al-Ashda , a former commander of HTS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , al-Ashda exposed HTS ’ corruption in a video message that went viral .
The group arrested him .
However , he was released soon after .
Some opposition activists claimed that the operations room will also include several smaller units led by commanders who apparently defected from HTS in secret .
However , these claims are yet to be verified .
The presence of factions which are known to be hostile to HTS , like Horas al-Din , as well as defectors from the group itself indicates that the Fa Ithbatu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group .
The new operations room will likely work to sabotage the current ceasefire in Greater Idlib , which was brokered by Russia and Turkey on March 5 .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Militants Release Dramatic Training Video Amid Reports Of Near Syrian Army Operation In Greater Idlib

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Several al-Qaeda-affiliated factions have established a new operations room in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib.
In a statement released late on June 12, the factions said that the new operations room, dubbed “Fa Ithbatu,” [be steadfast] was formed to “repel the assaults of the aggressors and break the plots of the occupiers.”
The operations room’s factions were named as the following:
Horas al-Din;
Ansar al-Din;
Ansar al-Islam;
Liwa al-Muqatlin al-Ansar;
Tansiqiyat al-Jihad.
The Fa Ithbatu operation room will likely be succeeding the so-called wa-Harid al-Mu’minin operations room, which was formed in 2018.
Large terrorist groups, like Horas al-Din and Ansar al-Islam, were founders of wa-Harid al-Mu’minin. The new operations room, however, will also include factions led by terrorists who recently defected from Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham.
Liwa al-Muqatlin al-Ansar is being led by Abu Malek al-Tali, a prominent field commander that left HTS earlier this year. Sources in HTS claimed that al-Tali returned to the group later. However, these claims were not apparently accurate.
Tansiqiyat al-Jihad is led by Abu al-Abd al-Ashda, a former commander of HTS’ Umar ibn al-Khattab Army. Last year, al-Ashda exposed HTS’ corruption in a video message that went viral. The group arrested him. However, he was released soon after.
Some opposition activists claimed that the operations room will also include several smaller units led by commanders who apparently defected from HTS in secret. However, these claims are yet to be verified.
The presence of factions which are known to be hostile to HTS, like Horas al-Din, as well as defectors from the group itself indicates that the Fa Ithbatu operations room will be hostile towards the group.
The new operations room will likely work to sabotage the current ceasefire in Greater Idlib, which was brokered by Russia and Turkey on March 5.
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southfront--2020-06-12--AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder Weapon Locating System (Infographics)

Thats why its a very good idea to move Your tanks and artillery to new positions , when the barrels @ @ @ @ @ I expect the vehicle has a “ friend ” , which can fire back right @ @ @ @ @ is not moved – or aircover using missiles .
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The AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder weapon locating system is a mobile radar system developed for the United States Armed Forces. The system is designed to detect and track incoming mortar, artillery and rocket fire to determine the point of origin for counterbattery fire.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Militants Release Dramatic Training Video Amid Reports Of Near Syrian Army Operation In Greater Idli

Militants Release Dramatic Training Video Amid Reports Of Near Syrian Army Operation In Greater Idlib

On June 12 , the Durar al-Jihadiyah media network released a 2-minute video showing militants training in the northwestern Syrian @ @ @ @ @ The dramatic video , which is closer to a play than a real life training @ @ @ @ @ so-called National Front for Liberation ( NFL ) .
The NFL was formed in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ .
Seventeen groups , including the Sham Legion , the Ahrar al-Sham Movement , Jaysh @ @ @ @ @ Division , the Free Idlib Army , forged the coalition .
Militants in Greater Idlib @ @ @ @ @ new large-scale operation by the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and its allies .
@ @ @ @ @ operation will begin soon .
However , there is still no confirmation from pro-government sources @ @ @ @ @ was likely nothing but a propaganda stunt meant to convince opposition supporters that militants in @ @ @ @ @ a new attack by the SAA .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • frin Liberation @ @ @ @ @ Turkish-Backed Militants In New Attacks

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On June 12, the Durar al-Jihadiyah media network released a 2-minute video showing militants training in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib.
The dramatic video, which is closer to a play than a real life training, features members of the so-called National Front for Liberation (NFL).
The NFL was formed in 2018 with direct support from Turkey. Seventeen groups, including the Sham Legion, the Ahrar al-Sham Movement, Jaysh al-Ahrar, the 1st Coastal Division, the Free Idlib Army, forged the coalition.
Militants in Greater Idlib are now preparing for a new large-scale operation by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies. Many reports claimed that the operation will begin soon. However, there is still no confirmation from pro-government sources.
The new training video was likely nothing but a propaganda stunt meant to convince opposition supporters that militants in Greater Idlib are well-prepared for a new attack by the SAA.
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southfront--2020-06-12--French Military Provides Details On Operation Against Al-Qaeda’s Northern Africa Chief (Photos)

On June 11 , the French military for the first time provided details on the special operation , in which Abdelmalek Droukdel , the founder and leader of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb ( AQIM ) , was eliminated .
The notorious terrorist was located in a desert region near the northeastern Malian town of Tessalit , a few kilometers away from Algeria ’ s border .
Fifteen special forces , who were dropped by two transport helicopters , led the operation .
A Tiger combat helicopter , a Gazelle multipurpose helicopter and a drone also supported the effort .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ killed .
Only one individual was captured by French Special Forces , which handed him to Malian authorities after a brief interrogation .
French troops also seized phones , cards and computers , which were in Droukdel ’ s SUV .
50-year old Droukdel was one of the leaders of the militant takeover of northern Mali in 2013 , which led to a French military intervention .
Droukdel is believed to be the mastermind behind the merge between the Group for Preaching and Combat with al-Qaeda in 2006 .
A merge that gave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today .
The elimination of Droukdel was one of the greatest successes of France ’ s intervention in Mali , which faced serious challenged in the last two years .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Over 100 Killed In Two Separate Attacks In Northern Nigeria

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On June 11, the French military for the first time provided details on the special operation, in which Abdelmalek Droukdel, the founder and leader of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), was eliminated.
The notorious terrorist was located in a desert region near the northeastern Malian town of Tessalit, a few kilometers away from Algeria’s border.
Fifteen special forces, who were dropped by two transport helicopters, led the operation. A Tiger combat helicopter, a Gazelle multipurpose helicopter and a drone also supported the effort.
Droukdel and some of his aides were killed. Only one individual was captured by French Special Forces, which handed him to Malian authorities after a brief interrogation. French troops also seized phones, cards and computers, which were in Droukdel’s SUV.
? @EtatMajorFR publie des images de l’opération qui a mené à la mort d’Abdelmalek Droukdel, ex-émir d’AQMI. L’opération a été menée lorsqu’il était en bivouac avec un véhicule dans le Nord Mali. [? Présence d’un drone Reaper mais aucune frappe aérienne n’a été lancée.] pic.twitter.com/MIISqYi8dc — (Little) Think Tank (@L_ThinkTank) June 11, 2020
50-year old Droukdel was one of the leaders of the militant takeover of northern Mali in 2013, which led to a French military intervention.
Droukdel is believed to be the mastermind behind the merge between the Group for Preaching and Combat with al-Qaeda in 2006. A merge that gave birth to AQIM as it is known today.
The elimination of Droukdel was one of the greatest successes of France’s intervention in Mali, which faced serious challenged in the last two years.
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Battle Of Sirte

The Tripoli-based Government of National Accord ( GNA ) and Syrian militant groups with a direct support from Turkey are preparing for a new attempt to capture the port city of Sirte from the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) .
After the first failed attempt earlier this month , Turkish-backed factions have deployed additional reinforcements to the frontline west of the city .
This included artillery pieces , battle tanks and a large number of pickups equipped with weapons .
LNA warplanes conducted several strikes on GNA military columns moving from Misrata in the area of Abu Qurayn .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared to be not enough to stop the military buildup of Turkish-led forces .
The intensity of LNA airstrikes also decreased , especially in the countryside of Tripoli , due to the Turkish efforts to set up an air defense network in the GNA-held part of coastline .
Over the past year , the Turkish military has sent a number of KORKUT self-propelled anti-aircraft guns and MIM-23 Hawk medium-range air defense systems to Libya .
These systems as well as electronic warfare capabilities of the deployed Turkish military contingent played an important role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tripoli and allowed Turkish combat drones operate relatively freely in its countryside .
Now , Turkey is likely seeking to employ a similar approach to besiege and seize Sirte .
The city , with the estimated population of about 128,000 , is an important logistical hub and Libya ’ s main oil export port .
In the beginning of January , the LNA led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar shut down export terminals and stopped operations of pipelines from El-Sharara and El-Feel oilfields cutting off the exports of the Tripoli-based National Oil Corporation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the LNA said that the GNA used the revenues obtained thanks to oil export to pay for Turkish weapons and Turkey-deployed mercenaries .
This move demonstrated the determination of the LNA and the democratically-elected House of Representatives based in Torbuk to push forward their project of the united Libya regardless possible decrease of financial revenues from oil business .
Now , Ankara and its partners in Tripoli are eager to capture Sirte and restart a full-scale oil export under their direct control .
If Turkish-led forces achieve this goal , Ankara will get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revenue to compensate , at least partly , its expenditures for the Libyan intervention .
For the LNA leadership , the possible withdrawal from Sirte will mark the full collapse of its plan to unite Libya under a single administration .
So , Haftar forces are also preparing for the battle .

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The Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) and Syrian militant groups with a direct support from Turkey are preparing for a new attempt to capture the port city of Sirte from the Libyan National Army (LNA).
After the first failed attempt earlier this month, Turkish-backed factions have deployed additional reinforcements to the frontline west of the city. This included artillery pieces, battle tanks and a large number of pickups equipped with weapons. LNA warplanes conducted several strikes on GNA military columns moving from Misrata in the area of Abu Qurayn. However, the existing LNA air power appeared to be not enough to stop the military buildup of Turkish-led forces. The intensity of LNA airstrikes also decreased, especially in the countryside of Tripoli, due to the Turkish efforts to set up an air defense network in the GNA-held part of coastline.
Over the past year, the Turkish military has sent a number of KORKUT self-propelled anti-aircraft guns and MIM-23 Hawk medium-range air defense systems to Libya. These systems as well as electronic warfare capabilities of the deployed Turkish military contingent played an important role in breaking of the LNA siege of Tripoli and allowed Turkish combat drones operate relatively freely in its countryside. Now, Turkey is likely seeking to employ a similar approach to besiege and seize Sirte.
The city, with the estimated population of about 128,000, is an important logistical hub and Libya’s main oil export port. In the beginning of January, the LNA led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar shut down export terminals and stopped operations of pipelines from El-Sharara and El-Feel oilfields cutting off the exports of the Tripoli-based National Oil Corporation by about 92%. Then, the LNA said that the GNA used the revenues obtained thanks to oil export to pay for Turkish weapons and Turkey-deployed mercenaries. This move demonstrated the determination of the LNA and the democratically-elected House of Representatives based in Torbuk to push forward their project of the united Libya regardless possible decrease of financial revenues from oil business.
Now, Ankara and its partners in Tripoli are eager to capture Sirte and restart a full-scale oil export under their direct control. If Turkish-led forces achieve this goal, Ankara will get an access to an additional source of revenue to compensate, at least partly, its expenditures for the Libyan intervention.
For the LNA leadership, the possible withdrawal from Sirte will mark the full collapse of its plan to unite Libya under a single administration. So, Haftar forces are also preparing for the battle.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Survival Of SouthFront Is Not Possible Without Your Urgent Assistance

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In these conditions, SouthFront will not be able to continue your work without your urgent help.
Since June 1, we have collected 1,240 USD. This is 24.8% of the monthly budget needed to keep SouthFront working and further.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Afrin Liberation Forces Claim They Killed Five Turkish-Backed Militants In New Attacks

The Afrin Liberation Forces ( ALF ) announced on June 12 that its units killed five Turkish-backed militants and injured four others in recent attacks .
In an official statement , the Kurdish guerilla group said the attacks took place between June 1 and 4 in the Turkish-occupied part of the northern Aleppo countryside .
“ Our forces carried out a sniper attack targeting a mercenary of the Turkish occupation in al-Bab area , where he was killed instantly .
At the same time , our forces carried out an offinsive operation targeting a checkpoint of the mercenaries , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces carried out a sniper attack on a group of mercenaries of the Turkish occupation in the vicinity of Mare , one mercenary was killed .
Our forces carried out a special operation targeting one of the fortifications of the Turkish occupation ’ s mercenaries in the village of Basota village the district of Sherawa , where four mercenaries were wounded .
On June 4 , Our forces carried out a sniper attack against a mercenary of the Turkish occupation in Mare ’ area , where he was killed instantly , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflict serious losses on Turkish-backed militants , the Turkish Armed Forces are rarely targeted by the Kurdish group .
Turkish forces maintain a small presence on the frontline in northern Aleppo .
The ALF launches its attacks from a small area south of Afrin .
The area is jointly controlled by the Kurdish People ’ s Protection Units and the Syrian Arab Army .
The extent of support provided to the group by these sides is still unclear .
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The Afrin Liberation Forces (ALF) announced on June 12 that its units killed five Turkish-backed militants and injured four others in recent attacks.
In an official statement, the Kurdish guerilla group said the attacks took place between June 1 and 4 in the Turkish-occupied part of the northern Aleppo countryside.
“Our forces carried out a sniper attack targeting a mercenary of the Turkish occupation in al-Bab area, where he was killed instantly. At the same time, our forces carried out an offinsive operation targeting a checkpoint of the mercenaries, in which two mercenaries were killed. Our forces carried out a sniper attack on a group of mercenaries of the Turkish occupation in the vicinity of Mare, one mercenary was killed. Our forces carried out a special operation targeting one of the fortifications of the Turkish occupation’s mercenaries in the village of Basota village the district of Sherawa, where four mercenaries were wounded. On June 4, Our forces carried out a sniper attack against a mercenary of the Turkish occupation in Mare’ area, where he was killed instantly,” the statement reads.
While the ALF operations inflict serious losses on Turkish-backed militants, the Turkish Armed Forces are rarely targeted by the Kurdish group. Turkish forces maintain a small presence on the frontline in northern Aleppo.
The ALF launches its attacks from a small area south of Afrin. The area is jointly controlled by the Kurdish People’s Protection Units and the Syrian Arab Army. The extent of support provided to the group by these sides is still unclear.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Military Situation In Libya On June 12, 2020 (Map Update)

What is it with Turkey ?
Is Turkey the world ’ s superpower ?
How can Turkey invade and occupy northern Cyprus , northern Aleppo , Afrin , Idlib and now Libya with ZERO pushback from anyone , apart from weak , weasel protests from Russia , Egypt , but never any serious attempt to stop these invasions ?
Every single day the Turks re-inforce their garrisons across Syria , now building the same PERMANENT bases in Libya , quite openly defying any and all “ agreements ” to limit their expansions .
The LNA so-called “ backers/allies ” ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saudi , Jordan ! )
do nothing , if Egypt in particular were serious it would have deployed into Libya in support months ago , when the Turks started massive shipments of mercenaries , heavyarms , ACVs , and set up their Operational bases .
But no , when the chips were down they all took the cowards way out , did nothing and now it is too late .
Make no mistake the Ottomans mean to stay – as yet they have not withdrawn a single meter in Syria , nor will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are good students of Israel – bit by bit they expand their control using salami tactics until they have “ fait accompli “ , followed by annexation .
No-one dares confront Turkey on the battlefield for the same reason Israel is protected : terrified that US will retaliate .
And so Libya looks set for a long war or uneasy partition .

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Libya:
Turkish sources claim that the Turkish military will establish a permanent presence at the al-Watiya airbase;
Turkish-backed forces have been sending reinforcements to the contact line with the Libyan National Army (LNA) near Sirte;
Turkish explosive ordnance disposal units started working in southern Tripoli;
At least 3 Turkish military cargo planes delivered equipment and weapons to Misrata.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Monitoring Group Shares Statics Of 1,900 Days Of Saudi Operation In Yemen (Infographic)

On June 11 , the Humanity Eye Center for Rights and Development ( HECRD ) released an infographic summarizing the results of 1,900 days of the Saudi-led operation in Yemen .
Saudi Arabia , backed by other Arab states , intervened in Yemen in March of 2015 to confront the Iranian-allied Houthis , who gained power in the country .
According to the HECRD ’ s infographic , Saudi operations have killed 16,672 civilians , so far .
At least 3,742 of the victims were children .
2,364 others were women .
At total of 26,079 civilians were also wounded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summery of the material damage caused by Saudi-led coalition attacks since 2015 .
A total of 562,687 civilians houses , 10,998 business facilities , 6,632 agricultural fields and 6,638 transports were destroyed .
While the Saudi-led coalition inflicted serious human and material losses on Yemen , it failed to achieve any of its strategic goals .
Large parts of the country , including the capital , Sanaa , and the port city of al-Hudaydah , are still controlled by the Houthis .
In the last two years several ceasefires were announced in Yemen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ongoing in many parts of the country .
With no clear political solution in sight , the war-torn country will likely suffer from more losses in the foreseeable future .
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On June 11, the Humanity Eye Center for Rights and Development (HECRD) released an infographic summarizing the results of 1,900 days of the Saudi-led operation in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia, backed by other Arab states, intervened in Yemen in March of 2015 to confront the Iranian-allied Houthis, who gained power in the country.
According to the HECRD’s infographic, Saudi operations have killed 16,672 civilians, so far. At least 3,742 of the victims were children. 2,364 others were women. At total of 26,079 civilians were also wounded.
The infographic also provided a detailed summery of the material damage caused by Saudi-led coalition attacks since 2015. A total of 562,687 civilians houses, 10,998 business facilities, 6,632 agricultural fields and 6,638 transports were destroyed.
While the Saudi-led coalition inflicted serious human and material losses on Yemen, it failed to achieve any of its strategic goals. Large parts of the country, including the capital, Sanaa, and the port city of al-Hudaydah, are still controlled by the Houthis.
In the last two years several ceasefires were announced in Yemen. However, fierce clashes have been ongoing in many parts of the country. With no clear political solution in sight, the war-torn country will likely suffer from more losses in the foreseeable future.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Military Situation In Syria On June 12, 2020 (Map Update)

Without any new news at the front my general .
65 % of old Syria land is now new Syria @ @ @ @ @ to Turkey and its terrorists , Kurds-USA big part , and USA small part .
@ @ @ @ @ Russia-Turkey ( NATO ) agreement cease fires .

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria:
Turkish-backed forces burned 14,000 acres planted with wheat and barley near Ras al-Ayn;
3 civilians were injured in an IED explosion on the road between the villages of al-Sourah and al-Hrak;
The Syrian Army shelled Hayat Tahrir al-Sham positions near Benin;
A firefight between YPG and Turkish-backed militants erupted near Kafr Khasnir;
The Syrian Army conducted anti-ISIS raids in the Aqrabat district;
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is conduting a security operation in the al-Hawl camp.
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