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Greek Frigate PSARA Engages Houthi Drone Swarm with National Anti-Drone System “Centaur”

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Greek Frigate PSARA Engages Houthi Drone Swarm with National Anti-Drone System
PHOTO: Hellenic Navy official X account FRIGATE PSARA HS PSARA F-454

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, as reported by Hellenic National Defence General Staff (GEETHA/HNDGS) sources, during the early morning hours in the Gulf of Aden, the Greek Frigate PSARA (F454), as part of the EUNAVFOR Operation ASPIDES, engaged a swarm of Houthi unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV/DRONE) attempting to strike a commercial ship. During the engagement, the anti-drone system “Centaur” by Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI), which the Frigate PSARA is equipped with, once again demonstrated its abilities.

The Frigate PSARA successfully protected the commercial ship that was under threat from the Houthi attacks and effectively countered the swarm of UAVs, according to the current Rules of Engagement. At least one drone from the Iran-supported Houthi rebels was shot down, and the others were repelled. The Frigate continues its mission as planned and remains ready for further engagements.

This interception adds to the previous successful engagement against Houthi drones in the Gulf of Aden, which resulted in the downing of two unmanned aircraft using both the “Centaur” system and its naval gun (127mm). These engagements demonstrate that Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) has done an excellent job with the “Centaur” system, which aims to counter threats through powerful electronic jamming. It also shows that Greece has the ability to provide sophisticated national solutions to problems that plague modern armed forces.

Information we learned at GEOPOLITIKI.COM indicate that the missions of the MEKO200 Frigates (Hydra class) against the Houthis are currently yielding critical insights into the effectiveness of the anti-drone system against threats. Following the completion of the mission, there are considerations to put the system into production after corresponding performance improvements, with implications for the Hellenic Army and Hellenic Air Force as well as the Hellenic Navy.

Watch: Ukrainian Fishermen’s Jaw-Dropping Attempt to Down Russian Drone with a Fish Goes Viral

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Watch: Ukrainian Fishermen's Jaw-Dropping Attempt to Down Russian Drone with a Fish Goes Viral
PHOTO Via Telegram

In a surprising and unconventional act, Ukrainian fishermen in the Kherson region made an attempt to down a Russian drone using a fish. The incident, captured in a short video by the drone itself, quickly gained attention. The video shows Ukrainian fishermen reacting swiftly as a Russian drone buzzes overhead, surveilling them.

In a bold move, one of the fishermen decided to throw a fish with incredible accuracy at the drone. Unfortunately for the fishermen, the drone withstood the impact.

This unexpected moment highlights the ingenuity present in modern battlefields. While using a fish as an anti-aircraft measure did not yield the desired results in the fight against unmanned aerial vehicles, it underscores the need for more innovative methods. Nonetheless, the skill demonstrated by the fisherman should not go unnoticed and could be valuable in future endeavors.

Breaking News: IDF Exposes Hamas’s Secret Plans for a Base in Turkey; NATO Countries May Be Targeted, Reveals ‘The Times’

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Hamas Spokesperson Abu Hamza: "We Will Not Surrender" in the Gaza Strip Conflict - GEOPOLITIKI
PHOTO: HAMAS Spokesperson

In a notable security development, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have discovered alarming documents that unveil plans by Hamas to establish a secret base in Turkey. This base is intended to facilitate attacks against Israeli targets, potentially extending even within NATO member states, including neighboring Greece. These revelations surface amidst statements by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who notably expressed his support for Hamas during discussions with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Key Findings Revealed by the TIMES:

Documents found in the residence of Hamza Abu Shanab, a high-ranking Hamas official and associate of the Al-Qassam Brigades leader Sinwar, detail a three-year strategic initiative titled “Establishing a Base in Turkey”. The plan outlines objectives to establish “multiple military pockets and bases in various countries,” with subsequent phases focusing on “training military cores and planning practical sabotage and assassinations.”

Breaking News: IDF Exposes Hamas's Secret Plans for a Base in Turkey; NATO Countries May Be Targeted, Reveals 'The Times'
Israeli Forces outside of a Hamas stronghold in Gaza Photo by IDF

Operational Goals of the proposed Hamas Base in Turkey

The documentation explicitly targets Mossad officers and influential Israelis, with strategies including “sabotage on Israeli naval vessels” and “abductions.” This points to a significant escalation in Hamas’s operational scope and geographic reach.

The documents stress, “A lack of options leads to a substantial effort to create military bases abroad. These will serve as bases for special operations, enhancing our military, diplomatic, and moral stance.” This shift highlights a serious turn toward international terrorism, aiming to bolster Hamas’s influence and operational capabilities globally.

This revelation poses an urgent challenge to global security standards and the diplomatic fabric within NATO, particularly as Turkey remains a pivotal member. The strategic depth and international ambitions of Hamas disclosed by these findings underscore a critical moment for international relations and security.

This severe revelation is likely to prompt forthcoming responses from both Turkish officials and NATO in the days ahead, as the international community grapples with the implications of these findings.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops – Follow GEOPOLITIKI on Google News

Israel-Gaza War: IAF Conducts Over 100 Deadly Airstrikes, IDF Intensifies Ground Operations in Rafah and Gaza against Hamas

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Israel-Gaza War: IAF Conducts Over 100 Airstrikes, Intensifies Ground Operations in Rafah and Gaza
PHOTO: IDF

Israel-Gaza War – The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has executed over 100 airstrikes using fighter jets, drones, and helicopters across the Gaza Strip in the last 24 hours. These operations aim to disrupt Hamas’ regrouping efforts in areas like Rafah, Zeitoun, and Jabalia. Israeli tanks have also been seen moving in Rafah.

A significant strike targeted a new Hamas command center in central Gaza, reportedly attended by high-level Hamas officials. Additional targets included buildings rigged with explosives, military infrastructure, and armed groups near Israeli forces, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Israel-Gaza War: IAF Conducts Over 100 Airstrikes, Intensifies Ground Operations in Rafah and Gaza
PHOTO: ISRAELI AIR FORCE F-15

In northern Gaza, the 98th Division escalated IDF operations in Jabalia, targeting numerous Hamas sites and inflicting heavy casualties among Hamas forces. In Zeitoun, the IDF’s 99th Division uncovered new tunnels, neutralized several rocket launchers, and destroyed a major Hamas weapons depot, leading to the elimination of multiple Hamas operatives.

Hamas has released another video showing modified RPGs and locally made YASIN anti-tank rockets targeting Israeli tanks, though no secondary explosions were observed.

The only visible explosion was from the Israeli tanks’ active protection system (APS) Trophy. A recent video also showed Hamas snipers targeting Israeli soldiers, with some footage dating back to the early days of the Gaza conflict.

Ground Operations in Rafah

Ground forces, including the 401st Armored Brigade and the Givati Infantry Brigade of the IDF’s 162nd Division, have intensified their movements in eastern Rafah, engaging in close-quarters combat with Hamas.

Humanitarian Impact and Displacement from Rafah

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with approximately 450,000 Palestinians fleeing Rafah over the past week, according to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees.

This mass displacement follows intense Israeli military operations in Rafah, Hamas’ last stronghold, and comes after Israeli forces ordered civilians to evacuate the city before advancing with large forces. The Israeli Army has been trying to minimize civilian casualties by dropping leaflets in eastern Rafah, detailing evacuation zones and safe routes to humanitarian areas. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Israeli Merkava tanks and NAMER armored vehicles are advancing further into the city’s eastern parts, preparing for a deeper incursion into central Rafah.

Residents in areas like Al-Jneina, Al-Salam, and Al-Brazil in eastern Rafah have reported the movements of Israeli Merkava tanks, with these reports also covered by Arab media.

Battle of Vovchansk: Ukraine Attempts to stop Russian army Advances in Kharkiv

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Ukraine: The Fierce Battle for the Kryvyy Rih's Krynky Bridgehead on Dnieper
By Defence intelligence of Ukraine (twitter)

War in Ukraine – The situation in Vovchansk, a city in the Kharkiv region, remains dire as battles continue between Ukrainian forces and Russian troops. Ukrainian forces are actively resisting Russian attempts to seize the city, as reported by the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff. Despite their efforts, the Ukrainian command acknowledges that the situation in the area has worsened, with Russian forces currently achieving tactical success.

To address the escalating conflict, the General Staff has deployed additional reserves to stabilize the situation. The Ukrainian army is conducting active operations, utilizing a range of unmanned systems for reconnaissance and precision strikes, aiming to inflict maximum losses on the advancing Russian forces. This strategic use of technology underscores the high stakes and intensity of the ongoing conflict.

Battle of Vovchansk: Ukraine Attempts to stop Russian army Advances in Kharkiv
PHOTO By Ukraine MoD

In a significant update on Sunday, it was reported that over 100 Russian soldiers were killed in fierce fighting around Vovchansk. The intensity of the battle is highlighted by the deployment of more than five Russian battalions, which are currently pressing towards the city. This push has extended the conflict to the border settlements of Strilecha, Pilna, Borysivka, Oliynykove, and Okhirtseve, indicating a broadening of the front lines and increased pressure on Ukrainian defenses.

Kharkiv’s Governor, Oleh Syniehubov, provided further insights into the humanitarian impact of the conflict. On Sunday, he announced that 1,600 civilians have been evacuated from Vovchansk and the surrounding areas. The ongoing hostilities have led to nearly 6,000 residents being displaced in recent days. Many more are leaving the area on their own initiative, seeking safety away from the conflict zones. This mass displacement underscores the severe impact on local populations and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

The situation in Vovchansk has significantly deteriorated since it was recaptured by the Ukrainian army during a counteroffensive in September 2022. The city is now almost destroyed due to continuous shelling, according to Ukrainian police officer Oleksii Kharkivskyi. The relentless bombardment has led to extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and essential services, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

As reported, Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region have intensified, particularly on the night of Thursday, May 9th. These attacks include both ground operations by the Russian army and air bombardments, primarily targeting the border areas. This escalation highlights the strategic importance of the Kharkiv region in the broader conflict and the sustained efforts by Russian forces to gain control over this critical area.

US Halts Ammunition Delivery to Israel, Citing Concerns Over Potential Operation in Rafah

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"Israel Retaliates to Iranian Threats: Intense Airstrikes in Syria Result in Significant Casualties
Photo by IDF

The Biden administration in the US has halted the delivery of a significant amount of ammunition to Israel, a move that marks a significant shift in US foreign policy amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. As military operations in the region escalate, Washington’s decision to delay the supply of 2,000 and 500-pound bombs indicates its concern about the use of these weapons in a large-scale operation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, where more than one million Palestinians live.

The US warns against a ground attack on Rafah

U.S. Halts Ammunition Delivery to Israel, Citing Concerns Over Potential Operation in Rafah
Photo by President Biden (x)

Highlighting the seriousness of the situation, US officials have expressed their categorical opposition to any major Israeli military attack on Rafah. The densely populated area poses significant risks for civilian casualties, prompting Washington to seek alternative approaches. The US has been involved in intensive talks with their Israeli counterparts, proposing tactics that could target Hamas without endangering civilian lives.

Diplomatic Efforts

Despite the continuation of diplomatic discussions, a senior official from the Biden administration told the Times of Israel that previous dialogues with Israel did not adequately address US concerns, hence the delay in the ammunition shipment.

The Israeli military downplays the event

In response to the suspension of the shipment, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari emphasized that US-Israel relations are excellent and noted that any disagreements are usually handled privately.

Rumors that Iran will attack Israel tomorrow or over the weekend – What sources say and what we know so far

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400+ Iranian Ballistic Missiles for Russia: What Sources Say About the Alleged Supply
Photo by: FARS Media Corporation

In a sudden and concerning development, Israeli officials, as reported by local media, have issued a warning about potential Iranian retaliatory actions in response to the recent attack in Damascus againt IRGC. These actions of Iran could potentially take place tomorrow, coinciding with the last Friday of Ramadan, known as “Jerusalem Day,” or over the coming weekend.

According to reports, Israel is gearing up for possible large-scale attacks from Iran, which might include long-range ballistic missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. These threats have become a focal point of recent discussions between defense ministers of the United States and Israel.

Speculation about Iran’s next move is based on information from the Israeli news outlet Walla citing unnamed officials, suggesting a significant strategic shift. Iran, traditionally acting against Israel through proxy forces in the region, might directly launch attacks from its territory.

BREAKING: Rumors that Iran will attack Israel tomorrow or over the weekend - What sources say and what we know so far
PHOTO: Khamenei.ir

In anticipation of potential threats, the Israeli Ministry of Health has proactively convened a meeting with hospital directors. The aim is to ensure that all medical facilities are sufficiently staffed and prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise over the weekend.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have heightened their state of readiness in response to the looming threats. Measures include enhancing air defense capabilities and putting a halt to all leave for combat units to ensure maximum preparedness. An IDF spokesperson highlighted the complete mobilization of forces along Israel’s borders, prepared to confront “any possible scenario.”

In a recent statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared Israel’s resolve to face down any attempts to harm the nation. This strong stance comes amid increasing tension in the region.

On the other side, an Iranian official communicated to Reuters Tehran’s determination to respond decisively to Israel. The intention is to deter future Israeli strikes while striving to prevent a full-scale conflict.

It’s also been disclosed today that the IDF is implementing GPS signal jamming as a preventive measure against possible Iranian attacks. However, it’s crucial to note that these reports remain unconfirmed and are primarily based on Israeli media publications.

MH-60 Romeo: Hellenic Navy Received today two new state-of-the-art MH-60R ASW Helicopters

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Hellenic Navy Received today two new MH-60 Romeo (MH-60R) ASW Helicopters
Greek MH-60R (MH-60 ROMEO) Helicopters PHOTO BY LOCKHEED MARTIN

Athens, Greece – The Hellenic Navy has recently received the first two MH-60 Romeo helicopters, a significant boost to its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. These advanced helicopters, delivered at the Elefsina airbase via the US C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft, are part of a total order of seven, marking a pivotal enhancement in Greece’s naval defense readiness.

The MH-60 Romeo helicopters, having completed their final tests in the USA, are now set to join the Hellenic Navy’s fleet. Before becoming fully operational, they will undergo further testing in Greece to ensure they meet the specific requirements of the navy. The arrival of the third MH-60R is expected next week, with the rest of the helicopters to be delivered by the end of 2024.

MH-60 Romeo (MH-60R)

Hellenic Navy Received today two new MH-60 Romeo (MH-60R) ASW Helicopters
Greek MH-60R (MH-60 ROMEO) Helicopters PHOTO BY LOCKHEED MARTIN

Engineered as an evolution of the SH-60B and SH-60F Seahawk models, the MH-60R incorporates advanced systems, sensors, and weaponry, positioning it as a versatile tool capable of executing a wide range of missions beyond anti-submarine warfare, including search and rescue operations.

This strategic acquisition complements the purchase of new FDI HN frigates, signifying a major step forward in strengthening Greece’s maritime defense capabilities. The MH-60 Romeo can be equipped with an array of weapons tailored for both anti-submarine and surface warfare, including MK 54 torpedoes, AGM-114 Hellfire and Penguin missiles, Hydra/APKWS II rockets, and is scheduled for certification with next-generation NSM anti-ship missiles, including the NSM-HL version. Additionally, it features machine guns for close air support missions.

The reception of the MH-60 Romeo helicopters, together with the acquisition of new FDI frigates, represents a significant upgrade in the Hellenic Navy’s ASW capabilities. The MH-60 Romeo is currently considered one of the most adept anti-submarine warfare helicopters available, enhancing the strategic defense posture of the Hellenic Navy and securing Greece’s maritime interests.

400+ Iranian Ballistic Missiles for Russia: What Sources Say About the Alleged Supply

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400+ Iranian Ballistic Missiles for Russia: What Sources Say About the Alleged Supply
Photo by: FARS Media Corporation


Ukraine-Russia War: Iran is reported to have supplied Russia with a significant number of ballistic missiles, deepening ties between the two nations under U.S. sanctions. This development, confirmed by six sources to Reuters, involves Russia’s acquisition of at least 400 ballistic missiles from Iran’s Fateh-110 missile family, including the notable Zolfaghar missile. Iran claims the Zolfaghar can precisely target distances ranging from 300 to 700 kilometers and was likely purchased as an urgent supply for the Russia-Ukraine War.

The delivery of these missiles began in early January following discussions in Tehran and Moscow, culminating in an agreement between Iranian and Russian officials last year. This agreement also resulted in the delivery of the well-known kamikaze UAV/Loitering munition SHAHED (Geran 2) to Russian forces.

Despite the importance of this military cooperation, both the Iranian Ministry of Defense and the Revolutionary Guards, the elite force overseeing Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal, have chosen not to publicize the event. Similarly, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not provided updates on these developments.

Details about the number of missile shipments were shared by Iranian military officials speaking to REUTERS anonymously, revealing that at least four separate shipments have been sent to Russia, with expectations for additional deliveries. The transportation methods for these missiles varied, including both maritime routes through the Caspian Sea and air transport.

“There’s no reason to hide it. We’re allowed to export weapons to any country we wish,” an Iranian official reportedly said.

Contrary to Iran and Russia’s stance, the Ukrainian Air Force has yet to confirm the arrival of such a significant number of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia. Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat, in a statement to Ukraine’s national television, said there are no official reports regarding this supply from Russia.

Deadly Israeli Strike in Damascus: What Syria Reports

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Deadly Israeli Strike in Damascus: What Syria Reports
Photo by IAF

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) struck the Syrian capital of Damascus twice within a few hours on Wednesday. At the same time the attacks occurred in Damascus, Israel conducted airstrikes in Lebanon as well. Syrian sources report that the Israeli strikes in Syria resulted in at least two casualties.

According to Syrian media, the first strike targeted an apartment building in the Kafr Sousa neighborhood of the Syrian capital, claiming the lives of at least two individuals. It is known that the Kafr Sousa area has a significant presence of Iranian militias, and Syrian sources suggest that the building attacked was believed to be used as headquarters by groups linked to Iran. However, Syrian media also mentioned that the victims of the attack were not Iranian.

A second strike hit the Al-Dimas area, northwest of Damascus, with no reported casualties.

Today’s Israeli air strike adds to previous bombardments in Syria, primarily targeting militias associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran. A few days prior, the Israeli air force had again targeted militias in the suburbs of Damascus.