Turkey’s Fidan heads to Moscow as S-400 sanctions issue returns to fore The visit comes weeks before Turkey hosts NATO leaders, on the sidelines of which Ankara hopes to reach a deal with Washington over CAATSA sanctions over its purchase of Russian S-400s. Turkey
What Lebanon army chief’s visit to Pakistan means Lebanon’s armed forces commander, Gen. Rodolphe Haykal, met with his Pakistani counterpart, Field Marshal Asim Munir, during his visit to Pakistan that coincided with ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US despite exchanges of fire. Lebanon
Explainer Turkey warns Greece, Cyprus not to engage in arms race: What to know Ankara is alarmed by Greece's military modernization, Cyprus’ shift to Western arms and expanding Greece-Cyprus-Israel defense ties. Turkey
Iran's covert nuclear risk higher after war as IAEA access constrained: Report Iran is estimated to possess about 440.9 kilograms, approximately 972 pounds, of uranium enriched to 60% purity, just below the 90% level considered weapons-grade. Iran
Analysis Cheap drones, costly threats: Why Gulf states are looking to Turkey for defense deals By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Analysis From drones to deterrence: Turkey's ICBM missile signals bigger ambitions By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Israeli defense minister pushes security cooperation, trade in India Defense Minister Benny Gantz's twice-postponed trip to India that finally took place last week. Israel
Turkey, Kazakhstan sign joint production accord for drones Turkey and Kazakhstan agree on an enhanced strategic partnership during Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s first-ever state visit to Turkey . Turkey
Israel tests innovative, high-powered laser defense system Israel advances with the development of a laser-based missile interceptor system that should significantly change the balance of powers in the region. Israel
Analysis Lawmakers call for probe as arms purchasers target US-based dissidents Democratic lawmakers are seeking a congressional watchdog study on how the State Department is tracking extraterritorial harassment by countries that benefit from US security assistance or arms, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. By Elizabeth Hagedorn In Washington, DC, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights
Middle East struggles against drones, despite billions in defense spending Military unmanned aircraft, both custom-designed and retrofitted, pose an increasing threat to security in the region, and states' defense capabilities have not kept up with advances in attack technology. By Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo
US approves $4.2 billion F-16 sale to Jordan, air defense systems to Gulf Lockheed Martin's THAAD air defense system marked its first successful combat shoot-downs during ballistic missile attacks on the UAE in recent weeks. Legacy: Gulf
Intel: Pentagon chief orders reform to civilian harm policies Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's initiative follows pressure from lawmakers and fruitless attempts at reform under the prior administration. Washington Pulse
Saudi business group touts plan to improve economic ties with Russia Russia is working to improve relations with Saudi Arabia and wants the kingdom to buy its S-400 missile defense system. Russia
Israeli Cabinet approves probe into submarine affair Defense Minister Benny Gantz marked an important victory with the government approving his long-standing proposal to establish a state inquiry commission on the "submarine affair." Israel
Moscow struggles to sell fighter jets in the Mideast With Egypt and Algeria reportedly backing out of plans to acquire Russian-made fighter jets, there is speculation Tehran could emerge as a potential buyer. Iran
US Navy tests laser weapon in Gulf of Aden The USS Portland fired the prototype laser at a floating training target, the Navy said in a statement. News Brief
