Afghanistan’s Taliban-run Ministry of Defence says a high-level military delegation attended Russia’s Center-2026 strategic military exercises at Moscow’s invitation. The delegation observed military drills, met foreign military officials and explored opportunities for professional training and defence cooperation.
Pakistan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia will hold an emergency defence meeting next week to discuss Iran-backed Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said, emphasizing political engagement over military action.
A U.S. Department of Energy employee has been arrested on charges of attempting to provide material support to Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. Authorities allege he acquired materials for explosives and drones, provided technical assistance, and attempted to travel to Houthi-controlled Sanaa. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a 20% reduction in general and flag officer positions across the US military, describing the move as “long-overdue accountability.” Speaking at Marine Corps Base Quantico on September 30, Hegseth said approximately 10% of generals and admirals had been dismissed, with a further 10% reduction in authorised positions. He linked the changes to President Donald Trump’s efforts to refocus the military on combat readiness and eliminate what he calls “wok
The United States has completed the withdrawal of its remaining troops and military equipment from Iraq, formally ending its 12-year anti-ISIS military mission. The final U.S. forces departed Erbil Air Base on September 30, with the Pentagon saying responsibility for confronting ISIS remnants and other security threats now rests primarily with Iraqi forces. The withdrawal marks a shift from the U.S.-led coalition mission to a bilateral security partnership between Washington and Baghdad
Fourteen Kazakh naval personnel were killed after being swept into the Caspian Sea during a military exercise in severe weather, while three others were rescued. Kazakhstan has detained five senior defence officials, including the navy’s first deputy commander, over suspected negligence and violations of maritime navigation rules. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered an investigation and declared a national day of mourning.
The FBI is investigating claims by cybercrime group ShinyHunters that it stole sensitive information linked to about 38,000 FBI employees and applicants. The group says the data includes names, badge numbers, contact details and information related to personnel assignments, but the FBI has not confirmed the extent or authenticity of the alleged breach.
The United States has approved the potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related defense equipment to Saudi Arabia, in a major proposed expansion of the kingdom’s access to advanced U.S. military technology.
U.S. drone maker Powerus has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Pakistan Army that includes an initial drone order, as the company explores expanding its technology and manufacturing activities in Pakistan.
