Author: thaobh.leo@gmail.com

In 2021, Sungmin Cho wrote, “South Korea’s Taiwan Conundrum,” where he argued Seoul’s complex strategic position makes engagement on questions of involvement over a Taiwan contingency complicated. Five years later, we asked him to revisit his arguments.Image: U.S. Navy (Photo by Seaman Apprentice Cale Hatch)In your 2021 article, you argued that Seoul should more actively engage in strategic dialogue with Washington on Taiwan issues. Five years later, what does that dialogue look like? How has South Korea adjusted its strategic thinking regarding involvement in a potential Taiwan contingency since 2021, based on its relationship with the United States?Outside the government, the…

New compact AI-enabled edge video processing module supports growing demand for smart sensors, distributed sensing architectures and low-SWaP ISR applications.Chess Dynamics, part of the Cohort Group, has expanded its Vision4ce CHARM portfolio with the introduction of CHARM50, a compact edge video processing module designed for low-SWaP platforms and sensor systems.As defence and security systems become increasingly distributed, there is growing demand for processing capability that can be deployed closer to the sensor. Applications including airborne surveillance, unmanned systems, compact gimbals and hand-held sensors are placing greater emphasis on technologies that can deliver advanced video processing capability whilst operating within strict…

The Naval Systems Division has been commissioned by the Federal Customs Administration to carry out repair and maintenance work on four new LNG-powered customs vessels. To this end, a multi-year framework agreement has been agreed with the client, covering maintenance, repairs and emergency services. The service contract, which covers comprehensive support for technical issues during operation and regular maintenance at the berths in Lubmin, Neustadt i.H., Wilhelmshaven and Emden, includes one 67-metre customs vessel and three 55-metre customs vessels. The latter were built at Peene-Werft shipyard and handed over to the client last year, on schedule and within the contractually…

In the Polish defence industry ecosystem, WB Group comes second in terms of size after PGZ, but is by far the biggest privately owned player, not only in defence but considering the whole Polish industry. Since 2014 WB started exporting its systems in Ukraine, and in the last 12 years it developed close links to the armed forces of that country, which allows its companies to have first-hand feedback from the battlefield, allowing the Polish group to continuously evolve and improve its products click on image to enlarge WB was established in 1997 by two engineers, Piotr Wojciechowski and Adam…

A jet built to train fighter pilots is becoming something more.The Leonardo M-346 Master started as an advanced jet trainer, designed to prepare pilots for the demands of modern combat aircraft. But the latest M-346F Block 20 adds systems that push the aircraft into a much broader role, including AESA radar, Link 16 and electronic countermeasures.That shift is attracting fresh attention in 2026.In July, Indonesia signed a contract for 12 M-346F Block 20 aircraft, becoming the first Asian customer for the latest standard. Leonardo says the wider Leonardo M-346 Master program has already passed 170 aircraft ordered and more than…

The purpose of Kyokushin karate goes beyond just physical combat and self-defense. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to personal development, mental discipline, and character building. Here are some of the key purposes of Kyokushin karate: Physical Fitness: Kyokushin training involves rigorous physical conditioning, which helps practitioners develop strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness. Self-Defense: While Kyokushin emphasizes non-aggression and self-control, it also equips practitioners with effective self-defense techniques that can be useful in real-life situations. Mental Discipline: Kyokushin places a strong emphasis on mental toughness, focus, and self-discipline. Practitioners learn to push past their limits, stay committed to their goals,…

Scopely has officially announced a new Monster Mash Season for MONOPOLY GO!, bringing together Netflix’s hit anime film KPop Demon Hunters and Sony Pictures’ Ghostbusters for a supernatural takeover. Starting September 23, 2026, you can step into a spooky new season filled with themed mini-games, collectibles, community creations, and plenty of Halloween-inspired surprises. Running till November 25, 2026, the season will let you meet characters from both franchises across different MONOPOLY GO! events while also introducing new ways to play with friends. From HUNTR/X and the Saja Boys to the Ghostbusters crew, plenty is waiting for you on the board.…

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org A new think tank report calls for a buildup of U.S. drones and munitions needed for a potential fight against the Chinese military over Taiwan, though other experts argue the report is missing some nuance in the munitions equation. The Center for a New American Security’s report, “Drones, Missiles, and the U.S. Munitions Shortage: The Role of Affordable Mass in a Taiwan Conflict,” released Sept. 18, makes the case for increased…

The Pentagon’s industrial-base problem is no longer a shortage of capital. It is the time required to turn that capital into qualified suppliers, suppliers into parts, and parts into weapons in warfighters’ hands.Three changes would shorten that timeline more than the next hundred billion dollars in appropriations. First, let defense suppliers that have earned a qualification for one program—that is, proven through testing and quality review that they meet its requirements—keep that qualification when seeking work in another program with similar requirements. Second, fund qualification as its own budget line. And third, increase multiyear acquisition to create the kind of…

UFC Hall of Famer Jose Aldo is open to re-entering the boxing ring again in 2027.The former UFC featherweight champion compiled a boxing record of 2-0-1 after retiring from MMA in 2022, prior to his UFC return in 2024, and revealed he had discussions with Spaten Fight Night officials earlier this year about possibly headlining their most recent card in August. The event was ultimately topped by Glover Teixeira vs. Shogun Rua.“I even messaged Dana [White],” Aldo told MMA Fighting. “But [Spaten] needed an answer right away because they were running out of time when we talked, and I was…