Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
General Atomics’ Gambit family of drones, with its common modular core ‘chassis’ concept, now has a sixth member optimized for air-to-surface missions, such as attacking hostile air defenses or enemy ships. The company is already eyeing international sales of the new Gambit 6, particularly in Europe, but it could also be of interest to branches of the U.S. military. The latest Gambit configuration underscores the growing pursuit of loyal wingman-type drones, also now often referred to as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), by armed forces globally.
Gambit 6 made its official debut yesterday at the annual International Fighter Conference in Rome, Italy. General Atomics’ Aeronautical Systems, Inc. division (GA-ASI) first unveiled the Gambit family back in 2022, at which time it included four designs. They were joined last year by Gambit 5, which is intended for carrier-based operations.
“The Gambit Series is a modular family of unmanned aircraft designed to meet diverse mission requirements, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; multi-domain combat; advanced training; and stealth reconnaissance,” according to a press release from GA-ASI. “It’s built around a common core platform that accounts for a significant proportion of the aircraft’s hardware, including the landing gear, baseline avionics, and chassis. This shared foundation reduces costs, increases interoperability, and accelerates the development of mission-specific variants like Gambit 6.”
“The multi-role [Gambit 6] platform is optimized for roles such as electronic warfare, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), and deep precision strike, making it a versatile option for evolving defense needs,” the release adds.
An accompanying rendering, seen in part at the top of this story and below, shows a trio of Gambit 6s. Each one is depicted releasing several GBU-53/B StormBreaker precision-guided bombs, also known as Small Diameter Bomb IIs (SDB II).
General Atomics is also now among the companies under contract to develop conceptual CCA designs for the U.S. Navy.
“It’s best to think of Gambit 1 as optimized for advanced sensing, and represented by our XQ-67A OBSS [Off-Board Sensing Station] flying today,” C. Mark Brinkley, a spokesperson for General Atomics, told TWZ. “Gambit 2 is optimized for air-to-air combat and represented by our YFQ-42A, which has multiple airframes currently flying. Loaded with the proper weapons, a Gambit 2 could conduct a ground or surface strike as a multirole aircraft, but it is not optimized for that ground mission.”
From top to bottom, General Atomics’ Avenger drone, the experimental XQ-67A, and the first YFQ-42A CCA prototype. GA-ASI
“The Gambit series, including YFQ-42A, can be equipped with EW [electronic warfare] suites or EW-capable launched effects [uncrewed aerial systems],” Brinkely added.
The Gambit 3 design is primarily intended to act as a ‘red air’ adversary during training. The flying wing Gambit 4, so far the most visually distinctive member of the family, is focused on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. As noted, Gambit 5 is designed for carrier-based combat operations.
“Gambit 6 will be truly optimized for air-to-ground/surface operations. It might visually look like a Gambit 2, and perhaps the differences would be imperceptible to the casual viewer, as both would utilize RF [radiofrequency] and optical sensing,” Brinkley added. “But the mission systems inside Gambit 6 are fine-tuned specifically for ground/surface operations, missions in which General Atomics has developed deep experience over decades of ground/surface sensing and strikes. Gambit 6 could also be outfitted for an electronic warfare mission, for instance, or even naval strikes.”
Overall, “the idea is that Gambit 6 will be primarily looking down.”
Just like an air-to-air combat optimized CCA-type drone, an air-to-surface focused design would help friendly forces expand their coverage and capacity to perform relevant missions over one or more areas of the battlespace, while also reducing the risk to crewed platforms. As described, Gambit 6s seems geared to be particularly well-suited to the suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses mission sets, or SEAD/DEAD, to aid in clearing the way for follow-on operations.
A previously released General Atomics rendering showing members of the Gambit family, some of which are depicted firing air-to-air missiles. General Atomics
The idea of CCA-type drones taking on these ‘downward-focused’ missions is not new. Though the U.S. Air Force’s CCA program is currently focused on air-to-air missions, the service has expressed interest in future air-to-surface strike and electronic warfare capabilities. Previous U.S. Marine Corps testing of Kratos’ XQ-58 Valkyrie has put particular emphasis on the ability to launch electronic warfare attacks as part of SEAD/DEAD missions conducted together with F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. Earlier this year, the Marines confirmed that experimental work with the XQ-58 was transitioning into a full program of record with a clear eye toward a real operational capability. Air-to-surface missions are also a component of other CCA-type programs globally.
“Air forces throughout the world are looking to air-to-ground-capable CCAs to enhance operational capabilities and address emerging threats in a denied environment,” the General Atomics press release says. “Airframes will be available for international procurement starting in 2027, with European missionized versions deliverable in 2029. GA-ASI is building industry partnerships throughout Europe with the aim of providing sovereign capabilities for all its platforms.”
It has been pointed out that the schedule stated aligns particularly well with a German requirement for a CCA-type drone capable of air-to-surface missions. Last year, Airbus also unveiled a loyal wingman drone with a clear eye toward meeting German Air Force needs. Airbus and Kratos also announced a partnership earlier this year to supply a version of the XQ-58 to the Germans.
Gambit 6 sounds a lot like it’s General Atomics’ pitch for Germany’s ‘fighter bomber drone’ requirement.
Notice the system being described as a ‘deep precision strike’ solution and that European missionized versions will be deliverable in 2029 (Germany’s readiness deadline). https://t.co/HA06tR9eel
General Atomics has made clear that it is looking at multiple potential foreign sales opportunities with Gambit 6.
“Many international allies and partners have expressed interest in a CCA optimized for ground or surface strike. Gambit 6 was announced here in Rome on the first day of the International Fighter Conference, and the resulting interest and inquiry from attending military representatives has been great,” Brinkley, the General Atomics spokesperson, also told TWZ. “We look forward to continuing those discussions here this week. We absolutely intend to submit Gambit 6 for various emerging international opportunities.”
“Nothing would prevent the United States from procuring a Gambit 6 variant, fine tuned to American specifications,” he added.
“I don’t have any additional details to offer on Gambit 5 or the US Navy opportunity. We’ve been talking about the Gambit 5 concept for about 16 months at this point, since Farnborough 2024,” Brinkley also said when asked for a general update on the work the company is doing in relation to the Navy’s CCA effort. “There is no specific relationship between Gambit 5 & Gambit 6 at this time. The point of the Gambit Series is to quickly deliver affordable mass at scale, and to adjust to customer demands rapidly, and each of these aircraft does that, while also leveraging years of hard work and demonstrated success. “
As has been made clear in this story already, the market space for CCA-type drones has been steadily growing in recent years, and extends well beyond General Atomics. Just since September, Lockheed Martin’s Vectis and Shield AI’s X-BAT have joined the growing field of relevant designs. The jet-powered X-BAT is a particularly novel design, intended to take off and land vertically, as you can learn more about in great detail in this recent TWZ feature. In addition to the Gambit family, Vectis, X-BAT, and Anduril’s Fury, among other drone designs, are also being showcased at the International Fighter Conference this week. Also on the market now is Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat, originally developed for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Aviation Week just recently disclosed the existence of a new drone design from Northrop Grumman subsidiary Scaled Composites, referred to now simply as Project Lotus, which could be in the broad CCA category, as well.
The Split Up is a spin-off from the hit BBC drama The Split and will follow another family’s law firm.
A spin-off from the hit BBC drama The Split has received a significant update.
Fans were gutted when the legal series starring Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan wrapped up after three seasons in 2022, followed by a two-part special last year. Now, fresh information about the upcoming show The Split Up has emerged, including casting announcements.
The original programme featured Annika star Nicola as Hannah, grappling with the breakdown of her marriage to Nathan (Stephen) whilst juggling affairs, romance and complicated relationships, all while managing her family’s law practice alongside the chaos created by her two sisters and mother.
The Split Up will now centre on a different family law practice, this time based in Manchester and focusing on the British-Asian elite Kishan family.
The six-episode series will explore “the high-stakes world of Manchester’s divorce law circuit, where one family of lawyers, the Kishans, reigns supreme,” according to the previous announcement, reports Wales Online.
It adds: “Kishan Law is a British-Asian high net worth family law firm in Manchester, noted for its clientele and its reputation.
“They are the ‘go to firm’ for Manchester’s elite who come to them for their excellence, integrity, and discretion.
“But the future and legacy of Kishan Law hangs in the balance when a family secret from the past comes to light, throwing their professional and personal lives into turmoil.”
Content cannot be displayed without consent
The line-up for the series has already been unveiled, and it’s now been confirmed that The Good Place star Jameela Jamil is coming on board.
When the announcement was posted on social media featuring a photo of Jameela with leading lady Ritu Arya, the She-Hulk actress responded: “I love her.”
“My two favourites together,” one supporter wrote, whilst another added: “OMG can’t wait. Love you both!!!”
“Very excited for this,” a third person commented.
Jameela is joining The Umbrella Academy’s Ritu Arya, Unforgotten’s Sanjeev Bhaskar, alongside Aysha Kala (Virdee), Arian Nik (Film Club), Danny Ashok (Dinosaur), Dimitri Leonidas (Those About To Die), Mawaan Rizwan (Juice), Sindhu Vee (Matilda the Musical), Shalini Peiris (The White Lotus) and Tom Forbes (Queenie).
Celebrity guest appearances will also feature Lenny Henry and Jane Horrocks.
The BBC revealed: “The fast-rising star of Kishan Law is Aria Kishan (Ritu Arya), poised to step up and take the mantle from her father Dhruv (Sanjeev Bhaskar). However, the death of her mother has cast a new light over these plans for Dhruv, who has begun to wonder if his daughter can, or should, take on this responsibility single-handedly.
“Aria’s relationship is placed under scrutiny too with the wedding for long-term partner Neal (Danny Ashok) on the horizon, but with their personal and professional so entwined it’s unclear if their relationship can withstand any more pressure – a problem further compounded when a former secret flame (Dimitri Leonidas) arrives in Manchester unexpectedly.
“Alongside her siblings Maya (Aysha Kala) and Kav (Arian Nik), Aria must navigate the splits that divide family and those we love – and ask herself: who should you live your life for?”
Creator Ursula Rani Sarma expressed: “Having admired The Split and Abi Morgan for years, I was honoured to be asked to bring The Split Up to life. As a writer passionate about representation, it’s a dream come true to place a contemporary British South Asian family centre stage. Diversity deepens our understanding, enriches our stories, and reflects the true fabric of our society.
“It’s thrilling to watch our amazing cast led by Ritu and Sanjeev bring the Kishan family to life. I can’t wait for audiences to meet them and to witness the drama as it unfolds.”
Abi Morgan chimed in: “The chance to take all that was loved about The Split and use it to inspire the next generation of British South Asian talent, to create a new family of dynamic lawyers spilling over with all the messiness of life, both personally and professionally, has been a brilliant challenge, beautifully realised by lead writer Ursula Rani Sama. I hope audiences will take it to their hearts.”
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
The U.S. Navy is continuing to build up its forces in the Caribbean amid reported claims that an attack on Venezuela could be imminent. The Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg is now in the region, a U.S. Navy official told The War Zone. The Gettysburg adds to a current force of eight other warships deployed as part of enhanced counter-narcotics operations also aimed at Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. In addition, as we have previously reported, the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group has also been ordered to the region, but is not expected to arrive for at least another week.
The Gettysburg is the second cruiser to take part in the operation, joining the USS Lake Erie. The vessels in this class bring a great deal of additional firepower and other capabilities to the flotilla now arrayed in the Caribbean. You can read more about the status of America’s dwindling fleet of cruisers here.
News about the Gettysburg deployed to the Caribbean comes as the Miami Herald on Friday reported that U.S. strikes on targets inside Venezuela “could come at any moment.”
“Sources told the Herald that the targets — which could be struck by air in a matter of days or even hours — also aim to decapitate the cartel’s hierarchy,” the publication reported. The outlet added that it is unclear if that means taking out Maduro. The Venezuelan leader was indicted in a New York federal court in 2020, during the first Trump presidency. He and 14 others, including several close allies, were hit with federal charges of narco-terrorism and conspiracy with the Colombian FARC insurgent group to import cocaine. There is now a $50 million bounty for his arrest.
Department of Justice
The Herald story follows reporting on Thursday by the Wall Street Journalthat the Trump administration “has identified targets in Venezuela that include military facilities used to smuggle drugs.”
While the Journal says that President Donald Trump hasn’t made a final decision yet on ordering strikes against land targets, anonymous officials told thepaper that “a potential air campaign would focus on targets that sit at the nexus of the drug gangs and the Maduro regime.”
The potential targets under consideration “include ports and airports controlled by the military that are allegedly used to traffic drugs, including naval facilities and airstrips, according to one of the officials,” the publication added.
The Trump administration has identified targets in Venezuela that include military facilities used to smuggle drugs, according to U.S. officials, if Trump decides to move forward with airstrikes https://t.co/CBWbPqIf9Q
The president replied “no” when asked by reporters on Friday aboard Air Force One if it was true he is weighing whether to attack military sites in Venezuela. He said “no” again when asked if he had decided on the matter.
A White House spokesperson further pushed back on any assertion that an attack was imminent.
“Unnamed sources don’t know what they’re talking about,” Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, told The War Zone. “Any announcements regarding Venezuela policy would come directly from the president.” Kelly did not answer our questions about when that decision might take place or what targets, if any, have been identified.
A U.S. official we spoke with on Friday morning was not aware of any imminent plans to attack Venezuela.
“While it does not appear that such an attack would take place in the coming hours, the U.S. military will be ready to execute at the POTUS’ direction,” said the official. “We are poised to execute any orders given to us.”
While Trump has stated that he is eyeing land strikes on drug targets in Venezuela, so far, attacks have been limited to what the Pentagon asserts are drug smuggling boats. Several strikes have resulted in multiple deaths of suspected drug smugglers.
Earlier today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on yet another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Eastern Pacific.
Regardless of the timing of a large-scale attack, U.S. Navy vessels appear to be sailing closer to Venezuela. Satellite imagery shows that the Wasp class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima and an unidentified Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer have come closer than 125 miles from La Orchila, one of Venezuela’s outlying islands. The U.S. Navy official we spoke with declined to confirm the specific location of the Iwo Jima or any other vessels.
In another potential sign of future operations, the U.S. just closed airspace off the Puerto Rican coast, designating it “National Defense Airspace.” Pilots not adhering to the notice to airmen (NOTAM) are subject to being intercepted, detained and having criminal charges levied against them.
The NOTAM is adjacent to José Aponte de la Torre Airport, home to a significant deployment of forces, including F-35s. You can read more about the airport’s role in the ongoing operations in our story here.
This appears to be a ‘corridor TFR’ supporting military operations operating out of Puerto Rico into the Caribbean and back.
These are typically used when there is a high amount of traffic expected. https://t.co/7oZadNszc7
Meanwhile, as the U.S. continues to build up forces in the region, the Pentagon is assessing what, if any, resources will be deployed to provide humanitarian relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. The storm was a Category 5 hurricane when it slammed into Jamaica and Haiti, causing tremendous destruction.
U.S. Southern Command on Friday announced that Joint Task Force-Bravo deployed to Kingston, Jamaica, “on a mission to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance following Hurricane Melissa,” the command said in a statement.
“Three CH-47 Chinooks from the 1st Battalion, 228 Aviation Regiment, carried 40 service members and supplies as part of the initial effort to provide immediate, lifesaving and humanitarian support,” the statement continued. “The advance team will set up operations in Kingston to prepare for the arrival of additional personnel and equipment via three UH-60 and two HH-60 Blackhawks. Upon arrival, they will provide ongoing U.S. disaster relief assistance missions requested by the government of Jamaica.”
“Historically, U.S. military capabilities are needed most in the critical early stages of a disaster relief operation, when fewer resources, capabilities and disaster-response experts are available to help victims and impacted communities,” SOUTHCOM added.
The ships and troops of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG)/22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), already in the region as part of the counter-narcotics mission, could also potentially be deployed for relief efforts. In addition to more than 4,000 Marines and sailors, the ships in the ARG/MEU have Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) hovercraft, CH-53, UH-1 and MH-60 helicopters, MV-22 Osprey tilt rotor aircraft and AV-8B Harrier II attack jets that could be beneficial in any crisis response.
A landing craft, air cushion (LCAC), assigned to Assault Craft Unit 4, departs from the well deck of the Wasp class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) while underway in the Caribbean Sea, Oct. 15, 2025. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Andrew Eggert) Seaman Andrew Eggert
While these units have responded to post-storm relief efforts in the region in the past, no tasking has yet been made for Melissa, the official told us.
“It is too early to say if the 22nd MEU will be deployed for any humanitarian relief efforts,” the official posited.
Regardless, assigning assets for relief efforts will not affect the counter-narcotics operation, SOUTHCOM said.
“SOUTHCOM is mission-ready to support both missions as required,” Army Col. Emanuel Ortiz, a SOUTHCOM spokesman, told us.
While it is publicly unknown what Trump’s plans are concerning Venezuela or Maduro, the addition of the Gettysburg is one more asset the president can call on should he decide to attack.
Update: 2:43 PM Eastern –
The Navy provided us with a comment about what the Gettysburg will bring to the table.
“As a Ticonderoga class cruiser, the USS Gettysburg (CG 70) brings a versatile suite of capabilities to support naval operations. These cruisers are designed as multi-mission surface combatants, capable of contributing significantly to Air Warfare (AW), Undersea Warfare (USW), Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS), and Surface Warfare (SUW) efforts.
The Gettysburg can effectively support carrier strike groups, amphibious forces, or operate independently as a flagship of surface action groups. Equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles, the vessel provides long-range strike warfare options. Furthermore, some Aegis cruisers, including the Gettysburg, have been upgraded with Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) capabilities. Advances in Standard Missile technology, coupled with the Aegis combat system, enhance the anti-air warfare capabilities of Ticonderoga class cruisers, providing precision accuracy across a wide range of altitudes. During its deployment to the Caribbean, the USS Gettysburg could leverage these capabilities in support of the U.S. Southern Command mission, Department of War-directed operations, and the president’s priorities to disrupt illicit drug trafficking and protect the homeland.”
Update 3:55 PM Eastern –
The military on the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, located less than 10 miles from the Venezuelan coast, has boosted its readiness status, a local newspaper reported.
“The Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force (TTDF) has been placed on high alert, with all soldiers and Coast Guard officers ordered to report to their respective bases by this evening,” The Express newspaper reported. “A memo circulated to members yesterday stated that the TTDF has been moved to State One Alert Level—the highest level of operational readiness.”
The War Zone cannot independently confirm that claim.
Tensions between the two nations have soared over Trinidad and Tobago’s support for the U.S. That includes a recent visit by the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Gravely. A U.S. Navy official confirmed to us that the Gravely left that nation yesterday after a port call for joint military training.
It also appears that the MV Ocean Trader – a roll-on/roll-off cargo ship modified to carry special operators and their gear – has left Puerto Rico for an unknown destination. Navy officials and U.S. Special Operations Command have declined to comment on this vessel. The ship, which TWZ first reported on back in 2016, has been something of a ghost since entering service, popping up in hot spots around the globe.
The Ocean Trader has been spotted several times in various parts of the Caribbean in the past few weeks.
MV Ocean Trader, chartered by the Military Sealift Command for the U.S. Special Operations Command that supports Special Operations Forces as a mothership leaving Ponce, Puerto Rico – October 31, 2025 SRC: TW-@MichaelBonet8pic.twitter.com/80HocPjWZL
One Corrie star is celebrating their little sister’s huge new career move as she joins the cast of the hit ITV soap in an episode as the daughter of an iconic character
Eva is back on the cobbles with her new family
Coronation Street is becoming a family business for one of its stars as his little sister is set to join the show. The ITV soap’s newest cast member is making her debut on the show in Monday’s (27 October) episode.
Bobby Bradshaw, who plays Jake Windass, is the older brother of Aurora Bradshaw. He announced on his Instagram that his sister was joining Corrie as Susie Price, the daughter of Catherine Tyldesley’s Eva.
He posted a picture of the new family, the Driscolls, which feature both Susie and her mother, and captioned it: “The news is finally out!!! Congratulations to my little sister aurora! She is part of the new family and her first episode airs 27th October.”
Fans will remember Susie as the baby Eva had in 2018. When Eva learned she was pregnant, she struck a deal with Toyah Battersby (Georgia Taylor) to give the child to her and Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) after their surrogate had a miscarriage. Toyah faked a birth certificate so that Peter would never know Susie wasn’t born via the surrogate.
Eva struggled being away from her baby, but eventually the two ended up together and have been living away from Weatherfield since 2018. But Eva and Susie are now returning.
The mother and daughter are moving into the Rovers Return alongside Eva’s new husband Ben Driscoll (Aaron McCusker). Ben is the person the pub was sold to, as he bought it as a surprise for his wife. Alongside Ben, his mother Maggie Driscoll, played by Pauline McLynn of EastEnders fame, will also be moving in. Catherine Tyldesley told the Mirror that Maggie is the “mother-in-law from hell”.
“There are so many twists and turns with the Driscolls. The mother-in-law from hell feels like a harsh title but I don’t think I am far off,” she said. “The constant swipes at each other, and Ben is very much stuck in the middle. Things do start to come to a head and he has to make that decision of whose side are you on here. They both get frustrated with him.”
These Driscolls are relatives of Ollie Dirscoll (Raphael Akuwudike), who is already on the show and dating Dee-Dee Bailey (Channique Sterling-Brown). Dee-Dee is more than a girlfriend to Ollie, she is also his legal representation after he was involved in a car accident.
Though Aurora and Bobby are siblings, their characters are not. Jake Windass is the son of Gary Windass and Izzy Armstrong, born via surrogacy with the help of Tina McIntyre. Jake currently lives with his dad and his step-mother Maria Connor, who is not best pleased to see Eva return.
Former Ireland star Conor Murray says the “shackles are off” as he launches a new BBC Sounds podcast – the Ireland Rugby Social.
Murray, who won international 125 caps, will join BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews to give his unique insight into the mindset of a professional athlete as Ireland gear up for the autumn internationals and the 2026 Six Nations.
Each week, Murray will sit down with players, coaches and rugby insiders to dive into the sport’s biggest stories as Ireland face New Zealand, Japan, Australia and South Africa this autumn, before the Six Nations kicks off next year.
With five Six Nations titles and two United Rugby Championships with Munster, the three-time British and Irish Lion is uniquely placed to go beyond the headlines – and he says: “I can say what I want.”
“As a player you are always worried about protecting the team or the coach, or saying something the coach might not agree with after,” said Murray.
“But now the shackles are off. Now you can speak your mind and say things how you see it.”
Every Tuesday there will be podcast with a special guest who will offer their own insight into their life in rugby, whether that is playing, coaching or a role you may not know about.
Additionally, throughout November and Six Nations there will be a second podcast reflecting on the game that’s just been played and a look ahead at what is to come.
“Rugby has been such a big part of my life for so long, so I think staying connected to it is probably a good idea,” Murray added.
“I can give some insight, get some guests with some interesting stories – stories that you maybe haven’t heard before.
“I know the guests we have will be able to relax and tell us their true thoughts and stories.”
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
The Swedish Armed Forces have finally gotten their hands on their first operational Saab Gripen E multirole fighter. The first of 60 of the new jets marks a significant step in the modernization of the Swedish Air Force, which is reconfiguring its posture to better face off the resurgent threat from Russia.
På plats vid F7 Såtenäs där Försvarsmakten idag tar emot den första av 60 JAS Gripen E. Det är en viktig dag för flygvapnet och det svenska försvaret. Gripen E är ett exempel på svensk teknologisk framkant och är ett modernt stridsflyg som i allt väsentligt är helt nytt. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/Bse70Hb5DX
The first Gripen E for the Swedish Air Force touched down at the airbase of Såtenäs, in south-central Sweden, yesterday. This is the home of F 7, or the Skaraborg Wing, which will be the service’s first operational Gripen E unit. A handover ceremony at Såtenäs included representatives from the Swedish Ministry of Defense, the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV), and Saab.
Mikael Granholm of the FMV, Minister of Defense Pål Jonson, Swedish Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Michael Claesson, Swedish Air Force Chief Jonas Wikman, and Skaraborg Wing Commander Mattias Ottis. Forsvarsmakten
“This is a big day that marks the beginning of a new chapter in Swedish aviation history,” said Skaraborg’s Wing Commander Mattias Ottis. “F 7 Skaraborg Wing is the center of Swedish fighter aircraft development; we are paving the way for the future. We are ready, we are excited, and now we are going for it.”
“This marks an important milestone in the development of the Swedish defense. It is the result of long-term cooperation and close collaboration between the Swedish Armed Forces, FMV, and Swedish industry. Gripen E strengthens our national defense capability to meet future threats together with our allies,” added Michael Claesson, commander-in-chief of the Swedish Armed Forces.
Notably, the Gripen E is already in operational service, in Brazil.
A Brazilian Air Force Gripen E. Saab Linus Svensson @Saab
The Latin American nation was the first export customer for the jet and has also inaugurated a domestic production line, which will build 15 of the 36 aircraft currently contracted to the Brazilian Air Force. Unlike Sweden, Brazil is also receiving the two-seat variant of the jet, the Gripen F. The first Gripen for Brazil was shipped from Sweden to South America by sea, arriving there in September 2020.
Returning to Sweden, the Gripen E is seen very much as a cornerstone of the country’s changing defense policy, which has seen a renewed emphasis on its fighter fleet as the country grapples with a further deterioration in regional security policy including increasing Russian belligerence.
A pair of Swedish Gripen E test jets. Saab
As well as joining NATO, in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, this new posture has seen Sweden decide to retain its older Gripen C/D fleet for longer, alongside the new-generation Gripen Es.
This marks a notable change for the Swedish Air Force.
After all, when switching from the Cold War-era Saab Viggen to the Gripen, the Swedish Air Force decided to use only one type of fighter aircraft for all tasks. Operating the Gripen E in parallel with the Gripen C/D, beyond a normal transition, reverses this.
A Swedish Air Force Gripen C. Saab SAAB
Despite its similar outward appearance, the Gripen E is regarded as a completely new aircraft type — as you can read about here.
Ultimately, the Gripen E will take over the tasks currently performed by the Gripen C/D, but the two will serve together for “a relatively long period of time,” according to the Swedish Air Force.
In basic mission terms, the Gripen E offers a longer range and can carry a heavier load than its predecessor. The aircraft is slightly larger than the C-model at just under 50 feet and includes a beefed-up fuselage that accommodates approximately 30 percent more fuel. The aircraft also features larger air intakes, the more powerful General Electric F414 engine, and a total of 10 hardpoints.
On those 10 hardpoints, the heavy loads can include up to four of the big Saab RBS 15 anti-ship missiles, up to nine air-to-air missiles, or 16 Small Diameter Bombs, albeit at the expense of external fuel.
A Gripen E carrying four RBS 15 anti-ship missiles. Saab
“It’s a completely new system — built to meet future requirements for survivability, range, sensors, and interoperability. It’s the result of Swedish engineering and innovation with a clear focus on operational effectiveness,” explained Mattias Ottis, commander of the Skaraborg Wing.
Under the skin, the Gripen E is also substantially different.
New features include its sensors, among them an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, and an infrared search and track (IRST) system. The communications system is also new, as is the aircraft’s advanced electronic warfare self-protection system.
The Gripen E’s IRST is located ahead of the windscreen. Jamie Hunter
All this reflects the fact that the Gripen E is intended to operate in a different threat environment compared to the Gripen C/D, a fact made clear by the Swedish Air Force:
“The Swedish Armed Forces have needed to find a way to operate in what is known as a ‘contested environment,’ i.e., an area where they do not have control,” the Air Force explains. “In the past, it was possible to take off and land in a controlled environment. Today, as soon as the aircraft takes off, we find ourselves in an uncertain environment, hence the need to develop a new and more capable fighter aircraft system.”
A Swedish Gripen E test jet. Saab
In another reflection of the increasingly contested environment that the Swedish Air Force is expected to be able to fight in, the Gripen E is being tested loaded with an artificial intelligence (AI) agent that can conduct autonomous beyond-visual-range air-to-air combat. You can read more about this initiative here. Suffice it to say, it’s very much focused on enabling a much smaller air arm (the Swedish Air Force) to deal with a potential large-scale Russian aerial attack. In such a scenario, AI could play a critical role in helping a force of Gripens armed with Meteor air-to-air missiles, for example, to prioritize multiple incoming threats and find the best solutions to combat them.
A Gripen E loaded with an artificial intelligence (AI) agent, known as Centaur. Saab SAAB
At the same time, the Gripen E retains some commonality with the Gripen C/D, especially in terms of its flying qualities.
The Swedish Air Force describes the new aircraft as “just as easy to fly and maneuver” as the Gripen C/D, and that pilots trained on the earlier aircraft “will feel right at home in the E.” This is especially important considering that, as mentioned previously, Sweden will not be buying two-seat versions of the new jet, which would ease the training process.
While the first Gripen E may have just been delivered, Sweden is already starting to plan for what might come next.
In a statement regarding the introduction of the new fighter, Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson said: “Parallel to the introduction of Gripen E, studies are underway to prepare for the next generation of fighter aircraft.”
As TWZhas discussed, the FMV recently awarded Saab with a contract, worth around $276 million, for continued conceptual studies for future fighter systems.
A rendering of a concept for a supersonic uncrewed platform in the F-Series, as developed by Saab. SVT screencap via X SVT screencap via X
At this early stage, it’s very much unclear what the Swedish Air Force’s future combat air ‘ecosystem’ will look like and how it will balance crewed and uncrewed assets — or if it will be an all-drone combat fleet.
But with the Gripen E only just entering service, it would seem to make sense that it’s paired in the future with stealthy drones. We have discussed in the past how ‘loyal wingman’ type drones are potentially even more relevant to so-called ‘generation 4.5’ fighters than fifth-generation ones.
Saab and the Swedish government, meanwhile, will hope that the induction of the Gripen E with the Swedish Air Force serves as a springboard for more export orders. After Brazil joined the program as a co-partner, it took a long time for more orders to come in, with the Gripen E/F losing out on more than one occasion to the F-35. More recently, however, the Gripen E has been ordered by Thailand — which already operates the Gripen C/D — and has been selected as Colombia’s next fighter jet.
A Royal Thai Air Force Gripen D and a Saab 340 Erieye radar plane. Saab Peter Liander
The Gripen has also repeatedly been linked with a possible transfer to Ukraine, a topic that was reportedly discussed between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson earlier this month. Sweden’s long-term plan is to have 120 Gripens serving by 2030, with half being E variants. That would leave roughly 37 Gripen C/D models potentially available to Ukraine, but the number is likely somewhat lower due to airframe fatigue and other factors.
The long-term future of Sweden as a developer and producer of crewed combat aircraft is by no means certain. But in the meantime, the start of Gripen F deliveries to the Swedish Air Force ensures that the service remains at the cutting edge as it starts to look forward to the next generation of combat aircraft.
Victoria Beckham is set to reunite with her former Spice Girls bandmates for a new animated project on the band, marking their first professional collaboration in a decade
Daniel Bird Assistant Celebrity and Entertainment Editor
18:34, 18 Oct 2025Updated 18:48, 18 Oct 2025
Lady Beckham is set to join her Spice Girls bandmates for an exciting project(Image: BANG Showbiz)
Victoria Beckham is gearing up to join forces with her old Spice Girls pals for a huge new project. The animated venture, simply named The Spice Girls, will be their first professional reunion since they rocked the stage at the 2012 Olympic Games closing ceremony.
According to the official IMDb listing, The Spice Girls is currently in the early stages of production and will star all five original members: Geri Horner, Melanie Brown MBE, Melanie Chisholm, Emma Bunton, and Lady Victoria, lending their voices.
The brief description reveals: “An animated project featuring the music group The Spice Girls as superheroes.” Details regarding the storyline, format, and release date are still hush-hush, with IMDb only revealing that the project will see the girls reprising their pop star alter egos, including Posh, Ginger, Scary, Sporty, and Baby Spice.
This exciting news broke as Victoria, 51, graced the premiere of her three-part Netflix docu-series Victoria Beckham at The Curzon Mayfair in London on 8 October. The fashion mogul and former pop sensation was accompanied by her husband, Sir David Beckham, 50, and their children, except for eldest son Brooklyn Beckham, who is reportedly caught up in a family dispute.
Her ex-bandmates Emma, Geri and Melanie Chisholm also showed up at the premiere to lend their support, striking a pose together on the red carpet. Melanie Brown, better known as Mel B, was the only member not present but sent Victoria a lovely bouquet of flowers ahead of the event.
Melanie had previous work commitments in the United States. Victoria hasn’t performed with the Spice Girls since their iconic Olympic appearance in London 12 years ago, despite the other four members reuniting for a UK and Ireland stadium tour in 2019.
Although Victoria opted out of that tour, she publicly expressed her support and has continued to honour the group’s legacy. The IMDb listing is the first official hint that the full lineup could once again collaborate on a professional project.
It remains unclear whether the animated production will be a feature film or a series. The Spice Girls became a worldwide sensation in the mid-1990s following the release of their debut single Wannabe in 1996. They went on to sell over 100 million records globally before Geri exited the band in 1998, leading to an official hiatus.
The band also reunited for a world tour in 2007 and again for their Olympic performance in 2012, which was widely hailed as one of the highlights of the Games. Since then, each member has embarked on individual ventures in music, television, fashion and business while maintaining a close personal bond.
But it seems that this isn’t the only Spice Girls project that Posh has in mind. During an interview with Andy Cohen, she admitted that she has been having several ideas about the chart-topping band, which will next year celebrate three decades of their debut single, “Wannabe.”
After saying she loved the idea of the band performing at the Sphere in Las Vegas, Victoria said: “It would be tempting. But could I take on a world tour? No, I can’t. I have a job… How good would the Spice Girls be at the Sphere! I love the idea of it. I mean, I don’t know if I could even still sing, I mean, I was never that great!” Host Andy soon interrupted saying: “You can sing, babe.”
The Mirror has approached Victoria’s spokesperson for comment.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
AeroVironment has unveiled a new member of its Switchblade family of loitering munitions, the Switchblade 400. It is designed to offer similar capabilities, especially when it comes to destroying enemy tanks and other heavy armor, to the larger Switchblade 600, but in a package that a single individual can employ. It is also sized to fit into U.S. military standard Common Launch Tubes (CLT), which are typically used to fire precision-guided munitions and small uncrewed aerial systems from crewed and uncrewed aircraft, primarily within the special operations community.
Todd Hanning, product line director for what AeroVironment is currently calling its Mojave systems, which includes the Switchblade 400, talked about the new offering with TWZ‘s Howard Altman on the show floor at the Association of the U.S. Army’s (AUSA) main annual symposium today. The Switchblade 400 was originally developed to meet a U.S. Army requirement under the service’s Low Altitude Stalking and Strike Ordnance (LASSO) program. LASSO is also part of a larger effort that the service calls its Lethal Unmanned Systems Directed Requirement (LUS DR). The Army has already been buying Switchblade 300s, which are smaller than the new 400 version, as well as the bigger 600s, to meet its LASSO/LUS DR needs.
The Switchblade 400. AeroVironment
Hanning explained that the core Army requirement that led to the Switchblade 400 was a total weight of 40 pounds for the All-Up-Round (AUR), which consists of the loitering munition and its launch tube. AeroVironment’s website says a single individual can carry the weapon and have it ready to launch within five minutes. The Switchblade 600 is available in a man-portable form, but is designed for employment by a team and takes twice as much time to set up.
Switchblade 400 needed to be a “single soldier lift,” Hanning said. “Switchblade 600, coming in at about 67 pounds, so right out of the gate, we’ve got to shed about 30 pounds off this thing. Yet we still want the same lethality for [sic; as] a Javelin.”
Images from a Switchblade 400 test launch. AeroVironment
The Switchblade 600 notably features an anti-armor warhead based on the one in the FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). AeroVironment also unveiled a Block 2 version of the Switchblade 600 today, which offers greater endurance and a new secondary payload bay for added flexibility, as well as improvements to its artificial intelligence and machine learning-driven automated target recognition capabilities.
Hanning said that the Switchblade 400 and Switchblade 600 Block 2 reflect a new modular, open-architecture approach AeroVironment is taking, which offers benefits when it comes to manufacturing and supply chains. The “same avionics, … the same camera architecture, same motor, [and] same power technology” are used in both models.
Overall, Switchblade 400 is “how do we take, really, a Block 2 [Switchblade 600], the next-gen, take 30 pounds out of it, and still do the same mission,” Hanning added. “Now you’re losing a little bit of endurance, right? We had to pull two cameras out, but you still have a gimbaled payload with probably the best optics out there on this kind of a platform, you’ve got the Javelin [warhead], you’ve got some new battery technology, and it’s very lightweight.”
A graphic showing the latest variations of the Switchblade family, including the new Switchblade 400. AeroVironment
AeroVironment’s website says Switchblade 400 has a maximum endurance of 35 minutes, and a speed profile that allows for 27 and 15 minutes of loiter time after reaching target areas 12.4 miles (20 kilometers) and 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) away, respectively. The company also says it can reach out to around 40 miles (65 kilometers) by handing off control to an operator closer to the target.
This all puts Switchblade 400 roughly in between current-generation Switchblade 300s and Switchblade 600s in terms of range and endurance, but with the ability to engage the same kinds of targets as the latter. Switchblade 300s have much smaller warheads weighing just under four pounds. Switchblade 400 also gives a single user a major boost in capability over a Javelin, which has a demonstrated maximum range of just under two and a half miles (4,000 meters) in its latest man-portable configuration, and no ability to loiter.
Hanning used the breadth of targets that Ukrainian forces have been using Switchblade 600s against to underscore the capabilities on offer. Ukraine has received tranches of both Switchblade 300s and 600s.
“They were shooting some tanks early on, but now you’re seeing them take out surface-to-air missile batteries constantly,” he said. “They’ve taken out some trains. A lot of command elements. But mostly what you’re seeing is those high-value assets, those mobile surface-to-air missile batteries.”
” We had feedback from our partners in Ukraine that they had expended some $36 Million of Switchblade [600] munitions. We have received some input from others that $100K per munition is too expensive when they would like a $2K quadcopter.
It is worth noting here that AeroVironment has been securing sales of Switchblade 300s and 600s to a growing number of countries beyond the United States and Ukraine in recent years. Last year, the U.S. government notably approved the potential sale of 720 Switchblade 300s to Taiwan. The Taiwanese armed forces have been stepping up their acquisition of a growing array of one-way attack drones as part of a larger strategy to challenge a potential intervention from the mainland, as you can read more about here.
That being said, lessons learned from the particular drone-heavy war in Ukraine have been very important for AeroVironment, according to Hanning.
“We take lessons learned from all of the systems that are in Ukraine, and rapidly inject that technology into the 400 and the 600 Block 2,” Hanning said. “So launching in different environments, on different ground surfaces, that was one. Tactics for range and for how you engage the target. So we’re engaging from higher altitudes. We’re engaging faster. We have different communication modes, silent modes, things like that.”
Hanning said the silent mode referred to here involves operating, at least for a time, without emitting signals that enemy forces could detect. He noted that members of the Switchblade family are designed around concepts of operations that involve a human at least ‘on-the-loop’ during any endgame attack run, despite their highly automated targeting capabilities.
In general terms of controlling Switchblades after launch, “we are running Silvus radio[s], but we are agnostic to radios. So we’ve also integrated an L3Harris radio. We did that about two weeks ago. Very easy,” he added. “So, we’re looking to, how can we shed weight at the soldier level so that we’re using all the common systems that they’re already carrying. So, if that’s a PRC radio that they’re already carrying, if we can leverage that for our C2 [command and control] scheme, then that’s what we’d want to do. … that’s part of that whole modular, open system architecture.”
Switchblade 400s, as well as 600s, could make use of their modularity in other ways going forward. Hanning highlighted the possibility of different warhead options by mentioning a test involving a different type supplied by a company called Corvid Technologies.
“We’re really open to whatever the DoD wants. When a lot of people come to us and say, ‘use my thing,’ and I’m like, well, what does the Army think about that?” Hanning said. “We need to know what they want versus what a vendor wants you to want. And so the best way to do that is to just be very open, hear the voice of the customer, and have the ability to integrate things.”
“When you start doing mixed payloads, you definitely want to play with some [things], maybe a smaller warhead, with some electronic warfare packages, things like that,” he continued. CACI is set to supply an electronic warfare package for testing on Switchblade 400 later this month.
AeroVironment’s emphasis on flexibility has already extended to launch modes. Launchers integrated into crewed and uncrewed armored and other ground vehicles, offering indirect fire and reconnaissance capabilities, have been put forward. The Switchblade 300, at least, has been test-launched from maritime platforms. Last month, General Atomics also announced a test launch of a Switchblade 600 from one of its MQ-9 Reaper drones.
An MQ-9 Reaper launches a Switchblade 600 during a test. General Atomics
A Common Launch Tube. SystimaCLTs seen loaded into launchers built into the rear cargo ramp of an AC-130W Stinger II special operations gunship. USAF
When it comes to the Army requirement that drove the initial development of the Switchblade 400, the service is currently evaluating four different options, according to AeroVironment’s Hanning. A downselect of some kind is expected to come in time, but it’s unclear whether the service might choose to further pursue multiple entrants.
Whether or not the Army ultimately acquires Switchblade 400s, it looks to be a significant new addition to this family of loitering munitions, which is seeing growing popularity globally.
Irish Olympic swimmer Shane Ryan has joined the Enhanced Games, a multi-sport competition that will allow athletes to use performance-enhancing substances without being subject to drug tests.
Ryan, who was born in the USA, competed in three successive Olympics Games for Ireland before announcing his retirement from the sport earlier this month.
“After a decade dedicated to traditional competition on the world’s highest stage, I’m excited to dive into this next chapter with the Enhanced Games,” the 31-year-old said on his decision.
Ryan joins Team GB Olympic swimmer Ben Proud, four-time Greece Olympian Kristian Gkolomeev and US sprinter Fred Kerley in announcing his intentions to compete at the Games.
The move has been criticised by Sport Ireland, which says it is “deeply disappointed” with the decision.
The first Enhanced Games are due to take place in Las Vegas in 2026 with each event awarded a total prize purse of $500,000 and a $1m on offer for competitors who break world records.
Swim Ireland has also condemned the move, confirming his disassociation with the organisation and that he will no longer be provided with any funding or services.
Ryan competed at the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games, becoming the first Irish swimmer to participate at three Olympics.
The Olympic Federation of Ireland said that Ryan’s move to the Enhanced Games “stands in direct opposition to our core clean sport values”.
The five-episode drama is being adapted from Liz Jensen’s best-selling novel and is said to be “a high-stakes thriller which crackles with danger”.
According to the synopsis, the series – which is being produced by Mammoth Screen, part of ITV studios – follows a forensic psychologist named Gabs Fox (Madeley) who meets teen Bethany Krall (India) at a psychiatric hospital.
Bethany, who is the daughter of the leader of a religious movement (played by Sam Hazeldine), was convicted of killing her mum but she insists she didn’t do it.
Adding another twist is the fact that the 17-year-old claims to be able to predict the future. But can she convince Gabs she is telling the truth?
“I’m over the moon to be getting started on this production and cannot wait to bring Bethany onto tellies,” India, 24, said as her casting was announced.
“It will be a massive challenge for me professionally, which I’m very much welcoming and feel incredibly safe to do so in the hands of Mammoth and Ruth!”
Madeley added that it was “a total joy to lead such a powerful and vibrant series”, which she said was “an incredibly special project” to her.
The series, which is shooting in Wales, will also star Stephen Campbell Moore, Lisa Palfrey, Siena Kelly, Naby Dakhli, Richard Elis, Dean Rehman and Robert Rhodes.
Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, added: “This thriller brings Liz Jensen’s compelling novel to life with a truly talented cast led by the brilliant Ruth Madeley and India Amarteifio.
“The Rapture features two complicated and captivating characters, blended with a story of climate change, to create a gripping narrative and I can’t wait for BBC viewers to see it.”
The Rapture is set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, pictured in June in the Oval Office, said drone incidents “threaten our safety” as his government put forward legislation to allow the shooting down of drones after a series of in recent weeks disrupted flights across Europe. File Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 8 (UPI) — Federal authorities in Germany were granted permission to shoot down drones following a series of recent sightings of unknown drones spotted near Munich.
The German government’s cabinet on Wednesday signed-off on the new reform package that now awaits approval of the Bundestag, the country’s parliament.
The move came after drones were seen at Munich Airport last week, which led to air traffic control suspensions and thousands of flights impacted directly.
“Drone incidents threaten our safety,” said Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Germany now joins Britain, France, Romania and Lithuania in extending police powers to down the flying objects.
“We will not allow that,” Merz, leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union party, said Wednesday on social media.
“We are strengthening the powers of the federal police so that drones can be detected and intercepted more quickly in future,” he added.
In addition, other rogue drones have been detected in Denmark, Lithuania, Finland, Estonia, Poland and Romania that have interrupted air traffic on the continent in recent weeks.
Officials in Denmark purport it to be a “professional” act by an unknown actor but other European Union leaders, including Merz, have pointed to Russia as the culprit.
Moscow, however, has denied the allegations.
It followed a similar pattern of unexplained drone flights earlier this year in the United States.
Meanwhile, authorities announced Wednesday that Russian drones attacked and seriously damaged a Ukrainian thermal power plant overnight in Russia’s escalating war in Ukraine and eastern Europe.
He has an unbeaten 9-0-1 record in his professional career, with six of those wins within the distance.
“I think things happen for a reason. I’m at the right stage in my career now to pick the right platform and go for the right fights. So this move just made sense,” said Whittaker.
Hearn described Whittaker as a ” generational talent” who has “the world at his feet”.
“This long-term deal will propel Ben to global superstardom, solidifying his reputation as a household name and steering him towards future world titles. He will be number one,” added Hearn.
The first bout in October 2024 ended in a controversial draw, when both men fell over the ropes and Whittaker was unable to continue because of an injury.
NORFOLK, Va. — President Trump did not let the government shutdown interfere with a stop in Virginia on Sunday to salute the Navy as it celebrates its 250th anniversary.
“I believe, ‘THE SHOW MUST GO ON!’” Trump posted Friday night on his social media site. And he wrote before leaving the White House for Naval Station Norfolk, “This will be a show of Naval aptitude and strength.”
The government shutdown that began Wednesday has triggered partisan blame in both directions as military personnel are working without pay, several thousand federal employees are furloughed and Trump has put on hold energy projects in Democratic-run areas such as New York and Chicago.
There is the possibility that an event designed to honor the Navy could be dragged into the bitter politics.
Trump accused Democrats in his post of enabling the shutdown and trying “to destroy this wonderful celebration of the U.S. Navy’s Birthday.”
Senate Democrats rejected efforts to preserve a continuation of government operations when the new budget year started Wednesday. They cited the lapse in subsidies that could cause health insurance costs to climb rapidly for people who get coverage through the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Democratic lawmakers also have sought to reverse cuts to Medicaid that Trump signed into law.
On top of that, both sides cite a mutual sense of distrust.
Democrats oppose Trump’s move to have his administration decline to spend congressionally approved funds, saying it undermines the budgeting process, among other concerns. Meanwhile, Trump has threatened to lay off federal workers at what he called “Democrat Agencies.”
Among those joining Trump for the festivities were First Lady Melania Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Navy Secretary John Phelan, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins and U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas), a former Navy rear admiral who was a White House doctor during Trump’s first term.
After his arrival in Norfolk, Trump went to the USS George H.W. Bush and spoke to the sailors and handed out challenge coins.
The Trumps watched a military demonstration while standing on the deck of the aircraft carrier. Navy destroyers launched missiles and fired shells into the Atlantic, Navy SEALs descended from helicopters and fighter jets catapulted off.
Awaiting Trump’s speech was a large crowd on a pier, mostly sailors in their dress white uniforms and some families.
Trump on Tuesday addressed a gathering of military leaders abruptly summoned by Hegseth from across the globe to Virginia. The Republican president proposed using U.S. cities as training grounds for the armed forces and spoke of needing military might to combat what he called the “invasion from within.” Hegseth declared an end to “woke” culture and announced new directives for troops that include “gender-neutral” or “male-level” standards for physical fitness.
The administration is seeking to reshape Pentagon culture and use military resources for the president’s priorities, including quelling domestic unrest and fighting what he calls a surge in violent crime, despite statistics to the contrary.
Trump has also engaged the U.S. military in an armed conflict he says is targeting foreign drug cartels, leading to four deadly strikes on boats in the Caribbean that Washington says were involved in trafficking. Critics have called the attacks extrajudicial killings in violation of international law.
Boak and Finley write for the Associated Press and reported from Washington and Norfolk, respectively.
BIG Brother star Elsa Rae’s Tiktok creator boyfriend Ed Matthews was seen throwing a huge tantrum in the street after she sparked romance rumours with one of her housemates.
After splitting following their on-off romance, Elsa ditched Ed in favour of the Big Brother house.
3
Ed was seen throwing a tantrum in the streetCredit: Tiktok
3
Elsa is currently in the Big Brother houseCredit: Eroteme
3
And she and Marcus are already sparking romance rumoursCredit: Eroteme
And a TikTok video shows the controversial influencer losing his cool.
Ed is seen slumped on a bench, saying: “I made a f****** mistake… a big mistake.
“Everything in this world is energy, you know that.”
Fans rushed to comment, with one writing: “Big mistake… why, cause Elsa’s making something of herself?”
Another said: “He’s gutted now. She’s an amazing, loyal girl and she deserves better.”
And a third added: “No one has more drama than Ed Matthews.”
Coronation Street star Denise Black, whose character is best remembered for her relationship with Ken Barlow, has joined Waterloo Road, more than 30 years on from her cobbles debut
Denise Black starred on Coronation Street for a number of years before joining Emmerdale but has now been cast in Waterloo Road (Image: ITV)
Coronation Street legend Denise Black has joined the cast of Waterloo Road. The actress, 67, is best known for starring as hairdresser Denise Osbourne on ITV’s flagship soap, who is best known for her relationship with Ken Barlow (William Roache) in the 1990s.
The actress initially appeared on Coronation Street from 1992 until 1997. Her relationship with Ken resulted in the birth of their son Daniel Osbourne, but it all ended in tears when it emerged she had been having an affair with Brian Dunkley (Benny Young), and she was not heard from for a decade.
In 2007, Denise made a brief appearance to reintroduce Ken to Daniel after his adoptive daughter Tracy Barlow (Kate Ford) was sent to prison for the murder of Charlie Stubbs. She tried to make a pass as him but he opted to return to Deirdre (Anne Kirkbride), and it would almost another 10 years before she was seen again. In 2016, Daniel, now played by Rob Mallard, arrived back on the scene after his father suffered a stroke and has been a fixture on the programme ever since. But Denise made a return with him and was last seen offering her condolences to Ken over the death of Deirdre.
She followed her various stints on the cobbles with a role on fellow ITV show Emmerdale, and played Joanie Dingle, the adoptive grandmother of Amy Wyatt’s on-screen son Kyle from 2013 until 2017. Her character had an affair with Zak Dingle (Steve Halliwell) and they later married but it all ended in tragedy when Joanie died of a heart attack in January 2017.
But now, Denise has swapped soap for drama and she has joined the cast of the BBC’s flagship school drama, which was revived in 2023 after nearly a decade off air. In the sixth episode of the latest series, Denise plays the grandmother of Liam Scholes’ character Noel McManus. In explosive scenes, Denise’s new character, Mo McManus, gets caught up in a confrontation for the police.
Over the course of its first nine series, the programme dealt with tough issues like teenage pregnancy, murder and addiction and featured a stellar cast of TV favourites, with ex-EastEnders star Jill Halfpenny as drama teacher Izzie Redpath, Loose Women favourite Denise Welch as hapless French teacher Steph Haydock and Silent Witness actress Amanda Burton as headmistress Karen Fisher.
It was revived in 2023 after streaming of the original series proved popular, but bosses recently admitted that the reboot has surpassed all of their expectations.
The show’s executive producer, Cameron Roach, said: “When the BBC commissioned the reboot of we had hoped it might run for a few seasons.
“To be commissioned for further series, bringing the total episodes since relaunch to seventy hours, is a huge achievement and a reflection of the incredible creative teams in front of and behind the camera.
“As well as continuing to celebrate emerging talent, the show is fast gaining a reputation for working with the best comedy talent, as Jon Richardson joins the cast this season.
“As a team we’re incredibly proud that a very British show can be such an enduring success for the BBC and continue to bring in new generations of viewers.”
Waterloo Road is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
South Korea’s Shinhan Bank has joined the Hardest-to-Reach Initiative headed by Acumen. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Bank
SEOUL, Sept. 24 (UPI) — South Korea’s Shinhan Bank said Wednesday that the lender has joined the $246.5 million Hardest-to-Reach Initiative, headed by Acumen, a nonprofit global impact organization.
Built on a combination of public and private financing, the initiative is aimed at bringing energy access to people in the least electrified regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, including such countries as Malawi, Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone.
The Acumen program consists of two vehicles: one that provides impact-linked loans to enterprises and another that builds markets through a mix of equity, debt, grants and technical assistance.
The project is expected to enable around 70 million people from 17 African countries, who are still living in darkness, to gain off-grid solar access, thus avoiding the emission of 4 million tons of carbon dioxide, according to Acumen.
Among them, 50 million will be first-time energy users. Acumen noted that 600 million sub-Saharan Africans still lacked access to electricity as of 2023.
Shinhan Bank did not disclose how much it provided to the HWR Initiative.
“This innovative blended finance structure enables us, as a leading Korean bank, to channel capital into the toughest markets and reach those most in need — helping provide clean, affordable energy where it matters most,” Shinhan Bank Deputy President Seo Seung-hyeon said in a statement.
In addition to Shinhan Bank, other global organizations and funds are taking part in the initiative, including Green Climate Fund, International Financial Corporation, Nordic Development Fund, British International Investment and Soros Economic Development Fund.
Acumen’s founding CEO Jacqueline Novogratz said the coalition would step up with capital designed not to just to invest, but to solve.
“This is the first time public, private and philanthropic partners have come together behind a model built to reach the hardest-to-reach. It’s a clear example of what’s possible when capital aligns with purpose to tackle energy poverty at scale,” she said.
1 of 4 | French President Emmanuel Macron attends a meeting at the White House in Washington, D.C., on August 18. On Monday, Macron formally recognized a Palestinian state during an international peace summit speech in New York City, stating, “We can no longer wait.” The announcement was made one day before the start of the 80th U.N. General Assembly. File Photo by Aaron Schwartz/UPI | License Photo
Sept. 22 (UPI) — France and Saudi Arabia held an international peace summit Monday in New York City, one day before the start of the 80th U.N. General Assembly, where French President Emmanuel Macron and other world leaders formally recognized a Palestinian state.
Macron made the announcement about a two-state solution during his speech Monday evening, saying, “We can no longer wait” to stop the violence and secure peace. Macron called for an end to the war in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages still being held by Hamas nearly two years after the Oct. 7, attacks that killed 1,200.
“The time has come to free the 48 hostages detained by Hamas. The time has come to stop the war, the bombing of Gaza, the massacres and the fleeing people. The time has come because there’s a pressing urgency everywhere,” Macron said, as he vowed that recognizing Palestine would not take away Israel’s rights.
“The time has come for Israel to live in peace and security,” Macron said. “The time has come to give justice to the Palestinian people and to recognize the state of Palestine.”
France joins the UK, Canada and Australia in recognizing a Palestinian state, along with Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta and San Marino.
Australia, Britain, Canada and Portugal made their own declarations Sunday.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called Monday’s peace summit with Saudi Arabia “a milestone for peace and a major diplomatic victory” nearly two years after a Hamas attack on Israel sent the region spiraling into war.
“France’s plan … aims for a two-state solution and includes concrete steps to prepare for the immediate post-war period … so that an international stabilization mission can come to Gaza to ensure the protection of both Palestinians and Israelis,” Barrot told French broadcaster TF1, according to a translation by CNN.
With Sunday’s announcements, more than 150 nations now recognize Palestine as a sovereign state. This doesn’t include G7 members Germany, Italy or the United States. Israel and the United States are expected to boycott Sunday’s summit.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hit out at the nations expressing their preference for a two-state solution Sunday, saying, “there will be no Palestinian state.” Netanyahu argued recognition of a Palestinian state would give “a huge reward to terrorism.”
Two unnamed sources told The Telegraph that the Israeli government is considering options for retaliating against France for recognizing Palestine, including possibly closing France’s consulate in Jerusalem.
The U.N. General Assembly on Friday voted 145-5 in favor of a motion to allow Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the international body this week in New York. Israel and the United States voted against the motion.
President Donald Trump will be in New York tomorrow, to mark the 80th anniversary of the UN’s General Assembly founding.
Paramount+’s hit Sylvester Stallone drama Tulsa King is finally back for season three and a new addition to the cast has everyone excited
Tulsa King fans are ecstatic as another action movie legend has joined the cast as a powerful new enemy for crime boss Dwight ‘The General’ Manfredi (played by Sylvester Stallone).
Season three premiered last Sunday night (21st September), taking fans back to the night Dwight was kidnapped by Special Agent Musso (Kevin Pollak).
Thankfully, he’s soon released, albeit as Musso’s new informant on an unknown target, and reunites with Margaret (Dana Delany), apologising for her ranch being ransacked by gunmen the night before.
After a quick visit to his family in Little Italy, Dwight discovers Cleo Montague’s (Bella Heathcote) family distillery is due to be sold to the powerful Dunmire family after her father Theodore (Brett Rice) made a handshake deal.
However, Dwight sees the distillery as a valuable asset to his own empire and promises a better deal for the Montagues.
Fans are saying season three is already an improvement over the previous outing(Image: PARAMOUNT)
Cue the introduction of Tulsa King season three’s terrifying new villain, Jeremiah Dunmire, portrayed by none other than Hollywood star Robert Patrick.
Patrick is best known for portraying the unstoppable T-1000 in James Cameron’s hit action movie sequel Terminator 2: Judgement Day and has more recently landed roles in Yellowstone prequel 1923 and HBO’s Peacemaker.
Jeremiah is naturally furious to discover Theo has reneged on their deal, and sets a group of thugs on his mansion who beat him to a pulp and burn his home to the ground.
Viewers were on the edge of their seats during this nail-biting premiere, which raises the stakes for Dwight and his crew to a whole new level. Fans were also already impressed with Patrick’s performance as this season’s sadistic antagonist.
Dwight’s newest rival Jeremiah Dunmire isn’t playing games(Image: PARAMOUNT)
One ecstatic viewer took to X to reply to Patrick’s recent post in which he warned Dwight not to “cross” him.
Using plenty of fire emojis they exclaimed in the comments: “Yoooo, I just watched the new episode and O M G… and this is just the 1st episode and yall WENT TF OFFF… WOW!! ..
“You ARE GONNA BE A PROBLEMA FOR Dwight. Your character already starting off EVIL AF. Dude, I WAS YELLING AT THE TV AT THE END LIKE NOOO WAY! 10/10 show!!
“I can’t wait for next week.. man oh man.. GANGSTA A*** S***!! Awesome job yall!!!”
Someone else replied: “you’re awesome dude, great career, enjoy your success!!”
Robert Patrick is best known for playing the deadly T-1000 in Terminator 2(Image: TRI-STAR PICTURES)
Paramount+ half price sale
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Paramount+ is offering 50% off its Standard and Premium subscriptions until July 10.
Discussion continued over on Reddit, where one user wrote: “Good to see Robert Patrick get consistent acting work.” To which another viewer replied: “He killed it and he was only on screen for a few mins.”
Another said: “Robert Patrick Is [a] great bad guy character.”
While other fans praised the episode in general for starting off the new season strong, with one sharing: “It’s already looking great, way better than season 2’s premiere for sure.”
And a final fan predicted: “Sly’s gonna rip Terminator’s nuts off for killing that old guy!”
Are you excited to see Stallone going head-to-head with one of Hollywood’s greatest villains?
Tulsa King season 3 continues Sundays on Paramount+.
Brazil now joins Spain, Ireland, Mexico, Turkiye and others who have signed on to the case.
Published On 20 Sep 202520 Sep 2025
Share
Brazil has formally joined the case launched by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that alleges Israel is committing “genocide” in the Gaza Strip.
The Hague court confirmed in a statement on Friday that Brazil invoked Article 63 of the ICJ statute, filing a declaration of intervention in the case.
Recommended Stories
list of 3 itemsend of list
The article gives any United Nations member state the right to intervene in a case when the interpretation of a treaty to which it is a party is in question. Brazil used the article to formally recognize that Israel is violating the Genocide Convention of 1948.
South Africa and Israel are now invited to “furnish written observations on the declaration of intervention”, the World Court said.
The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in July it intended to join the case, citing “impunity” that undermined international law as it denounced Israeli aggression in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Brazil now joins Spain, Ireland, Mexico, Turkiye and others who have intervened in favor of South Africa to join the case against Israel over the genocidal war, which has killed more than 65,000 Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023.
COMMUNIQUÉ : le Brésil, se référant à l’article 63 du Statut de la #CIJ, a déposé une déclaration d’intervention en l’affaire #AfriqueduSud c. #Israël.
The ICJ’s final verdict could still take several years to come, but the court issued an interim order in January 2024 that obliged Israel to take action to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and allow for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid.
The court also ruled that Israel’s presence in occupied Palestinian territory is unlawful, and that its policies amount to annexation .
Ignoring those rulings, as well as mounting international condemnation of its conduct, Israel has since then destroyed far more of Gaza and West Bank, and is quickly advancing with plans to sixteen much of the Palestinian territory.
The United States and the European allies of Israel continue to arm and fund Israel, even as credible international bodies are increasingly recognizing that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza .
Washington has also rejected the merits of the ICJ case, and US legislators have directed threats and criticism against South Africa. The US has also issued unprecedented sanctions of members of the International Criminal Court (ICC), who have issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
Sept. 17 (UPI) — Massachusetts says that all citizens should be vaccinated to protect against the COVID-19 virus as the Bay State will now force insurance providers to cover vaccines approved by the state.
On Wednesday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health released its COVID-19 vaccine guidelines through 2026 that suggested all state residents get a COVID-19 shot, including children ages 6, and particularly those at higher risk of exposure, with a weakened immune system or pregnant.
“We are not going to let Donald Trump or Robert Kennedy take away your ability to make your own health care decisions,” said Gov. Maura Healey.
Healey said earlier this month that Massachusetts will begin to require health insurance companies to cover state-recommended vaccines and became the first U.S. state to do so, followed by Illinois in an executive order Friday by Gov. JB Pritzker, a Democrat.
Executive actions in Illinois and Massachusetts could be the first in a series of other similar acts by governors to create a coalition to set vaccine policy separate of federal authorities.
“Massachusetts will continue to lead with science and protect access to life-saving vaccines,” Healey, 54, said Wednesday in a statement.
Notably, the Healey administration’s plan was backed by the nonprofit entities Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans.
The newly issued state guidelines stand in stark contrast to federal recommendations by the Trump administration and Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.
Massachusetts health officials said the state acted on an “extensive review of current scientific data” consistent with widely respected groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The commonwealth’s Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein reiterated Wednesday that vaccines remain the “most effective public health intervention of the past century,” adding that vaccine use has “saved millions of lives.”
Goldstein stated its guidelines were “grounded in evidence and science, driven by equity and shaped by the lived experiences” of Massachusetts’ 351 communities.
On Monday, Healey called Kennedy a “walking conspiracy theorist who is denying people vaccines and the healthcare they want and need” during a speech to Massachusetts Democrats as she hailed her administration’s new vaccine coverage mandate for insurance conglomerates.
A recent study indicated that in 2022 and 2023 more than 1.5 million “missing Americans” died due to COVID-19 in excessive deaths that could have been averted.
But on Wednesday Healey said the state was taking this action “so the people of Massachusetts know that you will continue to be able to get the vaccines you want and need — no matter what happens at the federal level.”
Also on Wednesday, ex-CDC Director Susan Minaret appeared on Capitol Hill to testify in front of lawmakers over her termination by Kennedy due to allegations that she refused to allow all decisions to be approved by political staff.
