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F-35s arrive in CENTCOM Area of Operations in response to escalating tensions

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On Jul. 26, a squadron of U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II fighters arrived in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Area of Operations. This marked a decisive response to the escalating security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz. The deployment comes in the aftermath of recent alarming events, including the Iranian Navy’s attempted seizure of merchant vessels, prompting the U.S. Department of Defense to take swift action in defending its interests and safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 421st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrive in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility July 25, 2023. The Secretary of Defense approved forces comprising F-35s, F-16s, and the guided missile destroyer the U.S.S Thomas Hudner (DDG-116) to enter into the region. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Staff Sgt. Christopher Sommers)

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Canada strengthens Continental Defence with purchase of Airbus A330 MRTTs

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In a bid to bolster its continental defence capabilities, the Government of Canada has awarded Airbus Defence and Space a contract for four newly-built Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft (MRTT) and the conversion of five used A330-200s. With an order value of approximately CAD $3 billion, this Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) initiative aims to replace the ageing CC-150 Polaris (A310 MRTT) fleet currently operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Graphic: Airbus
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U.S. Marine Corps activates its first Tomahawk cruise missile battery

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In a momentous event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, history was made as the 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, activated the Marine Corps’ inaugural long-range missile battery. The ceremony held on July 21 marked the birth of a new era for the Corps, as they embraced the capability of the Tomahawk cruise missile to bolster their long-range strike and sea denial capabilities.

A U.S. Marine Corps Long Range Fires Launcher is staged for the activation ceremony for Long Range Missile Battery A, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 21, 2023. The activation of the battery is a major step in providing 1st MARDIV with additional long range missile and over-the-horizon fire support capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Migel A. Reynosa)

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