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U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, launch from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD-4) in support of the U.S. naval blockade of Iran. The Ospreys are embarked aboard Boxer as part of the aviation combat element of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), which is deployed to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of operations. According to this morning's update from CENTCOM, U.S. forces have now redirected 67 commercial vessels, boarded two to ensure compliance, and disabled three vessels that failed to comply with blockade directives.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090473579632902578#m

Published: August 20, 2026 16:18

U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, launch from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD-4) in support of the U.S. naval blockade of…

As the Russian 2026 Parliamentary Elections are quickly approaching and the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine shows no sign of stopping, traders on Polymarket are predicting - with a 72% chance - that Vladimir Putin’s All-Russian Political Party, known as United Russia and the ruling party since 2001, will retain control and possibly even gain seats in Russia’s Federal Assembly.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090469650890953134#m

Published: August 20, 2026 16:02

As the Russian 2026 Parliamentary Elections are quickly approaching and the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine shows no sign of stopping, traders on Polymarket are predicting - with a 72% chance - that Vladimir Putin’s All-Russian Political Party, known…

Sailors onboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) assist with a vertical replenishment-at-sea by a Eurocopter AS-332 Super Puma from the Henry J. Kaiser-class replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO-187) in the Arabian Sea, on August 16, 2026.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090466711052955744#m

Published: August 20, 2026 15:51

Sailors onboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) assist with a vertical replenishment-at-sea by a Eurocopter AS-332 Super Puma from the Henry J. Kaiser-class replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO-187) in the Arabian…

Two F-16AM Fighting Falcons with the Romanian Air Force were scrambled early Thursday to investigate an unidentified naval surface drone spotted near the Neptun Deep Project, a major European offshore natural gas field off the coast of Romania in the Black Sea. On approach, the drone - believed to be of Russian origin - was determined to be an active threat, with one of the F-16s using its M61A1 Vulcan Six-Barrel Gatling Gun to target and destroy the explosive-laden surface drone, roughly 80NM east of the Romanian Black Sea coastal city of Constanța. Romanian President Nicușor Dan blamed the incident on Russia, stating in a post online: “I strongly condemn the intensification of these types of irresponsible incidents on the part of the Russian Federation.” While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as part of an “escalating campaign of threats” against the European Union.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090464442152620527#m

Published: August 20, 2026 15:42

Two F-16AM Fighting Falcons with the Romanian Air Force were scrambled early Thursday to investigate an unidentified naval surface drone spotted near the Neptun Deep Project, a major European offshore natural gas field off the coast of Romania in the Black…

The FBI has raided former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s Washington home and seized electronic devices at San Francisco airport as part of a federal investigation into sexual assault allegations against him. The raid comes after Swalwell resigned from Congress and ended his campaign for governor of California in April following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. The Manhattan DA and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are also investigating. Swalwell was previously linked to Christine Fang, or “Fang Fang,” a Chinese national investigated by the FBI as a suspected Chinese intelligence operative who had cultivated relationships with politically promising Bay Area politicians. Newly released FBI documents reportedly show Swalwell acknowledged having a sexual relationship with Fang between 2012 and 2015. Swalwell was briefed by U.S. intelligence about concerns surrounding Fang, cut off contact with her and cooperated with the FBI. He was never charged with wrongdoing, and the House Ethics Committee ultimately closed its investigation without action. Swalwell has denied the sexual-assault allegations.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090462311496532099#m

Published: August 20, 2026 15:33

The FBI has raided former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s Washington home and seized electronic devices at San Francisco airport as part of a federal investigation into sexual assault allegations against him. The raid comes after Swalwell resigned from Congress and…

Yesterday at approximately 7:50 p.m. local time, a Pennsylvania State Police Bell 407 helicopter, N873ST, collided with another, as yet unidentified Cessna 150 aircraft while operating at Carlisle Airport in Carlisle, PA just west of Harrisburg. The collision killed the sole occupant of the Cessna and injured both troopers in the helicopter. The circumstances surrounding the collision are under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090445057430020508#m

Published: August 20, 2026 14:25

Yesterday at approximately 7:50 p.m. local time, a Pennsylvania State Police Bell 407 helicopter, N873ST, collided with another, as yet unidentified Cessna 150 aircraft while operating at Carlisle Airport in Carlisle, PA just west of Harrisburg. The…

Another day of heightened aerial activity near the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. Thanks to reporting from @thewarzonewire's @Haltman, we now know the activity is part of a U.S.-led NATO exercise that also includes a ground component involving Polish armed forces, although their specific role has not been disclosed. Several U.S. Air Force and NATO tankers are operating in refueling racetrack orbits over Polish airspace, while a NATO E-3 AWACS is orbiting just north of the tanker tracks. A U.S. Air Force EA-37B "Compass Call II" electronic-warfare aircraft has also made the trip into the area again, this time flying directly from Chania, Greece, before operating near Kaliningrad. A NATO official told The War Zone that the exercise is not in response to recent Russian military activity or rhetoric. However, comments from a Polish official appeared to indicate that deterrence is part of the broader purpose of the exercise. The activity remains notable given the concentration of airborne early warning, electronic warfare, ISR and aerial refueling capabilities operating in close proximity to Kaliningrad.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090432635713515687#m

Published: August 20, 2026 13:35

Another day of heightened aerial activity near the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. Thanks to reporting from @thewarzonewire's @Haltman, we now know the activity is part of a U.S.-led NATO exercise that also includes a ground component involving Polish…

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that the USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group (CSG) entered the Arabian Sea yesterday and is now operating within the CENTCOM area of operations. The strike group is centered on the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) and includes the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG-62) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG-86). With the arrival of the Washington CSG, the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) CSG will soon begin its month long journey home to San Diego.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090405059301413048#m

Published: August 20, 2026 11:46

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that the USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group (CSG) entered the Arabian Sea yesterday and is now operating within the CENTCOM area of operations. The strike group is centered on the Nimitz-class aircraft…

The Air Force has now placed Maj. Jason Watson in pretrial confinement following his public calls for President Donald J. Trump’s impeachment. Watson was previously arrested on July 1st after delivering a speech on the U.S. Capitol steps calling for the impeachment of President Trump while in uniform. He was not formally charged by the military over that demonstration, although wearing a uniform while participating in political activity is prohibited by military regulations. He was detained again on Aug. 18, one day after criticizing Trump in a CNN interview. According to his attorney, Watson had informed his chain of command that he would no longer wear his uniform and was arrested after refusing an order to put it back on. The Air Force says there is probable cause supporting allegations of “continued misconduct,” but Watson has not yet been formally charged. His attorney expects potential charges under Article 88, which prohibits contemptuous words against certain senior government officials, or Article 92 for failure to obey an order. Source: https://www.cnn.com/2026/08/19/politics/us-airman-arrested-at-capitol-trump-impeachment-detained

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090280304913047841#m

Published: August 20, 2026 03:30

The Air Force has now placed Maj. Jason Watson in pretrial confinement following his public calls for President Donald J. Trump’s impeachment. Watson was previously arrested on July 1st after delivering a speech on the U.S. Capitol steps calling for the…

President Donald J. Trump disclosed today that North Korea possesses "57 very powerful nuclear weapons," adding that the arsenal "shouldn't have been allowed to happen." The figure is notable because the U.S. government does not publicly disclose a precise number for North Korea's nuclear stockpile; outside estimates have generally placed it in the roughly 50–90 warhead range. The disclosure comes days after Trump ordered Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce U.S.-South Korean military exercises, arguing that the drills are too costly and send an "inappropriate and hostile" signal to North Korea, which he described as "unthreatening and respectful." The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise subsequently began but was shortened by six days, with Seoul announcing that it would conclude Friday rather than continue through its originally scheduled period. Trump has also said he intends to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later this year, potentially marking another effort to revive the diplomacy that stalled after the 2019 Hanoi summit. Source: https://x.com/atrupar/status/2090099695825645870?s=20

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090256510521577641#m

Published: August 20, 2026 01:56

President Donald J. Trump disclosed today that North Korea possesses "57 very powerful nuclear weapons," adding that the arsenal "shouldn't have been allowed to happen." The figure is notable because the U.S. government does not publicly disclose a precise…

President Donald J. Trump has announced what he calls the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY," declaring a campaign of unprecedented economic warfare and isolation against Iran. Trump said the United States will target not only Iran, but any country, financial institution, business, airport or government entity providing Iran with what he describes as a "lifeline." He specifically cited oil smuggling, financial transfers, currency exchanges, ship registries and front companies. The announcement represents a significant shift in rhetoric from the administration's repeated public assertions over the past several months that negotiations with Iran were progressing well and a deal was close. As recently as August 5, Trump said negotiations were "working out quite well," while on July 28 he described discussions with Iran as a "beautiful discussion" and said the door remained open to a deal. Those statements came despite the June Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ultimately collapsing, the 60 day negotiating window expiring without a broader agreement, and Iran and the United States remaining sharply divided over the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and the U.S. military presence in the region. Today's announcement therefore appears to mark another significant turn in the administration's carrot-and stick strategy toward Tehran: Trump is simultaneously declaring Iran to be on the brink of collapse while imposing substantially broader economic pressure intended to force a resolution. Trump also reiterated that Iran will never be permitted to obtain a nuclear weapon.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090216975314161834#m

Published: August 19, 2026 23:18

President Donald J. Trump has announced what he calls the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY," declaring a campaign of unprecedented economic warfare and isolation against Iran. Trump said the United States will target not…

Five Americans and Ecuador’s intelligence chief, Michele Sensi-Contugi, were killed Wednesday when a helicopter crashed in central Kenya. According to Kenyan authorities, the Eurocopter EC-130 B4 was carrying seven people when it went down near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County. Sensi-Contugi was traveling with his wife, fashion designer Stephany Sensi, who was also killed. Telemundo executive José Suárez was among the American fatalities. The helicopter was reportedly carrying guests from the luxury safari operator &Beyond and had been traveling from the Loisaba wildlife conservancy toward the Ewaso Ngiro River. The cause of the crash has not been determined. Kenyan Red Cross teams conducted search and recovery operations at the site, which were complicated by difficult terrain and an active fire. Kenya’s Transport Ministry is investigating. The U.S. State Department confirmed the deaths of the five Americans and said the U.S. Embassy was coordinating with Kenyan authorities and providing consular assistance. Source; https://www.cnn.com/2026/08/19/africa/kenya-helicopter-crash-latam-intl

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090206485787652532#m

Published: August 19, 2026 22:37

Five Americans and Ecuador’s intelligence chief, Michele Sensi-Contugi, were killed Wednesday when a helicopter crashed in central Kenya. According to Kenyan authorities, the Eurocopter EC-130 B4 was carrying seven people when it went down near Mount…

The Navy has charged a sailor with murder and involuntary manslaughter in connection with the June 6 shooting death of Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Jesse Braswell (picturec below) aboard the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CVN-79). At the time of the shooting, the JFK was docked at Newport News shipbuilding. According to the charge sheet obtained by USNI News, Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Aircraft Handling Airman Apprentice Jayjrion Rodriguez allegedly shot Braswell while the two were serving as part of the ship’s in port security force. Rodriguez is also charged with three specifications each of simple assault with a loaded firearm and reckless endangerment. The charges allege that he pointed a loaded service pistol at three other sailors on separate occasions, once in February and twice in May, before Braswell’s death. Rodriguez was initially placed in pretrial confinement following the June shooting but was released five days later. The Navy formally charged him on July 29. The Virginia medical examiner classified Braswell’s death as a homicide. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) remains the lead investigative agency, and an Article 32 preliminary hearing is expected in the coming weeks.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090205419008376924#m

Published: August 19, 2026 22:33

The Navy has charged a sailor with murder and involuntary manslaughter in connection with the June 6 shooting death of Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Jesse Braswell (picturec below) aboard the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CVN-79). At the time of the…

For the first time in U.S. history, the national debt has surpassed $40 trillion. The milestone comes as the federal government has added roughly $2.5 trillion since the beginning of fiscal year 2026 on October 1, 2025. The Congressional Budget Office reports that the government borrowed about $1.8 trillion during the first 10 months of the fiscal year alone. Using the Census Bureau's 2026 population estimate of roughly 342.7 million people, $40 trillion equates to approximately $116,700 in gross federal debt for every U.S. resident. And the cost of servicing that debt is growing: the CBO reported approximately $963 billion in net interest payments during the first 10 months of FY2026, or more than $3 billion per day.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090191345897935334#m

Published: August 19, 2026 21:37

For the first time in U.S. history, the national debt has surpassed $40 trillion. The milestone comes as the federal government has added roughly $2.5 trillion since the beginning of fiscal year 2026 on October 1, 2025. The Congressional Budget Office…

The motor tanker Hestia transited the Strait of Hormuz inbound overnight, using the U.S. designated safe route through Omani waters. However, as the vessel approached the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it abruptly reversed course near the same general area that was targeted in an Iranian missile attack yesterday. The Hestia has since moved into an anchorage in the Gulf of Oman off the UAE, where it is currently loitering rather than proceeding back towards the Persian Gulf. The reason the vessel turned around is currently unclear.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090113197676155045#m

Published: August 19, 2026 16:26

The motor tanker Hestia transited the Strait of Hormuz inbound overnight, using the U.S. designated safe route through Omani waters. However, as the vessel approached the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it abruptly reversed course near the same general area…

Reuters reports that the U.S. and South Korea are cutting the duration and scope of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise following President Donald J. Trump’s order to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce U.S. participation. The exercise, which began Aug. 17, will now end Aug. 21 rather than Aug. 27. The allies are also scaling back some field maneuvers, with portions of the planned second phase reportedly being canceled and some live-fire training events either canceled or shifted to simulations. U.S. and South Korean officials say the changes will preserve the exercise’s essential readiness objectives, while North Korea has condemned the drills as provocative regardless of their reduced size. On Sunday, President Trump took to Truth Social to order the reduction citing his “very good relationship” with Kim Jong Un, while Reuters reports that the administration is also seeking to reopen direct diplomacy with Pyongyang. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Trump’s aides are pushing for a meeting with Kim as early as this fall. South Korean officials said they were not informed in advance of President Trump’s order. Source: https://www.defensenews.com/news/pentagon-congress/2026/08/19/us-south-korea-to-cut-length-scope-of-military-drills-after-trump-order

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2090105590408167535#m

Published: August 19, 2026 15:56

Reuters reports that the U.S. and South Korea are cutting the duration and scope of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise following President Donald J. Trump’s order to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce U.S. participation. The exercise,…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.twz.com/land/new-patriot-battalion-to-bolster-guams-defenses-within-months

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089863108353225148#m

Published: August 18, 2026 23:52

Source: twz.com/land/new-patriot-bat… Link New Patriot Battalion To Bolster Guam's Defenses Within Months The new unit will also have short-range counter-cruise missile systems that will enhance the strategic island's defenses and grow the Army's…

The U.S. Army is preparing to stand up a new Patriot air-defense battalion on Guam in October, adding another layer to the island’s growing integrated air and missile defense network, according to reporting from TWZ. The new 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (3-43 ADA) will combine Patriot with Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC)/Enduring Shield, giving Guam layered protection against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones. About 120 soldiers are already on the island, with the weapon systems expected to arrive over the following months. The move is significant given Guam’s role as a major U.S. air and naval hub in the Western Pacific and its vulnerability to Chinese ballistic, cruise and hypersonic missile threats. The broader Guam Defense System is also incorporating new sensors, including the LTAMDS and AN/TPY-6, and ground-based launchers capable of supporting SM-3/SM-6 interceptors. But the timing also highlights a broader problem: the Army needs more Patriot battalions at the same time its existing force is already heavily strained. The Army currently has 15 operational Patriot battalions and has discussed adding at least three more, in addition to the Guam unit. The challenge isn't simply launching units, it is equipping them. Patriot interceptor stocks have been heavily consumed by the war with Iran, while transfers to Ukraine have also reduced inventories. New PAC-2 and PAC-3 interceptors require years to produce, and Raytheon and Lockheed Martin are simultaneously facing demand from the U.S. and international customers.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089863105069092879#m

Published: August 18, 2026 23:52

The U.S. Army is preparing to stand up a new Patriot air-defense battalion on Guam in October, adding another layer to the island’s growing integrated air and missile defense network, according to reporting from TWZ. The new 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air…

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued an advisory more than 24 hours after receiving a report of an incident approximately 40NM southeast of Al Mukha, Yemen. According to UKMTO, an uncrewed cargo vessel was struck by multiple projectiles, resulting in what authorities describe as a constructive total loss of the vessel. The advisory follows claims from Houthi linked accounts alleging that the vessel was targeted because it was supporting Saudi-led forces. Those accounts have also claimed attacks against multiple Saudi warships, although Saudi authorities have not yet publicly confirmed those claims.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089795325586178468#m

Published: August 18, 2026 19:23

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued an advisory more than 24 hours after receiving a report of an incident approximately 40NM southeast of Al Mukha, Yemen. According to UKMTO, an uncrewed cargo vessel was struck by…

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Defense has announced that the earlier alert was triggered by the launch of two ballistic missiles from Iran that impacted off the coast, one inside territorial waters (within 12 nautical miles) and one outside territorial waters.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089790502988038299#m

Published: August 18, 2026 19:04

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Defense has announced that the earlier alert was triggered by the launch of two ballistic missiles from Iran that impacted off the coast, one inside territorial waters (within 12 nautical miles) and one outside…

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have announced a missile threat has been detected.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089728656079737150#m

Published: August 18, 2026 14:58

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have announced a missile threat has been detected. NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) UAE air defence systems detected a missile threat targeting the county. Please remain in a safe location and follow warnings and updates…

Some interesting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activity just wrapped up around Kaliningrad, Russia. A NATO E-3 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AWACS) aircraft was operating nearby while a U.S. Air Force EA-37B "Compass Call II" electronic warfare aircraft, which had been operating from Greece in support of operations in the Middle East, repositioned to Powidz, Poland earlier. The EA-37B then flew a racetrack pattern between Kaliningrad and the NATO E-3 for roughly two hours before departing towards Greece. At the same time, a contracted U.S. Army-owned/contractor operated Airborne Reconnaissance and Targeting Exploitation Multi-Mission Intelligence System (ARTEMIS II) aircraft conducted a series of orbits encircling Kaliningrad. ARTEMIS II and NATO E-3 missions in the area are not unusual, but the concurrent presence of the EA-37B is noteworthy. The Compass Call is an airborne electronic warfare platform designed to detect, identify and disrupt enemy communications and other electromagnetic systems. Its presence alongside an AWACS and dedicated ISR aircraft suggests NATO and U.S. forces had a particular intelligence or electronic warfare requirement in the vicinity of Kaliningrad. The timing is notable given recent reporting that Russia may be preparing for a potential operation against a NATO member. Whether today's activity is related remains unknown, but it is an unusual combination of capabilities in a particularly sensitive area.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089700525604245557#m

Published: August 18, 2026 13:06

Some interesting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activity just wrapped up around Kaliningrad, Russia. A NATO E-3 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AWACS) aircraft was operating nearby while a U.S. Air Force EA-37B "Compass Call II"…

President Donald J. Trump has posted a new image to his Truth Social feed declaring the Strait of Hormuz as a "NEW U.S. Territory".

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089682235666370578#m

Published: August 18, 2026 11:54

President Donald J. Trump has posted a new image to his Truth Social feed declaring the Strait of Hormuz as a "NEW U.S. Territory".

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued a warning to commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz after receiving a report of a vessel that was struck in its engine room while transiting outbound. The attack resulted in one casualty. The remaining crew are being assisted by the Omani Coast Guard.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089567438966767772#m

Published: August 18, 2026 04:17

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued a warning to commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz after receiving a report of a vessel that was struck in its engine room while transiting outbound. The attack resulted in one…

Moldova’s General Inspectorate of Police have issued a statement reporting that they are responding to a possible explosion outside the village of Talmaza, roughly 13 miles from the border with Ukraine, likely caused by the impact of a Russian cruise missile that was detected earlier entering Moldovan Airspace from the direction of Ukraine.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089377471162359844#m

Published: August 17, 2026 15:43

Moldova’s General Inspectorate of Police have issued a statement reporting that they are responding to a possible explosion outside the village of Talmaza, roughly 13 miles from the border with Ukraine, likely caused by the impact of a Russian cruise…

Initial reports of a Russian cruise missile impact in Moldova.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089374958979805320#m

Published: August 17, 2026 15:33

Initial reports of a Russian cruise missile impact in Moldova.

Several students have been injured in an explosion outside of the Sham-e Hedayat Private School in the Dasht-e-Barchi Neighborhood of Kabul, Afghanistan.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089366244394705117#m

Published: August 17, 2026 14:58

Several students have been injured in an explosion outside of the Sham-e Hedayat Private School in the Dasht-e-Barchi Neighborhood of Kabul, Afghanistan. Video

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/08/17/everybody-loves-a-winner-us-ukraine-intel-sharing-surges-as-kyiv-racks-up-wins/

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089356063824875547#m

Published: August 17, 2026 14:17

Source: defensenews.com/global/europ… Link ‘Everybody loves a winner’: US-Ukraine intel sharing surges as Kyiv racks up wins U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine has rebounded to full strength as Kyiv’s mid- and deep-range strikes continue to hammer…

Defense News reports that U.S.-Ukraine intelligence cooperation has returned to a high level after the relationship was disrupted in early 2025. Sen. Mark Warner said the intelligence relationship has “improved,” while other lawmakers cited a connection between Ukraine’s recent battlefield successes and renewed access to U.S. intelligence. The cooperation is particularly significant for Ukraine’s expanding long range strike campaign. U.S. intelligence reportedly contributes to targeting packages for strikes against Russian forces in Ukraine and energy infrastructure inside Russia, while Ukraine continues to provide intelligence to Washington. The shift follows a period in which Kyiv’s increasingly effective drone and missile strikes have demonstrated an ability to impose significant costs deep inside Russia, particularly against its energy infrastructure. The reporting also highlights that the relationship is increasingly becoming two-way. Zelenskyy has said Ukraine possesses evidence that Russia has provided Iran with signals and electronic intelligence, including information obtained through Russian cooperation with Middle Eastern partners.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089356061778076126#m

Published: August 17, 2026 14:17

Defense News reports that U.S.-Ukraine intelligence cooperation has returned to a high level after the relationship was disrupted in early 2025. Sen. Mark Warner said the intelligence relationship has “improved,” while other lawmakers cited a connection…

Following the downing of several “unidentified drones” over members of NATO in Eastern Europe over the past few weeks, none of which are confirmed yet to have originated from Russia, chances on Polymarket’s betting market that NATO will down another such drone by the end of August have skyrocketed, currently hovering at around 97%.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089347855165125045#m

Published: August 17, 2026 13:45

Following the downing of several “unidentified drones” over members of NATO in Eastern Europe over the past few weeks, none of which are confirmed yet to have originated from Russia, chances on Polymarket’s betting market that NATO will down another such…

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has officially denied claims made earlier today by U.S. President Donald J. Trump of backchannel negotiations between Iran and the United States, saying in a statement to the Iranian state-run Tasnim News Agency: “There are no ongoing talks between the IRGC and the Americans, and this lie of Trump’s is merely a fantasy that has afflicted him due to the illusions and nightmares resulting from defeat and despair in the war.”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089345835746164890#m

Published: August 17, 2026 13:37

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has officially denied claims made earlier today by U.S. President Donald J. Trump of backchannel negotiations between Iran and the United States, saying in a statement to the Iranian state-run Tasnim News…

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued an advisory after receiving a report that vessel has been hijacked by 8 armed individuals in Somali territorial waters near Mareeyo. Authorities are investigating the incident.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089338644859322568#m

Published: August 17, 2026 13:08

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued an advisory after receiving a report that vessel has been hijacked by 8 armed individuals in Somali territorial waters near Mareeyo. Authorities are investigating the incident.

Iran will escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and across the Middle East if diplomacy ends up failing with the United States, a senior Iranian official has told Reuters.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089336576555839517#m

Published: August 17, 2026 13:00

Iran will escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and across the Middle East if diplomacy ends up failing with the United States, a senior Iranian official has told Reuters.

Speaking this morning to FOX News, President Trump stated that there are indeed backchannels with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), saying that he’s currently in “no hurry” to achieve a peace deal to end the Iran War while warning, “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the shit out of them.”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089335307179020331#m

Published: August 17, 2026 12:55

Speaking this morning to FOX News, President Trump stated that there are indeed backchannels with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), saying that he’s currently in “no hurry” to achieve a peace deal to end the Iran War while warning, “If Oman…

The Department of War announced a $22.9 billion Navy contract with Raytheon, an RTX business, to accelerate Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) production, framing it as part of the Pentagon’s broader effort to rapidly expand munitions output. The announcement comes after the Pentagon has been pressing defense contractors to expand production of critical munitions amid the demands of the Iran war and concerns over depleted inventories. Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffey said the award is a response to that push, while Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao described it as an effort to accelerate Tomahawk deliveries at an “unprecedented speed.” Notably, the $22.9 billion figure is the value of the contract, but the announcement does not specify how many additional Tomahawks it will ultimately produce or how quickly those missiles will be delivered.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089329392526803251#m

Published: August 17, 2026 12:31

The Department of War announced a $22.9 billion Navy contract with Raytheon, an RTX business, to accelerate Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) production, framing it as part of the Pentagon’s broader effort to rapidly expand munitions output. The…

The Wall Street Journal reports that Iran’s leadership used the period following the June memorandum of understanding not to prepare for deescalation, but for a larger conflict with the United States. According to Iranian and Arab officials and intercepted communications cited by the Journal, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has expanded its control over Iran’s military, accelerated missile and drone production, and worked with allied groups in Iraq and Yemen to broaden the battlefield. That has included positioning missiles, naval weapons and drones around the Red Sea, providing Houthi forces with intelligence and target information, and preparing attacks against Saudi ports and energy infrastructure. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have also targeted Saudi energy sites. The Journal also reports a broader shift inside Tehran toward an offensive posture. Recent senior security appointments have strengthened IRGC control over the regular military, while commanders have publicly called for operations against targets in countries hosting U.S. forces. The immediate effect has been a widening conflict: attacks on shipping in Hormuz, strikes against U.S. forces in Jordan and elsewhere, and increasing pressure on Gulf energy infrastructure.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089319165098082736#m

Published: August 17, 2026 11:51

The Wall Street Journal reports that Iran’s leadership used the period following the June memorandum of understanding not to prepare for deescalation, but for a larger conflict with the United States. According to Iranian and Arab officials and…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/iran-plan-escalate-war-cc657664

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089319167379865681#m

Published: August 17, 2026 11:51

Source: wsj.com/world/middle-east/ir… Link Iran’s Secret Plan to Escalate the War Intercepted communications and other intelligence suggest a strategic shift by hard-line leaders to raise the costs for the U.S. and its regional allies. wsj.com

A U.S. Marine assigned to Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, Company B, Marine Corps Information Command, operates a first-person view drone aboard a UH-1Y Venom during Technology Operational Experimentation Event 26.1 near Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, on August 10, 2026.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089149642629845348#m

Published: August 17, 2026 00:37

A U.S. Marine assigned to Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, Company B, Marine Corps Information Command, operates a first-person view drone aboard a UH-1Y Venom during Technology Operational Experimentation Event 26.1 near Marine Corps Air Station…

In July, the U.S. Navy, working with teams from the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Small Combatants (PEO USC), completed the service’s first long-range mission - stretching over 1,000NM across the Eastern Pacific - utilizing the Boeing and Huntington Ingalls-built Orca Extra Large Uncrewed Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV), according to a statement published by Rear Admiral Chris Cavanaugh, the Commander of the U.S. Submarine Force’s Pacific Fleet.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089132459065594182#m

Published: August 16, 2026 23:29

In July, the U.S. Navy, working with teams from the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Small Combatants (PEO USC), completed the service’s first long-range mission - stretching over 1,000NM across the Eastern Pacific - utilizing the Boeing and…

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has announced that he has instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce any future joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, calling them “totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, who he claims has been “unthreatening and respectful.”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089098075679724014#m

Published: August 16, 2026 21:12

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has announced that he has instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce any future joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, calling them “totally inappropriate and hostile” to…

Major drone attack by Ukraine is currently underway against Moscow and other parts of Central and Southern Russia, including Russian-occupied Crimea.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089090003649372244#m

Published: August 16, 2026 20:40

Major drone attack by Ukraine is currently underway against Moscow and other parts of Central and Southern Russia, including Russian-occupied Crimea.

Video footage published earlier today by the Yemeni Armed Forces, the military forces of the Republic of Yemen, showing a drone being used to drop bombs on Iranian-backed Houthi positions in the Al-Jawf Governorate, a previously unseen capability that has grown due to the Russia-Ukraine War.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089079848761258334#m

Published: August 16, 2026 20:00

Video footage published earlier today by the Yemeni Armed Forces, the military forces of the Republic of Yemen, showing a drone being used to drop bombs on Iranian-backed Houthi positions in the Al-Jawf Governorate, a previously unseen capability that has…

Statement published by the Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Adm. Brad Cooper, following a recent visit to the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) currently deployed to the Arabian Sea as part of the fleet enforcing the ongoing blockade against Iran. This visit came amid a wave of reporting from media outlets and the family members of Sailors aboard the Lincoln, warning of a mental health crisis onboard the aircraft carrier, with Cooper claiming in his statement, “Here's an important fact: Of the U.S. Navy's 11 active aircraft carriers, the Lincoln currently has among the lowest number of cases related to mental health.”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089078331463569908#m

Published: August 16, 2026 19:54

Statement published by the Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Adm. Brad Cooper, following a recent visit to the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) currently deployed to the Arabian Sea as part of the fleet enforcing the ongoing blockade against Iran. …

Anonymous photo posted online recently showing some “artwork” on the right wing flap of a U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotanker deployed to an undisclosed location in the Middle East, featuring such quotes as: -“I love Israel and I am a good Goyim” -“Peace Deal #64 Incoming…” -“Operation Epstein Fury” -“Be a good goy and do what Israel tells you to!!!” -“Bibi’s Cucks” -“I ❤️ Flock Cameras”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2089055481574703267#m

Published: August 16, 2026 18:23

Anonymous photo posted online recently showing some “artwork” on the right wing flap of a U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotanker deployed to an undisclosed location in the Middle East, featuring such quotes as: -“I love Israel and I am a good Goyim” -“Peace…

According to the latest Joint Maritime Information Center advisory, three vessels were struck as they transited the Strait of Hormuz since the last report. Two ships were transiting outbound through Omani territorial waters when they were struck. Another ship was struck in an undisclosed location in the Strait while transiting inbound. No injuries were reported and the vessels continued on their voyages.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088992524257853662#m

Published: August 16, 2026 14:13

According to the latest Joint Maritime Information Center advisory, three vessels were struck as they transited the Strait of Hormuz since the last report. Two ships were transiting outbound through Omani territorial waters when they were struck. Another…

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet has issued a statement denying recent reports of a shortage of feminine hygiene products on board the USS Boxer (LHD-4) stating that the reports are false.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088964715581972701#m

Published: August 16, 2026 12:22

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet has issued a statement denying recent reports of a shortage of feminine hygiene products on board the USS Boxer (LHD-4) stating that the reports are false.

A Spanish F-18 operating under NATO air-policing authorities shot down a drone that breached Romanian airspace early Sunday, according to Romania’s Defense Ministry. Romanian radars detected the drone entering from neighboring Moldova, about 15 miles north of Galați. The F-18 established radar contact and received authorization to engage, bringing the drone down at 05:01 local time. Debris reportedly fell in an uninhabited area. Romania says this is the fourth drone it has shot down this year. The country has experienced repeated Russian drone incursions during the war in Ukraine, including three Russian drones shot down by Romanian F-16s in July.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088943980016709860#m

Published: August 16, 2026 11:00

A Spanish F-18 operating under NATO air-policing authorities shot down a drone that breached Romanian airspace early Sunday, according to Romania’s Defense Ministry. Romanian radars detected the drone entering from neighboring Moldova, about 15 miles…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/romania-shoots-down-drone-breaching-its-airspace-defence-ministry-2026-08-16/

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088943982533288229#m

Published: August 16, 2026 11:00

Source: reuters.com/business/aerospa… Link Romania shoots down drone breaching its airspace - defence ministry A Spanish F-18 fighter jet pilot on a ​NATO air policing mission shot down a drone ‌illegally breaching Romanian national airspace, the…

Another Wildberries warehouse in Russia has reportedly been struck by Ukrainian drones, this time at the company's facility in Koledino, Moscow Oblast, in an attack that occurred within the past several hours. The strike comes as Ukraine has conducted a sustained campaign against Wildberries' logistics network. Reuters previously assessed that more than 20% of the company's nationwide warehouse capacity, approximately 1.18 million square meters, had been damaged or destroyed in attacks since mid-July. Wildberries is Russia's largest online retailer, and the repeated attacks have disrupted inventory, warehouse operations and deliveries across its nationwide distribution network. The company has reportedly begun taking measures to move goods and adjust its logistics operations in response to the damage.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088826869269274902#m

Published: August 16, 2026 03:15

Another Wildberries warehouse in Russia has reportedly been struck by Ukrainian drones, this time at the company's facility in Koledino, Moscow Oblast, in an attack that occurred within the past several hours. The strike comes as Ukraine has conducted a…

The USCGC Stratton (WMSL-752), a Legend-class cutter with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Canadian Navy’s Harry DeWolf-class offshore patrol vessel HMCS Max Bernays (AOPV-432), conduct a joint naval exercise in the Bering Strait between Alaska and Russia, as part of Operation Tundra Merlin, August 11, 2026.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088804792390824363#m

Published: August 16, 2026 01:47

The USCGC Stratton (WMSL-752), a Legend-class cutter with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Canadian Navy’s Harry DeWolf-class offshore patrol vessel HMCS Max Bernays (AOPV-432), conduct a joint naval exercise in the Bering Strait between Alaska and Russia, as…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/us-iran-war-strava-bases/

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088772208671805725#m

Published: August 15, 2026 23:37

Source: taskandpurpose.com/news/us-i… Link US bases, troops are once again being exposed by Strava Hundreds of users of the fitness tracking app logged workouts in American bases. Some were targeted by Iran. taskandpurpose.com

More than 1,300 Strava users have publicly logged workouts from U.S. military sites across the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area, according to an investigation by Sky News cited by Task & Purpose. The exposure is particularly concerning because many of these installations have subsequently been targeted by Iran. At Muwaffaq Al Salti Air Base in Jordan, for example, personnel regularly posted runs around the installation. Activity resumed in April and later became concentrated around barracks; the housing area was struck in July, killing three U.S. soldiers. The issue isn't new. In 2018, Strava's public heat maps exposed previously undisclosed military locations and details about base layouts. The Pentagon subsequently prohibited personnel from using geolocation features on personal or government devices. CENTCOM has since issued additional OPSEC guidance, including restrictions implemented when Operation Epic Fury began. Yet publicly available Strava data shows personnel are still exposing their locations. This is particularly notable given Adm. Brad Cooper's warning last month that Iran was using troops' photos, videos and other cellphone-generated information to assess strike effectiveness and help target U.S. personnel. Below are screenshots taken from the Strava app today showing activity at Muwaffaq Al Salti Air Base, Jordan and Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia. The blue lines are tracks uploaded to the app by users with the darker color representing higher usage of route.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088772206272684442#m

Published: August 15, 2026 23:37

More than 1,300 Strava users have publicly logged workouts from U.S. military sites across the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area, according to an investigation by Sky News cited by Task & Purpose. The exposure is particularly concerning because many of…

The future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) has successfully completed Navy acceptance trials, marking a major milestone toward delivery of the second Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier to the fleet, as announced by the U.S. Navy's Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE). Acceptance trials are the Navy's formal evaluation of the completed ship to determine whether it meets its required performance and capabilities. With the trials complete, Kennedy moves toward delivery to the Navy in March 2027, followed by additional post-delivery work, crew training and certification before entering operational service. Kennedy is the second ship of the Ford class, incorporating systems including EMALS electromagnetic catapults, Advanced Arresting Gear and Advanced Weapons Elevators.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088765334786564140#m

Published: August 15, 2026 23:10

The future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) has successfully completed Navy acceptance trials, marking a major milestone toward delivery of the second Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier to the fleet, as announced by the U.S. Navy's Portfolio Acquisition…

Iranian officials have accused Qatar of holding three Iranian military pilots who went missing after their aircraft were downed in March, confirming that Iranian aircraft violated Qatari airspace. Qatar has rejected the claim, saying the aircraft violated sovereign Qatari airspace and that Qatari authorities attempted to contact the aircraft but received no response. Qatar says that "necessary measures were taken to defend our territory." Qatar subsequently conducted search-and-rescue operations and says it recovered the remains of one pilot. Doha says it contacted Tehran to coordinate the handover but received no response, and has invited Iranian officials to review the details of the incident.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088726942271090763#m

Published: August 15, 2026 20:38

Iranian officials have accused Qatar of holding three Iranian military pilots who went missing after their aircraft were downed in March, confirming that Iranian aircraft violated Qatari airspace. Qatar has rejected the claim, saying the aircraft violated…

Reports within the last few minutes of ballistic and/or cruise missile launches from the Hormozgan Province of Southern Iran towards the Strait of Hormuz.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088704484557959374#m

Published: August 15, 2026 19:08

Reports within the last few minutes of ballistic and/or cruise missile launches from the Hormozgan Province of Southern Iran towards the Strait of Hormuz.

Five people were injured in a shooting involving multiple shooters near a residence hall at Virginia State University (VSU) early Saturday. Police responding around 1:30 a.m. found five people with gunshot wounds. One victim is in critical condition; four others suffered nonlife-threatening injuries. Only one victim has been confirmed as a VSU student, with investigators believing the others may be from the surrounding community. Authorities say the shooting was not a drive-by and are searching for multiple suspects. No arrests have been reported. The campus was temporarily locked down, with a significant law-enforcement presence remaining as the investigation continues. The shooting comes just days before classes are scheduled to begin Monday.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088693183458812039#m

Published: August 15, 2026 18:23

Five people were injured in a shooting involving multiple shooters near a residence hall at Virginia State University (VSU) early Saturday. Police responding around 1:30 a.m. found five people with gunshot wounds. One victim is in critical condition; four…

U.S. President Donald J. Trump in a post earlier on TruthSocial: “Despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture, there are many where we're smiling, Kim Jong Un and I get along GREAT! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088671278534131793#m

Published: August 15, 2026 16:56

U.S. President Donald J. Trump in a post earlier on TruthSocial: “Despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture, there are many where we're smiling, Kim Jong Un and I get along GREAT! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

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https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088669329629839700#m

Published: August 15, 2026 16:49

OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) The U.S. Navy is considering a major redesign of its new Ford-class aircraft carriers to better match President Trump’s preferred aesthetic for the warships, according to seven current and former U.S. officials familiar with…

The U.S. Navy is considering a major redesign of its new Ford-class aircraft carriers to better match President Trump’s preferred aesthetic for the warships, according to seven current and former U.S. officials familiar with the matter who spoke to the Washington Post. The President has expressed concerns over the location of the “island” on the Ford-class of carriers, which operates as the ship’s bridge as well as an air traffic control tower and is located more towards the rear of the vessel, with Trump preferring the multistory tower be moved to the middle of the flight deck, like on aircraft carriers seen during World War ll. Moving that command center would be the second major design change prompted by President Trump, who on Thursday issued a national security memorandum directing the Navy to develop a plan to revert to older steam-powered catapults on future aircraft carriers, scrapping the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) currently employed on the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78).

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088665566219210852#m

Published: August 15, 2026 16:34

The U.S. Navy is considering a major redesign of its new Ford-class aircraft carriers to better match President Trump’s preferred aesthetic for the warships, according to seven current and former U.S. officials familiar with the matter who spoke to the…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://news.usni.org/2026/08/14/uss-benfold-was-stalled-in-the-south-china-sea-for-four-days-after-engineering-casualty

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088466889047408746#m

Published: August 15, 2026 03:24

Source: news.usni.org/2026/08/14/uss… Link USS Benfold Was Stalled in the South China Sea for Four Days - USNI News Guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG-65) spent four days in the South China Sea without power after an engineering failure, USNI…

The Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG-65) suffered an engineering casualty affecting its power-generation system on July 24 while conducting routine operations in the South China Sea with the USS George Washington (CVN-73) Carrier Strike Group. The casualty resulted in a complete loss of power for four days, during which the George Washington Carrier Strike Group provided essential support to the destroyer, including meals, until Benfold was able to reach Subic Bay, Philippines, for repairs. During the outage, the Benfold had limited potable water and no galley, restrooms and climate control. Benfold subsequently returned to its homeport of Yokosuka, Japan, on August 12, as seen in imagery from @Gov_Vessel_fan.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088465746925850795#m

Published: August 15, 2026 03:20

The Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG-65) suffered an engineering casualty affecting its power-generation system on July 24 while conducting routine operations in the South China Sea with the USS George Washington (CVN-73)…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/14/us/politics/uss-abraham-lincoln-trump-supplies-diego-garcia.html

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088436102210244809#m

Published: August 15, 2026 01:22

Source: nytimes.com/2026/08/14/us/po… Link Navy Carrier’s Problems Are Tied to Attacks on U.S. Base Early in War Diego Garcia, a tiny island 2,200 miles from the Gulf of Oman, took over as the Navy’s logistics hub after Iran damaged a base in Bahrain.…

The extended deployment of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) and reported supply problems appear to be tied in part to the loss of the Navy’s logistics hub in Bahrain early in the Iran war according to a report from the New York Times. Iranian missile and drone strikes heavily damaged the Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home of the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet, forcing the Navy to shift much of its regional logistics support to Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, roughly 2,200 miles from the carrier forces operating in the Gulf of Oman. The island subsequently became an Iranian target, with two ballistic missiles launched toward Diego Garcia on March 20; one fell short and a Navy ship intercepted the other. That logistical disruption has coincided with an unusually demanding deployment for Lincoln. The carrier has been at sea for nearly nine months without a liberty call, while supporting combat operations and the blockade of Iranian ports. Lawmakers have raised concerns about reported shortages of basic supplies and deteriorating crew morale. The Navy is now replacing Lincoln with the forward deployed USS George Washington (CVN-73), which is already transiting toward the Middle East. Another carrier, George H.W. Bush, has also been operating in the region for months.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088436099685208474#m

Published: August 15, 2026 01:22

The extended deployment of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) and reported supply problems appear to be tied in part to the loss of the Navy’s logistics hub in Bahrain early in the Iran war according to a report from the New York Times. Iranian missile and…

The U.S. Army has temporarily grounded Apache helicopter training flights following the deaths of two soldiers in an AH-64E crash near Fort Hood, Texas, on Wednesday. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre T. Huey, 34, and Warrant Officer Seth L. Olmsted, 25, were killed when their Apache crashed in a rural field near Salado. The crash sparked a wildfire, but no buildings were struck. The Army has not identified a cause and says the stand-down will remain in place until investigators have a better understanding of the accident. The temporary grounding affects training flights, not necessarily the entire Apache fleet. The AH-64 remains heavily used by Army and National Guard units and has also seen combat during the Iran war, including an Apache reportedly shot down by an Iranian drone over the Strait of Hormuz in June.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088412140528869606#m

Published: August 14, 2026 23:47

The U.S. Army has temporarily grounded Apache helicopter training flights following the deaths of two soldiers in an AH-64E crash near Fort Hood, Texas, on Wednesday. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre T. Huey, 34, and Warrant Officer Seth L. Olmsted, 25,…

The U.S. Army has identified two soldiers with the 1st Cavalry Division that were killed in a crash involving an AH-64E “Apache” Attack Helicopter on a maintenance flight earlier this week in Salado, Texas. According to the Army, the soldiers have been identified as 34-year-old Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre T. Huey of Killeen, Texas and 25-year-old Warrant Officer Seth L. Olmstead of Belton, Texas, both of who were assigned to Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088327297765920851#m

Published: August 14, 2026 18:10

The U.S. Army has identified two soldiers with the 1st Cavalry Division that were killed in a crash involving an AH-64E “Apache” Attack Helicopter on a maintenance flight earlier this week in Salado, Texas. According to the Army, the soldiers have been…

Captain Tim Hawkins, the Spokesperson for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), has told i24News that reports Commander Admiral Brad Cooper told senior officials during his recent visit to Israel that he is pushing for renewed strikes and a resumption of the conflict against Iran is “an outright fabrication. It's not true at all.”

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088316404361564488#m

Published: August 14, 2026 17:26

Captain Tim Hawkins, the Spokesperson for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), has told i24News that reports Commander Admiral Brad Cooper told senior officials during his recent visit to Israel that he is pushing for renewed strikes and a resumption of the…

Since last month’s announcement of new 25% tariffs against all goods entering the United States from Brazil by President Trump, chances on Polymarket that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will win the upcoming Brazilian Presidential Election over Flávio Bolsonaro have steadily increased, with his chances currently hovering around 64%.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088306675027787951#m

Published: August 14, 2026 16:48

Since last month’s announcement of new 25% tariffs against all goods entering the United States from Brazil by President Trump, chances on Polymarket that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will win the upcoming Brazilian Presidential Election over Flávio…

“I shot Mr. Thompson in Manhattan and he died” - Luigi Mangione Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to two federal stalking charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, admitting he researched Thompson and the company’s investor conference before traveling to New York with the intent to kill him. There was no plea agreement with prosecutors. The judge set sentencing for Dec. 18 and warned Mangione that each count carries a potential life sentence. The federal guilty plea could also give Mangione an avenue to seek dismissal of the separate New York state murder case under double jeopardy protections, potentially affecting the state trial scheduled to begin with jury selection next month.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088305527042277409#m

Published: August 14, 2026 16:43

“I shot Mr. Thompson in Manhattan and he died” - Luigi Mangione Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to two federal stalking charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, admitting he researched Thompson and the company’s…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-supreme-court-84db62e26459e2206659d36cc5a749aa

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088296819059024125#m

Published: August 14, 2026 16:08

Source: apnews.com/article/trump-whi… Link Trump asks Supreme Court to let White House resume ballroom construction work during appeal President Donald Trump's administration has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to allow the White House to resume…

The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to allow construction of the White House’s $400 million ballroom to continue while it appeals a lower court ruling that halted the project, according to the Associated Press. The D.C. Circuit ruled 2-1 that Trump cannot proceed without congressional approval, finding that the president lacks unilateral authority to build the 90,000 square foot structure where the East Wing once stood. The administration argues the project is necessary for White House security, calling the injunction unlawful and warning that stopping construction would leave an active construction site that is harder to secure. The appeals court had exempted work necessary for White House safety. The Supreme Court is being asked to act before the lower court's ruling takes effect on Aug. 21. The administration says the project is already about 65% complete after 10 months of construction.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088296816458465706#m

Published: August 14, 2026 16:08

The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to allow construction of the White House’s $400 million ballroom to continue while it appeals a lower court ruling that halted the project, according to the Associated Press. The D.C. Circuit ruled 2-1…

The U.S. is reportedly asking NATO allies to document not just their defense spending, but their political alignment with the Trump administration as part of its review of the U.S. military presence in Europe, according to reporting from Bloomberg. A questionnaire sent to NATO members asks whether governments have been publicly supportive of U.S. foreign policy, restricted U.S. military access to their bases, purchased from U.S. defense contractors, or opposed Euro-preference procurement rules. It specifically references restrictions imposed by allies on U.S. operations in the Middle East and asks whether those restrictions could be reduced or eliminated. The questionnaire comes as Washington considers major reductions to U.S. forces and wartime capabilities in Europe, with the review expected to conclude by December. Allies reportedly view the questions as an attempt to link U.S. security guarantees to political loyalty, potentially marking a significant shift from the traditional NATO model, where collective defense has been maintained despite political disagreements among members.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088293775202206017#m

Published: August 14, 2026 15:56

The U.S. is reportedly asking NATO allies to document not just their defense spending, but their political alignment with the Trump administration as part of its review of the U.S. military presence in Europe, according to reporting from Bloomberg. A…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-14/us-presses-allies-on-ideological-loyalty-ahead-of-troop-cuts

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088293778176000171#m

Published: August 14, 2026 15:56

Source: bloomberg.com/news/articles/… Link US Presses Allies on Ideological Loyalty Ahead of Troop Cuts The US wants to know how loyal each NATO ally is to Donald Trump’s policies before cutting military assets defending the alliance. bloomberg.com

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/latvia-shoots-down-drone-its-airspace-finland-restricts-parts-baltic-sea-2026-08-14/?taid=6a7ef1b88c81560001a64fb0

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088232815699579186#m

Published: August 14, 2026 11:54

Source: reuters.com/business/aerospa… Link Italian NATO fighter jet shoots down drone in Latvian airspace Ukrainian military drones have strayed into the Baltic ⁠nations' airspace several times this year. reuters.com

An Italian Eurofighter assigned to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission shot down a drone of unconfirmed, but likely Russian origin after it entered Latvian airspace Friday, according to NATO and Latvian authorities. Two Italian Eurofighters scrambled from Lithuania along with two Turkish F-16s from Estonia. One of the Italian jets identified and engaged the drone. Latvian forces are now searching for the wreckage near Rugāji, about 35 km from the Russian border, so the drone’s origin has not yet been established. The incident comes amid a growing number of drone incursions into Baltic airspace. Latvia says Ukrainian drones have entered the region several times this year, while officials also point to Russian electronic warfare as a possible factor causing Ukrainian systems to stray across borders. Before Friday's incident, Ukrainian forces had launched attacks against Russian ports near St. Petersburg. Russian authorities claimed to have intercepted 15 Ukrainian drones during those attacks. This is the third reported NATO interception of a drone in the Baltics in recent months, following a Romanian F-16 shootdown in Estonia in May and a French Rafale shootdown in Latvia in June.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088232812298002730#m

Published: August 14, 2026 11:54

An Italian Eurofighter assigned to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission shot down a drone of unconfirmed, but likely Russian origin after it entered Latvian airspace Friday, according to NATO and Latvian authorities. Two Italian Eurofighters scrambled from…

Last night, the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the targeting of two vessels belonging to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, confirming that no injuries were reported. It has not been officially confirmed that the two United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) advisories issued earlier were related to the ADNOC vessels. However, the reported circumstances and timing provide strong indications that the incidents may be the same.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088225575164952902#m

Published: August 14, 2026 11:25

Last night, the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the targeting of two vessels belonging to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, confirming that no injuries were reported. It…

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued two separate advisories following reports of attacks on commercial vessels transiting outbound through the Strait of Hormuz. Both vessels were reportedly struck by one-way attack drones (UAVs). In both incidents, all crew members are reported safe, and no environmental impact or pollution has been reported.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088223500943118801#m

Published: August 14, 2026 11:17

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center has issued two separate advisories following reports of attacks on commercial vessels transiting outbound through the Strait of Hormuz. Both vessels were reportedly struck by one-way attack…

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a 'fact check' to correct what it describes as a series of false reports about conditions aboard the Nimitz class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), including claims that seven sailors died in a fight aboard the ship and reports of increased suicidal ideations among the crew. According to the Navy, no service members aboard Abraham Lincoln have died during its current deployment, and the sailor who went overboard on August 3 was quickly and safely recovered. The carrier strike group has now spent more than 260 days at sea, conducting more than 10,000 aircraft flights and expending approximately 1.5 million pounds of ordnance. The Navy also says Abraham Lincoln has maintained an 84.4% crew reenlistment rate, among the highest of any U.S. aircraft carrier. The statement comes as the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group continues operations in the Middle East following an exceptionally long deployment, with the Navy pushing back against what it says is inaccurate reporting about the condition and morale of its crew.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088120970326212829#m

Published: August 14, 2026 04:30

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a 'fact check' to correct what it describes as a series of false reports about conditions aboard the Nimitz class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), including claims that seven sailors died in a fight…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/rebuilding-the-united-states-navy-and-americas-shipbuilding-industrial-base/

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088119355645034841#m

Published: August 14, 2026 04:23

Source: whitehouse.gov/presidential-… Link Rebuilding the United States Navy and America's Shipbuilding Industrial Base MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF WAR THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL…

President Donald J. Trump has issued a memorandum directing a major overhaul of U.S. Navy shipbuilding, citing cost growth, delays, design complexity and insufficient industrial capacity. Among the key directives: • CVN-81: Within 60 days, the administration will develop a plan to replace the EMALS electromagnetic catapult system and Advanced Weapons Elevators with traditional steam and hydraulic systems. • Foreign shipbuilding: The administration will pursue a "Finland Model" allowing foreign shipbuilders to participate in up to three ship classes, provided they build or acquire a U.S. shipyard, train an American workforce, transfer relevant technology and establish a U.S. supply chain. The first two ships could be built overseas, with subsequent ships built in the United States. • New surface combatants: The Navy will develop a new competitive acquisition approach for affordable, mature-design surface combatants capable of anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare and convoy escort. • Fifth Navy shipyard: A plan will be developed for a fifth public Navy yard, including additional drydock capacity for nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers. • Submarine repair: The administration will establish a Component Repair Center intended to maintain at least one complete set of spare equipment for the Los Angeles, Virginia, Seawolf, Ohio and Columbia classes. • NAVSEA reform: The Naval Sea Systems Command will undergo a review aimed at reducing bureaucracy, increasing accountability and preventing repeated redesigns of mature ship designs. The memorandum's overarching objective is to increase U.S. shipbuilding capacity and competition while reducing the cost and time required to build and maintain Navy vessels. Importantly, most of these provisions direct the Department of War and Navy to develop plans within specified timelines; they do not themselves immediately authorize or fund construction of the projects described.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088119353308766662#m

Published: August 14, 2026 04:23

President Donald J. Trump has issued a memorandum directing a major overhaul of U.S. Navy shipbuilding, citing cost growth, delays, design complexity and insufficient industrial capacity. Among the key directives: • CVN-81: Within 60 days, the…

R to @sentdefender: Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2026/08/13/world-war-ii-memorial-national-mall-vandalized-with-graffiti-bubbles/

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088112855891452274#m

Published: August 14, 2026 03:57

Source: washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/… Link World War II Memorial on National Mall vandalized with graffiti and bubbles The U.S. Park Police were investigating the incident, in which “Clean hands dirty $” was written on the memorial. Federal officials…

The World War II Memorial on the National Mall was vandalized Thursday, with red graffiti reading “Clean hands dirty $” sprayed beneath the Atlantic Arch and additional red and green paint splattered across the granite. The fountain was also filled with large amounts of soapy foam, creating what witnesses described as a bubble bath. U.S. Park Police closed the area while investigating, and crews began removing the graffiti Thursday evening. The Interior Department called the vandalism “an utter disgrace” and said authorities would find those responsible. The incident appears to have been politically motivated, although the perpetrators and their specific intent have not been established. One visitor interpreted the message as criticism of federal spending, including aid to Israel and construction projects associated with the Trump administration.

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088112853509116026#m

Published: August 14, 2026 03:57

The World War II Memorial on the National Mall was vandalized Thursday, with red graffiti reading “Clean hands dirty $” sprayed beneath the Atlantic Arch and additional red and green paint splattered across the granite. The fountain was also filled with…

President Trump has directed the Navy to abandon the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) being used on the Gerald R. Ford class carriers and return to traditional steam catapults, according to U.S. officials cited by the Wall Street Journal. Trump signed a national security memorandum directing the Navy to redesign the fourth Ford class carrier, Doris Miller, and subsequent ships around steam catapults. The first three carriers, Gerald R. Ford, John F. Kennedy and Enterprise, will retain EMALS. The decision reverses years of Navy and industry resistance to Trump's proposal, largely because replacing EMALS would require significant redesign and could cost billions of dollars. Trump has criticized EMALS for years, arguing that it is overly complex and less reliable than steam catapults. The move effectively locks in a major technological reversal for future U.S. aircraft carriers. Source: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/trump-orders-navy-to-restore-old-technology-in-aircraft-carriers-costing-billions-0055ec1b?mod=hp_lead_pos2

https://nitter.net/sentdefender/status/2088010638995943624#m

Published: August 13, 2026 21:11

President Trump has directed the Navy to abandon the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) being used on the Gerald R. Ford class carriers and return to traditional steam catapults, according to U.S. officials cited by the Wall Street Journal. …