 |
After years of negotiations and planning, U.S. Navy Vice Admiral W. Mark Skinner and Pacific Battleship Center President Robert Kent will sign a document to transfer ownership of the historic battleship USS IOWA from the U.S. Navy to the Pacific Battleship Center. The state of Iowa will be represented by Becky Beach, a longtime advocate of saving the USS IOWA from mothballs, and developing it into an interactive naval museum and memorial. The transfer ceremony will take place April 30th in Washington, D.C. The non-profit Pacific Battleship Center has been refurbishing the ship to prepare for its move from Richmond, CA, to the Port of Los Angeles (Berth 87). The battleship begins its final voyage Sunday, 20 May, and arrives at its permanent home on 9 June. A series of celebrations will take place the first week in July with a grand opening for the general public on 7 July.
|
(Apr. 27) Navy Lt. Loren Pearson, who has been in the Canadian Forces for 19 years, has pled guilty to assault and harassment of a female officer he was training during a deployment aboard HMCS Ottawa last year. Pearson admitted to making inappropriate sexual advances toward the 25-year-old officer during a Pacific Rim exercise. He had been originally charged with sexual assault, public drunkenness and conduct against good order and discipline, but prosecutor Capt. Annie-Claude Samson agreed to the lesser charge of assault and dropped the public drunkenness charge. more>>
|
(Apr. 27) A U.S. service member was shot and killed Thursday in Kandahar province by a man wearing an Afghan army uniform. Since the beginning of 2012, there have been at least 16 such attacks against American and other international troops. The U.S.-led training mission of Afghan security forces has repeatedly been undermined by "rogue" Afghans turning on their trainers/mentors. Afghan officials did not say if Thursday's shooter was an insider or just someone who had obtained a uniform. more>>
|
(Apr. 26) Defence Minister Peter MacKay was warned by military officials last year that Canadian soldiers on exchange with the U.S. and British militaries would continue to operate in volatile Kandahar province for the foreseeable future. MacKay was not informed if the Canadians would be involved in combat operations, but American and U.K. forces in the region have been fighting insurgents since the end of the Canadian combat mission nine months ago. more>>
|
(Apr. 26) Pakistan's military uses vocational training for captured insurgents in an attempt to psychologically re-educate them. The program is a key element of a "carrot-and-stick" approach to battling militancy in the tribal lands near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, in particular. Its success will ultimately depend on the ability of the government, which is widely seen in Pakistan as incompetent and corrupt, to help the de-radicalized graduates find jobs. more>>
|
Wading through the gamut of conflicting statements, political spin and daily back-and-forth has muddied the waters to the point where few Canadians can tell truth from fiction. This article in the Ottawa Citizen provides a good overview of the facts until it too gets mired in the "full life-cycle costs" scenario where they include pilot salaries, fuel costs, maintainer salaries, cost of spare parts, fuel, etc. over the life of the vehicle. These costs are very misleading... it is not common practice to add salary costs, and now critics are suggesting these costs ought to be calculated for longer than its intended life cycle simply because Canada is known for stretching equipment life as long as possible. To what purpose? more>>
|
(Apr. 25) American and Canadian officials are discussing a Pentagon request to keep special forces from Canada in Afghanistan beyond the 2014 withdrawal of NATO troops. The U.S. has crafted a plan to leave thousands of its special forces troops in Afghanistan beyond 2014 to train Afghan soldiers and hunt down insurgent leaders. The Pentagon has asked Canada and Australia to contribute special forces for both of missions. more>>
|
(Apr. 25) President Salva Kiir of the world's youngest nation, South Sudan, said Tuesday that its northern neighbour, Sudan, has "declared war" by sending its jets to drop bombs on his country. The two countries have drawn closer to full-scale war in recent weeks over the unresolved issues of oil revenues and the disputed border. The U.N. Security Council has demanded "an immediate halt to aerial bombardments by the Sudanese armed forces" and urged an immediate ceasefire and return to the negotiating table. more>>
|
(Apr. 23) On Monday, North Korea’s military threatened “special actions” that would turn parts of Seoul to ashes because of perceived defamation of its leadership. For months, Pyongyang has denounced South Korea’s President Lee Myung-Bak and threatened “sacred war” over what it has regarded as insults. “The special actions of our revolutionary armed forces will start soon to meet the reckless challenge of the group of traitors,” said a statement by North Korea's official news agency. Tens of thousands rallied in Pyongyang last Friday, screaming hatred for Lee and calling for his death over alleged insults. more>>
|
(Apr. 23) A Royal Navy board of inquiry has determined that the grounding of the service's £1.2B flagship submarine, HMS Astute, in October 2010 was caused by the officer on the bridge not using the right radar, not having the correct chart, and being unused to navigating in the dark. The rescue operation was also embarrassing because the rescue vessel crashed into Astute's side and caused additional damage. The Royal Navy relieved the captain, Commander Andy Coles, who was showering at the time of the grounding, of his command. Rear Admiral Ian Corder, head of the submarine service, said he accepted all the findings, and added: "Remedial actions have either been completed or are under way." more>>
|
(Apr. 22) A national database shows that nearly 5,000 federal buildings and homes are in serious disrepair. Of 2,302 military buildings operated by the Dept. of National Defence, 665 are housing units in poor condition. One-hundred of the military’s sub-standard housing units are at CFB Borden. more>>
|
(Apr. 22) China's military warned the United States on Saturday that U.S.-Philippine military exercises have increased the risk of an armed confrontation over the disputed South China Sea. The warning was the toughest warning yet from Beijing after weeks of tension. American and Filipino troops launched two weeks of annual naval drills on April 16 amid a locking of Chinese and Filipino horns. China and the Phillipines have accused each other of encroaching on sovereign seas near the Scarborough Shoal west of a former U.S. navy base at Subic Bay. more>>
|
(Apr 21) It is understood that the $2-billion competition to choose a supplier for up to 138 armoured infantry fighting vehicles may have to start all over again after the Department of Public Works intervened in the tender process. Speculation about a June Cabinet shuffle is gaining currency in Ottawa, with both defence ministers seen as prime candidates to be moved. A source close to Mr. MacKay noted that he is the one taking the heat for the shortcomings of the F-35 project in public, yet he is no longer in control of the process. more>>
|
New imagery of the Canadian Forces operating in the High Arctic has been uploaded. Operation NUNALIVUT 2012 is a Joint (Navy, Army, and Air Force) and integrated (involving Whole of Government partners) operation that will involve approximately 150 Canadian Forces personnel and Canadian Rangers under the Command of Joint Task Force (North). It will demonstrate expeditionary capabilities in response to a simulated safety driven mission. This year’s operation will see two different scenarios, one in the vicinity of Beechy Island enabling search and rescue training combined with a dive operation, and a northern ground patrol scenario that will allow Canadian Rangers to both exercise sovereignty and practice area search techniques. more>>
|
(Apr. 20) At least 13 militant Islamic fighters linked to al-Qaeda were killed in clashes with the Yemeni army in the country's south on Thursday. Yemen has launched an offensive against insurgents in the region. An army official said two soldiers were killed and four others wounded in the clashes. more>>
|
(Apr. 20) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a Congressional committee today that they are reluctant to use American military power to stop the unending violence in Syria. They insisted diplomacy remains the best option to force President Bashar Assad to end the brutal crackdown against his own people. more>>
|
(Apr. 19) To save $1.5B over three years, the Dept. of National Defence is closing an intelligence office on the West Coast less than two years after the navy argued it needed more surveillance in the part of Canada that is considered to be a prime region for human smuggling. Wesley Wark, an intelligence expert at the Munk School of Global Affairs at the Univ. of Toronto, said having centres on both coasts was a point of pride for Ottaawa in the 2004 national security strategy. "I'm very worried about the lack of strategic thinking behind all of this because at the end of the day Canada wasn't well prepared for a post-9/11 world, we had to make investments, governments of the day understood that. The need for those investments hasn't gone away," said Wark. more>>
|
(Apr. 19) U.S. soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division repeatedly posed with body parts of Afghan suicide bombers in 2010, according to the Los Angeles Times. The newspaper was given 18 gruesome photos by a soldier from the division. Times Editor Davan Maharaj said: "After careful consideration, we decided that publishing a small but representative selection of the photos would fulfill our obligation to readers to report vigorously and impartially on all aspects of the American mission in Afghanistan, including the allegation that the images reflect a breakdown in unit discipline that was endangering U.S. troops." more>>
|
(Apr. 18) Canadian soldiers working at an archeological site 805 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle are helping with a scientific expedition involving the wreck of a nineteenth-century merchant ship, H.M.S Breadalbane. The three-mast merchant ship was trapped, then crushed by slow moving ice in August 1853. Tools used by the CF troops have been a heated saw to cut through ice and an unmanned drone to hunt for the submerged Breadalbane. more>>
|
(Apr. 18) A $3-million, floating security barrier built in Halifax harbour to protect the Royal Canadian Navy dockyard, home to the East Coast fleet, is not being used. It was installed in 2007, but is no longer stretched around the navy's ships to protect them from possible terrorist attacks. CBC News has also learned that the navy is reducing security on the landside as well. more>>
|
(Apr 17) World military expenditure in 2011 totalled $1.74 trillion, almost unchanged since 2010 in real terms, according to figures released today by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). more>>
|
(Apr. 17) The number of Canadian soldiers deployed to Afghanistan may fall this year as Afghan forces assume more responsibility and NATO looks to pull out up to 1,000 military trainers. Approximately 950 Canadian soldiers have been stationed in the capital Kabul and two other central Afghan cities since last year, helping to train 352,000 Afghan soldiers and police officers by 2014. Canada has the second largest contingent of military trainers in the central Asian nation after the United States. more>>
|
Unmanned Systems Canada will be holding its 10th annual, internationally renowned, Conference 6-9 November 2012, in Ottawa, Ontario, to present Canadian and International innovation in the field of Unmanned Vehicle Systems (UVS) technologies. Presentations are sought on all subject areas related to unmanned vehicle systems, research and development, case studies, operational experience and recent innovations. Abstract Deadline: 15 May 2012. Check link for presentation themes: more>>
|
Government of Canada contributed $100,000 toward the creation of a new Bomber Command Memorial in London, United Kingdom. The memorial, to be unveiled in London’s Green Park in June, will honour all members of Bomber Command from Allied countries and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Honourable Laurie Hawn, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, announced the funding. more>>
|
(Apr. 16) Because polling has revealed that nearly nine in ten Americans don't understand the U.S. Navy's mission, the service is reaching back 200 years to the War of 1812 in the hopes of bolstering its standing with people in the United States. This week, the Navy launches an ambitious, three-year commemoration to mark the bicentennial of the conflict involving British-controlled Canada. Tall ships and warships from around the world will parade through American ports and Navy websites, social media, online games, books, museum displays and more will provide information to the public. more>>
|
(Apr. 16) Multiple Taliban attacks were launched this weekend in Kabul and other major cities in Afghanistan. The central and diplomatic triangle district of Wazir Akbar Khan in teh capital, home to major embassies, including those of the U.S. and Britain, as well as the local United Nations headquarters and a NATO base were targeted. Afghan authorities said that 47 insurgents were killed, 31 wounded, and 21 captured, with quantities of arms seized. more>>
|
(Apr 15) The Netherlands will buy fewer than the 85 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets it had planned to acquire because costs have risen and the country needs to replace fewer F-16 fighters, the Dutch defence minister said today. more>>
|
(Apr. 15) Sudan’s army has launched a counter-attack in its main oil-producing region, which South Sudanese forces seized earlier this week. The latest round of heavy fighting erupted Tuesday, with aerial bombardments hitting the South, whose troops seized the Heglig region from Khartoum’s army. Southern President Salva Kiir and his Khartoum counterpart, Omar al-Bashir, have accused each other of seeking war, prompting a UN Security Council call for an immediate ceasefire. more>>
|
(Apr. 13) A plan that would replace thousands of American troops in Afghanistan with small special operations teams paired with Afghans to help inexperienced indigenous troops fight the Taliban as U.S. troops withdraw is being prepared by Adm. Bill McRaven, the head of U.S. special operations. While the overall campaign would still be led by conventional troops, groups of special operators would become the leading force to help Afghans secure the areas won in more than a decade of U.S. combat in the central Asian nation. more>>
|
(Apr. 13) Pyongyang confirmed Thursday that North Korea's launch of a rocket failed. U.S., Japanese and South Korean officials said it flew only for a short time before breaking up and crashing into waters off the Korean peninsula. The flight was regarded by the United States and its allies in Asia as a banned test of long-range missile technology. more>>
|
(Apr. 14) It's been six years since the U.S. and India held political-military talks. Next week's meeting is expected to discuss a wide range of bilateral issues. Assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs Andrew Shapiro is traveling to India to "hold talks with senior civilian officials on defence trade, counter-piracy, and regional political-military issues, as well as the recovery and repatriation of US service members lost during the Second World War," said the State Department said in a statement. more>>
|
HMCS Windsor was lowered into Halifax harbour Wednesday after spending five years in dry dock for an extensive refit that cost $45 million in 2010 alone. HMCS Victoria, based on the West Coast, successfully test-fired torpedoes last month, but neither Corner Brook nor Chicoutimi are ready for service yet. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said it would be another couple of years before all four submarines are fully operational. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) The Canadian Forces is putting its air defence equipment up for sale, shutting down military housing in Toronto, Vancouver and Winnipeg, and cutting back on army training. The Dept. of National Defence spent $100M to acquire TOW 2 launchers and anti-aircraft missiles three years ago. To save money, pilots will fly less, security units made up of reservists who guard ports will be disbanded, and buildings will be closed in Moncton, N.B., and other locations. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) India's federal detectives have launched an investigation after army chief Gen VK Singh lodged a complaint that a defence equipment lobbyist offered him a $2.7M bribe if he approved the purchase of 600 "sub-standard" vehicles. Defence Minister AK Antony has promised a probe into Gen. Singh's complaint and told parliament in March that the senior commander told him a retired lieutenant-general, Tejinder Singh, had offered the bribe. more>>
|
The communications strategy for the F-35, headed by ADM(PA) Josee Touchette, has clearly been a colossal failure. As the collateral damage from the F-35 saga begins to pile up, it is perplexing to hear demands that Canada's top soldier, Gen. Walt Natynczyk, should resign or be fired. The loud demands for change at National Defence could influence who Prime Minister Stephen Harper selects as the next CDS. Matthew Fisher provides a list of possibilities. more>>
|
(Apr 10) At National Defence, 1,119 civilian workers with the Union of National Defence Employees found out last Wednesday that their positions could be cut. The job losses are across Canada, with 17 in Nunavut, Newfoundland and Manitoba, 33 in British Columbia, 62 in Nova Scotia, 114 in New Brunswick, 188 in Alberta, 314 in Ontario and 361 in Quebec, according to estimates from the union. The union estimates that about 380 workers, mostly IT specialists, have received letters stating that their jobs at DND could be affected by job cuts. DND is facing a cut of $1.1-billion over three years. more>>
|
(Apr. 10) Militants from an al Qaeda-linked group in Yemen attacked a military camp near the southern city of Lawdar on Monday, and at least 57 people are dead. Conflicts with Islamists in the south is one of several challenges facing the new Yemeni president, Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. He took office six weeks ago vowing to fight al-Qaeda, and during his first few days in office, more than 100 soldiers in Yemen were killed in attacks. more>>
|
(Apr. 10) The U.S. Navy has deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Persian Gulf region amid tensions with Iran over its disputed nuclear program. The USS Enterprise joins the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. Cmdr. Amy Derrick-Frost of the Bahrain-based 5th Fleet said the two carriers will support American military operations in Afghanistan and anti-piracy efforts off Somalia's coast and in the Gulf of Aden. more>>
|
(Apr. 10) The Syrian ceasefire that was recently brokered by former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan is in ruins even before it began. A military bombardment of a town in central Syria by government forces on Monday killed 35 people, including 17 children and eight women. At least 27 people were killed in the town of Tall Rifaat, which was heavily bombarded by the army. Syrina President Bashar al-Assad said Sunday his armed enemies must give written guarantees they will stop fighting and lay down their arms – a demand that was immediately rejected. Nor did government forces show any sign they were starting to pull back on Monday. The United Nations says government forces have killed at least 9,000 people in the past year, mostly civilians. more>>
|
(Apr. 10) Taking place April 10&11, at Ottawa's Hampton Inn, Mari-Tech 2012 is one of the most highly anticipated marine technical conferences in Canada. Co-hosted by both the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, Eastern Canadian Section and the Ottawa Branch of the Canadian Institute of Marine Engineering, Mari-Tech 2012 is an annual event that brings Marine Engineers and industry representatives together to share knowledge and learn about latest developments. more>>
|
(Apr. 8) At least Pakistani 124 soldiers and 11 civilian contractors are still missing after being buried by a massive avalanche Saturday in a mountainous part of north Kashmir, a region claimed by both India and Pakistan. "We are waiting for news and keeping our fingers crossed," said army spokesman Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas. "It's on a massive scale. Everything is completely covered." The elevation of the affected area is some 4,000 metres above sea level. The avalanche depth is 24 metres. more>>
|
(Apr. 8) A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet that apparently suffered a massive mechanical failure crashed into an apartment complex in Virginia on Saturday. Burning jet fuel engulfed part of the building. Nine people were injured, including the pilots who ejected at low altitude. more>>
|
(Apr. 6) Auditor-General Michael Ferguson told reporters Thursday that the Harper government would have known that a fleet of F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters was estimated to cost $25B, not the $14.7B the Conservatives told Canadians in the weeks leading up to the last federal election. Ferguson also said that the $25B estimate didn't include 'Canadian-ization' JSF modifications, ongoing maintenance and other costs, which also “would have been known throughout government” because they were important for long-term budget planning. Criticism from the Opposition NDP and Liberals was swift and potent, as it has been since Monday when Ferguson released his report about the government's planned F-35 procurement. more>>
|
(Apr. 6) India's navy has a new, $1B, nuclear-powered submarine made by Russia and being leased from that country for the next 10 years. The 8,140-tonne Russian Akula II-class submarine has been renamed by India as the INS Chakra II. India is also developing its own nuclear-powered submarine which is expected to be ready by the end of this year. more>>
|
(Apr. 5) The Harper government's reduced spending on the military, per last week's budget, is forcing the Dept. of National Defence and Canadian Forces to cut staff. The CF is looking to close 10 recruiting centres. Sixty-eight professors, assistant professors, and other teaching staff at the Royal Military College and the Canadian Forces College have been put on a list of employees whose jobs may be axed. Some DND employees have received briefings about the extent of the cuts at their locations, while others were told it would be weeks before they find out if their positions are in jeopardy. On Wednesday, senior defence officials sent a message to all employees confirming that 900 jobs are on the chopping block, and the Union of National Defence Employees has been informed that at least 1,093 jobs have been identified for elimination. more>>
|
A new Secretariate will be established to manage the JSF program. The new secretariat will operate within Public Works and “will play the lead coordinating role” overseen by the deputy ministers of the four main departments and possibly others such as Finance and Foreign Affairs which have an interest. Beginning immediately, the secretariat will provide annual updates to Parliament no more than 60 days after annual forecasts are generated by the JSF program office. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) Dated talk of a new kind of "Cold War" emerging between nations with coastlines in the Arctic, where an estimated 25% of the world's oil and gas reserves reportedly exist, is giving way to efforts by Canada to enhance cooperation. To that end, CDS Gen. Walter Natynczyk is preparing to host his counterparts from seven other northern countries - Canada, the U.S., Russia, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Iceland - next week in Labrador for two days of talks on polar issues "of mutual interest." Search and rescue and responding to environmental trouble in the relatively pristine Arctic such as a large oil spill will be on the agenda. more>>
|
(Apr.3) Auditor General Michael Ferguson's report to Parliament said the politically-embarrassing JSF procurement situation has been the result of inadequate due diligence by the Department of National Defence (DND) and Public Works & Government Services Canada (PWGSC). With the potential cost of the Joint Strike Fighter in afterburner mode and the federal government’s new focus on what might be “affordable”, the Royal Canadian Air Force may have to either reduce the number of aircraft it acquires or even reduce their flying hours. Failing that, the government would either have to increase the JSF budget for the Lockeed Martin F-35 Lightning IIs or divert funds from other departments’ programs.
more>>
|
(Apr 2) The Department of National Defence didn't exercise due diligence in choosing the F-35 fighter jet to replace the CF-18, wasn't forthcoming with Parliament about its true estimated cost, and made key decisions without required approvals or proper documentation, the auditor general concludes in what critics are calling a "scathing" report. more>>
|
(Apr. 3) Kofi Annan, the special mediator for Syria, told the UN Security Council on Sunday that the Syrian government had agreed to a deadline of April 10 to implement the first stages of his ceasefire plan. UN diplomats are remaining cautious, given the level of extreme and widespread violence in Syria. The first contingent of UN monitors will leave for Syria as soon as possible. "Let's be realistic," said the American ambassador to the United Nations, Susan Rice. "The proof is in the actions not in the words. Past experience leads us to be sceptical and to worry that over the next several days that rather than a diminution of the violence we might see an escalation." more>>
|
(Apr. 3) In his new book, "Funding the Enemy: How U.S. Taxpayers Bankroll the Taliban", author Douglas Wissing explains the ingenuity and harsh tactics used by Afghanistan's main insurgent group to obtain "hundreds of millions of dollars" annually for its operations. According to Wissing, an American official serving in the Afghan Threat Finance Cell told him: “We know they [the Taliban] are raising substantial amounts of money; they can finance their operations. If you take away the Gulf money, they can make it up. If you take away the narco money, they can make it up. It’s like punching Jello.” more>>
|
(Apr. 2) Irving Shipbuilding Inc. in Halifax will be able to access more than $300M of provincial taxpayers' money to help it prepare for the construction of the Royal Canadian Navy’s new vessels. The government financial assistance package announced Friday consists of a forgivable capital loan worth up to $260M and a repayable marine industry loan of $44M for human resources, technological and industrial development. Premier Darrell Dexter described the funding as the largest amount of government spending ever in Nova Scotia to support job creation and economic growth. more>>
|
(Apr. 2) While religious events at U.S. military bases has been common practice for many years, Saturday's festival for members of America's armed services who have no religious beliefs was a first, and an indication of the shift in the increasingly secular - but still predominantly religious - United States. Hundreds of people attended the "Rock Beyond Belief" event at Fort Bragg, which was organized to help lift the stigma for some 295,000 active duty personnel who consider themselves atheist, agnostic or without a religious preference. "We're sending a message," said Justin Griffith, an Army sergeant stationed at Fort Bragg who spearheaded the event. "Foxhole atheists are out there fighting for your rights. Please return the favor." more>>
|
(Apr. 2) Afghanistan has named three-star General Ghulam Farooq Barekzai to take over the Bagram prison from the U.S. military, an issue with the potential to open another rift in relations between Washington and Kabul. He will have final say over which prisoners are released. "They (the United States) can have a consultative role, but not a veto," said Aimal Faizi, chief spokesman of President Hamid Karzai. Washington fears the prisoners, most of whom it says are mid- to high-level members of the Taliban, may return to the battlefield as has happened in the past, citing the case of a Taliban commander transferred from Guantanamo Bay to Afghan custody in 2007 who ended up fighting coalition forces again. more>>
|
(Apr. 1) Defence Minister Peter MacKay was suffering from double pneumonia when Canada's military budget was chopped by more than one billion dollars. But the defence minister sounded unexpectedly cheerful and upbeat when reached by telephone before visiting Halifax's Irving Shipyard, where some new navy warships are to be built. "The budget at National Defence is solid and I expect it will continue to grow year-by-year," the minister said, explaining that an annual two percent escalator clause, written into the Canada First Defence Strategy of 2008, remains in place. Although the overall defence budget was cut by about 5.5 per cent, that clause will ensure the DND budget rises in the coming years. "It is still in effect, absolutely ... I believe defence is on very solid footing." more>>
|
(Apr. 1) The government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly convinced that Iran wants to build nuclear weapons to destroy the Jewish state and has secretly worked on a deal with Azerbaijan to operate a clandestine military base there. The idea has been for Israeli warplanes to use the base - northwest of Iran - for air strikes against Iranian nuclear installations. The U.S. government has apparently leaked information about the arrangement in order to slow the march to war, during this, a U.S. presidential election year. American forces remain in Afghanistan, to Iran's east, and Iranian influence in Shia-controlled Iraq is significant, further complicating the situation. more>>
|
(Apr. 1) Kabul wants Washington to clearly define the American military presence it will leave behind after most of its combat troops leave by the end of 2014. The Karzai government also wants to know what kind of support Afghan security forces will receive from the U.S. once they take the brunt of fighting the Taliban. "These are issues that concern us," President Hamid Karzai's chief spokesman, Aimal Faizi, told Reuters. "We want to know how many bases will be there, how many soldiers and what will be their mission. And what will we get from the United States for our security forces." more>>
|
Royal Canadian Air Force 442 Squadron at CFB Comox won the SAR Award for Operational Rescue Excellence at the 2012 Shephard’s Search and Rescue Conference in Dublin. "The crew of Royal Canadian Air Force Cormorant, call sign “Rescue 907” of 442 Squadron were the clear choice of the judges for this year’s SAR Award for Operational Rescue Excellence,” said Alex Giles, CEO of U.K.-based Shephard Media. “Their rescue of an injured hiker from Hat Mountain, B.C., at night and in the most demanding of weather conditions, displayed exceptional flying skill, crew coordination and personal bravery.” more>>
|
(Mar. 31) The Royal Canadian Air Force is faced with a shortage of pilots and looking to hire unemployed military aviators from the U.K. One has been hired so far, with another 20 to 25 skilled pilots and eight other personnel to be enrolled in the Canadian Forces sometime this year. British defence spending cuts have resulted in about several pilots being laid off. “Royal Air Force pilots are renowned for their advanced skill levels and many have trained or had experience with the Canadian Forces throughout most of their careers,” say documents obtained by the Ottawa Citizen. more>>
|
(Mar. 31) The attorney for the U.S. soldier accused of killing 17 Afghan civilians, John Henry Browne, said Friday the U.S. government is “hiding evidence” from Staff Sgt. Robert Bales’ defence team. Browne told The Associated Press that members of the defence team in Afghanistan were informed they would have access to witnesses at a hospital, but they later discovered the people had been released. He also said the U.S. government has not turned over files to the legal team. The lawyers said in a statement the prosecution is withholding information “while potential witnesses scatter.” more>>
|
(Mar. 30) For the first time since coming to power in early 2006, the Harper government is scaling back on military spending. By FY2014/15, $1.1B will be slashed from the roughly $20B defence budget, or just over 5 percent. In addition, the Conseratives are delaying the purchase of $3.5B in equipment for seven years. "This is going to have a really significant impact on [the Canadian Forces'] ability to deploy and conduct missions," said David Perry, a CDA Institute defence analyst. more>>
|
(Mar. 30) Insurgents in Afghanistan ambushed a NATO coalition supply convoy in a mountainous area in the western part of the country Wednesday. A three-hour firefight ensued in which an Afghan soldier, five Afghan security guards, and 14 attackers were killed. "The fighting was intense and we sent in extra forces," said Najibullah Najibi, a spokesman for the Afghan National Army's western region. So far this year, 86 international troops have been killed in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) Defence was not mentioned once in Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s March 29 budget speech to Parliament, but the 498-page Budget Plan shows that the Department of National Defence will account for the largest slice of government spending cuts proposed for at least the next three years... more>>
|
The list of new promotions and retiring has been posted.
Check the FrontLine link for details: more>>
|
(Mar. 29) stimated costs for the F-35 joint strike fighter have increased over the life of the program, but the Defense Department is working to contain cost growth and remains committed to the fifth-generation fighter, defense officials said today. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) The Royal Canadian Air Force wants a lower-yield bomb that will reduce unintended harm caused to civilian bystanders and their property. The munitions are called "low collateral damage bombs" (LCDBs) and their explosive effect is much smaller than that of conventional bombs. "We are currently exploring the suitability and availability of weapons that could provide the RCAF with improved low-collateral damage capabilities," said DND spokesman Capt. Matt Zalot. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) The U.S. Navy has submitted to Congress its latest 30-year plan that calls for about 300 ships - a reduction of 13 from the previous plan - and warns that the number may drop further if costs rise on any major shipbuilding programs. The plan says average yearly spending on new ships will be almost $17B annually over the next three decades, a sum that is considerably above the historical average of about $15B. The future fleet would include 12-14 ballistic missile submarines, 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 48 attack submarines, zero to 4 cruise missile submarines, about 90 large surface combatants, 55 small surface combatants, 32 amphibious landing ships, 29 logistics ships, and 33 support vessels. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) New measures have been implemented in Afghanistan to protect American troops from attacks by rogue Afghan colleagues, which have claimed 16 NATO lives this year alone. In several Afghan ministries, Americans are now allowed to carry weapons. They have also been told to rearrange their office desks to face the door in order to see who is entering. Navy Capt. John Kirby, a spokesman for Marine Gen. John Allen, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, said the general "ordered commanders to take appropriate steps to protect his troops, prudent steps that make sense to our Afghan partners as well. But he also made it clear that we weren't coming to all stop, that the work must continue, and that we couldn't let the partnership itself become a casualty of war." more>>
|
(March 27) Canada, the United States and Mexico announced a plan to develop a joint “defence threat assessment for North America” and to discuss ways of improving their military forces’ support for civilian public security agencies.
The announcement was made by Defence Minister Peter Mackay in Ottawa after an “inaugural trilateral defence meeting” with U.S. Defence Secretary Leon Panetta and Mexico’s Secretary of National Defence General Guillermo Galván Galván and his Secretary of the Navy, Admiral Mariano Francisco Saynez Mendoza.
L-R; Mexican Secretary of the Navy, Admiral Mariano Francisco Saynez Mendoza; Mexican Secretary of National Defence, General Guillermo Galvan Galvan; Defence Minister Peter Mackay; U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta (Photo Credit: Ken Pole)
The meeting was part of preparations for the April 2 North American Leaders’ Summit in Washington, D.C.
“Our three nations share many defence interests,” Mackay told a news conference at the Department of Foreign Affairs. “Threats to North America and the hemisphere are increasingly complex and require non-traditional responses. ... We share a determination to enhance our common understanding of those threats and of the approaches needed to address them.”
Mackay also said that they had agreed to meet regularly and that their agenda would not only be coordinated with other government agencies but also respect national sovereignty.
|
(Mar. 28) A military inquiry was told Tuesday that the Canadian Forces failed to prevent the death of army Cpl. Stuart Langridge, who had attempted five times to kill himself. He served in Bosnia and had been part of a high-risk reconnaissance unit in the mountains around Kabul in Afghanistan. His last attempt ended his 28 years of life. "Inexplicably, the military board of inquiry refused to acknowledge that Stuart was suffering from an acute form of PTSD," said law instructor and lawyer Col. (Ret.) Michel Drapeau. "Instead it fixated on blaming Stuart's suicide on the divorce of his parents, and the subsequent estrangement of his father when Stuart was five years old." The hearing continues next week. more>>
|
(Mar. 28) Two American soldiers and a recently discharged military officer were arrested by U.S. federal authorities in Texas two weeks ago after believing they would be hired as assassins for Mexico's brutal Los Zetas drug cartel. Instead, they were talking to undercover agents posing as cartel members. The Zetas was founded by former Mexican Special Forces soldiers and is regarded as the most violent and powerful of the cartels in Mexico. more>>
|
(Mar. 27) Acutely aware that the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program has gone over-budget by $185B (94%) in the past decade, the U.S. Air Force is promising that its Long-Range Strike Bomber program will not exceed $55B. Critics of the program, which included the former U.S. Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates, were - and still are - incredulous, in part because the Air Force wants the manned bombers to have a pilotless capability. more>>
|
(Mar. 27) Two weeks after U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Robert Bales allegedly massacred 17 Afghan civilians, support for the war in Afghanistan by the U.S. public is at an all-time low, according to a new CBS News/New York Times poll. Nearly seven in ten Americans - 69% - believe their country shouldn't be involved in Aghanistan and less than one in four Americans - 23% - thinks the United States is doing the right thing by fighting in the central Asian nation. more>>
|
(Mar. 26) A Canadian Army plan calls for the elimination of 697 FTEs - Full-Time Equivalents - mostly in Ontario and Quebec. The focus is on reducing civilian jobs and moving military staff around to better utilize personnel. The plan says that while headquarters fill an important function with the army, “divestment of a portion of our institutional (non deployable) Command and Control is necessary in order to reduce the amount of resources tied up in them.”
more>>
|
(Mar. 26) In a new U.S. Navy lab, battlefield robots have to prove their 'mettle' in extreme environments and are monitored by high-speed video cameras that automatically swivel to follow up to fifty of them in testing situations with humans. "Our tracking system currently has the largest capture volume in existence," said Alan Schultz, director of autonomous systems research at U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. Five arenas recreate diverse environments such as oceans, coasts, deserts, tropical rain forests, and even waterfalls and rock walls. more>>
|
Defence Minister Peter Mackay and his German counterpart, Thomas de Maizière, evidently jumped the gun with their Feb. 15 announcement of a new Canadian Forces support hub at Köln-Bonn Airport. FrontLine has been told that although there should have been more consultation with local officials before an official announcement was made, it will “go forward in a timely manner” despite some local criticism. The hub would replace a small facility at U.S. Air Force Base Spangdahlem which has been the key to moving of CF personnel and materiel into Afghanistan since 2009. Opposition during a local election campaign apparently has been due to a misunderstanding about the size of the hub. CF sources say that it would involve “only a handful of personnel with a minimal footprint, handling a few flights a week.”
|
(Mar. 25) Security experts who recently testified to the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee told U.S. lawmakers that it should be assumed that foreign spies have penetrated defense networks. They also said the penetration was likely so thorough that attempts to curb it should stop. Instead, cyberdefence should be about protecting data, and not controlling access. more>>
|
(Mar. 25) NATO says three of its service members lost their lives in Afghanistan Saturday. One died in a bomb blast in the southern part of the country, another in an insurgent attack in the west, and the third one as a result of a non-battle related injury in the east. The soldiers' nationalities were not released. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) A military coup in the African nation of Mali by junior officers has resulted in Canada suspending aid to the government. The officers have complained that the government has failed to give the military the resources needed to quell an ethnic Touareg insurgency in the north. They arrested several members of the government of President Amadou Toumani Touré, who is in hiding, and some military personnel have looted the presidential palace. Last year, Ottawa sent about $109M to Mali in aid, a considerable portion of the government's revenues. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) The Toronto Star has learned that Gen. Walter Natynczyk, the Chief of Defence Staff, suspected the Harper government was behind a plot to damage his reputation when reports emerged last fall that he had used a government Challenger jet to join his family on a Caribbean cruise. The CDS aired his suspicion after learning a journalist somehow managed to obtain flight logs that showed him using the military jet to attend sports events, the Calgary Stampede, and to catch up to a family trip in the Caribbean in January 2010. He had missed his scheduled departure in order to attend a repatriation ceremony for four soldiers and a journalist killed in Afghanistan. “Whenever (blank) is involved in a story I tend to suspect a certain source, placed high in Government,” Natynczyk wrote to his chief media adviser on Sept. 15, 2011. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) A U.S. official said Thursday that Army Staff Sgt. Robert Bales will be charged today with 17 counts of murder involving Afghan villagers, including women and children. The killings are considered the worst U.S. atrocity of the Afghan war and have badly strained relations between the United States and Afghanistan at a time when American commanders are trying to stabilize the country in preparation for an eventual departure of American troops. President Obama has promised to hold accountable “anyone responsible” for the killings. Many Afghans believe that Bales did not act alone. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) A young West Coast resident killer whale was killed yesterday shortly after a Canadian navy training exercise, prompting conservation organizations to call for the cessation of such activities in the whales' critical habitat. While an initial necropsy showed L112, also known as Sooke, died of "significant trauma", scientists who took part said it was unlikely the orca was hit by a vessel or attacked by another whale. Ken Balcomb of the Center for Whale Research in Washington State said the killer whale may have been blown up. Some witnesses said sonar pings, which were recorded by a series of hydrophones, were preceded by an explosion. more>>
|
(Mar. 22) The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently issued a report about the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter that gives critics of the program more ammunition. The report warns of "unprecedented" program costs, significant technical troubles, and poor overall performance in tests. "The long-stated intent that the Joint Strike Fighter would deliver an affordable, highly common fifth-generation aircraft that could be acquired in large numbers could be in question," said Michael Sullivan, the GAO director of acquisition management. Building the first 63 F-35s went over-budget by $1B and the GAO puts the per-JSF cost at $137M to $162M, depending on the variant, much more than the Harper government's $75M price tag. more>>
|
(Mar. 22) Researchers in the U.S. are working on a robot that looks and moves like a jellyfish and uses oxygen and hydrogen in seawater to trigger a chemical reaction that causes its artificial muscles to contract. The "Robojelly" incorporates technologically advanced materials and is being funded by the U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research. more>>
|
(Mar. 22) John Henry Browne, the lawyer assigned to defend U.S. Staff Sgt. Robert Bales, the suspect in the recent massacre of 16 civilians in Afghanistan, said Wednesday that the U.S. military lacks proof of what occurred on the night in question. "I’m very concerned now they don’t have much proof of anything. I don’t know what the evidence is," Browne told reporters. "We’ve all heard the allegations. I don't know that the government has proved much. There is no forensic evidence, there is no confession." more>>
|
(Mar. 21) Prior to joining the U.S. Army, Staff Sgt. Robert Bales was employed in the securities industry and had shaky financial dealings, including an unpaid $1.5M fraud judgment, records show. Bales joined the Army two months after 9/11 after a Florida business he was involved in dissolved and 18 months after an elderly couple in Ohio charged him with fraud, unauthorized securities trading, and breach of financial responsibility, a complaint that was upheld in arbitration in 2003. Another complaint in Ohio charged him with unauthorized trading. more>>
|
(Mar. 20) Following the recent massacre of 16 Afghan civilians by at least one U.S. soldiers - Afghan witnesses have been disputing the American version of the killings - President Hamid Karzai said Monday he's at "the end of the rope". Karzai, along with other Afghans, have demanded that accused killer Staff Sgt. Robert Bales be tried in the Afghan judicial system. Karzai has also demanded that U.S. forces retreat from rural areas immediately and let Afghans take the lead in security next year. Polls in the U.S. show that up to 60 percent of Americans say it's time to end the war in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Mar. 20) U.S. Adm. Jonathan Greenert is ensuring that the number of minesweepers in the Persian Gulf are doubling, from four to eight. Also, as U.S. Chief of Naval Operations for the region he is making sure that all navy ships that move through the Strait of Hormuz will be equipped with special infrared and other sensors, and destroyers, cruisers, and other vessels that escort U.S. aircraft carriers have rapid-fire Gatling Gun-style weapons to use against fast Iranian vessels, if needed. "The kind of weapons the CNO wants to send to the Persian Gulf are not suited to an invasion of Iran, they're mainly for protecting friendly forces and sea lanes," Loren Thompson, a defense analyst at the Lexington Institute, says. "The Pentagon has no stomach for invading Iran, and doesn't believe such a rash move would be required to meet U.S. security objectives." more>>
|
(Mar. 20) The U.S. Air Force will modify the handle that engages the emergency oxygen system in every F-22 Raptor fighter jet after investigators found that it played a role in a crash that killed one of the service's best pilots. Capt. Jeff Haney died when his F-22 crashed in the Alaskan wilderness in November 2010. His widow, Anna Haney, has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the F-22's maker, Lockheed Martin Corp. as well as subcontractors that designed and built the sophisticated and very expensive warplane. more>>
|
(Mar. 19) Staff Sgt. Robert Bales, the American soldier accused of killing 16 civilians in Afghanistan, will be formally charged this week and faces a military justice process similar to a civilian criminal trial. Military legal experts say he will undergo an extensive mental health evaluation. Bales is being held in isolation at the Fort Leavenworth military prison in Kansas and will meet with his lawyer for the first time today. more>>
|
(Mar. 19) A Taliban commander expressed skepticism that only one U.S. soldier massacred 16 Afghan civilians last week, a belief reportedly shared by many Afghans. "We don't think that one American was involved," the Taliban official told CNN, refusing to give his name or be otherwise identified. "The foreigners and the puppet regime (in Afghanistan) are blind to the truth of what happened here. But if this was the act of one soldier, we want this soldier to be prosecuted in Afghanistan, and according to Islamic law. The Afghans should prosecute him." more>>
|
(Mar. 18) Canada's military hopes to save $90M annually by withdrawing from NATO programs that operate unmanned aerial vehicles as well as early warning airplanes. As a result, 142 Canadian Forces members will be assigned to NATO for new jobs. Canada has been involved in NATO’s AWACS program for more than 25 years but does not use pilotless aircraft to anywhere the extent of NATO's largest member, the United States. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) On Friday, U.S. military officials identified the American soldier accused of massacring 16 Afghan civilians, including three women and nine children: Staff Stg. Robert Bales. A career soldier, Bales had served three tours - two in Iraq - and received more than 20 awards and commendations, including three Army Good Conduct medals. Neighbours and other people who knew Bales are having a difficult time believing that he has been accused of the shootings and body burnings. Bales is being held in the U.S. military's maximum-security prison, Fort Leavenworth, and has been given a lawyer. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) Turkey has threatened military action as thousands of refugees stream across its border with conflict-ravaged Syria. A Syrian general has also defected. The Syrian army laid landmines to stop people from leaving the country. Pro-Assad forces have allegedly been massacring Syrians across its frontiers. The Arab Red Crescent predicts that as many as half a million Syrian civilians could seek refuge in Turkey as government forces widened its recent offensive in the border province of Idlib, a stronghold of the rebel Free Syrian Army.
more>>
|
Taking place April 10&11, at Ottawa's Hampton Inn, Mari-Tech 2012 is one of the most highly anticipated marine technical conferences in Canada. Co-hosted by both the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, Eastern Canadian Section and the Ottawa Branch of the Canadian Institute of Marine Engineering, Mari-Tech 2012 is an annual event that brings Marine Engineers and industry representatives together to share knowledge and learn about latest developments. more>>
|
(Mar. 16) The Harper government's FY2012/13 budget will be tabled on March 29 and includes a 7% reduction in military spending, according to sources in Ottawa. The former chair of the senate defence and security committee, Liberal Senator Colin Kenny, said Thursday that if the Conservatives want to make significant defence cuts, they should look at axeing the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships. They have been sarcastically named "slushbreakers" because they are light - not full - icebreakers that would operate in the Arctic for up to eight months each year. “They’re just a dumb idea,” said Kenny. “They don’t break ice and they go 16 knots and that’s slower than a fishing boat.” more>>
|
(Mar. 15) Afghan President Hamid Karzai demanded U.S. troops leave village outposts following the massacre of 16 civilians by an American soldier, who had been drinking, according to the Pentagon Thursday. Karzai also said he wants NATO to transfer security functions to his government by 2013, not 2014. On the same day, the Taliban broke off talks with Washington about swapping prisoners. Analysts fear the civilian killings could make talks on a possible long-term U.S. troop presence in Afghanistan more difficult, if not impossible, as happened in Iraq. more>>
|
(Mar. 15) Military families at the Edmonton Garrison are worried that special allowances for Canadian Forces personnel may be cut in the Harper government's upcoming - March 29 - budget. Defence Minister Peter MacKay told the House of Commons last week that no decision has been made whether to cut or maintain a cost of living allowance called the post living differential or the monthly land duty allowance. "If they do away with the PLD and the land duty allowance we're going to be missing close to $1,300 per month, and that's substantial for a family," the wife of one soldier, Rhonda Draeger, told CBC News. Her husband has been in the military for 23 years and served two tours in Afghanistan. more>>
|
On the same day that U.S. President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister David Cameron were telling reporters that military forces of their nations would stay the course in Afghanistan and not depart early, an apparent suicide attacker breached security at a base where U.S. defense secretary Leon Panetta was arriving. While the Afghan civilian managed to reach an aircraft ramp, Panetta's inbound plane was not attacked. more>>
|
(Mar. 14) Canadian military and police trainers in Afghanistan have to be more vigilant following the recent killing of 16 Afghan civilians by a U.S. soldier and the recent burning of Muslim holy books by American soldiers, which triggered protests - since violent - across the Central Asian nation. "I think we have to be concerned about the volatility and the very horrific recent events that have added to the tensions," Defence Minister Peter MacKay told the Commons defence committee Tuesday. "We have taken certain precautions and additional security measures." more>>
|
(Mar. 14) Canada's associate defence minister, Julian Fantino, told the House of Commons defence committee Tuesday that the Harper government has not ruled out abandoning its plan to procure F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. "We have not, as yet, discounted the possibility, of course, of backing out of any of the program," he said. Fantino said that the government is taking a cautious approach. "We're going to, at some point in time, make the definitive decision," he said. "We have not, as of yet, signed a contract to purchase." more>>
|
(Mar. 14) Vancouver Island RCMP said Tuesday that 23-year-old Chad Shore, a Reservist private, lied about being attacked by a knife-wielding assailant at a bus stop last week. A statement by Nanaimo detachment commander Supt. Norm McPhail said the allegations made by Shore were false. "This incident did not happen, and there is no longer any need for community concern," said McPhail. Military spokespeople did not comment and suggested a formal response may be forthcoming. more>>
|
(Mar. 13) The American soldier accused of killing 16 Afghan civilians, most of them children, had been trained as a sniper and recently suffered a head injury in Iraq. He was not engaged in combat operations when he was in a traffic accident. No indication has been given about the extent of his injury, or whether residual brain damage could have triggered his murderous behaviour. He is married and has two children. The Pentagon has not released his name. Some Afghans are incredulous that one soldier would be able to shoot so many people and burn bodies. "One man can't kill so many people. There must have been many people involved," Bacha Agha of Balandi village told The Associated Press. "If the government says this is just one person's act we will not accept it." more>>
|
(Mar. 13) The Syrian National Council, an umbrella group that represents Syria's opposition abroad, said Monday that military intervention by the international community is needed to protect civilians from forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. The United Nations estimates that more than 7,500 Syrians have been killed during the past year. Torture by al-Assad forces has been routine, reportedly. more>>
|
(Mar. 12) The Ottawa Citizen has obtained a copy of a military plan that will axe nearly 700 civilian support jobs with the Canadian army in order to save money. The cuts are being done in secret and without consultations with DND unions, said John MacLennan, national president of the Union of National Defence Employees. “No one has explained how the work will be done once staff are reduced or whether there are actually going to be any real savings,” said MacLennan, whose union represents more than 19,000 employees at National Defence. “The work isn’t going away so who will end up doing it?” more>>
|
(Mar. 12) Yemeni officials said U.S. air strikes at night killed at least 18 militants connected to al-Qaeda this past weekend. Several key towns in the southern part of the country are controlled by troops associated with the terrorist group. Yemen's military does not have the capacity to carry out night-time air attacks.
more>>
|
(Mar. 12) The Afghan government has denied allegations that some personnel in its U.S.-funded air force have been using military aircraft to transport narcotics and illegal weapons. Reportedly, Afghan officers inside and outside the air force blew the whistle and NATO forces are investigating the allegations. more>>
|
(Mar. 11) An unnamed U.S. Army sergeant killed 16 Afghan civilians on Sunday, including three women and nine children in an unprovoked attack in Kandahar province. Eleven of the dead were members of a family of one man, who was away at the time of the massacre. The soldier set some of the bodies alight. Five other people were wounded in the shooting at Belandi-Pul village of the Panjway district. "This intentional killing and terror is an unforgivable act," said Afghan President Hamid Karzai. The killings will surely strain Afghan-American relations further since the U.S. government has a policy of not handing over any accused armed forces member to a local judicial system for trial and punishment, if found guilty. more>>
|
(Mar. 11) The Canadian Veterans Advocacy group has estimated that 3,000 is the number of homeless former military personnel. The organization's challenge has been to quantify the number of homeless veterans in Canada. Various veterans groups are spearheading initiatives to deal with an issue they believe is only going to become more troubling as troops return from Afghanistan after a decade of fighting. "I wouldn’t call it an epidemic," says Don Leonardo, CEO of veteransofcanada.ca. "I’d call it disgusting. If you can’t take care of the veterans, how can you take care of the homeless, period?" more>>
|
(Mar. 10) The Canadian Forces’ practice of inviting opposition members of parliament to observe aircrews at work should be considered with caution from now on, says Liberal Scott Simms and NDP Defence Critic Jack Harris. At issue for the two MPs was information about both men flying on military aircraft as observers that was ferreted out by air force officers and handed over to Defence Minister Peter MacKay's office and used for political reasons. The air force's action crossed the line of political neutrality, lawyer and retired Canadian Forces colonel Michel Drapeau recently said. more>>
|
(Mar. 10) Ten high-ranking military officers from Syria, including four brigadier generals, have defected and joined the Free Syrian Army. The Syrian deputy oil minister has also joined the opposition. The news comes after government forces continued with their deadly assaults Friday, killing some 50 civilians. The United Nations has estimated that more than 7,500 civilians have been killed by the forces of President Bashar al-Assad during the past year. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) The Harper government's plan to buy new fixed-wing search-and-rescue airplanes has been pushed off until next year, another delay in a procurement process that is approaching a decade in length. The Buffalo SAR aircraft have been in service more than four decades. National Defence's procurement branch has notified companies interested in bidding that it will carry out "consultations" over the next 12 months, and there will be workshops to outline expectations. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) Years of colossal U.S. federal deficits have culminated in at least of defence spending cuts in the United States. However, the latest aircraft such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter cost much more than older warplanes, resulting in a budgetary situation that is forcing the U.S. Air Force to shrink its fleets in order to pay for the desired technological edge. USAF Secretary Michael Donley and Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz outlined the service's modernization efforts during testimony before the House Appropriations Committee's subcommittee this week. The Long Range Strike bomber, KC-46A refueling tanker, and key space and ISR programs will be protected, but 286 aircraft will be mothballed. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) The Dept. of National Defence is changing how the military handles search and rescue calls following the tragic death of Burton Winters, a teenage Labrador snowmobiler who perished in the elements in January despite a call for SAR assistance several hours before. Now, military officials will no longer wait for a call back from anyone needing assistance in a search. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Thursday that the "amended protocol" will help the Canadian Forces provide "an additional layer of due diligence." more>>
|
Bundeswehr LtGen (ret'd) Dr. Ulf von Krause offers a German perspective on Germany's engagement in Afghanisan. "What are the lessons learned from the ten-year adventure of German Afghanistan missions? The first one is that Germany has to define its own security interests ... The second lesson refers to the first decision on military involvement. The Afghanistan conflict makes it very clear that such a first decision is crucial. It shows clearly that having slid into a conflict without proper analysis, having no clear goals and objectives, there is a great danger for an escalation and it is problematic to exit. ... Thirdly, the German Bundestag should develop more critical parliamentary control in such questions concerning peace and war. ...Fourth, the Federal Government and the Bundestag should learn from the Afghanistan case that they can not whitewash the character of a military mission with regard to a perceived mood in the population." more>>
|
(Mar. 8) A 23-year-old Reservist in uniform waiting at a bus stop in Nanaimo on Vancouver Island was attacked Tuesday night when a stranger suddenly pulled out a knife and slashed his throat. Several stitches were required to close the wound. "When a member of our military while in uniform is randomly attacked, it is extremely disconcerting," said RCMP Superintendent Norm McPhail. "Our serious crime unit has taken over the investigation and are actively pursuing all leads." more>>
|
(Mar. 8) Six British soldiers were killed Tuesday evening after an explosion hit their armored vehicle in Helmand province, making it the biggest loss of life for U.K. forces in Afghanistan since a plane crash in 2006. British Prime Minister David Cameron said the deaths marked a "desperately sad day for our country." The attack is certain to fuel calls that British troops be withdrawn from Afghanistan prior to 2014. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) Rob Anders, Conservative MP from Calgary, apologized in the House of Commons Tuesday for verbally blasting veterans who accused him of falling asleep at a Veterans Affairs committee meeting last week. According to veterans, who informed the committee about their efforts to help homeless vets, Anders dozed during their presentation. He denied that he fell asleep in the meeting and later lashed out at the veterans who made the accusations, calling them "NDP hacks" and supporters of Russian President Vladimir Putin. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) The U.S. Air Force's robotic X-37B space plane has recently passed its one-year anniversary in space, while a third X-37B mission is being readied. USAF has not provided information about the nature of the orbital missions for the first and second spaceplanes, but surveillance is suspected. The X-37B - also known as the Orbital Test Vehicle 2, or OTV-2 - was built by Boeing’s Phantom Works and is operated by USAF's Rapid Capabilities Office. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is convinced that Iran wants nuclear weapons in order to attack Israel, and according to a senior Israeli official, considers missiles on Tel Aviv preferable to nukes in Iran. The Obama Administration and senior U.S. military commanders believe that Israeli air strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities would trigger a war that would destabilize the region. Tehran has repeatedly said that Iran needs nuclear electricity production to preserve finite reserves of oil and gas for export. Obama has urged caution in reference to talk of war, adding: "This is not just an issue of Israeli interests - this is an issue of American interests." more>>
|
(Mar. 6) As opposition leader more than six years ago, Stephen Harper promised Newfoundland and Labrador that if his Conservatives formed a government, he would station a squadron of drones at one of the province's military bases for Arctic surveillance. Fast-forward to early 2012: the province and community of Happy Valley-Goose Bay are pressing the Conservative government to fulfill the promise. CFB Goose Bay, the main military facility in the region, has reportedly been sliding into a state of disrepair, with no major military activity or full-time tenant. Hence, the pressure on the Harper government to come through on its promise. more>>
|
(Mar. 6) Sneaking across the desert behind army lines, al-Qaida militants launched surprise attacks against military bases in south Yemen Sunday, killing 107 soldiers and capturing 55, along with heavy weapons. The death toll is believed to be the highest on record in battles fought by the army against al-Qaida militants, who have been emboldened by Yemen's ongoing political turmoil. The country's newly inaugurated president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, has vowed to fight al-Qaeda in his country, believed to be the world’s most active. more>>
|
(Mar. 6) A senior Pakistani Taliban commander was abruptly dismissed on Monday, triggering an angry reaction from his tribal supporters and revealing a rift in the ranks of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or the T.T.P. Militant commanders in Bajaur, a small but strategically important tribal district on the Afghan border, spoke out against the news that their leader, Maulvi Faqir Muhammad, had been fired at a shura - leadership council - meeting this past weekend. In a telephone interview with journalists, the commanders, Maulana Abdul Mutalib, Fazal Khan, Maulvi Abdullah and Liaqat Khan, threatened to set up a rival group. “The decision of the shura has disappointed the Bajaur Taliban,” one of the men said. “This is untimely and can create a rift amongst the mujahedeen.” more>>
|
Organizers of Canada Army Run announced details of the 2012 event. This year, the run will take place on September 23rd (the fourth Sunday in September instead of the usual third Sunday). There will be a registration cap of 8,500 runners in the half-marathon and a 9,500 runner limit for the 5 km run. Last year's event sold out with 16,000 participants. Commander of the Canadian Army, Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin, said: “Our decision to change the date was driven largely in response to concerns about Canada Army Run happening on the same day as two other large Ottawa events: the Battle of Britain ceremonies and the Terry Fox Run. Having experienced unprecedented growth, and out of respect for these other significant events, Canada Army Run sought permission from the National Capital Commission to change the date. We are thrilled to welcome participants and supporters to Ottawa September 23.” Register without delay. more>>
|
The United States Department of Defense and the Republic of Korea are trying to find Korean War Veterans, whether they served in the Canadian Forces or with an allied nation, all veterans of the Korean War are wanted for special recognition to mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. To be eligible a commemorative Certificate, the veteran must have served in the Korean War from 25 June 1950 to 27 July 1953. A special Ambassador for Peace medal is available to those that served during 25 June 1950 to March 1955. To apply for the certificate and/or medal, and you have not already received these official awards, please provide: Full Name, Wartime Rank, Service Number, Date of Birth, Unit or Ship’s Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number, and confirm if you have been on a government revisit tour to Korea and if you are a member of the Korea Veterans Association of Canada. Send information to KW60 Ambassador Guy Black, C/O 944 Dundonald Drive, Port Moody, BC, V3H1B7 or email Korea19501953@yahoo.com
|
(Mar. 5) The likelihood of a long-term Afghanistan-U.S. strategic partnership dimmed this past weekend as negotiations foundered despite a new American willingness to move up the transfer of detention centers to the Afghans. Publicly, U.S. and Afghan officials have avoided saying that the talks are in serious trouble, but after the recent burning of Korans by American soldiers, the bilateral relationship has become particularly strained. Karzai has repeatedly emphasized that any agreement must “respect the Afghan national sovereignty — meaning no imprisonment of Afghans by foreign troops and the transfer of all prisons in foreign force authority and the end to the night operations by the foreign forces.” more>>
|
(Mar. 5) China will boost military spending to 11% this year, passing the $100B mark for the first time. The communist nation spends nearly as much as its 12 Asian neighbours. Analysts outside China say the real defense outlay is likely considerably higher if spending on military projects for outer space and other programs related to the Chinese armed services are taken into account. Territorial disputes between China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei over oil buried at the bottom of the South China Sea are far from any sort of resolution, adding to jitters in the region. more>>
|
(Mar. 5) Al-Qaeda militants overran an army base in southern Yemen on Sunday, capturing heavy weapons and using them against soldiers, killing three dozen troops. According to the government, 25 al-Qaeda members were killed in the fighting as well. Military officials said the militants seized armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, assault rifles and rockets from the base. more>>
|
(Mar. 4) Hundreds of headstones of graves of Commonwealth soldiers who fought and died in Libya during WWII have been shoved over by Libyan rebels who were assisted by NATO nations such as Canada, the U.S., Britain, and France in their fight against the Gadhafi regime last year. The militia men also used a sledge hammer to smash the cemetary's Cross of Remembrance. More than 1000 soldiers and airmen who lost their lives in the Western Desert wars between 1942 to 1943, are buried at the site in Eastern Libya.
more>>
|
(Mar. 4) Afghan President Hamid Karzai is not willing to compromise on two demands - control of all jails in Afghanistan and nighttime raids on homes in the country - that have stalled negotiations involving NATO about long-term security and financial assistance for the Central Asian nation. "We are not willing to compromise when it comes to sovereignty," said a senior Afghan government official. American officials had suggested resolving the impasse by hiving off the two most controversial points into a separate document and agreeing to address them out later, but Karzai has rejected that proposal as a compromise of Afghan sovereignty. more>>
|
(Mar. 4) Australia's military mission in Afghanistan has failed and the government has done a bad job of explaining the nation's role there, says Prof. Hugh White, a defence strategist from the Strategic Studies Institute at the Australian National University. White says the situation in Afghanistan is "past the point where the Government can credibly claim that they've got an orderly plan" and "I think (Defence Minister) Stephen Smith has done a very bad job of really explaining to the Australian people in the light of that fact why we're there, what we're still doing there, why we can't get out sooner." more>>
|
(Mar. 2) The Governor General’s office announced Wednesday that 45 Canadian Forces personnel - two commanders, nine officers and 34 members - have been invested into the Order of Military Merit. Their names can be viewed by clicking on more>>
|
(Mar. 2) Two more American soldiers were killed Thursday by Afghans, one wearing an army uniform and the other in civilian clothes. The killings occurred at NATO-Afghan base in the southern part of the country. An Afghan soldier in a guard tower suddenly opened fire on coalition forces. The two attackers were killed. In the past month and a half alone, six Americans have been killed by insiders, and since 2007 there have been 45 NATO personnel lethally attacked by them. more>>
|
(Mar. 2) The U.S. military commissions system is cutting deals with detained terrorist suspects who agree to testify against their comrades in exchange for reduced sentences, according to officials. The move has has sparked an intense debate in Washington and elsewhere in the United States because a number of the prisoners have been held at Guantanamo Bay since after 9/11. In the case of Majid Khan, a 32-year-old Pakistani and former Baltimore resident accused of war crimes, he will serve no more than 19 years if he fully cooperates with the government. Without a deal, Khan was facing spending the rest of his life in prison. more>>
|
Different times bring different tools, according to the linked New York Times article. It is a comprehensive look at state-of-the-art 'milspec social media', complete with reference to Courtney Messerschmidt's blog, GrEaT sAtAn"S gIrLfRiEnD. more>>
|
(Mar. 1) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told the Senate Budget Committee this week that forcing America's military to swallow more than $487B in cuts over a decade is like "putting a gun to our head." The looming issue is "sequestration", as much as an additional $500B in cuts that is currently legally binding and will begin to come into effect in 2013. Some U.S. lawmakers such as Sen. John McCain have vowed to roll back the cuts, but demographic, fiscal and political realities in the USA are developing into obstacles. Millions of greying Baby Boomers are expecting trillions of dollars of Social Security and Medicare benefits and the Tea Party element of the GOP, in particular, wants federal spending chopped - and the armed services are not to be spared. Meanwhile, the U.S. Treasury continues to borrow nearly $32B weekly, the equivalent of 18 months of military spending in Canada. more>>
|
(Feb. 29) A training mission by Canadian special forces that was supposed to get underway this month in Mali has been scuttled due to a local war with rebels who want an autonomous state. The counter-terrorism training exercise - dubbed Flintlock - was organized by the U.S. military and was to involve a small team of soldiers from CFB Petawawa. “As Exercise Flintlock 12 has been postponed, CANSOFCOM will not be sending a contingent to help provide training in reconnaissance, land navigation, marksmanship, and other basic counter-terrorism skills,” the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command said in an email. more>>
|
(Feb. 29) Sub.-Lieut. Jeffrey Paul Delisle, the Royal Canadian Navy intelligence officer accused of passing information to a foreign entity never did anything to threaten the safety of military personnel, his defence lawyer, Mike Taylor, said Tuesday. Taylor said that the public needs to understand that the allegations against his client, while serious, do not mean he is accused of endangering his comrades in the navy or any other service. more>>
|
(Feb. 29) A team of U.S. Office of Naval Research and BAE Systems personnel have successfully fired a working prototype of a magnetic railgun system. The railgun fires an 18kg projectile at speeds up to 8,000 km/h and ranges as far as 100 nautical miles (191km). Work on the innovative naval gun began in 2005 and if the program is successful enough to satify U.S. lawmakers, it's expected to be fully operational by 2025. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) Despite the recent assassinations of U.S. officers and widespread rioting in Afghanistan following the burning of Qu'rans at a NATO base in the country, the Obama administration has decided to stay-the-course message in the conflict-ridden Central Asian nation. "We work alongside thousands of Afghans every single day to ensure a better future for the Afghan people. And nothing that has happened over the past week is going to deter us from that goal," said Pentagon spokesman George Little on Monday. "We're making progress. We have put the enemy on its heels in many parts of the country." Still, many Americans question their government's decision to keep U.S. forces in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) A suicide car bomber drove his vehicle into the gates of a NATO base and airport in Jalalabad in eastern Afghanistan Monday. The explosion killed nine Afghans. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying via email it was revenge for U.S. troops burning copies of the Qu'ran, the Muslim holy book. Despite apologies from American officials and a call from Afghan President Hamid Karzai for calm, violent demonstrations in various parts of Afghanistan have left more than 30 people dead and many more injured. The Taliban has also provided some details about how a sympathizer managed to assassinate two U.S. military officials in a tightly-guarded military intelligence compound. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) Canada's fleet of second-hand submarines, which have been beset with technical issues since 1998 and the need for major repair and upgrade work over the past 13-odd years, should remain part of the navy until at least 2030, according to Vice-Admiral Paul Maddison. He told a Senate committee Monday that losing the capability of underwater surveillance and attack would be a "dire day for Canada." However, with the federal debt at an unprecedented level and going even higher, rumours have been swirling that the Harper government may order the Royal Canadian Navy to give up one or more of the boats as a cost-cutting measure. more>>
|
(Feb. 27) Violent protests over last week’s Qu'ran burnings continue to spread across Afghanistan, with Foreign Affairs advising Canadians to avoid all travel to Afghanistan as "the security situation remains extremely volatile and unpredictable." After the burnings, two U.S. military officers were killed at the Afghanistan interior ministry on Saturday, which prompted NATO to pull all its advisers out of government ministries. On Sunday, seven more U.S. officers were injured in a grenade attack on their base. About 950 Canadian military advisers are scattered across more than a dozen bases in Kabul and western Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Feb. 27) The Afghan Interior Ministry acknowledged Sunday that one of its employees is the key suspect in the shooting deaths of two U.S. military officers gunned down at their desks in a well-guarded command-and-control center. He remains at large. In response to Saturday's attack, the commander of the NATO force in Afghanistan, U.S. Marine Corps Gen. John Allen, took the unprecedented step of immediately pulling Western military advisors out of Afghan government ministries. more>>
|
(Feb. 27) In a recent article on foreign policy, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said U.S. and NATO intervention abroad was undermining global stability, not buttressing it. He accused the United States of meddling in the politics of his country and Russia's neighbours and warned Western and Arab nations against military intervention in Syria. He also said that the “growing threat” of an attack on Iran over its nuclear programme would result in “truly catastrophic” consequences. Concerning the U.S. missile defence shield, “The Americans are obsessed with the idea of providing themselves with absolute invulnerability,” he wrote, adding that would lead to “absolute vulnerability for everyone else”. more>>
|
(Feb. 26) The shooting deaths of two U.S. military advisers in Kabul and the decision to pull coalition personnel from all Afghan government ministries has generated doubt about the reliability of the Afghanistan government as America's partner in the war. The two killings were done execution-style - shots to the back of the head - and are yet another example of the creativity employed by the insurgency in Afghanistan in terms of changing tactics. In light of such novel and lethal actions, will the Afghan government, post-2014, be able to adequately secure the country? That's the big question on the minds of U.S. officials. more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Apologies from U.S. officials for the burning of Qurans - copies of the Muslim holy book at a NATO facility - are falling on deaf ears in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where anger is boiling over. On Thursday, an individual wearing an Afghan army uniform shot and killed two U.S. soldiers in eastern Afghanistan during one of the many protests that have erupted across the country following the burning of Qurans. Thousands of Afghans poured onto the streets after Friday prayers, many chanting "Death to America." President Karzai has appealed for calm, saying citizens have the right to protest, but should not resort to violence. more>>
|
(Feb. 24) German politicians and members of the public have rejected plans by the country's defence department to create a military logistics base near Cologne. The result is that the Canadian Forces will have to go elsewhere. It was just last week that Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced the decision to locate a support hub at Germany's Cologne-Bonn Airport, a civilian aerodrome. However, the German public and local politicians were never consulted and have been against the move ever since learning of it. "The airport of a major city is not the right location for additional military air traffic," said Cologne Lord Mayor Jurgen Roters. more>>
|
(Feb. 24) Military personnel were asked to dig up dirt on an opposition MP after revelations that Defence Minister Peter MacKay was picked up in a search-and-rescue helicopter from a 2010 fishing trip came to light, National Defence records show. The MP in question was Liberal MP Scott Simms (Bonavista—Gander—Grand Falls—Windsor). Simms said the emails, which he reviewed Thursday, show the Conservative “counter-attack machine” in action. Instead of ministers holding themselves to a higher standard, they attack other politicians’ credibility, he said. more>>
|
(Feb. 24) Two U.S. military helicopters collided over the Arizona-California border Wednesday night, killing seven U.S. Marines. The mid-air collision occurred during routine training operations and involved an AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopter and a UH-1Y Huey utility chopper. Authorities are investigating. "We won't know exactly what happened until the investigation is complete, and we can't make any assumptions right now," said 1st Lt. Maureen Dooley, a Marine Corps spokeswoman. more>>
|
(Feb. 23) A burning Royal Canadian Air Force CC-130 Hercules transport airplane made a forced landing at a U.S. naval air station in Key West, Florida Tuesday. All nine crew members managed to evacuate while military firefighters attacked the conflagration. The aircraft was damaged extensively and may be written off. An air force investigation is underway. Canadian officials directed staff at the U.S. airbase to not speak to Canadian reporters about the emergency landing and or the scorched and damaged airplane. more>>
|
(Feb. 23) Vice-Adm. Paul Maddison, the navy's commander, said in a recent interview that Canada needs to bolster its military presence in the Arctic to prepare for the increase in human and economic activity in the region resulting mainly from climate change. "From a naval perspective, climate change probably means there will be more open water, so the Arctic Ocean will really emerge as the Arctic Ocean," said Maddison. Also, he'd like to see more resources put into improving the navy's surveillance abilities in the North. more>>
|
(Feb. 23) Canada's contribution to the training mission in Afghanistan might be reduced depending on the number of Afghan security forces needed after 2014 and the financial support for them, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Wednesday. He also said that training foreign soldiers in nations other than Afghanistan is something the Canadian Forces can expect to do for years to come. Speaking in California, MacKay told a university audience: "We're committed to reaching the training levels that the Afghans set for themselves. So it's their level of ambition." more>>
|
(Feb. 22) Despite Canada's four subs spending less than 1,000 days altogether in the water during the past 13 years and the damaged HMCS Corner Brook not expected to be repaired and operational now until 2016, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walter Natynczyk said Monday that Canada has "an extraordinarily capable" submarine fleet. "I would say from a sovereignty standpoint, from a stealth standpoint and from a strike standpoint, this [submarine] is one of the most potent capabilities that the Canadian Forces has." The boats were bought used from the Royal Navy in 1998 for $750M. Since then, another $1B has been invested to fix and upgrade the fleet and make it capable of firing torpedoes of American, not British, origin. more>>
|
(Feb. 22) After WWII ended in 1945, a Canadian warship, HMCS Beauharnois, dumped all its munitions overboard off the Gaspe shoreline in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The munitions dump site is one of hundreds of sites across Canada identified as containing live and dangerous explosives.
"In recent years, there have been several deaths and serious injuries caused by unexploded explosive ordnances (UXO) in Canada," says a Dept. of National Defence webpage. "Caution is always required when entering UXO legacy sites." more>>
|
(Feb. 22) Since Feb. 14, Canadian Forces members from Ontario have been participating in emergency response training near Cochrane, Kapuskasing and Hearst in the province. The exercise, which ends Feb. 26, has been designed to address various scenarios under different conditions. This year’s simulated scenario is based on a large aircraft crash about 50km east of Cochrane, and a smaller crash some 250km west of the community. The exercise involves about 600 Regular and Reserve Force soldiers, including Canadian Rangers, and Ontario-based Air Force squadrons. more>>
|
(Feb. 21) Canada's Veterans Affairs ombudsman, Guy Parent, says letters to veterans about their benefits often fail to explain how decisions are made. "All the letters examined failed a test of adequacy in the reasons given for the decisions," Parent says in a report released Monday. "It troubles me to think that many veterans may be wrongly assessed and do not pursue the matter further because the letter did not reveal where the department's decision might have been flawed," Parent wrote. more>>
|
(Feb. 21) Russia's Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said in an article published Monday that his country needs to modernize its military forces in order to deter other nations from waging war against the resource-rich country. "We mustn't tempt anyone with our weakness," Putin wrote in the government daily Rossiyskaya Gazeta. Moscow plans to spend about 23 trillion rubles (US$770B) over the next decade to purchase 400+ intercontinental ballistic missiles, 600+ combat aircraft, dozens of submarines and other navy vessels, and thousands of armoured vehicles. more>>
|
(Feb. 21) Iran's military has announced it will hold exercises to strengthen protection of the country's nuclear sites. "The exercises aim to reinforce the integrated abilities of the country's anti-air defences," said a statement from the Katem-ol-Anbia military air base. Israel may attack Iranian nuclear sites as early as April, according to some news reports, a move that the Obama Administration has asked the Jewish state to not take. Gen. Dempsey, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, recently said an Israeli attack against Iran would have a "destabilizing" effect on the region. more>>
|
(Feb. 20) Al-Qaeda obtaining missiles and other munitions, defiant rebel militias robbing Libyans and fighting each other, ongoing torture, and a humanitarian crisis affecting hundreds of thousands of people are aspects of the aftermath of the NATO-backed war in Libya. A recent UN report noted that crime and drug and human smuggling have spiked in the region and the return of more than one million people to their homelands has worsened an "already challenging, humanitarian, development and security situation." The president of neighbouring Chad, Idriss Deby Itno, told journalists that al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has acquired missiles and small arms from abandoned Libyan caches. "This is very serious. AQIM is becoming a genuine army, the best equipped in the region." more>>
|
(Feb. 20) Ronald E. Neumann, who was U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan from 2005 to 2007, and is the author of “The Other War: Winning and Losing in Afghanistan”, explains in this Washington Post piece why American forces will still be in Afghanistan for years after 2014. more>>
|
(Feb. 20) HMCS Vancouver returned Sunday to its home port of Esquimalt, B.C. after spending seven months in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the NATO maritime task group deployed off the coast of Libya. The 225 sailors were at sea since July. "HMCS Vancouver's work in the Mediterranean played an essential role in enforcing the United Nations imposed arms embargo in Libya's territorial waters during the turmoil that engulfed that nation," said Defence Minister Peter MacKay in a statement. more>>
|
(Feb. 19) Regime change in Libya last year that culminated in the murder of the country's strongman, Col. Moammar Gadhafi, by rebel forces was a key objective of participating NATO countries, including Canada. The official reason given for NATO's involvement was protecting civilians, but military actions such as providing rebel forces with sophisticated military equipment, including an unmanned aerial vehicle made in Canada, revealed that an agenda beyond just civilian protection was underway. Notably, prior to the uprising that started in February 2011 Gadhafi was courted by Canada, the U.K., and other Western nations seeking closer economic ties with Libya. more>>
|
(Feb. 19) The chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army General Martin Dempsey, told CNN this weekend that an Israeli attack on Iran would be “destabilizing.” “It’s not prudent at this point to decide to attack Iran,” he said in an interview with CNN’s geopolitical analyst Fareed Zakaria. Dempsey added that the Obama administration is confident the Israelis “understand our concerns.” “A strike at this time would be destabilizing and wouldn’t achieve their [Israel's] long-term objectives,” Dempsey said. “I wouldn’t suggest, sitting here today, that we’ve persuaded them that our view is the correct view and that they are acting in an ill-advised fashion.” Iran wants direct talks with the United States on its nuclear program at the “earliest possibility,” the country’s top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, wrote in a Feb. 14 letter to European Union foreign policy head Catherine Ashton. more>>
|
Entrepreneurs and manufacturing companies in Alberta will soon have access to a new leading-edge facility for developing new composite-based products as a result of funding from the Government of Canada. A federal investment of $3.5 million, announced by the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, will enable the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT Polytechnic) to establish and equip a centre for innovation to support companies working to create new products that use composite materials. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) About 1,500 troops, mainly Edmonton-based infantry and support staff, are retraining near Yellowknife. Exercise Arctic Ram began on Feb. 14 and concludes on Feb. 26. After years of combat in Afghanistan, soldiers are retraining for operations on Canadian soil. The Canadian Army has decided it needs to be able to operate in Arctic and subarctic landscapes, Brigade commander Omer Lavoie said, as he surveyed an ice road built by military engineers. "It's been years and years since we've done this. You almost have a whole generation of soldiers who have never seen (the Arctic)," he said. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) National Defence has withdrawn an application to conduct supersonic flight training in Labrador. In 2009, the DND requested permission from Newfoundland and Labrador's environment minister to fly in excess of 1,000 supersonic training flights over the area. The hope was to attract allied air forces that need to practise air-to-air combat over the large open areas. CFB Goose Bay has reportedly fallen into a state of disrepair and requires more than $200M worth of new equipment and infrastructure repairs and upgrades. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) The Indian government and Dassault Aviation, the French warplane and business jet maker, confirmed Friday that the company won India's $11B Multi-Role Combat Aircraft competition. France's military used the Rafale last year in the skies over Libya. Not chosen were Britain's Eurofighter Typhoon, Sweden's Gripen, Russia's MiG-35, and none of the three U.S. fighter aircraft offered: Lockheed Martin's F-16IN and fifth-generation F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, and Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet. more>>
|
When Julian Fantino got the call to enter cabinet as associate defence minister, he must have thought he'd died and gone to heaven. Unfortunately for Fantino, it hasn't turned out quite that way. On problem-plagued F-35 program, Fantino has been reduced to wanly repeating talking points that no one, perhaps not even him, believes. Tellingly it was MacKay who took point Thursday. But though his standup is far stronger than Fantino's, his answers were no more besmirched by actual content. more>>
|
(Feb. 17) Struggling to deal with its huge debt, Italy's government unveiled sweeping defence cuts Wednesday, including a reduction of personnel by 43,000 people, and 41 fewer F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. The number of admirals and generals will be reduced by "more than 30 per cent", said Defence Minister Giampaolo Di Paola, and the army will lose two of its 11 brigades. The number of warships and submarines will also be reduced from 24 to 14, and fleets of tanks, armoured personnel carriers, artillery pieces, and helicopters are also being cut. more>>
|
(Feb. 17) Nova Scotia has a new lieutenant governor: BGen (Ret.) John James Grant. "With five decades of dedicated service in the Canadian Armed Forces, General Grant has established himself as an exemplary citizen in Nova Scotia — one who is devoted to his community, his province, and his country," Harper said in a release. "He brings to this important role a lifetime of skills and experiences that will serve the country well." more>>
|
(Feb. 17) U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency Director LGen. Ronald Burgess told the Senate Armed Services Committee this week that Iran will not initiate a war with the United States, but if attacked, the Islamic nation could not only temporarily close the Strait of Hormuz, but unleash asymmetric warfare via its paramilitary allies. Israel as well as the U.S. and other countries are convinced that Iran is developing nuclear weapons, while Tehran says the country requires nuclear electrical power generation and will continue to work toward developing it. Tens of thousands of U.S. military personnel occupy bases around the Arabian Gulf and two aircraft carrier groups are in the region. more>>
|
Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today urged Congress to undo an automatic $500 billion cut to defense spending due to go into effect next year, and made his case for two new rounds of military base realignments and closures.
Panetta raised the issues as part of his presentation of the proposed fiscal 2013 defense budget to the House Armed Services Committee. He was joined by Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Robert F. Hale, Defense Department comptroller and undersecretary of defense for finance.
The proposal - a $525.4 billion base budget plus $88.5 billion for overseas contingency operations - includes reductions toward $487 billion in defense spending cuts over 10 years mandated by the Budget Control Act, which Congress passed last year. It does not, however, account for more than $500 billion in additional cuts that will go into effect in January if Congress doesn’t act to stop it. Those additional cuts, known as “sequestration,” were written into the Budget Control Act as automatic, across-the-board cuts to the federal budget if members of a congressional “super committee” could not agree on spending cuts by a November deadline. They didn’t.
|
(Feb. 16) Senior defence officials conceded Wednesday there is no Plan B to deal with F-35 fighter jet program delays. However, they insisted that a backup plan is unnecessary because upgrades done since 2001 to the CF-18 Hornet fleet mean the jets can "easily" stay in the air to 2020 and beyond. With the Pentagon and Lockheed Martin announcing Tuesday that the F-35's price will rise and internal Canadian air force documents stating that planners consider 65 new fighter jets to be the "minimum acceptable fleet", the issue for the Harper government has become how to meet that defence need within the $9B budget. more>>
|
Defence Minister Peter Mackay announced that the German government had agreed to the establishment of a long-term Canadian Forces support hub at Köln-Bonn Airport. During a joint news conference on Feb. 14 with German Defence Minister Thomas de Maizière, he said the Canadian operation should be a model for other NATO allies in Afghanistan after 2014. Canada’s main European support hub has been at U.S. Air Force Base Spangdahlem since 2009 and has been fundamental to the movement of personnel and materiel for the combat mission in Afghanistan.
|
Whether you are involved in the military or civilian judiciary, or the military police, Military Justice in Action: Annotated National Defence Legislation explains Canadian military law. Military attachés, diplomats and government officials at the provincial and federal levels, defence procurement specialists and law scholars will also benefit from the valuable annotations in this portable resource. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) Delays in U.S. and international orders for Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) will increase the warplane's cost, company and U.S. government officials said Tuesday. On the same day, Italy announced that it will buy fewer JSFs - reported by an Italian newspaper to be 40 less aircraft - while Defence Minister Peter MacKay would not confirm for reporters that Canada will procure 65 F-35s. MacKay did say, however, that the Harper government was committed to buying new fighter aircraft. Steve O'Bryan, Lockheed Martin's official in charge of international orders, told Reuters that he had assured Canadian officials that the price of their JSFs would increase nominally, percentage-wise. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) Canada's associate minister of defence, Julian Fantino, who is in charge of procurement involving the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, told the CBC's Evan Solomon Tuesday that the federal government may adjust its JSF procurement because the situation is "evolving." In the House of Commons on the same day, Prime Minister Stephen Harper told MPs: "There's a budget for [buying new fighter aircraft] and the government's been clear it will operate within that budget." more>>
|
Sources said the Department of National Defence is preparing to tender a contract for six remotely piloted vehicles such as the MQ-9 Reaper, which the U.S. Defence Department estimates cost around $30-million each. The Canadian military has previously leased unarmed drones from Israel and the CU-170 Herons flew reconnaissance missions in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) China's leader-in-waiting, Xi Jinping, and U.S. defense chiefs agreed on the need for expanding military relations between the two powers after talks at the Pentagon Tuesday. Xi, the Chinese vice president, said he supports more military contacts, following talks with U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta. "They agreed on the need for enhanced and substantive dialogue and communication to foster greater understanding and expand mutual trust," said Pentagon spokesman George Little. more>>
|
(Feb. 14) One of Canada's four submarines, HMCS Corner Brook, sustained damage last summer when it struck the ocean floor off the B.C. coast. A gaping hole - estimated at roughly 5 x 3 metres - is visible in photos obtained by CBC News. Defence Minister Peter Mackay told a news conference today that the damage occurred when the submarine struck the ocean floor and is not as extensive as has been reported, damaging only the fiberglass housing over the submarine’s sonar array and that the pressure hull is intact.
Mackay’s comments echoed those of Rear-Admiral Mark Norman, deputy commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, during an appearance on CBC's Power and Politics the previous day. "It is similar to a fender bender, yes. It just happens to be a very expensive piece of equipment."
Despite what he described as the “spotty” record of the four Victoria-class diesel-electric boats acquired from Britain in 1998, Mackay said he hoped to have “full operational capability” next year with three boats available at all times, including one at a state of “high readiness” on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts at all times. more>>
|
(Feb. 14) Nearly 100 soldiers from CFB Gagetown will leave Canada on Monday night for Afghanistan, where they will relieve military personnel who have been training Afghan security forces since last summer. Approximately 950 military personnel have been stationed in and around Kabul since July providing instruction to Afghan soldiers and police in classrooms and mentoring medical staff. Lee Windsor, deputy director of the Gregg Centre for the Study of War and Society at the University of New Brunswick, said Canada's sacrifices in Afghanistan have earned troops respect with their counterparts in the war-torn nation. more>>
|
(Feb. 14) President Obama signed the long-overdue Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bill into law today, which includes important provisions on the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the national airspace system. The FAA bill requires a comprehensive integration plan within nine months and has set a 30 Sept 2015 deadline for full integration of UAS into the national airspace.
|
(Feb. 14) Italy will cut investment in Lockheed Martin's F-35 stealth fighter plane as part of an overall reduction in military spending, Defence Minister Giampaolo Di Paola said today after a Cabinet meeting on military spending. Unconfirmed reports state that Italy will order 40 fewer fighter aircraft than originally planned. However, Di Paola confirmed the fighter "is still an important commitment" for the country's defence system. The defence cuts were announced the same day as Italy refused to guarantee funding for Rome's bid to host the 2020 Olympic Games. more>>
|
(Feb. 13) China's vice president, Xi Jinping, warned the U.S. government this weekend against plans to boost its military presence in Asia as he prepared for a visit to Washington starting Monday. Jinping called on the U.S. government to put economic growth ahead of building up military forces in the Pacific region, which he said has "ample space" for both his country and the United States. He insisted that Asian countries are concerned foremost with "economic prosperity", not a regional Cold War. more>>
|
(Feb. 13) Iran has expanded its naval forces in the Persian Gulf and prepared boats that could be used in suicide attacks, but the U.S. Navy can prevent it from blocking the Strait of Hormuz, Vice Admiral Mark Fox, the commander of American naval forces in the region, said Sunday. "They have increased the number of submarines ... they increased the number of fast attack craft," Fox told reporters. "Some of the small boats have been outfitted with a large warhead that could be used as a suicide explosive device. The Iranians have a large mine inventory." more>>
|
(Feb. 12) Prime Minister Stephen Harper confirmed Saturday that the federal government will pay $10M to China for the rental of two giant pandas for zoos in Toronto and Calgary. Millions of extra dollars will be spent to prepare the facilities and care for the animals. Meanwhile, the Conservative government is closing the Canadian Forces search-and-rescue station in St. John's, Newfoundland, which costs $1M annually to operate. Robin Brentnall, a veterans advocate in Nfld. has written his MP, Scott Simms, about the two expenditures and asked that the matter be brought up in the House of Commons. more>>
|
Canada is pulling out of a NATO surveillance project 20 years in the making that will use unmanned aerial vehicles to collect information. Canada signed a memorandum of understanding in 1992 with 13 other countries, including the U.S., Germany and Norway, in 2009. The program, with its main operating base in Italy, would have cost Canada up to $450 million over 20 years for acquisition and in-service support. But it's now seen as not affordable due to global economic conditions and Canada having to cut its defence budget. more>>
|
(Feb. 11) The second-highest-ranking U.S. commander in Afghanistan, Lt.-Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, said this week that U.S. military advisory teams will start deploying to Afghanistan this year to help Afghan combat forces as they take a more prominent role in fighting the Taliban. If the implemented plan works as U.S. government and military officials hope, international troops will step back from their leading role in combatting the insurgency. The objective is for all foreign troops to leave by the end of 2014. more>>
|
(Feb. 10) Canada is among nine nations participating in Op. Bold Alligator, the largest joint amphibious assault exercise on the U.S. east coast in the past ten years, according to Pentagon. Approximately 19,000 military personnel are participating. "Amphibious forces are a critical element of maritime power projection that ought to be a high priority for support, even in a resource constrained environment, because they are a cost effective option for accomplishing a wide range of military operations," said Adm. John Harvey, commander, United States Fleet Forces. more>>
|
(Feb. 10) The Pentagon has announced plans to ease restrictions on women serving in combat roles. While they will still be barred from the most dangerous roles in infantry, armour and special operations positions, about 14,000 new ones - mostly in the Army and Marine Corps - that were previously denied to them are being opened up. However, an advocacy group for women in the military said the policy did not go far enough. more>>
|
(Feb. 10) The Ministry of Defence has been "over-optimistic" about the costs of military equipment programs, says Britain's Public Accounts Committee. The PAC also warned that government spending cuts could make planned increases in the equipment budget "unrealistic." The committee said the estimated cost of the 15 largest defence projects rose by £466m (CAD$734M) in 2010-11. Committee chairman, Labour MP Margaret Hodge, said: "Much of the cost increase over the last decade has been down to the fact that the estimates for large programmes significantly underestimated the real cost." more>>
|
(Feb. 10) Navy personnel on the West Coast have been practicing with U.S. Coast Guard members during a 12-day exercise, Pacific Guardian, not far from the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island. The exercise involves a variety of Canadian and U.S. vessels and hundreds of crew. The Royal Canadian Navy likes to work with the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy as much as possible on operations since Canada and the United States are often responding to similar threats on the water. more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Hamburg, Germany – ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and PWGSC signed a contract for the multiphase design study for the Canadian Navy's next generation Joint Support Ship (JSS).
One possible design for the new replenishment ships is a version of the German Navy's latest Berlin Class Task Group Supply Vessel (EGV) specifically modified to meet Canadian requirements. The agreement between PWGSC and TKMSC includes provisions for a licensing agreement for the use of the EGV design for the construction in and deployment of the ships by Canada should the EGV design be selected.
The modified design, to be developed by TKMSC in close cooperation with naval systems engineering company, Blohm + Voss Naval (BVN), will be considered alongside an in-house design, being developed by the Department of National Defence (DND), the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), and BMT Fleet Technology in Canada. The winning design will be used for the construction of the ships by a Canadian shipyard.
|
(Feb. 8) Canadian Forces followed established procedures in the search for Burton Winters, the 14-year-old Labrador boy who perished in wintery conditions last week. A military SAR helicopter wasn't deployed for nearly two days after Winters was reported missing. Rear Admiral David Gardam said he spoke with the boy's family for 40 minutes before addressing reporters. “No one can imagine what it feels like to talk to a family in a grief-stricken state and say that nothing I can do, or could have done, would bring Burton back." he said. "This is a tragic loss and it was one of the most difficult things I've had to do in my career." more>>
|
(Feb. 9) Lt.-Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, the number-two American commander in Afghanistan, responded Wednesday to the criticism levelled at the military's senior leadership by U.S. Army Lt.-Col. Daniel Davis in his essay, "Truth, Lies and Afghanistan: How Military Leaders Have Let Us Down." Davis' piece appeared in the Armed Forces Journal, an independent military affairs publication. Davis wrote that his year-long experience in Afghanistan bore "no resemblance to rosy official statements by U.S. military leaders about conditions on the ground." Scaparrotti said that Davis’ criticism was only one person’s opinion of the general situation. “I am confident, in my personal view, that our outlook is accurate,” he said. more>>
|
FrontLine has learned that Spanish shipbuilder Navantia is out of the running for Canadian Navy's Joint Support Ships, leaving a choice between the German Berlin-class and a home-grown Canadian design. Whatever the choice, two and possibly three Joint Support Ships will be built at the Seaspan shipyards in Vancouver under a contract estimated at about $3 billion.
|
(Feb. 8) Six-hundred Canadian Forces regular and reserve force soldiers from Ontario will be training later this month to respond to a simulated large aircraft crash and a smaller one in the isolated northern part of the province. Canadian Rangers and RCAF squadrons based in Ontario will participate to gain a better understanding of crash response operations in a wintery northern environment. “Exercise TRILLIUM RESPONSE 2012 is an important way to practice winter skills under difficult conditions while preparing for domestic operations in the north,” said Brig.-Gen. Fred Lewis, Commander JTFC. “The men and women of the Canadian Forces (CF) are ready to assist fellow Canadians with rapid response when needed.” more>>
|
(Feb. 8) The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency is expected to maintain a large presence in Iraq and Afghanistan long after conventional forces have departed the countries as part of a plan by the Obama administration to rely on a combination of spies and Special Operations forces to protect American interests in the two nations. The CIA has huge stations in Kabul and Baghdad, which will probably remain the agency’s largest overseas outposts for years. The administration has been pursuing a revised strategy where smaller, flexible units are used in combination with unmanned vehicles such as armed drones, rather than employing large numbers of conventional forces like those that invaded Iraq nearly nine years ago and were subsequently battered by shadowy insurgents using small arms, RPGs, mortars, and ubiquitous IEDs. more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Argentina will lodge a complaint with the United Nations Security Council protesting Britain’s “militarization” of the southern Atlantic Ocean around the Falkland Islands. Throughout Latin America, they are known as Las Malvinas. The two countries fought a war over the islands, which are situated much closer to Argentina than the U.K., in 1982. Britain has deployed one of its newest destroyers, HMS Dauntless, to the waters near the islands in advance of British companies drilling for oil around the archipelago. more>>
|
(Feb. 7) Canadian military police have charged Capt. Daniel Moriarty, an instructor at the Cadet Instructors Cadre, with disgraceful conduct and sexual offences against two cadets in B.C. He is accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a 16-year-old girl and sexually assaulting an underage teenage male. The alleged offences occurred between 2008 and 2011 at the LGen E.C. Ashton Armoury in Victoria and the Vernon Army Cadet Summer Training Centre in Vernon. more>>
|
(Feb. 7) Lt.-Col. Daniel Davis of the U.S. Army has deliberately broken ranks with the official portrayal of the Afghanistan War after spending a year in the country and accused the American military of painting a misleading picture of progress in the conflict. "What I saw bore no resemblance to rosy official statements by US military leaders about conditions on the ground," he wrote in an article published in Armed Forces Journal, a private newspaper not affiliated with the Pentagon. "Instead, I witnessed the absence of success on virtually every level," he wrote under the headline, "Truth, Lies And Afghanistan: How military leaders have let us down". For going so far 'off-message', Davis told The New York Times: "I'm going to get nuked." more>>
|
(Feb. 7) After a record year in 2011 for civilian casualties in Afghanistan, 77% of them caused by Taliban attacks, NATO officials in the country say they will focus on reducing the number of Afghan civilians who are killed and injured this year. According to U.N. officials, nearly 12,000 Afghan civilians have been killed since 2007, most in roadside bombings and suicide bomb attacks. Various NATO air strikes were also responsible for civilian casualties. more>>
|
(Feb. 6) A new report to be presented Tuesday to a Parliamentary committee alleges that Canadian taxpayers are on the hook for fixes to shoddy construction work at Dept. of National Defence buildings and private contractor overcharges. The Union of National Defence Employees, which represents DND construction engineering staff, has collected photographic evidence of crumbling foundations, sloping floors on new buildings, piping attached to a ceiling with a rope, and other examples of poor and unsafe workmanship performed by contractors hired by Defence Construction Canada, the Crown corporation responsible for work done on DND facilities. “We uncovered just a fraction of what we think is going on at all DND sites across the country,” said John MacLennan, the union’s national president. “We don’t know how much it is costing taxpayers but we’re asking for an audit.” more>>
|
(Feb. 6) The U.S. and Israel are publicly disagreeing over when to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities. The governments of both nations believe that Iran is attempting to build a nuclear weapon, a charge with the regime in Tehran has repeatedly denied. Being a U.S. presidential year, the last thing that Pres. Obama wants is another war in the Middle East that would require American involvement. However, the Washington Post recently reported that U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta believes there is a strong likelihood that Israel will attack Iran in April, May or June before the country's new nuclear enrichment facility, which is deeply underground, is completed. more>>
|
(Feb. 5) Members of the family of 14-year-old Burton Winters, who was found dead off the northern coast of Labrador on Wednesday, are asking why the Canadian Forces waited to look for their son when a private helicopter landed at the scene in the same conditions that the military said were too poor for flight operations. The lad's father and stepmother issued a statement Saturday that sharply criticized the military's apparently slow response. "How is it that a civilian helicopter arrived on the scene, yet a Search and Rescue helicopter did not?" the family has asked, noting that "the civilian helicopter which had first arrived was neither equipped nor capable for a search and rescue situation" and that the civilian chopper crew "only offered to help because Search and Rescue had not yet arrived." A military investigation into the matter is underway. more>>
|
(Feb. 5) Iran began ground military exercises Saturday and warned that it could cut off oil exports to "hostile" European nations as tensions increase between the Middle East nation and the U.S., Europe and Israel. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that U.S. or Israeli attacks against Tehran's nuclear facilities will result in counter-strikes. In a nationally broadcast speech Friday, he pledged to aid any nation or group that challenges Israel. Hezbollah in Lebanon is widely viewed as a militant proxy group supported by the Iranian regime and well-equipped to launch rocket attacks against Israel. The Jewish state will reportedly strike at Iran this year if Western sanctions due not cause a reversal in Tehran's position on uranium enrichment, which seems unlikely. more>>
|
(Feb. 4) Rear Admiral Dave Gardam, commander of Joint Task Force Atlantic, said the weather was unsuitable when the military first received a call Monday morning to search for missing 14-year-old Burton Winters. However, a written chronology later provided by the military indicated that in addition to poor weather, aircraft were not serviceable to assist in the search. Newfoundland MP Jack Harris, who has been critical of the Harper government's decision to close a SAR centre in his province, said: "The timeline is very sketchy and raises more questions or as many questions as it answers in terms of why a helicopter or assets of the Canadian Forces weren't available more quickly. I'm not satisfied that we know the answer to that question yet and we want more information. And we want a fuller report and a fuller investigation." more>>
|
(Feb. 4) Nearly 12,000 Canadian Forces personnel were deemed medically unfit for service between 2001 and November 2011, according to Dept. of National Defence. Annual incidences of medical releases increased dramatically after troops began deploying to Afghanistan. The numbers point to the stresses on support programs that were rushed into place by National Defence and Veterans Affairs as casualties mounted in the Afghanistan War. "When you make the decision to send the best and brightest overseas you have that obligation until that person hits the headstone," said NDP Veteran's Affairs critic Peter Stoffer. "We have 20-year old veterans now and some of them may need care all the way until their 80s and 90s. That’s the cost of going to war." more>>
|
(April 26-29) NDHQ WOs’ & SGTs’ / C& Pos’ Mess is celebrating 20 years of history with fun events in April 2012. Celebrations will be spread over four days from Thurs April 26th thru to Sunday April 29th at the Mess. Past members of the Executive Committee are also encouraged to attend. Festivities will wrap up on Sunday with a Champagne & Orange Juice brunch. Contact the Mess Office at 613-995-1287 for ticket information. more>>
|
(Feb. 3) Canada's chief of defence staff (CDS) is investigating why it took military aircraft nearly two days to join a search for a lost 14-year-old boy who died in winter conditions. He was reported missing Sunday from the Labrador community of Makkovik. NDP justice critic Jack Harris, who has urged the Harper government to speed up military SAR response times, raised the tragedy in the House of Commons Thursday. Julian Fantino, the associate defence minister, told MPs that the CDS "has commenced an investigation." more>>
|
(Feb. 3) Dennis Ross, a veteran American diplomat with Middle East expertise, says that President Barack Obama's objections to Israel unilaterally attacking Iran may not be having much effect on Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who believes that Iran poses an existential threat to his nation. Ross, who has high-level contacts with Israel, says that while the U.S. is willing to allow time for new, tougher sanctions on Iran to force the Islamist regime into compromise, Israel is operating on a shorter time frame. "They talk about nine to 12 months. There is a time frame from their end," he said. more>>
|
(Feb. 3) The Philippine military says it has killed a Malaysian man who is on the FBI most-wanted terror list and two other senior militants in an airstrike on a remote southern island. The FBI was offering a $5M reward for the capture of Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Abdul Hir. Several militants died in the early morning airstrike on the island province of Sulu, part of the autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao. The Jemaah Islamiyah terror group carried out the 2002 Bali bombings in Indonesia that killed 202 people and injured 240 and has close ties with al-Qaeda network.
, according to a spokesman for the Philippines armed forces.
The dead included two senior figures in Jemaah Islamiyah and members of the militant group Abu Sayyaf, said Col. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos, the spokesman.
The Malaysian, also known as Marwan, was on the FBI most-wanted list for "providing material support to terrorists, conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists" and contributing "goods and services" to a global terror network.
Another Jemaah Islamiyah member Mohammad Ali, also known as Muawiyah, and Abu Sayyaf leader Gumbahali Jumdail were also among those killed, according to the spokesman.
The airstrike was a joint effort between the army, air force, the navy and the police and was "very brief but precise," Burgos said.
The Philippine police are at the scene helping identify the bodies, Burgos said, but added that he didn't think DNA tests had been conducted yet.
In the past, Philippine officials made premature announcements about the capture and deaths of Indonesian fugitives Dulmatin, who turned up in Indonesia in 2010, and Umar Patek, who was captured in Pakistan last year. Both had fled to the southern Philippines and were reported captured or killed in Mindanao.
The Mindanao group of islands includes a Muslim autonomous region set up in the 1990s to quell armed uprisings by people seeking an independent Muslim homeland in the Philippines, a predominantly Christian country.
more>>
|
(Feb. 2) Taliban fighters believe they are receiving support from Pakistan and that they will return to power after the international coalition led by the U.S. ends its combat role in Afghanistan in 2014, according to NATO officials. The Taliban view was repeatedly communicated to military personnel who interrogated thousands of insurgent prisoners. Pakistani Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar told reporters in Kabul: "This is old wine in an even older bottle. I don't think these claims are new. These claims have been made for many, many years." more>>
|
(Feb. 2) Israel's chief of staff, Benny Gantz, said Wednesday that there was no doubt that Iran is developing a nuclear weapon. Speaking at the annual Herzliya conference, which deals with security issues, Gantz said Israel should work to "disrupt the actions" of the Iranian nuclear development program and "exploit the full range of our capabilities." An intense and very public debate continues in Israel over what to do regarding Iran's alleged program to develop nuclear arms, with some officials advocating air strikes while other experts countering that attacking Iran would be suicidal due to that country's ability to counter-strike with ballistic missiles and via its paramilitary proxy in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah, which has many smaller, mobile rockets that can hit Israel. more>>
|
(Feb. 2) Canada's military spent $2.4M last year on training provided by Xe Services, the controversial American private security company formerly known as Blackwater. The company now calls itself Academi. House of Commons documents show that the training involved precision shooting and defensive driving. Since 2005, 605 Canadian soldiers have trained at Blackwater or Xe. In 2007, company personnel allegedly shot and killed 17 Iraqis, and ten months ago a U.S. federal appeals court panel revived the Justice Department's prosecution of the accused Blackwater guards. more>>
|
To counter threats from Argentina against the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom is sending HMS Dauntless, a new Type 45 destroyer. Armed with Sea Viper missiles and advanced radars, the ship is considered well equipped to counter Argentine air attacks. Three decades ago, as British forces recaptured the Falklands from Argentina, air-launched Argentine Exocet missiles sank the HMS Sheffield and the container ship Atlantic Conveyor. The UK Ministry of Defence describes the seven-month deployment of Dauntless as 'routine'.
|
(Feb, 1) The U.S. government may release several Afghan Taliban prisoners from the military prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as an inducement for the Taliban to join peace talks with the United States and Afghan government. The Obama administration is reportedly considering transferring five Taliban prisoners to a third country, likely Qatar, if the Karzai government agrees. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) The Kremlin's plans to restore the army’s flagging power are meeting resistance in Russia. The country's purchase of two Mistral class French amphibious assault ships last year sent a message to Russia military-industrial complex: the government would buy foreign arms if homegrown suppliers could not make them for a reasonable price. Prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union 20 years ago, purchasing military equipment from a NATO country was unthinkable. This report explains how much things have changed in Russia in terms of defence contractors in the past two decades. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) FBI Director Robert Mueller told the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Tuesday that threats from cyber-espionage, computer crime, and attacks on critical infrastructure will surpass terrorism as the number one threat facing the United States. He said that China and Russia run robust intrusion operations against key U.S. industries and the government. "I do not think today it is necessarily [the] number one threat, but it will be tomorrow," Mueller said. "Counterterrorism — stopping terrorist attacks — with the FBI is the present number one priority. But down the road, the cyberthreat, which cuts across all [FBI] programs, will be the number one threat to the country." more>>
|
In a lengthy ruling, the Federal Court of Canada ruled that Bell Helicopter intentionally infringed a patent for an innovative helicopter landing gear design that Eurocopter developed and implemented on its EC120 and EC130 models. The Court determined that Bell leased a Eurocopter EC120 helicopter equipped with the patented landing gear, studied the design of the gear, and created a “slavish copy” to be used on its new 429 model. Significantly, the Court determined that “Bell has misled and continues to mislead the public into believing that the Bell Model 429 is the first helicopter to use a sleigh type landing gear.” Ultimately, the Court concluded that “Bell’s overall conduct is highly reprehensible and constitutes a callous disregard for the rights of Eurocopter,” and awarded punitive damages and an injunction
|
(Jan. 31) Damon Wilson, executive vice president of the Atlantic Council and a former White House official, France's decision to withdraw combat troops from Afghanistan a year earlier than planned "upends a well-planned, well laid-out NATO strategy of transition in Afghanistan going through 2014." Wilson told reporters that an anxious U.S. will engage in a round of "damage control" to shore up the alliance's agreed upon timeline. Experts fear that France's move will trigger other NATO members who have contributed troops to the nation-building effort in Afghanistan to "rush to the exits." more>>
|
(Jan. 31) U.S. President Barack Obama confirmed Monday that armed drones have regularly attacked suspected militants in Pakistan's tribal areas. He called the strikes a "targeted focused effort at people who are on a list of active terrorists" during an hour-long video "hangout" on Google's social network, Google+, which was also streamed live on YouTube. The strikes target "al-Qaeda suspects who are up in very tough terrain along the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan," said the American leader. more>>
|
(Jan. 31) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Thursday that the Pentagon will order 179 fewer F-35 Joint Strike Fighters over the next few years, a move that has forced Ottawa to review the government's planned purchase of up to 65 JSFs. F-35 production is being cut further because of the warplane's technical issues and concurrency. JSF development and testing is expected to last until 2017 now. Concurrency - building production F-35's while development and testing continue - has been a "miscalculation", quoting Pentagon JSF program chief Vice-Adm. David Venlet. Funding for the U.S. military is being cut by $479B over 10 years starting in 2013 and the Defense Dept. is reportedly looking to save money by shrinking concurrent F-35 production. more>>
|
CF-18s fire AIM-7s (air intercept missiles) during Exercise Combat Archer, which was held in Tyndall, Florida. 425 Squadron of 3 Wing Bagotville regularly conducts joint exercises with the United States Air Force for the professional development of fighter pilots. This exercise was held to test and improve the effectiveness of the Canadian CF-18 pilots.
|
(Jan. 30) Afghan officials are planning to meet Taliban representatives in Saudi Arabia in the near future in an attempt to put the government of President Hamid Karzai in a lead role in peace negotiations. Saudi Arabia remains "an important player" in negotiations and "has facilitated talks in the past and now," said an unnamed Afghan official. Kabul has long complained that the U.S. and Qatar have negotiated with the Taliban while leaving Karzai in the dark, allegation that Washington denies. more>>
|
(Jan. 29) Canadian Forces soldiers have established a base camp outside of Yellowknife for Exercise Arctic Ram, which is scheduled to begin Feb. 14. About 1,500 military personnel will be in the region next month. “We're setting up the work areas for when the main group comes,” said Master Warrant Officer Douglas Pettie. “The main basis of this exercise is to test our men and equipment and our clothing in the north, because we're normally in a much more southern wintertime climate, and it’s definitely very cold here. It’s a good test for everybody, both our equipment and our men.” more>>
|
(Jan. 29) Sandy Gall, a Briton, has been covering affairs in Afghanistan since 1981. His latest book, "War Against the Taliban", was partly prompted by his witnessing coffins containing the bodies of soldiers killed in Afghanistan returning to Britain. "It made me want to try to explain what these men had been fighting for. And why it had all gone wrong," says Gall in this thought-provoking interview.
more>>
|
(Jan. 29) Rising tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, al-Qaeda in Yemen, and Somali pirates, have resulted in a rush order from the Pentagon to convert a 41-year-old U.S. Navy ship, the Ponce, into a large floating base for commando teams. Unofficially dubbed a "mothership", the base will accommodate smaller high-speed boats and helicopters commonly used by Navy SEALs. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) Seven Canadian soldiers were awarded the Medal of Military Valour Thursday: Capt. William Fielding, Master Bombardier Adam Holmes, Master Cpl. Gilles-Remi Mikkelson, Pte. Philip Millar, Master Cpl. Paul Mitchell, Pte. John Nelson and Sgt. Graham Verrier. "Each of you has shown great courage and determination in the face of seemingly overwhelming odds," said Governor General David Johnston at the ceremony at Rideau Hall. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) The United States plans to expand its military presence in Asia in order to offset China`s growing armed services. The Philippines and other U.S. allies have asked for more American troops and other military resources in the region. Last month, Japan ordered 42 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters from the U.S. and Korea is reportedly taking a close look at the stealthy fighter jet. In Manila, Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said the Philippines was looking to conduct more joint exercises with American forces and have more U.S. troops rotate through his nation. more>>
|
The Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification anounced an investment of $5 million through the Western Diversification Program that will enable West Canitest R & D Inc. (WestCaRD) to broaden and advance the aerospace industry and manufacturing cluster in Manitoba by developing new aerospace technologies and industrial research capabilities. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) An air force performance analysis has determined that the military's responses to search-and-rescue calls would be improved by moving two Hercules aircraft from Greenwood, N.S. to Stephenville, N.L. The study also found little reason for a dedicated Arctic rescue team. "This study will be used with many others to inform future decisions on SAR basing," said an RCAF spokesperson, Major Sonia Dumouchel Connock. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) Sgt. Graham Verrier from Winnipeg has been honoured for holding his ground in a battle against insurgents in Afghanistan in 2010. He was among seven Canadian Forces members to receive the Medal of Military Valour from Gov. Gen. David Johnston at a ceremony at Rideau Hall on Thursday.
more>>
|
(Jan. 27) The Pentagon unveiled its new budget plan for 2013, the first year of a decade-long process that involves cutting $487B in military spending, reducing ground troops by 100,000, mothballing ships, and trimming air squadrons in a bid to create a smaller yet agile force. "Make no mistake, the savings that we are proposing will impact all 50 states and many districts, congressional districts across America," said U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta. "This will be a test of whether reducing the deficit is about talk or action." more>>
|
(Jan. 26) Insurgent attacks in Afghanistan using improvised explosive devices or IEDs reached a record high of more than 16,000 in 2011, say military officials. By comparison, in 2010 there were 15,225 IED "events" and 9,304 in 2009. In excess of 85% of IED casualties last year were Afghan civilians. more>>
|
(Jan. 26) Since coming to power three years ago, U.S. President Obama has ordered the use of special forces troops and armed drones for counter- and anti-terrorism operations. The recent rescue by U.S. special forces of a 32-year old American, Jessica Buchanan, and a 60-year-old Dane, Poul Hagen Thisted, both of whom worked in Somalia for a Danish aid agency and were kidnapped in the predominantly lawless Horn of Africa country last year, is yet more evidence of Obama's willingness to employ unconventional military resources. According to The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. Dept. of Defense plans a major expansion of its global network of pilotless aircraft and special ops. bases in a fundamental realignment of U.S. power projection around the world. more>>
|
Due to a burst pipe at the Holiday Inn Waterfront in Dartmouth, the Nova Scotia OCEANS Research Connector meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 31 January 2012, will be held at the WESTIN NOVA SCOTIAN, 1181 Hollis Street, in Halifax.
The launch of the Nova Scotia Ocean Technology Council will immediately follow the Research Connector. Keynote speakers include NS Premier, the Hon. Darrell Dexter; and Dr. Douglas Wallace, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Ocean Science and Technology, Dalhousie University. For more info, contact Catherine MacDonald, ADIANS: catherine.macdonald@adians.ca
|
(Jan. 25) A new Canada-U.S. military agreement that is in the final stages of negotiation will establish each country's roles and responsibilities should North America be attacked, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Tuesday. The Combined Defence Plan would further integrate cross-border military cooperation. "This agreement provides a framework for the combined defence of Canada and the U.S. during peace, contingencies, and war," MacKay told the Permanent Joint Board on Defence, which consists of senior Canadian and American military officers, government officials and diplomats. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) French Foreign Minister Alain Juppé said Tuesday that France won't accelerate removing its troops from Afghanistan, despite the recent killing of four French troops by an Afghan soldier recruited by the Taliban. "We will not give in to panic," said Juppé in remarks during parliamentary question time. He said there must not be confusion between "an organized withdrawal and a rushed withdrawal." more>>
|
(Jan 25) A sculpture dedicated to the 40,000 members of the Canadian military who have served in the Balkans over the past 20 years will be unveiled in Ottawa on Feb. 9th. Like the peace those men and women fought for, the carving will be fragile. It will be made of ice, and part of this year's Winterlude celebrations. Dave Brown tells the story of retired Corporal Alfredo "Alfie" Bojalil, 42, of the Royal Canadian Regiment.
more>>
|
(Jan. 24) Staff at the Halifax naval intelligence facility where accused Sub.-Lt. Jeffrey Delisle worked have been temporarily moved away from the navy's confidential communication centre, Trinity, while security sweeps are conducted. "The place is being investigated ... [for] software, hardware, bugs, the works," said an unnamed military official. "As part of a normal and prudent business contingency plan, personnel belonging to elements of HMCS Trinity have been relocated to 12 Wing Shearwater for an undetermined period of time as a security precaution," said Captain Karina Holder, spokeswoman for the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal, who commands the military police. more>>
|
(Jan. 24) Hundreds of military personnel and vehicles are beginning a three-day journey from CFB Edmonton to Yellowknife to test themselves and their equipment in harsh winter conditions. The training exercise has been dubbed ARCTIC RAM 1 and is expected to be finished by Feb. 11.
more>>
|
(Jan. 24) Pakistan's military has formally rejected the U.S. military's report of last month concerning the airstrikes in November that mistakenly killed 24 Pakistani soldiers and injured thirteen. The press office of the Pakistani armed services described the U.S. version as "factually not correct." It also accused the United States of failing to share information "at any level" and rejected any responsibility for the casualties. more>>
|
(Jan. 23) The Taliban in Afghanistan said Saturday they had recruited the Afghan soldier who shot dead four French soldiers a day earlier. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan [Taliban] has recruited people in important positions," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told Reuters. "Some of them have already accomplished their missions." After the shooting, France's president Nicolas Sarkozy ordered all military operations by French personnel on the ground to be suspended. Defense Minister Gerard Longuet left for Kabul on Saturday to review conditions. more>>
|
(Jan. 23) Over the last two years, navy military planners have been drawing a "road map" to provide decision-makers and warships at sea with better information on possible threats to domestic waters and international shipping lanes. Neither the Harper government or National Defence is saying whether accused spy Sub.-Lt. Jeffery Delisle had access to the strategy - or early drafts of it. Delisle's career took him through some of the most senior and sensitive posts in the military, including the Chief of Defence Intelligence section, the Strategic Joint Staff and the naval intelligence centre known as Trinity. more>>
|
(Jan. 22) Arne Kislenko, a history professor at Ryerson University and Trinity College at the University of Toronto and an expert in espionage, says the damage caused by the alleged spy work of sub-lieutenant Jeffrey Delisle is most likely serious and affects NATO and not just Canada. "I think ... given who this guy is and given the technicalities of what Delisle (allegedly) did and where he worked, it’s very clear he had access to weapons systems and weapons codes. It seems to have a real NATO flavour to it," said Delisle. more>>
|
(Jan. 22) Toronto Sun editor Peter Worthington writes about how the Taliban are set to make a comeback at the political level in Afghanistan, Iraq is again descending into sectarian strife, and the "Arab Spring" hasn't delivered the democratic benefits hoped for in Egypt, Yemen and elsewhere in the Middle East. He argues in this unvarnished column that Western policies, particularly those of the United States, have essentially failed. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) France is suspending military training operations in Afghanistan and considering to withdraw its entire force early after an Afghan soldier went "rogue" on Friday and killed four French troops. Soldiers from various nations have been killed by members of the Afghan security forces that were either "turned" by the insurgency or planted in the ranks some time ago. The French defence minister, Gerard Longuet, has been sent to Afghanistan to review the security situation as it applies to the 3,600 French troops, many of whom have been engaged in training. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army General Martin Dempsey, met in Israel with senior government officials about how to respond to Iran's controversial nuclear program, which both countries fear is being used to develop nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Shimon Peres, Defense Minister Ehud Barak, and Israeli military chief Benny Ganz met with Dempsey, reportedly to urge Israel not to make a pre-emptive military strike on Iran. At this point, the United States and other Western countries prefer tougher sanctions. more>>
|
The University of Pennsylvania’s International Relations Program has ranked Canada’s Macdonald-Laurier Institute with the world’s top five new think tanks. This is the second year in a row MLI has made the list of the top 20 new think tanks globally, having debuted last year at Number 20 after six months of operation. more>>
|
(Jan. 20) Six members of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan were killed Thursday when the NATO helicopter they were on crashed in a southern part of the country. Reportedly, there was no enemy activity in the area at the time of the crash, which is being investigated. Also on Thursday, seven civilians were killed outside a gate at the Kandahar Air Field after a suicide attacker set off a vehicle filled with explosives. The Taliban said they were targeting a NATO convoy. more>>
|
(Jan. 20) Iran issued a warning to its Arab neighbours across the Persian Gulf about letting Washington call the shots in the oil-rich region. "I am calling to all countries in the region, please don’t let yourselves be dragged into a dangerous position," said Iran’s Foreign Minister, Ali Akbar Salehi, speaking during a visit to Turkey. The U.S. has several bases in the region which Iran has said it will strike at if it is attacked. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that military action in the Gulf would be "a catastrophe" that could spiral out of control and "fan the flames" of smouldering sectarian strife between Sunni and Shia Muslims in the Middle East. more>>
|
(Jan. 20) The cost to the U.S. government to send war supplies to troops in Afghanistan through alternate routes has increased six-fold after Pakistan’s decision in November to shut down border crossings to NATO convoys. Islamabad closed two key Pakistani border crossings after U.S. airstrikes killed 24 soldiers and injured 13 in Pakistan near the Afghan border in late November. Islamabad is conducting a strategic re-assessment of Pakistan's relationship with the U.S. and American officials said Thursday that shipping costs are likely to remain high for some time. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) The Canadian Forces has taken some of its armoured land combat vehicles to the North for a huge military exercise next month in the Western Arctic. "Certainly with the new light armoured vehicles, this is the first time we've ever gone up in any significant strength to test our capabilities," said Lt.-Col. Bill Fletcher, battle group commander for Arctic Ram, the exercise that will run from February 14 to 26. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) Russia vowed Wednesday to block any Western attempts to intervene militarily in Syria as the Assad regime fights a widening revolt against its rule. China and Iran have also reportedly provided support to Syria iron-fisted government. Despite a brutal military crackdown that the U.N. says has killed more than 5,400 Syrians since March, the protests are not waning. Regime opponents and army defectors have armed themselves and been fighting back. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Wednesday that he believes sexual assaults in the military could be as high as 19,000 annually and the Pentagon is preparing new initiatives to try to reduce them. He added that less than one in five victims in the armed forces comes forward, presumably because of the military's hierarchal culture. "These women and these men who are willing to fight and die to protect and serve our country – they deserve better protection. Their families and dependents also sacrifice and serve. And so for this reason, we must spare no effort to protect them against this heinous crime. One sexual assault is one too many." more>>
|
(Jan. 18) Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Tuesday that about $337M will be spent over 20 years to provide Canadian Forces personnel with access to the $10B Global Wideband Satellite program, also known as Mercury Global. The U.S.-developed, 10-satellite system is expected to be in place by 2017. Boeing, which is developing the system, says Mercury Global will provide "a quantum leap in communications capabilities for the warfighter." more>>
|
(Jan. 18) Canada's military is part of the expanding civilian infrastructure in the Arctic, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Tuesday. The Canadian Forces contribute to civilian goals in the North as well as military ones, according to MacKay. "As National Defence develops and refurbishes much of our Northern infrastructure as part of our overall modernization of the Canadian Forces, we are committed to making our defence installations accessible and usable by other government departments," he told the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Conference. more>>
|
Republican congressman Allen West had a strong reaction to the recent video showing U.S. Marines urinating on Taliban corpses. “I do not recall any self-righteous indignation when our Delta snipers Shugart and Gordon had their bodies dragged through Mogadishu. Neither do I recall media outrage and condemnation of our Blackwater security contractors being killed, their bodies burned, and hung from a bridge in Fallujah," wrote the former Army lieutenant colonel in an email to The Weekly Standard. "All these over-emotional pundits and armchair quarterbacks need to chill. Does anyone remember the two Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division who were beheaded and gutted in Iraq? The Marines were wrong. Give them a maximum punishment under field grade level Article 15 (non-judicial punishment), place a General Officer level letter of reprimand in their personnel file, and have them in full dress uniform stand before their Battalion, each personally apologize to God, Country, and Corps videotaped and conclude by singing the full US Marine Corps Hymn without a teleprompter. As for everyone else, unless you have been shot at by the Taliban, shut your mouth, war is hell.” more>>
|
(Jan. 17) A member of the Royal Canadian Navy has become the first person charged under the country's post-9/11 secrets law for allegedly passing protected government information to an unknown foreign body. Sub-Lt. Jeffrey Paul Delisle, 40, was charged Monday under the Security of Information Act, which came into effect in 2001. The navy intelligence officer is charged with communicating information that may "increase the capacity of a foreign entity or a terrorist group to harm Canadian interests." more>>
|
(Jan. 15) Because a winter road network has been delayed by several weeks, the Manitoban is considering asking the Canadian Forces for help to transport fuel, food and other critical supplies to remote First Nations this winter. Northern chiefs recently declared a state of emergency because of the situation. The province's aboriginal affairs minister Eric Robinson said that he's "prepared to contact the Canadian military to help out. There are some communities with airstrips which can accommodate bigger aircraft." more>>
|
(Jan. 15) The emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, says Arab countries should send troops into Syria to stop government forces from killing civilians. "For such a situation to stop the killing ... some troops should go to stop the killing," he said during an interview with an American news channel. It is the first time an Arab leader has publicly called for military intervention in armed conflict-ridden Syria. more>>
|
(Jan. 15) Pakistan's Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani praised the military as government and military leaders met amid their worst tensions since the end of army rule in 2008. Tensions between Gilani and the armed forces have risen over a Supreme Court investigation into an alleged government memo seeking help to prevent a possible military coup. The prime minister has asked the National Assembly to vote tomorrow on a resolution pledging "full confidence and trust" in the political leadership and calling on all state institutions to "strictly function within the limits imposed on them by the constitution." more>>
|
“Salam Rugby”, an award-winning documentary about women rugby players in Iran will be distributed worldwide by Montreal-based ID Communications. With the continued tensions between Iran and other western countries, this film provides a glimpse into the role of women and sport, in a society dominated by Sharia law. more>>
|
(Jan. 14) Canada's navy failed to inspect repairs to one of HMCS Preserver's drainage pipes, which later leaked about 14,000 litres of diesel fuel into the Halifax harbour last year. Navy personnel were able to recover most of the fuel before it spread to shore or caused extensive damage. Irving Shipbuilding inspected the supply ships' drainage lines in September and found sections of the pipe that were "deteriorated and required replacement", says the report. more>>
|
(Jan. 14) Raytheon Canada Ltd. has been awareded a $7M contract to help Canada’s military see over the horizon. A next-generation high-frequency surface wave radar system will be built and tested at Hartlen Point, at the eastern entrance to Halifax Harbour. If all goes well, the radar will identify targets on the ocean out to some 280km, according to Brian Smith, VP of Raytheon Canada. more>>
|
(Jan 13) The prime minister officially announced that the federal government and Irving Shipbuilding Inc. had reached an agreement in principle to pave the way for the construction of new vessels for Canada's combat fleet. "We are moving quickly to put in place the contracts required to build the ships that our country needs to defend its waters and do its share on the international stage," the prime minister told the crowd. more>>
|
FrontLine Editor Chris MacLean talks candidly with the new Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy about maritime and national security, discussing the challenges involved in preparing our sumbarines for operational readiness, increasing recruitment, and securing the ocean commons for all peaceful nations. From Issue#6, 2011. For more articles, click on the ARTICLES menu above. more>>
|
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada has announced that former Chief of the Defence Staff, retired General Rick J. Hillier has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada. Recipients will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony to be held at a later date. Also appointed to the Order are former CDS, retired General Maurice Baril, and RCAF Lieutenant General Charles Bouchard, who commanded the NATO campaign in Libya, Operation Unified Protector. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) The undated video recently posted on YouTube of four American Marines urinating on three dead Taliban fighters could not have come at a worse time for the U.S. government. The clip provoked anger and condemnation in Washington, Afghanistan, and around the world, raising fears that the images could incite anti-American sentiment at a particularly delicate time as the Obama administration tries to open talks with the Taliban and end the decade-old conflict. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) Canada's military has laid more charges in the February 2010 death of Cpl. Joshua Caleb Baker of Edmonton. He was killed near Kandahar City, Afghanistan in an incident on a training range that injured four other soldiers. Maj. Christopher Lunney has been charged with three counts of negligent performance of a military duty and two counts of breach of duty. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) General Martin E. Dempsey, the chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Thursday that the military brass at the Pentagon support the reshaping of America's armed services. "We the military are not being victimized by this budget issue," Dempsey said in a lecture at Duke University. "This is something we the Joint Chiefs have endorsed as best for America." The U.S government is more than $15T in debt and borrowing about $3B each day, with trillions of additional debt planned for the next decade alone. more>>
|
(Jan 12) 
Prime Minister Stephen Harper was at Seaspan Marine Corp.’s Vancouver Shipyards in North Vancouver to announce the federal government has reached an agreement in principal with Seaspan to build the non-combat portion of the government’s National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy. more>>
|
(Jan 12) Irving Shipbuilding welcomed the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Defence for Canada, and senior representatives of the Royal Canadian Navy, to their Halifax Shipyard facility to mark the successful conclusion of an agreement in principle to build Canada’s combat vessels under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). Production on four of nine Hero-Class Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard paused momentarily as the announcement was made in the shipyard’s fabrication hall, with four vessels in various stages of production acting as the backdrop.
|
(Jan. 12) Pakistan's prime minister, Yousuf Raza Gilani, fired the country's defense secretary Wednesday in a dispute over a memo sent to Washington that has angered the army and created significant tension between the civilian government against the powerful military leadership. The Pakistani army responded by warning of "grievous consequences" at a time when it is has distanced itself from the U.S. following American air strikes in late November that accidentally killed 24 and injured 13 Pakistani troops. more>>
|
(Jan. 12) A fourth Iranian nuclear scientist was killed Wednesday by a car bomb and Israel is widely suspected of having orchestrated the killings. A pedestrian also died and one of the passengers in the car was seriously injured. Mere hours before the latest assassination, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz told a closed parliamentary committee that "2012 is expected to be a critical year for Iran." He cited "the confluence of efforts to advance the nuclear program, internal leadership changes, continued international pressure and things that happen to it unnaturally." more>>
|
Prime Minister Stephen Harper will make an announcement in Halifax Thursday 12 January at the Irving Shipbuilding Port at 9am. This agreement between the shipyard and the government clarifies the relationship between the government and the shipyard (items such as risk mitigation) for the ongoing federal shipbuilding requirement. Irving received a contract to build Canada's Surface Combatants and the Arctic Patrol ships. The Government previously signed an umbrella agreement with Seaspan on the West coast and the new Coast Guard designs are in initial stages of pre-production. In addition, Seaspan will be building the Navy Joint Support Ships when that design is chosen.
|
The final Flight Safety Investigation Report dealing with the 2008 CT-155 Hawk crash in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, is now available. A Hawk training aircraft, crewed by a student pilot in the front seat and a Hawk Qualified Flying Instructor in the rear, was on a routine instrument training flight when the accident occurred. It was determined that the engine had failed and subsequently seized. Both pilots ejected from the aircraft and suffered non-life threatening injuries. The flight safety report includes details of the accident and several recommendations. Air Force officials will take appropriate action with the aim of preventing this kind of accident. more>>
|
(Jan. 11) CBC News has learned that 10 shipping containers of Canadian Forces equipment in Afghanistan were broken into and the gear stolen. Non-essential equipment was in the containers and removed and replaced with rocks and sand. The Department of National Defence confirmed the thefts and said an investigation is underway. more>>
|
(Jan. 11) In 1988, Iranian forces fought U.S. warships in the Persian Gulf at the tail end of the Iran-Iraq War (the U.S. had provided various types of support to the Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein during the conflict). As a war of words between Tehran and Washington now escalates, is there a danger that history will repeat itself? BBC News examines the question with input from defence experts. more>>
|
(Jan. 10) Newfoundland officials are calling for new military fixed-wing search and rescue (SAR) aircraft to be based in Gander, Nfld. Replacing aging CC-115 Buffalos and older-model CC-130 Hercules transports used for SAR missions will reportedly cost $3.7B, up from $3.1B six years ago. National Defence intends to hold a bidding competition later this year, with the new SAR airplanes arriving - if all goes well - by 2015. more>>
|
(Jan. 10) The trial of U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich continued Monday in relation to the November 2005 massacre of 24 Iraqis, including unarmed women and children, in Haditha. The lawyer for the military's prosecution, Maj. Nicholas Gannon, told the court that evidence will show Wuterich that "never lost control of his squad ... but he made a series of fatal assumptions and he lost control of himself." The killings in Haditha are considered to be one of the war's turning points because they greatly increased the anger of Iraqis, who had recently learned of the abuse of Iraqis by American soldiers at the notorious Abu Ghraib prison. more>>
|
(Jan. 10) HMCS Charlottetown left Halifax Sunday for a a six-month counter-terrorism mission in the Mediterranean. Approximately 250 sailors onboard will participate in NATO's Operation Active Endeavour and will be tracking, boarding and reporting on ships believed to be involved in terrorism. Commander Wade Carter said he doesn't anticipate much risk during the mission, but the crew is trained to react to a crisis, if required. more>>
|
(Jan. 9) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Sunday that the recent announcement by President Obama of military spending cuts - $487B over 10 years starting in 2013 - should not be a signal to other nations that the U.S. armed forces is in decline. However, the unknown at this point is whether the legally-mandated "sequester" of an extra $500B can be rolled back. "If we had to do over a trillion dollars in cuts in this department," Panetta said, "I have to tell you that the strategy that we developed, we'd probably have to throw that out the window and start over." more>>
|
(Jan. 9) The U.S. Air Force is preparing to start a competition for a training program worth $21B, drawing plenty of interested contractors, including Montreal-based CAE, the world largest maker of flight simulators. USAF's Training Systems Acquisition II program, which provides a wide range of training on how to fly military airplanes and perform aircraft maintenance, will be expanded seven-fold. more>>
|
(Jan. 9) Iran's top nuclear official, Fereydoon Abbasi, announced this weekend that his country is on the verge of starting production at its second major uranium enrichment site. The announcement comes at a time when the U.S., Canada and other Western nations have imposed more sanctions on Iran that have restricted its oil revenue. Last week, the Iranian military said it would not allow any U.S. aircraft carrier to re-enter the Persian Gulf via its bottleneck, the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta said in a televised interview on Sunday that "we know that they’re trying to develop a nuclear capability. And that's what concerns us. And our red line to Iran is: do not develop a nuclear weapon. That’s a red line for us." more>>
|
(Jan. 8) The Halifax Chronicle Herald has published an opinion piece by Tim Dunne, a communications consultant, military affairs analyst, Research Fellow with Dalhousie’s Centre for Foreign Policy Studies, and a member of the Royal United Services Institute (Nova Scotia) Security Affairs Committee, about the Canadian Forces' "roadmap", the Future Security Environment (to 2030).
more>>
|
(Jan. 8) Four soldiers with Indiana's National Guard were recently killed in Afghanistan and a fifth was injured when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. The team of combat engineers was working to clear a supply route of the improvised bombs when the IED detonated, according to U.S. military officials on Saturday. "Their mission is to keep the major supply routes clear of all obstacles for the convoys. And what that means is they're the first ones to go out to make sure the route can be used, so it's a very important mission — but it’s also extremely dangerous," said Indiana Adjutant General Martin Umbarger. more>>
|
(Jan. 8) An Iranian-backed militia in Iraq that bombed U.S. military convoys and bases, assassinated Iraqi officials, and tried to kidnap Americans late last year is being courted by the Shiite-led government of Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki. “I think it is a dangerous step, this move by the government, to join with groups that do not believe in the peaceful political process,” said Osama al-Nujaifi, the speaker of Iraq’s Parliament and a Sunni Arab. “They use the political with one hand and military forces with the other hand.” more>>
|
The Fixed Wing Search and Rescue project has been signed off by Cabinet and is ready to proceed. The question now is whether the Harper government will make an announcement (i.e. Julian Fantino, the so-called procurement Czar holding a press conference) or whether the government will just make the start of the project public when an RFP hits the street? Industry representatives tell Defence Watch they’ve heard both scenarios proposed but that the press conference scenario doesn’t have a lot of support since Fantino could wind up having to answer a lot of embarrassing questions, such as why has it taken so long to get this project underway? DND spokeswoman Tracy Poirier told Defence Watch that the department still intends to have the new aircraft in place by 2015. Industry observers say it is doable, but only if there are no more delays. Here is the rest of the official response Poirier sent to Defence Watch on the FWSAR project: more>>
|
The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) applauds Defense Secretary Leon Panetta for ensuring the U.S. Department of Defense will continue funding for unmanned systems in the Strategic Defense Review. The review calls for a continued reliance on new technology, including armed and unarmed unmanned systems, as the military increasingly focuses on security in the Asia-Pacific region and forges “small footprint” alliances with other nations around the world. “In light of the budget cuts the Department of Defense must make, we are heartened to see that Secretary of Defense Panetta will continue to invest in utilizing unmanned systems to protect and work with troops in theater,” said AUVSI President & CEO Michael Toscano.
|
(Jan. 7) Canadian veterans seem to be divided over the government's Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) program, which was launched Friday. Prime Minister Stephen Harper says the program is intended to help vets and soldiers access careers within Canada's construction industry. Military jobs, including thousands in the Reserves and at National Defence headquarters, are being cut as the Harper government tries to reduce the deficit. Some former veterans say H2H is "condescending" and "an insult to the skill set of veterans", while others applaud the program. more>>
|
(Jan. 7) Eight NATO troops were killed in southern Afghanistan from Thursday to Friday. The International Security Assistance Force did not reveal the soldiers' nationalities, but most in southern Afghanistan are American or British. Four of the eight were killed Friday in a single explosion. Local officials say insurgents have slipped back to parts of Afghanistan south and retaken ground. Poppy cultivation and heroin trafficking, a major revenue source for the insurgents, appears to be on the rise again. more>>
|
(Jan. 6) As part of the U.S. government's strategy to reduce very high deficits, Pres. Obama announced Thursday that the U.S. Dept. of Defense's budget would be reduced by $489B over 10 years starting in January 2013. "I firmly believe, and I think the American people understand, that we can keep our military strong -- and our nation secure -- with a defense budget that continues to be larger than roughly the next 10 countries combined," said Obama from the Pentagon. Congress' Budget Control Act of 2011 requires, however, a "sequestration" of an additional $500B over a decade in military spending cuts. Sen. John McCain and four other senators have vowed to "rollback" the penalty. more>>
|
(Jan. 6) A 34-year-old former army reservist says that the Canadian Forces fired her in 2010 after she requested maternity leave. She filed a formal complaint and the CF agreed to pay her maternity benefits, but after her child was born the federal department demanded she reimburse the money. She has hired military lawyer and retired colonel, Michel Drapeau, to represent her. more>>
|
(Jan. 6) The Karzai government said Thursday that it was shutting down the operations of Montreal-based GardaWorld, one of the largest foreign security companies operating in Afghanistan, after detaining two of its contractors on suspicion of gun smuggling. Tension between the government and foreign security contractors has been increasing for months and the government is replacing foreign security contractors with Afghan guards. Allegations of corruption, illegal use of weapons, and excessive use of force have plagued the foreign companies. more>>
|
(Jan. 5) Canada's defence minister Peter MacKay recently married Nazanin Afshin-Jam, a human rights activist and former actor and beauty queen, in Mexico. "I am overjoyed to announce Nazanin Afshin-Jam and I married at a private ceremony surrounded by family and loved ones today," MacKay wrote in post on his constituency website. "Since coming into my life many of you have met Nazanin on her many visits to Nova Scotia. She is the most important person in my life and over the coming months, Nazanin and I look forward to spending more time at home in Central Nova and sharing our happiness with all of you." more>>
|
(Jan. 5) The closure of border crossings into Pakistan has resulted in 446 sea containers filled with Canadian Forces cargo remaining in limbo in southern Afghanistan. U.S. air strikes in November that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers and injured 13 remains the reason why the border has been sealed to NATO shipments through Pakistan. Officials in that country have been contemplating imposing a $1,500 tariff on each container. more>>
|
(Jan 5) The US will reduce its military budget, confirmed President Barack Obama and Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta today, but details are unavailable until budget release in the coming weeks. The overall restructuring was driven by a need to “put our fiscal house in order”. In an unprecedented presidential appearance in the Pentagon Briefing Room, Obama told reporters that although the U.S. would be “turning the page on a decade of war”, it would emerge from the restructuring with a smaller but more flexible military more dependent on its allies, including through NATO, which he said had shown its capacity as a “force multiplier” during last year’s intervention in Libya. President Obama noted that despite the cuts, the military budget would continue to increase, but at a slower rate than in the last decade. He pointed out that it was still “larger than the next 10 countries combined.”
more>>
|
(Jan. 4) Despite having been granted more than three extra years to build and deliver 28 fully-functional Cyclone Maritime helicopters to replace the Cdn. Forces' aging Sea King fleet, U.S. aerospace giant Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. has failed to deliver even a single downgraded "interim" CH-148. Last year, the Harper government said that it would fine Sikorsky $8 million for not complying with the re-negotiated Cyclone contract in terms of delivery, but the helicopter maker has yet to pay. Sikorsky wouldn't say when an "interim" Cyclone acceptable to the air force will be delivered or when the fine will be paid. more>>
|
(Jan. 4) The Taliban announced Tuesday that they had reached an agreement to open a political office in Qatar, a move that would allow for direct negotiations in terms of ending the Afghanistan War. A Taliban spokesman, Zabiullah Mujahid, said that in addition to the preliminary deal to set up the Qatari office, the group has asked that Taliban detainees held at the U.S. prison in Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, be released. more>>
|
(Jan. 4) South Korea's military will focus this year on defending against possible North Korean attacks on disputed border islands. "The possibility of a North Korean provocation still remains as Kim Jong Un is in the process of building his regime," the South Korean Defense Ministry said in a report posted on President Lee Myung Bak's website today. "Our military will pulverize the enemy's will to attack again by sufficiently retaliating until the enemy threat, the source of the provocation and its supporting forces, are completely removed." more>>
|
LGen (ret) Angus Watt has been named CEO of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) for a five-year term, effective January 3, 2012. Watt served more than 30 years in the air force including the command of Joint Task Force Southwest Asia, deputy commander of the NATO International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. He retired from the Air Force in 2009 after serving Canada as Chief of the Air Force. CATSA is the federal Crown corporation responsible for passenger screening at Canadian airports.
more>>
|
(Jan. 3) A survey conducted by the Canadian Army's special forces operations regiment, which includes the JTF-2 counter-terrorism unit, has revealed that special forces soldiers and their families have faced a "disjointed" level of social support from the military. In some cases, they have introduced their own programs to cope with the challenges and uncertainties stemming from their work. "The desperation of units led them to designing/ staffing/ operating an organization that does not have the authority or funding to provide the services they envisage," says a summary prepared for Maj.-Gen. Mike Day. more>>
|
(Jan. 3) Al-Qaeda and Afghan Taliban leaders have asked militants in Pakistan to stop targeting the country's security forces and instead concentrate on battling U.S.-led troops in Afghanistan, according to reports from Pakistan. They also say that because of efforts by the Taliban's supreme commander in Afghanistan, Mullah Omar, the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban have formed a joint five-member committee with other Pakistani militant groups. The Afghan Taliban, Haqqani network, and Maulvi Nazeer, Hakimullah Mehsud, and Maulana Waliur Rahman groups are represented on the committee. more>>
|
(Jan. 3) A 30-year-old man with explosives arrested on New Year's Eve at the Midland International Airport in Texas was trained by the U.S. Army as a demolitions expert and is member of the Green Berets special forces unit. Trey Scott Atwater had served in Afghanistan and is stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He's been charged with attempting to board an aircraft with an explosive, according to the FBI. more>>
|
(Jan. 2) While the number of American soldiers killed in Afghanistan last year exceeded an average of one per day, the 417 deaths were an improvement over the 499 killed in 2010, the worst casualty rate in the Afghanistan War since 2001. U.S. officials say the United States turned the corner in 2011 while the view of Taliban commanders is that the Americans lost their taste for aggressive combat and spent more time in their bases. Last year in Afghanistan was also noteworthy in terms of more brazen and coordinated insurgent attacks, especially those involving the Taliban's allies, the Haqqani network. more>>
|
(Jan. 2) On Monday, the Iranian government said it had successfully test-fired a long-range rocket during its 10-day naval exercise, an offensive weapon capable of striking Israel and U.S. bases in the region if the Islamic country is attacked. Tehran also claimed to have test-fired a cruise missile, "which managed to successfully destroy predetermined targets in the Gulf," said deputy Navy Commander Mahmoud Mousavi. more>>
|
(Jan. 1) After Canada's veterans ombudsman, Guy Parent, decried last week how some Canadians have been treated by Ottawa in relation to Agent Orange exposure compensation, the ruling Conservatives have expanded compensation to 30 more people. Agent Orange, a powerful chemical defoliant used by the U.S. military in Vietnam, was sprayed at CFB Gagetown in 1966 and 1967. Dozens of Canadians who were exposed to the spraying have suffered nerve damage and other negative physical effects to this day. more>>
|
(Jan. 1) The U.S. Defense Department announced Friday that Washington has signed a $3.5B deal to provide the United Arab Emirates with an advanced anti-missile interception system. The technology will be aimed across the Straight of Hormuz at the UAE's Shi'ite neighbour, Iran, which the West believes is trying to build nuclear weapons. It's the first foreign sale of the Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, the only one - at least in the U.S. - designed to destroy short- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) Retired generals Rick Hillier and Maurice Baril, former Chiefs of the Defence Staff, and Gen. Charles Bouchard, who led the NATO mission in Libya, are among 66 prominent Canadians who will receive the Order of Canada. Governor General David Johnson made the announcement on Friday. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) A fire that broke out Thursday at the Russian Murmansk naval dockyard and spread to the submarine Yekaterinburg was put out Friday afternoon, according to Emergency Situations Minister Sergei Shoigu. Submariners did not leave the boat during the conflagration. Officials said there was no radiation leak. Military prosecutors are investigating whether safety regulations were breached and President Medvedev said anyone found responsible would be punished. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) After last month's air strikes against operating bases in Pakistan that killed 24 Pakistani troops and injured 13, the U.S. and NATO each launched investigations to find out what happened. The NATO investigation was led by Canadian BGen. Mike Jorgensen. Both his findings and the U.S. military's report blamed American military personnel for failing to notify Pakistan of the joint U.S.-Afghan ground operation that led to the air strikes, and criticized Pakistani officials for refusing to provide locations of border posts and checkpoints. more>>
|
(Dec. 30) Turkey's military launched airstrikes against what it believed were Kurdish militants Thursday when in fact the young adult men on the ground were smugglers. Turkey's largest pro-Kurdish party called the attack a "crime against humanity" and protesters clashed with police in Diyarbakir, the largest city in Turkey's mainly-Kurdish southeast. Ankara has vowed to launch an investigation into the debacle and "by no means" will the findings "be covered up." more>>
|
(Dec. 30) The U.S. Army and Boeing are moving forward with the A160 Hummingbird, a pilotless helicopter equipped with a 1.8 gigapixel colour camera, which provides 900 times greater resolution that the average cellphone camera. The Army says the new technology will provide "an unprecedented capability to track and monitor activity on the ground." Multiple targets going in different directions can be tracked simultaneously from altitudes above 20,000 feet and across nearly 168 square kilometres. more>>
|
(Dec. 30) Four-star General David Petraeus, who led U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan for a year starting in July 2010 and has led the CIA since September, almost resigned as Afghanistan war commander over President Obama's decision to draw down surge forces, according to a forthcoming biography of the famous military leader. "All In: The Education of General David Petraeus" is coming out next month. more>>
|
(Dec. 29) Hundreds of former Libyan rebels who helped topple Col. Moammar Gadhafi this year filled out job applications Wednesday as a first step to disarmament, the interior minister, Fawzy Abdul-Ali, said. He also told reporters that the fighters will be asked to turn in their weapons after training and working with the government. Uncontrolled ownership of weapons has been a major security concern and rival revolutionary militias have repeatedly fought each other since October. Mohammed al-Shatewi, a member of a military council in Tripoli, said ex-rebels can apply to join the army, Interior Ministry, a civil institution, or continue their education and study abroad. more>>
|
(Dec. 29) During the past three years, the U.S. military and Central Intelligence Agency, under the direction of the Obama Administration, has significantly expanded the use of drones employed for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and killing terrorists. America's global drone apparatus involves dozens of secret facilities and clandestine bases in at least six countries. The expansion of the drone program has also blurred the boundaries between the military and CIA. more>>
|
(Dec. 28) Ipsos pollsters have shared with Canada's military senior brass that Canadians want military personnel to focus more on domestic operations such as natural disaster assistance and search and rescue (SAR). The three most important military functions, as per polling results, are: 1. natural disaster relief; 2. SAR; and 3. patrolling Canada's airspace, land and maritime areas. Enforcing sovereignty in the Arctic and engaging in a 'War on Terror' came in significantly lower. more>>
|
(Dec. 28) Three troops from the International Security Assistance Force were killed Tuesday by a roadside bomb in eastern Afghanistan. Also on Tuesday, President Hamid Karzai called on NATO to disband an irregular security force operating in northern provinces, saying it had been set up "unilaterally" without coordination with the Afghan government.
more>>
|
(Dec. 27) Canada's air force has been looking at expanding the airport at Resolute Bay, Nunavut with a longer, paved runway; hangars; fuel installations and other infrastructure as part of an effort to support government and military operations in the Arctic. The airport currently has a 1,981-metre gravel runway, which is particularly ill-suited for F-35 fighter jets since they are covered with a radar-absorbing material. An expanded Resolute Bay airport could be the logistics site for search-and-rescue operations as well as a base for strategic refuelling aircraft, according to the Arctic Management Office at 1 Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg. more>>
|
(Dec. 27) The Afghan government's peace council says that Kabul will accept a Taliban liaison office in Qatar to start peace talks but no foreign power can get involved in the process without its permission. The United States and Qatar, assisted by Germany, had secretly agreed with the Taliban to open an office in the capital of Qatar, Doha. The council said that any peace process with the Taliban must be supported by Pakistan since members of the insurgent group are based there. more>>
|
(Dec. 26) For a decade, Pakistan was the United States' main 'War on Terror' partner in Asia. The relationship, which had frayed this year after American Special Forces clandestinely killed Osama bin Laden, has deteriorated even further after strikes by U.S. aircraft last month killed two dozen Pakistani soldiers and injured thirteen. "We’ve closed the chapter on the post-9/11 period,” said one unnamed senior U.S. official. "Pakistan has told us very clearly that they are re-evaluating the entire relationship." A senior Pakistani security official said: "Nothing is happening on counterterrorism right now. It will never go back to the way it was." more>>
|
(Dec. 26) North Korea's senior military brass flanked Kim Jong-un, the son of the recently deceased Kim Jong-il, in state television footage aired Sunday. The broadcast also showed the 28-year-old's uncle, Jang Song-thaek, in the uniform of a general, an indication of his growing sway after the death of the father. Senior officers paid their respects to Jong-il and vowed allegiance to Jong-un, whom state media referred to as the "supreme commander" of North Korea's military. more>>
|
(Dec. 25) Defence Minister Peter MacKay, Gov. Gen. David Johnston, and Chief of Defence Staff Walt Natynczyk have spent the last four days visiting with members of Canada's military deployed overseas. The trio met with the crew of HMCS Vancouver, which is docked in Italy, and Canadian troops serving in Afghanistan as part of the training mission. "Canadian Forces members have worked tirelessly, at home and abroad, to save lives, provide security, and promote peace," said Mackay in a statement. "It has been a busy, challenging year. As we celebrate the holidays, we should also take time to think of those who are still deployed throughout the world." more>>
|
(Dec. 24) Lt.-Gen. Stuart Beare, Commander of the Canadian Expeditionary Force Command, shares his thoughts in an Ottawa Citizen article about the contribution of Canadian Forces members to Afghanistan and other countries.
more>>
|
(Dec. 24) On Friday, the government of Pakistan rejected the findings of a U.S. military investigation into the killing of 24 and injuring of 13 Pakistani soldiers in late November. The inquiry - led by a U.S. Air Force general - blamed American and Pakistani forces for various significant mistakes, including failing to tell the other about their operational plans or location of troops. Analysts saw little in the report that would fix U.S.-Pakistani relations. Pakistan's military said in a statement that it would provide a "detailed response" to the U.S. report. more>>
|
(Dec. 24) Iraq appears to be on the verge of descending back into the sectarian chaos that engulfed the nation half a decade ago after bombings Thursday killed and wounded hundreds of people. Shia and Sunni divisions in the government are reportedly deep and wide. Sunni vice-president Tariq al-Hashemi warned this week in an interview that Iraq is "drifting from building democracy to building an autocratic regime." Iraq researcher Reidar Visser recently wrote in The New York Times: "The country [Iraq] is politically unstable, increasingly volatile and at risk of descending into the sort of sectarian fighting that killed thousands in 2006 and 2007. [Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-] Maliki has overseen a consolidation of military force, but the core of his government is remarkably unrepresentative: it is made up of mostly pro-Iranian Shiite Islamists." more>>
|
(Dec. 23) On Thursday, Guy Parent, Canada's veterans ombudsman, described the treatment of families of ex-soldiers who were supposed to be compensated due to exposure to Agent Orange as "scandalous." The powerful defoliant was developed by the U.S. military in the 1960s and used during the Vietnam War. Worldwide, nearly one million people were adversely affected by the powerfully toxic chemical compound, including members of the Canadian Army in New Brunswick where it was spray in 1966 and 1967. more>>
|
(Dec. 23) Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of Defence Staff Walt Natynczyk have received the interim report about senior military police officials who allegedly failed to investigate the transfer of detainees to Afghan authorities in the face of a known risk of torture. The original allegations came from Amnesty International Canada and the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association in 2007 and have prompted considerable heated debate in Parliament. more>>
|
(Dec. 23) Mere days after the last U.S. troops left Iraq, 16 bombings occurred in Baghdad Thursday, killing at least 69 people and injuring scores. Car bombs, roadside blasts, or sticky bombs attached to cars went off in 11 neighbourhoods over several hours. Experts say the bombings bore all the hallmarks of al-Qaeda. more>>
|
(Dec. 22) The U.S. Army announced Wednesday that it had charged eight American soldiers serving in Afghanistan in connection with the apparent suicide of one of their lower-ranking comrades, 19-year-old Pvt. Danny Chen. Family members and advocacy groups pressured the Pentagon to investigate allegations that Chen had been the victim of hazing and racially-motivated abuse. Variously charged with dereliction of duty, making a false statement, assault, negligent homicide and reckless endangerment are 1st Lt. Daniel J. Schwartz, Staff Sgt. Blaine G. Dugas, Staff Sgt. Andrew J. Van Bockel, Sgt. Adam M. Holcomb, Sgt. Jeffrey T. Hurst, Spec. Thomas P. Curtis, Spec. Ryan J. Offutt and Sgt. Travis F. Carden. more>>
|
(Dec. 22) Pro-military Senators in the United States are proposing legislation to reverse an additional $500B in defence spending cuts over 10 years. The half-trillion-dollar "sequestration" penalty is coming into effect because the so-called "super-committee" failed last month to agree on a plan to cut federal spending by $1.2T. Compared to past defence spending cutbacks, however, the proposed cuts of approximately $95B per year over ten years, don't look so drastic, reports U.S. News. more>>
|
(Dec. 22) Canadian Forces SAR technician, Sgt. Janick Gilbert, drowned in October in the Arctic because he was unable to deploy his life-raft after parachuting into rough and cold waters, says a preliminary report. Gilbert was trying to rescue a father and son stranded in a boat. He and two other technicians parachuted 600 metres into three-metre-high waves and the wind was blowing at 50 km/h, making the rescue attempt very difficult. Maj. Bill Canham, the investigator in charge, said Gilbert's one-man raft was ripped away from his safety vest, possibly by the strong wind. more>>
|
(Dec. 21) U.S. General John Allen, the senior American commander in Afghanistan, suggested Tuesday that his nation's forces could remain in-theatre beyond 2014, despite President Obama's pledge to withdraw them by then. Allen's remarks are the most emphatic that the U.S. intends to maintain a military presence in the Central Asian nation to the mid-decade, if not beyond. Allen said that a strategic partnership agreement with the Karzai government would "almost certainly" include "a discussion with Afghanistan of what a post-2014 force will look like." more>>
|
(Dec. 21) North Korea's young and untested leader, Kim Jong-un, will share ruling power with his 65-year-old uncle, Jang Song-thaek, and the military after the death of "Dear Leader" since 1994 Kim Jong-il on Saturday. Jang Song-thaek was named in 2009 to the National Defense Commission, the supreme leadership council Kim Jong-il led as head of the isolated and nuclear-armed communist state. more>>
|
The aim of the current expedition is to document changes in the far north. The researchers on board are conducting an extensive investigation program in the water, ice and air at the northernmost point on the Earth. The lessened sea ice cover makes the route via the pole to the investigation area in the Canadian Arctic possible. All 55 scientists and technicians from six countries on board the Polarstern have a common goal: studying the changes in the Arctic. more>>
|
(Dec. 20) Canada's Governor General and Commander-in-Chief, David Johnston, announced today the appointment of 117 members of the Canadian Regular and Reserve Forces to the Order of Military Merit. The appointments include six Commanders, 23 Officers and 88 Members.
The list of recipients is online and can be read by clicking
more>>
|
(Dec. 20) Over the past 10 months, senior U.S. officials have secretly been talking with Taliban representatives in Germany and Qatar, searching for a way to peacefully end the Afghanistan War and involve the insurgent group in peace talks with the Afghan government. The objective has been to avoid a return to civil war, as occurred in the 1990s after Soviet forces departed Afghanistan and the U.S.-backed mujahideen became the Taliban. As a goodwill gesture, Washington is considering transfering an unspecified number of Taliban prisoners from the Guantanamo Bay military prison into Afghan government custody. more>>
|
(Dec. 20) The military commander of Tripoli, Abdelhakim Belhaj, says he is fed up waiting for the U.K. government to offer an apology for his seven years of incarceration in secret police jails, and has decided to sue. Central to his lawsuit will be information from files discovered in the Libyan capital by the British newspaper, The Independent, after the fall of Gadhafi's regime a few months ago. Letters from Sir Mark Allen, MI6's head of counter-terrorism, to Moussa Koussa, Gadhafi's head of Libyan intelligence, were in the files. In the discovered documentation, Allen appeared to boast about the key role played by Britain's Secret Intelligence Service in the capture and transportation of Belhaj to the Gadhafi regime. more>>
|
(Dec. 19) Afghan President Hamid Karzai said Sunday that the United States, NATO and his government have provided increasing stability to Afghanistan over the past 10 years, but not personal security to the Afghan people. "That is yet to come," Karzai said in an interview with CNN. Concerning night raids that have been conducted by U.S. and NATO forces and resulted in some civilian deaths, Karzai said, as he has in the past, that no foreign forces should enter Afghan homes. "This has been one of the issues between us for a long time, something that we have raised an objection to for almost eight years now. We want Afghanistan’s homes, Afghanistan’s villages to be protected, to be safe from such attacks." more>>
|
(Dec. 19) Kim Jong Il, North Korea's "Dear Leader" and head of the Communist Party of the politically isolated nation, died of heart failure Saturday. The 69-year-old was on a train as part of a "high intensity field inspection" when his heart gave out. As a precaution, South Korea put its military on "high alert." Kim Jong Il's son, Kim Jong Un, is expected to take power in the country. more>>
|
(Dec. 19) It was a war that, according to its Bush Administration neo-conservative architects, was supposed to last mere weeks and cost less than $65B. Almost 455 weeks - approaching nine years - and some $800B later, the conflict officially ended on Sunday as the last group of American troops left Iraq. Caring for tens of thousands of wounded U.S. veterans and replacing destroyed and damaged military equipment will, according to some estimates, cost as much as $3.2T. Many Iraqis saw U.S. forces as hostile occupiers of their country and are happy to know that they have left. Iraqis, particularly those of the Sunni minority, worry about Iraq's government and the future. There are significant concerns that Iraqi security forces will not be able to keep Sunni and Shia militias in check now that the Americans are gone. more>>
|
(Dec. 18) Considerably more Libyans - as many as 70 or more - were killed by NATO bombs and missiles during the alliance's seven-month war in the skies over Libya. A growing body of evidence, including interviews with survivors, doctors and witnesses; medical reports, death certificates and photographs; and munitions remnants support the assertion from in and outside of Libya that the air war was not as free of "collateral damage" as NATO officials have claimed. “From what you have gathered on the ground, it appears that innocent civilians may have been killed or injured, despite all the care and precision,” said Oana Lungescu, a spokeswoman for NATO headquarters in Brussels. “We deeply regret any loss of life.” more>>
|
(Dec. 18) U.S. defense spending cuts will ultimately cost up to 800,000 jobs, and the full effect of "sequestration" - another $500B of reduced spending over 10 years beginning in January 2013 - could result in as many as 1.5M lost jobs, according to Republican Congressman Buck McKeon, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, this week. Congress is currently mandated to chop $489B in military spending over a decade. Most of the axed jobs will be in the Army and Marines (100K), civilian defense jobs (200K), and defense industry positions (500K). more>>
|
(Dec. 17) Various Afghan police officers trained by the U.S. have engaged in illegal taxation, carried weapons outside their communities and, in some cases, committed assault. Despite the "bad apples", however, the U.S. military leadership thinks they have been "effective", according to a report issued Thursday. It was prepared by U.S. Air Force Brig.-Gen. James Marrs in response to a highly critical study by Human Rights Watch released in September. Marrs' report and the HRW study focused on two types of armed Afghan groups: arbakai - local militias - and Afghan police trained by U.S. Special Operations forces. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) HMCS Victoria, the navy's west coast submarine, returned to its base at CFB Esquimalt Friday after nearly two weeks at sea. The purpose of the shorter-duration cruise was to test the boat's systems as well as its crew's skills and knowledge. "HMCS Victoria's return to sea highlights all the hard work that has gone into this boat," said Rear-Admiral Nigel Greenwood, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific in a statement. Since August 2003, the sub has been at sea an average of just 10 days per year due to rusting and maintenance issues. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) In early June, submarine HMCS Corner Brook hit the side of an underwater channel in Nootka Sound on the west side of Vancouver Island, damaging the boat's bow and causing a leak. A Military Board of Inquiry has found that the crew didn't know how to properly operate the sub's electronic navigation system and failed to correctly analyze the risk associated with the dive, which resulted in the accident. Corner Brook’s commanding officer, Lt. Commander P.A. Sutherland, has been removed from his position and re-assigned to work at fleet headquarters. The sub will be out of service until 2016. more>>
|
(Dec. 16) The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) has determined that special forces troops may have witnessed American war crimes in Afghanistan, but they did commit not them. Accusations from a Canadian soldier against some of his colleagues of crimes as serious as murder resulted in the CFNIS investigation, which was called Project Sand Trap. "Information collected during the course of the investigation pertaining to non-CF members was brought to the attention of the appropriate foreign investigative authorities," CFNIS said in a recent statement. more>>
|
(Dec. 16) The arrival of the last Canadian soldiers to leave Kandahar Thursday marked the end of Canada's six-year-long combat mission in southern Afghanistan. Members of Mission Transition Task Force were greeted by family and friends at the Ottawa Airport. Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Gen. Walt Natynczyk, chief of defence staff, thanked the soldiers for their service and wished them happy holidays. more>>
|
(Dec. 16) Tehran has told Kabul to order a halt to U.S. drone surveillance flights from Afghanistan. Ali Akbar Salehi, the Iranian foreign minister, said Thursday that any further flights would be regarded as a hostile act. Becoming embroiled in a U.S.-Iran conflict would be highly problematic for the Karzai government as Afghanistan struggles to overcome the effects of more than 30 years of war within its own borders. U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta said Wednesday while visiting with Karzai that surveillance flights over Iran would continue despite the recent loss of the spy drone. more>>
|
(Dec. 15) His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, announced Wednesday the names of 23 members of the Canadian Forces for specific achievements that have brought honour to Canada's military and the nation. A ceremony will take place at a later date and will be announced by the Department of National Defence. Mentions in Dispatches are a national honour created to recognize valiant conduct, devotion to duty or other distinguished service. The list can be viewed by clicking on
more>>
|
(Dec. 15) U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta said Wednesday that security gains in parts of Afghanistan over the past year have been a "turning point" in the decade-old war. "We're moving in the right direction and we're winning this very tough conflict in Afghanistan," Panetta told troops at Forward Operating Base Sharana near the Afghan-Pakistani border. U.S. military commanders have refrained from claiming victory in the ongoing conflict due to the resilience of the Taliban and its supporters such as the Haqqani network. more>>
|
Canadian fighter pilots will be training on the F-35 jet in Florida for almost a decade and the military will have to study how to set up a similar program at home, says the country's top air commander, LGen Andre Deschamps. "At some point, we would like to repatriate the training to Canada in whatever shape or form that would be suitable for us." But Deschamps said there is a lot of homework to be done before that would happen, including a detailed assessment of how the U.S. and other allies strike a balance between airtime and simulator training on the highly advanced, multi-role fighter. The goal would be to continue fighter pilot instruction at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake, Alberta, however, infrastructure and cost will be among the considerations as the military adopts the new jets. more>>
|
(Dec. 14) While military officials say at least 65 new fighter jets are needed to protect Canada's sovereignty and meet its international obligations, the minister in charge of military procurement, Associate Defence Minister Julian Fantino, recently said that the Royal Canadian Air Force may end up with fewer. "We are still talking about it, analyzing it," Fantino told French-language magazine L'Actualite. When asked if Canada could end up with fewer than 65 fighter aircraft, Fantino answered: "Maybe. At some point we will make a decision." Cost is the key issue. The Conservatives have repeatedly said that each F-35 will cost about $75M while the U.S. Joint Strike Fighter price is two-thirds higher and the Pentagon has slowed F-35 production. more>>
|
(Dec. 14) For the first time since NATO air strikes killed 24 and injured 13 Pakistani soldiers in outposts near the Afghanistan border last month, communication between Pakistan's senior military leadership and NATO took place this week. In a telephone conversation with Pakistan army chief Gen. Ashfaq Pervez Kayani on Monday, U.S. Marine Gen. John Allen expressed a commitment to work through the air strikes incident and try to restore co-ordination between their forces along the border. Allen said he expects the U.S. will be conducting major counter-insurgency operations in eastern Afghanistan next year. more>>
|
(Dec. 13) A military judge sentenced former Canadian medic James Wilks Monday to nine months in prison for sexual assault. Wilks' sentence followed guilty verdicts in October for sexual assault and breach of trust when Wilks performed physical examinations of recruits at a London, Ont. military centre and also in Sarnia, Ont. in late 2008 and 2009. Wilks is no longer a member of the Canadian Forces and will serve his sentence at a civilian prison. more>>
|
(Dec. 13) National Transitional Council chairman Mustafa Abdul-Jalil told reporters in Tripoli Monday that the new government hopes to have a working army and police force within 100 days. He also said that government ministries would be relocated to cities across Libya in order to decentralize national authority. Gen. Khalifa Hifter, the commander of the new national army, said he believes that 100 days will provide enough time for recruits to train and reorganize after the eight-month-long civil war that, with NATO military support, overthrew the regime of Col. Moammar Gadhafi. more>>
|
(Dec. 12) Pakistan may continue to block NATO convoys into Afghanistan for several weeks, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani told BBC News on Sunday. The blockage is one of the ways that Islamabad has been conveying its anger toward NATO and the United States in particular following NATO air strikes two weeks ago that killed 24 and injuried 13 Pakistani soldiers at military outposts near the Afghan border. Gilani also refused to rule out closing Pakistan's airspace to the United States. NATO forces in Afghanistan rely significantly on supply routes from the Pakistani sea port of Karachi, which enter Afghanistan through the Khyber Pass. more>>
|
(Dec. 12) The head of a military council, Mokhtar Fernana, said Sunday that Libyan rebel fighters who toppled the regime of former ruler Col. Moammar Gadhafi will only withdraw from the capital when a new army is formed. "Libya is now a police-less state," said Fernana, who leads the military council in western Libya. "The thwars (revolutionaries) are the ones protecting Tripoli. It is thanks to them that there is security and stability." Hundreds of Libyans this past week protested against the presence in Tripoli of militias who had come from other parts of the country. more>>
|
(Dec. 11) Malvi Faqir Mohammad, the deputy chief of the Pakistani Taliban, said in a statement Saturday that the militant group was in peace talks with the government and they are "progressing well," according to officials in Islmabad. The aim of the talks is for the Taliban to end their four-year insurgency in Pakistan. Mohammad's statement will likely magnify concerns in Washington that Pakistan is an unreliable partner in America's "War of Terror." Whether Mohammad speaks for all of the factionalized Taliban or not was unclear in his statement. more>>
|
(Dec. 11) Army officials said Saturday that two gunmen opened fire Saturday on a convoy of vehicles accompanying army chief Maj.-Gen. Khalifa Haftar, but called it an "isolated incident." Reportedly, hours of clashes along the coastal road followed. The violence adds to concerns over Libya's stability after the regime of Col. Moammar Gaddafi was toppled with NATO's backing three months ago. more>>
|
(Dec. 10) Canadian special forces have trained local government security forces in Afghanistan, Jamaica and Mali to combat groups such as the Taliban, armed drug cartel gangsters, and al-Qaeda affiliates. Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson, commander of the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, says the effort is "modest" due to multi-billion-dollar federal deficits, budget reviews and economic uncertainty. "If you’re in a resource-constrained environment why wouldn't you make a small investment into the development of someone else’s forces if they’re gong to do that work for you," he told the Toronto Star. more>>
|
(Dec. 10) Detainees in Afghanistan arrested by Canadian forces will be transferred to U.S. custody at a facility in Parwan. Foreign Affair minister John Baird announced a transfer agreement that paves the way for anyone arrested by the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan to be sent to the U.S.-run facility. "The U.S. operates this facility with full agreement of the Afghan government and detainees can be prosecuted under Afghan law," Baird said Friday. "Canadian officials will continue to be present on the ground to monitor all Canadian-transferred detainees until they are sentenced or released." more>>
|
The National Labor Relations Board has abandoned its case against Boeing for opening up a non-union plant in South Carolina, a right-to-work state. The NLRB took action against Boeing in April at the behest of Local 751 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Washington state. The union on Thursday asked the NLRB to drop the case. There had been an outpouring of outrage in response to the NLRB case against Boeing.
|
DND has confirmed that an announcement on the contentious Fixed Wing Search and Rescue program is expected this week.
|
(Dec. 8) Canada's Governor General, David Johnston, praised the Canadian Forces Thursday for its quick response to the crash of First Air Flight 6560 in August. Johnston was in Resolute, Nunavut on August 20 when the crash occurred. Military personnel and aircraft were nearby as part of the annual exercise, Operation Nanook. Johnston recalled first hearing about the crash in a mess tent with Brig.-Gen. Guy Hamel, the Joint Task Force North commander. more>>
|
(Dec. 9) Libya's interim government has told militias in Tripoli from the cities of Misurata and Zintan to turn over their weapons and leave the capital in an attempt to assert its authority over the country. December 20 is the deadline. Abdul-Rafik Bu Hajjar, head of the Tripoli municipal council, has threatened to ban all traffic except vehicles from the Interior and Defense ministries if the militias fail to comply. The new prime minister, Abdel-Rahim Keeb, is backing his order. Protesters in Tripoli demonstrated Wednesday against the presence of the armed groups. more>>
|
(Dec. 9) Iranian TV showed an intact U.S. RQ-170 Sentinel stealth intelligence-gathering drone Thursday being inspected by officers. Brig.-Gen. Amir-Ali Hajizadeh, head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' aerospace unit, told Iranian media that the drone was electronically ambushed after it flew into Iran's airspace on December 4 and landed. The loss of the advanced pilotless airplane is an embarrassment to the U.S. government, which will have to use other means to monitor and map Iran's nuclear facilities. more>>
|
(Dec. 8) General Electric and Rolls-Royce have decided to end development of the F136 jet engine, the alternate powerplant for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter that the Pentagon didn't want. The two companies, which have decades of aerospace experience, began working on an engine for the JSF back in 1996. Competitor Pratt and Whitney was selected to provide the JSF program with its F135 engine in late 2001. GE and Rolls will pursue separate competitive paths to future warplane turbine engines through the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories' Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology program as well as other research efforts. more>>
|
(Dec. 8) The former Soviet Union was very familiar with Canada's Arctic waters and possessed superior nautical charts. Russian mariners possessed detailed knowledge of crucial internal waterways in Canada's Arctic such as the Northwest Passage. In some cases, older Russian charts are preferred to current Canadian charts. "In some cases the Russian charts are more detailed than the Canadian ones and the navigators have them out on the chart table beside the Canadian ones in order to cross-reference any questionable soundings," said Aaron Lawton of One Ocean Expeditions, an adventure tourism company that charters the Russian-owned ship Academik Ioffe for Arctic cruises. more>>
|
(Dec. 8) Defence Minister Peter MacKay is considering suing MPs who suggested he lied about a ride he took aboard a Canadian Forces search-and-rescue helicopter. Opposition members have called for MacKay to apologize and even to resign over his use of a CH-149 Cormorant to transport him to the Gander Airport in July 2010 from a remote fishing lodge where he was vacationing. Military documents released last week showed that some National Defence personnel thought the trip could be perceived badly, with one suggesting the airlift should occur under the guise of a SAR exercise. more>>
|
(Dec. 7) Historian J.L. Granatstein, a senior research fellow of the Canadian Defence and Foreign Affairs Institute, explains in an Ottawa Citizen article that the Harper government has been "re-branding" Canada - and using the Canadian Forces to that end. "No more milksop nation", writes Granatstein. Has Canada become "fierce and proud"? The days of Canada being lauded as peacekeepers are certainly in the past. Combat in Afghanistan and dropping bombs on Libyan targets has replaced peacekeeping with war-fighting. What does the future hold in terms of militarization and Canada? Granatstein shares his view on that, too. more>>
|
(Dec. 7) Three bomb attacks in Afghanistan Tuesday killed at least 63 Shiite worshippers and injured more than two-hundred. A Pakistan-based extremist group, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, claimed responsibility. The bombings add a new dimension of strife to Afghanistan, where sectarian conflict has been virtually non-existent despite many years of war during the past generation alone. In neighbouring Pakistan, Sunni and Shiite Muslims have been energetically killing one another for decades. The emergence of Lashkar-e-Jhangvi has fuelled speculation that Sunni al-Qaeda, the Taliban or Pakistan's spy agency — or some combination of the three — had teamed up with the group to send a message that Afghanistan's future stability remains uncertain and dependent on the cooperation of outside forces. more>>
|
(Dec. 7) Executives from more than 100 American aerospace and defense corporations are urging U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta to postpone proposed changes to Pentagon contracts, saying they would dampen competition, raise costs, and lead to further layoffs. The Pentagon recently announced changes to make contractors bear more of the financial risk of new weapons systems development. A letter to Panetta coordinated by the Aerospace Industries Association trade group was created after F-35 fighter jet-maker Lockheed Martin warned its shareholders that the company might face financial liability relative to the $382B Joint Strike Fighter program, which has gone over-budget in the past decade by nearly $185B. more>>
|
(Dec. 6) A Canadian non-profit organization, Wreaths Across Canada, is honouring Canada's soldiers by placing a wreath at every military headstone in the country. Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk laid one of the first wreaths at at Beechwood National Cemetery, where 2,700 soldiers are buried, in Ottawa on Sunday. "Today is a day to offer respect, dignity and appreciation to all those brave men and women who have served our great country," Natynczyk told the hundreds of volunteers and veterans who helped lay wreaths. more>>
|
(Dec. 6) The meltdown of the strategic relationship between Washington and Pakistan's army, in particular, could not have been avoided, writes Dr. Subhash Kapila in the Eurasia Review. There have been problems in the relationship going back "a couple of decades" and indicators of the break-down have been present over the past half-decade. Significantly, the people of Pakistan were never incorporated in the strategic relationship by either the Pakistan Army or the United States. Consequently, they were never psychologically invested in the American 'War on Terror' as it applied to their region. more>>
|
(Dec. 5) Libya’s new defense minister, Osama al-Juwali, said Sunday that the country's new government is giving priority to creating a new national military. Revolutionary militias that helped topple Col. Moammar Gadhafi's regime have been reluctant to disband or submit to central authority in the past month and a half since the civil war ended. "We have to reorganize," said Osama al-Juwali. "Most of the rebels are armed and most of them are young. They can be a bit careless and sometimes accidents happen, this is one of the primary obstacles." more>>
|
(Dec. 5) Iran's military said Sunday it shot down a U.S. RQ-170 stealth drone as the aircraft was flying in the country's eastern airspace. According to an unnamed military source, Iran's armed response would "not be limited to our country's borders" for the "blatant territorial violation." The International Security Assistance Force - ISAF - in Afghanistan disclosed that a drone - the type unspecified - "had been flying a mission over western Afghanistan late last week." Iran's official news agency, Fars, said the pilotless aircraft was "downed with slight damage" and "now under the control of our forces." more>>
|
(Dec. 5) After NATO attacks on military outposts in Pakistan last month killed 24 and injured 13 Pakistani soldiers, Islamabad has decided to scrap all existing anti-terror cooperation agreements with the United States. The decision was taken after consultations with senior government personnel, including officers in Pakistan's military. Islamabad will formulate "red lines" - strict conditions - that Washington and NATO will have to follow if they want Pakistan to be involved in the "War on Terror." more>>
|
(Dec. 4) Canadian special forces troops from CFB Petawawa have been sent to Africa to provide training to Mali's military, which is fighting al-Qaeda insurgents. Canadian Special Operations Regiment members are providing training in basic soldiering, including communications, planning and first aid, and providing medical aid and support to civilian populations. They aren't involved in any fighting or accompanying troops in the northwestern African country into battle. more>>
|
(Dec. 4) U.S. Vice Admiral David Venlet, the Pentagon's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program chief, said in an interview Thursday that fatigue testing and analysis have turned up so many potential cracks and "hot spots" in the JSF's airframe that production should be slowed further over the next few years. The U.S. Dept. of Defense has been building JSFs while simultaneously testing the fifth-generation warplane. "Fundamentally, that was a miscalculation," Venlet said. F-35's with cracks and other problems have to be sent back to the factory to be fixed, adding to the per-aircraft cost. JSF-maker Lockheed Martin wants production to speed up, but the Pentagon is doing more of the opposite: applying braking until the warplane's issues are resolved. more>>
|
(Dec. 4) Canada's military has finished cleaning-up in Kandahar after six years of combat operations and all the remaining equipment and soldiers not involved in training Afghan security forces will leave Afghanistan within two weeks. "Closing out in the Kandahar airfield here today, we'll be completely clear of the airfield in terms of people and material by the middle of December," said Lt.-Gen. Stuart Beare, the commander of the Canadian Expeditionary Force Command. Some non-weapons items such as tents, backpacks, generators, appliances and cooking equipment will be distributed to Kandahar residents. more>>
|
(Dec. 3) Prime Minister Stephen Harper backed MacKay's controversial airlift, calling it "appropriate." Copies of e-mails between military officers indicate that MacKay requested a 'copter lift at least three days ahead of his intended departure from the camp, and the ride would be “under the guise” of search-and-rescue training. Being picked up by a Cormorant saved MacKay from having to take a two-hour boat and car ride to the Gander Airport. more>>
|
(Dec. 3) Lt.-Col. Abde Bellahnid, National Defence director of space requirements, says Canada's involvement in a U.S.-led military satellite program at a cost of $477M will depend on whether four other countries sign on by mid-December or not. New Zealand, Denmark, the Netherlands and Luxembourg have lined up to participate in the Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) program and are expected to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on October 15, along with Canada. The WGS has been advertised by the U.S. Department of Defense as a communications system for "U.S. warfighters, allies and coalition partners during all levels of conflict short of nuclear war." more>>
|
(Dec. 2) The end of the Canadian Forces combat mission in southern Afghanistan was marked Thursday by the lowering of the Maple Leaf at the Kandahar Airfield. The remaining CF personnel on the base are tasked with cleaning, packing up and shipping non-essential supplies back to Canada. The current training mission is based in Kabul and is scheduled to run until 2014. "Our commitment is now centred in Kabul with our military contribution to the NATO training mission," said Defence Minister Peter MacKay in a statement, "which is building the professional capacities of the Afghan national security forces." more>>
|
(Dec. 2) The Canadina Forces have established an informal agreement with the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA), a national agency that promotes aviation safety and provides air search support, to have part-time volunteers provide first-response search and rescue (SAR) in the Arctic. Most of Canada's military SAR resources are based thousands of kilometres away in the south and it can take hours to fly them to the Arctic to conduct aerial searches. If the deal is formalized, CASARA will put volunteers on civilian planes to conduct searches. more>>
|
(Dec. 2) Government documents have revealed that Defence Minister Peter MacKay used a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter in July 2010 to be picked up at a remote Newfoundland fishing spot "under the guise" of search and rescue training. MacKay's office requested the airlift in order to get him to an event, according to the documents. "This mission will be under the guise … of [search and rescue training]," one email says. Another states that alternate transportation would require two hours of travel to a local airport. In late September, MacKay said in the House of Commons that the flight was for work, not pleasure. more>>
|
(Dec 1) With great sadness his family announces the passing of John R. (Jack) Moss, retired Lieutenant-Commander, CD, RCN and Canadian Forces. Former employee of Spar Aerospace. On Sunday, November 27, 2011, in Ottawa in his 81st year. Survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Doreen Coppell. Friends are invited to visit at the St. Laurent Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 1200 Ogilvie Road, (at Aviation Parkway), on Thursday, December 1 after 10 am until time of Service at 11 am. Donations in remembrance may be made to a charity of Choice.
|
(Dec. 1) Since NATO aircraft attacked two outposts in Pakistan on Saturday, killing 24 and injuring 13 Pakistani soldiers, Islamabad has shut its border, which means military gear that was supposed to come back to Canada via Pakistan remains in Afghanistan. Lt.-Cmdr. John Nethercott said the matter will becoming problematic if Pakistan doesn't reopen its borders soon. "We're assessing the situation," he told reporters. more>>
|
(Dec. 1) The previously put-on-hold plan of the Dept. of National Defence to buy new trucks for the Canadian Forces has been resurrected via a government announcement that the bidding process will be re-opened. The $800M truck acquisition program was announced in 2006 and subsequently fell behind schedule, which caused industry representatives to question the DND's ability to handle a relatively straightforward procurement. The 1980s-vintage military trucks were deemed to be hazardous due to faulty brakes and excessive rust and the new trucks were supposed to be delivered in 2008 - but weren't. more>>
|
(Dec. 1) A preliminary U.S. military report says that NATO forces may have been lured by the Taliban into attacking Pakistani border posts. A joint U.S.-Afghan patrol was attacked by the Taliban early on Saturday. While pursuing the insurgents in the poorly marked border area, the unit may have mistaken one of the Pakistan military outposts for a Taliban encampment and called in a NATO gunship and attack helicopters, which opened fire and killed and injured several Pakistani soldiers. more>>
|
(Nov. 30) To protest NATO aerial attacks that killed 24 and injured 13 Pakistani soldiers at a border post on Saturday, Islamabad has decided to boycott a conference in Germany this weekend on Afghanistan. Representatives from more than 100 countries are expected to attend and discuss the future of Afghanistan as the U.S. prepares to pull out most of its combat forces by 2014. Regarding the attacks, Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations, Maj. Gen. Ashfaq Nadeem, said the attack started at 12:15AM local time Saturday and lasted for about two hours, even after the army major who commanded the post contacted NATO to get them to call off the assault. He was killed. more>>
|
(Nov. 30) Leaders in Libya's new government said Tuesday that some prisoners held by rebel forces have been abused, but the mistreatment has not been systematic. They promised to address the problem. On Monday, the U.N. released a report that details alleged torture and ill-treatment in lockups controlled by the forces that overthrew Libyan rule Col. Moammar Gadhafi. The report says that Libyan revolutionaries still hold about 7,000 people, many of whom are sub-Saharan Africans accused or suspected of being mercenaries hired by Gadhafi. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) In the summer, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said the Canadian Forces would soon receive the first operational Sikorsky Cyclone maritime helicopter for training purposes. Months have passed and the aircraft has still not been delivered. The CH-148 Cyclone program is already three years late and billions of dollars over the original budget. A Sikorsky spokesman would not say when the first Cyclone will be ready to receive a Canadian military air worthiness certificate. According to Canada's former auditor general, Sheila Fraser, 13 months ago, the cost of the Cyclone program went from $2.8B in 2000 to $5.7B last year. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) A Dept. of National Defence report says that the Afghan training mission is putting the Army's "long-term health" at risk because of demands on the relatively small group of sergeants, captains and other mid-level leaders. "While Regular Force expansion [in the past six years] has resulted in the Army having the right number of personnel, they are not distributed through the necessary ranks," the report states. The Army is "heavy" in lower ranks (privates, corporals and lieutenants) but "light" in terms of senior non-commissioned officers such as sergeants as well as mid-level officers like captains and majors. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) Because of the recent NATO aerial attacks on two Pakistani military outposts near the Afghanistan border, Pakistan's leadership has been handed a rare opportunity to push Washington and grasp for the strategic ambitions desired by Islamabad. The attacks, for which NATO has apologized, have spread and intensified anti-American anger among Pakistanis. Washington still wants Islamabad to lean hard on the Taliban's ally, the Haqqani network, which has carried out high-profile attacks in Afghanistan, but with feelings against the U.S. running high in Pakistan, the situation is considerably different than before the NATO attacks. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) Islamabad has charged that the NATO airstrikes on Saturday that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers and injured 13 lasted for almost two hours and continued even after Pakistani commanders pleaded with coalition forces to stop. NATO has apologised for the incident and promised a full investigation. Unnamed Afghan officials have said that a joint Afghan-NATO force on the Afghan side of the border received incoming fire from the direction of the Pakistani posts, and called in airstrikes. The attacks have greatly strained relations between the United States and Pakistan, where anti-American riots have erupted in the past two days. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) The situation in Syria has become increasingly violent, as civilians have obtained weapons and begun an armed resistance and soldiers have deserted and formed a paramilitary force, the Free Syrian Army. To make matters worse, fighting has broken out between the Sunni majority and the Shi'ite minority. On Sunday, the Arab League voted to impose punitive economic and political sanctions on Damascus, intensifying the pressure on the Bashar al-Assad government to step aside. A faltering regime and rising violence often leads to a military coup, writes Brian Downing, political and military analyst and author. more>>
|
(Nov. 26) According to Pakistani officials, NATO helicopter gunships and fighter jets attacked two military posts in Pakistan near the northwestern border with Afghanistan on Saturday, killing at least 25 soldiers. Islamabad has responded by ordering the CIA to cease drone operations at Shamsi Air Base and closed down the two main NATO supply routes into Afghanistan. U.S. officials are scrambling to assess what happened and how this latest crisis will affect already cool American-Pakistani relations. Imran Khan, an opposition politician who has recently experienced a surge in public support, urged the Pakistani government to break its military alliance with the USA. "The time has come to leave America’s war," he exclaimed at a political rally on Saturday. "The attack was carried out by those for whom we have destroyed our own country," he added, alluding to a popular perception in Pakistan that the country has suffered economically and lost lives because of its "War on Terror" partnership with the United States. more>>
|
(Nov. 26) The Canadian Forces recently said it will review wait times for soldiers seeking psychological help at CFB Valcartier after a coroner's report into the suicide of a depressed Quebec soldier suggested the delays seem "quite long." Stephane Legendre killed himself in November 2009 with a drug overdose a month after he complained to an army social worker that it was taking too long to see a psychologist. His case was classified as a priority for psychological help because he had started to voice suicidal thoughts. According to Dept. of National Defence data, there were 16 suicides by military personnel in 2009, the most in a year since tracking began in 1995. more>>
|
(Nov. 25) A tribute to Canadian Forces members who participated in NATO's Libya mission was held Thursday on Parliament Hill, and Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, the Canadian in charge of the mission launched, received a special honour, the meritorious service cross. Prime Minister Stephen Harper praised members of Canada's military - approximately 630 of them - assigned to the mission and referred to the regime of former Libyan ruler Col. Moammar Gadhafi as "brutal and psychotic." Defence Minister Peter MacKay, Gov. Gen. David Johnston, and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk also attended the event. more>>
|
(Nov. 25) Right after the leaders of a joint U.S. Congressional committee announced Monday the group's failure to reach a deal to shrink federal spending by $1.2T, the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Howard McKeon, and other members of Congress said they would try to reverse the penalty for the Dept. of Defense known as "sequestration." The possible outcome could be cuts to military spending starting in 2013 as high as $950B over 10 years - unless a "rollback" can be secured. The problem for McKeon, Sen. John McCain (ranking member on the Senate Armed Services Committee) and other U.S. politicians concerned about the sharply lower (23%) spending on America's military is that both Democrat and GOP leaders have shown little interest in reversing the extra half trillion dollars in cuts. Crucially, they control the legislation, including spending-related bills, that reach Congress' floor. more>>
|
Former prime minister of Libya’s National Transitional Council (NTC) government, Mahmoud Jibril, told an interviewer that Gaddafi was killed "based on a request by a certain foreign power.” Jibril declared: “Too many secrets could have been discovered... [Gaddafi] was the black box of the whole country. He had too many wheelings and dealings with too many leaders in the world. With him, unfortunately, a lot of information is gone.” Jibril candidly referred to the scramble for Libya’s resources, saying “every foreign power you can think of is trying to look after its own interests in Libya. No one is excluded. This is the name of the game. This is politics. Countries have interests in Libya and everybody is looking out for their own.” more>>
|
(Nov. 24) The U.S. Dept. of Defense (DoD) has been renowned for decades for its contigency planning. However, it failed to plan for the one, looming possibility that will now profoundly affect the organization: "sequestration" - as much as $950B in spending cuts over the next decade. Their actual depth will be decided by a Congress facing voter anger about government spending, a flagging economy, high unemployment, humongous federal borrowing, and some $61T of unfunded federal spending obligations for entitlement programs. The Pentagon's top target for budget cuts is reportedly the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Cutting back on weapons programs, reducing personnel and training, closing bases, parking at least one aircraft carrier, laying off civilian DoD employees, delaying maintenance, and more are all on the table now. more>>
|
(Nov. 23) Canada's auditor general has criticized the Dept. of National Defence's strategy of spending billions on repairs and maintenance contracts using - in many cases - manufacturers of the pieces of equipment instead of developing the capacity in-house. The approach creates a dependency while resulting in undeveloped skill and expertise in the Canadian Forces, both of which could lead to overpaying for services. The report says: "National Defence has indicated that it is likely that its long-term investment plan for new equipment has allocated insufficient funds for equipment life-cycle costs." more>>
|
(Nov. 23) Vice-Admiral Paul Maddison, head of Canada's navy, says HMCS Vancouver, which will be deployed in the Mediterranean next year, is going to have an unmanned aerial system onboard. The Boeing ScanEagle is a catapult-launched and line-snagged smaller reconnaissance drone that was used in Afghanistan by the Canadian army and is in service with five other militaries. more>>
|
(Nov. 23) More countries deployed anti-personnel mines last year than in any year since 2004 says the Landmine Monitor report, an international survey, despite a record amount of clearing activity. Four countries that did not sign an international treaty outlawing landmines - Syria, Libya, Burma, and Israel - laid new mines this year. Armed groups in Afghanistan, Colombia, Burma and Pakistan also laid new mines. Funding to clear mines and help victims reached an all-time high of US$637M in 2010. More than 4,000 people were confirmed killed or injured by mines last year. more>>
|
(Nov. 22) The U.S. Congress' Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction announced Monday that it had failed to reach an agreement on at least $1.2T in spending cuts. The potential penalty of the super-committee's failure involving the U.S. military is "sequestration" - reduced funding over 10 years by as much as $950B. Sen. John McCain, who was in Halifax on the weekend for the international security conference with U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta and Defence Minister Peter MacKay, has said he and other legislators will seek to "rollback" what he described on Friday as "draconian" defence spending cuts. Panetta had published a list of major weapons systems programs that could be cancelled if the super-committee failed. It included the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which the Harper government intends to procure. more>>
|
(Nov. 22) A 21-year-old security officer facing possible discharge brought his own handgun to work on Monday and barricaded himself in a building at Schriever Air Force Base in Colorado. The base is described as "among the most secure in the nation." Authorities have tried to persuade him to surrender.
more>>
|
(Nov. 22) At the international security conference in Halifax this weekend, Defence Minister Peter MacKay cautioned that NATO tactics used in Libya cannot be considered a blueprint for potential interventions in other countries, such as Syria or Iran. "There's a danger in creating a scenario that says there is 'world police' that are going to start singling out countries and enforcing what those governments - legitimate or not - should be doing," said MacKay. Syrian President Bashar Assad continues his ruthless crackdown on civilians, who have demanded democracy. The UN estimates 3,500 Syrians have been killed since March. more>>
|
(Nov. 21) Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Sunday that the federal government will keep one of Canada's naval frigates in the Mediterranean through the end of next year. He also said that HMCS Vancouver, which was recently involved in NATO's air-and-sea campaign against former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi’s forces in Libya, will be reassigned to NATO's Operation Active Endeavour - a decade-long counter-terrorism mission in the Mediterranean - until early 2012. Reporters asked MacKay about possible Canadian military involvement to protect civilians in Syria from being killed by the regime of leader Bashar Assad. "We don’t have a United Nations Security Council resolution [to intervene]," said MacKay. more>>
|
(Nov. 21) Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has indicated that her government may withdraw Australian troops from Afghanistan before the designated 2014 handover. Polling shows than opposition among Australians to having troops in Afghanistan has risen from 56 to 72 per cent, a change attributed to the deaths of Australian military personnel by rogue Afghan soldiers. more>>
|
(Nov. 21) Revolutionary fighters captured Col. Moammar Gadhafi's feared intelligence chief, Abdullah Senussi, on Sunday. Senussi had a notorious reputation in Libya as Gadhafi's brutal enforcer. He has been wanted in France since 1999, when a Paris court sentenced him in absentia to life in prison for his role in an attack on a French airliner that killed 170 people ten years earlier. more>>
|
(Nov 20) Libyans rejoice after Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, was captured. They caught him in the deep south of Libya where he was hiding in the desert with four bodyguards, down to his last few thousand dollars and armed with a few guns. The place was on a possible escape route through the Sahara to neighbouring Niger where his brother Saadi has taken refuge. Massive international pressure was being applied to keep him alive long enough to face justice. David Cameron, the UK Prime Minister, said: "The fate of the Gaddafis should act as a warning to brutal dictators everywhere." more>>
|
(Nov. 20) Defence Minister Peter MacKay and U.S. Secretary of Defence Leon Panetta said Friday that budget pressures will not result in the cancellation of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. The Pentagon is cutting $450B from its budgets over the next decade and depending on what U.S. lawmakers do - or don't do - by Nov. 23 in terms of reducing federal spending by at least $1.2T, funding for the U.S. military may be shrunk by an additional $500B over 10 years. Sen. John McCain, who is at the security conference in Halifax with Panetta this weekend, said he and other legislators would seek a "rollback" in the "sequestration", the extra $500B in cuts to the Pentagon's budget. Panetta recently informed Senate Armed Services Committee members that cutting defence spending by nearly $1T will result in the cancellation of the F-35 program. "We would have the smaller air force since ever," McCain told CBC's Power and Politics Friday. more>>
|
(Nov. 19) Former Canadian reservist Matthew Wilcox has been sentenced to four years in prison for the shooting death of a fellow Canadian soldier, Corporal Kevin Megeney, in Afghanistan in March 2007. Lt.-Col. Louis-Vincent d'Auteuil said Friday that Wilcox was well trained and "should have known better" than to point a loaded pistol at Megeney. However, Col. d'Auteuil blamed senior officers at Kandahar Airfield for not doing enough to crack down on improper handling of firearms before and during the deployment of Wilcox's unit. more>>
|
(Nov. 19) The Canadian Forces is looking to expand search-and-rescue in the Arctic, but instead of using its own personnel, it's seeking private contractors and even civilian volunteers to do the job. While experts have repeatedly warned the government that air crashes will increase the Arctic as it opens up, Canada's military has no Arctic SAR presence or plans to establish one, as Prime Minister Stephen Harper said this past summer after the crash of First Air Flight 6560. more>>
|
Sears Canada Inc. is offering Canadian Troops and their families the Sears employee discount this holiday season. As part of its ongoing support of Canadian military families, Sears is holding a “Military Family Shopping Day” on Wednesday, December 7, 2011. Canadian Troops and their families will receive the Sears employee discount. To receive their discount, CF Community members simply have to pick up their special employee pricing discount coupon from their local Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) office and present valid military ID or a CF Appreciation Program membership card at any Sears checkout counter. more>>
|
(Nov. 18) Afghanistan could find itself embroiled in a civil and regional war if all U.S. and international troops leave as planned by the end of 2014, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, the country's former interior minister, warned Thursday. He also said that the Karzai government's attempts to negotiate a peace with hard-core insurgents has failed. Atmar said 20,000-30,000 foreign soldiers should remain in Afghanistan after 2014. more>>
|
(Nov. 17) Canadian Forces members who served in Libya will be honoured at a special ceremony on Nov. 24, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Wednesday. Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, who led the NATO mission, will be among those receiving tribute for their work. "We will be celebrating with those Canadian Forces members and their families here," said MacKay. more>>
|
(Nov. 17) A new study by the Canadian Forces has determined that nearly 25% of a group of frontline soldiers sent to fight in Afghanistan in 2007 have mental health problems. The data illuminates the psychological risks associated with participating in combat and related mental health ramifications. The study involved 792 members of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD among soldiers includes depression, anxiety and mood disorders or substance abuse problems. The rate of PTSD was found to be eight per cent. more>>
|
(Nov. 16) Dept. of National Defence documents obtained by the Canadian Press show that the annual cost of supplying Canadian Forces personnel stationed in the Arctic could run between $843M and $1B for fuel, ammunition, food and shelter. However, the Harper government has reduced military spending over the next three years by $2.525B so the DND's budget is already strained. more>>
|
(Nov. 16) According to President Hamid Karzai, Afghan sovereignty and an end to night raids are key conditions if the U.S. wants to keep some of its troops in Afghanistan and enjoy a strategic partnership. Karzai spoke at the opening of the four-day loya jirga, or grand council, under high security. More than 2,000 Afghan politicians, tribal elders and community leaders have gathered to discuss relations with the U.S. and possible peace talks with the Taliban. The insurgent group had threatened to disrupt the jirga. more>>
|
(Nov. 16) GOP leadership hopefuls Mitt Romney, former Massachusetts governor, and Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, both said this week that they would, if elected president, order U.S. military forces to attack Iran if "crippling sanctions" failed to stop what some people believe are Tehran's ambition to develop nuclear weapons. "If all else fails, if after all of the work we've done, there's nothing else we could do besides take military action," said Romney at a recent debate on foreign policy. Gingrich said: "You have to take whatever steps are necessary to break its capacity to have a nuclear weapon." more>>
|
(Nov. 16) GOP leadership hopefuls Mitt Romney, former Massachusetts governor, and Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, both said this week that they would, if elected president, order U.S. military forces to attack Iran if "crippling sanctions" failed to stop what some people believe are Tehran's ambition to develop nuclear weapons. "If all else fails, if after all of the work we've done, there's nothing else we could do besides take military action," said Romney at a recent debate on foreign policy. Gingrich said: "You have to take whatever steps are necessary to break its capacity to have a nuclear weapon." more>>
|
(Nov. 15) By November 23, a dozen Democrat and Republican lawmakers on the U.S. Super Committee must reach an agreement to cut $1.2T from federal spending and - crucially - convince their colleagues in Congress to go along with their plan. If they do not, some $950B will subsequently be cut from defense spending over the next decade. U.S. SecDef Leon Panetta recently informed leading Senate Armed Services Committee members that cutting spending by nearly $1T will result in the cancellation of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. A political crisis is underway because the Democrats insist that spending for Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid not be touched while the GOP 'line in the sand' is no increases in taxes. The U.S. Treasury borrows about $24.5B weekly to pay federal bills. more>>
|
(Nov. 15) Canada's military will have to use commercial aircraft operators and possibly get airlift assistance from the U.S. to sustain its forces deployed to the Arctic, say Dept. of National Defence documents. The biggest concern is providing forces deployed in Northern Canada with fuel, ammunition, food and shelter. Earlier this month, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Walt Natynczyk, said: "It is harder to sustain operations in our High Arctic than it is to sustain operations in Kandahar or Kabul because in the Arctic, it's what you bring." more>>
|
(Nov. 15) Hundreds of soldiers wearing beige camouflage uniforms and ID badges and described as members of Libya's new army have been deployed west of Tripoli to intervene in a lethal feud between rival militias. The rebel fighters, who recently fought to overthrow the regime of former Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi, are from the city of Zawiya and the nearby tribal area of Warshefana. Recent fighting between the militias has resulted in at least 13 deaths. more>>
|
(Nov. 14) Meir Dagan, a former, decorated elite military unit commander and the head of Israel's spy agency from 2002 to 2010, has been speaking out against the plan of Benjamin Netanyahu's government to attack Iran over what some people - in and outside of Israel - believe is Tehran's nuclear weapons program. Dagan is not alone in his assessment that attacking the Persian nation would result in horrific consequences for Israel. "We have to think about what would happen the day after," he recently said. Dagan accuses Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak of trying to silence all criticism. Some in Israel have accused the former spymaster of treason. more>>
|
(Nov. 14) During the past three years, 2009 to 2011 inclusive, the Harper government has not spent billions of dollars in approved funding for the military and infrastructure. Tom Clark, host of Global Television’s Sunday morning political show, The West Block, confronted Finance Minister Jim Flaherty with the fact that as much as $11B in approved funding has not been spent. “We have a very large program to rebuild the Canadian Armed Forces and found repeatedly that they cannot get as much done in a given year as they perhaps thought they were going to,” said Flaherty. more>>
|
(Nov. 14) The Taliban say they have obtained a government security plan for the loya jirga - the grand assembly of leaders - that starts this week in Kabul. While it appears to include a detailed list of security arrangements for senior figures, Afghan security officials say that the document is not genuine. The Taliban have threatened to attack and derail the assembly - a "slave jirga", according to the insurgent group - which involves more than 2,000 people. more>>
|
(Nov. 14) Two rival Libyan militias fought a deadly gun battle this past weekend west of Tripoli, killing as many as 15 people. Lethal violence involving fighters who were not that long ago united in their desire and efforts to overthrow the regime of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi points to what some analysts have feared for months: civil war. Some of the rebel fighting groups are competing for control of geographical areas, resources and power. There have also been allegations that some of the armed groups have tortured and murdered people. The risks appear to have intensified due to the weakness of the transitional government, which has yet to appoint important ministers or to wield controlling influence over the militias. more>>
|
(Nov. 13) Defence Minister Peter MacKay says he plans to ask his Israeli counterpart, Ehud Barak, about reports that Israel's leaders have discussed plans to attack Iranian nuclear sites. Barak is due to visit Canada next week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. MacKay said Saturday that the "dynamics have changed and will continue to change" as tensions escalate between nuclear-armed Israel and Iran. more>>
|
(Nov. 13) Canada's navy has promised that its Victoria-class submarines will by fully operational by 2013 - nearly 15 years after the boats were purchased from Britain. Since then they have spent less than 7% of their time in service and have cost taxpayers some $2B for the initial acquisition plus repairs and modifications. Canadians can expect to spend $1.5B more on the subs, according to Senator Colin Kenny, who has served on parliamentary defence committees. He believes that Canada should cut its losses with the subs. "With this particular class we're sending good money after bad," he told CTV's W5. more>>
|
After a fighter pilot’s struggle, Joe slipped the surly bonds of earth appropriately on Remembrance Day 2011 in his 89th year. His love of flying carried over a distinguished 37-year career with the RCAF and beyond. A well-documented W.W. II Mosquito night fighter pilot with 410 Squadron, he went on to fly over 40 different aircraft including the CF-18. Known as “Mr Flight Safety” his efforts were recognized internationally by the International Flight Safety Foundation in 1977 and he was elected as honorary member of the USAF Aerospace Safety Hall of Fame. In Canada he was awarded the Trans Canada McKee trophy in 1978 and was inducted into the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame in 1997. He will not be forgotten.
Friends may pay their respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, 1255 Walkley Road on Wednesday, November 16th from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. Funeral mass Thursday at 10 am, November 17th, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1758 Alta Vista Drive.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre Foundation or the R.C.A.F. Memorial Foundation Museum would be appreciated.
|
(Nov. 12) Global News in Toronto profiles two mothers of Canadian soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan and how the women made their pilgrimages of remembrance yesterday. more>>
|
(Nov. 11) Canadians have expressed what Remembrance Day means to them in uniquely creative ways. This video is one of many online tributes to those who have served in Canada's military. more>>
|
(Nov. 11) Dominion Carilloneur Andrea McCrady has prepared 13 songs that she will play before and after the Remembrance Day ceremonies at the National War Memorial today. She will perform the songs on Parliament's carillon, an instrument comprised of 53 bells inside the Peace Tower that are controlled by a keyboard-type mechanism. Dr. McCrady is the fifth person in Canadian history to hold the carilloneur position since the carillon was inaugurated in 1927. more>>
|
(Nov. 10) The United States' critical computer networks are so vulnerable to cyber attack that it should deter U.S. leaders from going to war with other nations, Richard Clarke, a national security adviser to three presidents, said this week. Clarke and Gen. Keith Alexander, head of the U.S. National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, both told a cyber-security conference that the U.S. needs to eliminate network vulnerabilities and more aggressively hunt for malware and viruses on government and other critical computer systems. Clarke added that the U.S. armed forces is so dependent on IT networks that in a future conflict, deployed troops might reach the battlefield and find that "nothing works." more>>
|
(Nov. 10) Up to 70 Taliban fighters were killed after trying to attack a NATO base in eastern Afghanistan on Wednesday. The attackers have hideouts in the region and probably slipped across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border to carry out the assault. "In a joint ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) and Afghan operation last night in Barmal district, between 60 and 70 Taliban militants were killed," said Mokhlis Afghan, a spokesman for the governor of Paktika, the affected province. more>>
|
Why is it so hard to speak about hard truths? Because it might get you fired, as it did for Major-General Peter Fuller, deputy commander for the Afghan army's training mission. Following a speech by Afghan President Hamid Karzai, in which he had said that, in the event of a war between Pakistan and the United States, Afghanistan would take Pakistan's side, Fuller responded like any reasonable person would: "Why don't you just poke me in the eye with a needle? You've got to be kidding me. I'm sorry, we just gave you $11.6billion and now you're telling me, 'I don't really care?' " For that forthright and honest comment, he has been sacked. Woe is us. more>>
|
(Nov 8) New evidence suggests Iran is secretly building nuclear warheads, the United Nations nuclear agency says, laying out the most damning case yet that Tehran is seeking to join the tiny clutch of nuclear-armed powers. A long-awaited report by the International Atomic Energy Agency triggered a firestorm of speculation about pre-emptive Israeli or American strikes to destroy Iran’s nuclear-weapons’ program. more>>
|
Tim Dunne, FrontLine's military affairs analyst, writes that Remembrance Day has gained more poignancy among Canadians, boosting attendance at war memorials and cenotaphs throughout the nation. The fallen heroes from war deserve respect and recognition for paying the ultimate price of their service. But there are other military personnel who died in the performance of their duties elsewhere such as peacekeepers and search and rescue specialists. more>>
|
(Nov. 9) Canadian Rangers from 19 remote Northern Ontario communities are honing their skills this week. The annual exercise is the largest collective training session for the Rangers, most of whom are First Nations. The training includes organizational skills, discipline, search and rescue techniques, and disaster preparedness. Without the 4,700 Rangers across northern Canada, the military would have to send in troops to deal with emergencies, an expensive undertaking. more>>
|
(Nov. 9) This Vancouver Sun article details how HMCS Charlottetown went from enforcing an arms embargo against the Gadhafi regime in Libya to providing humanitarian assistance earlier this year. "The thing that struck me the most was that though I always knew the team was professional and well-trained, the ability of the ship to adapt to an ever-changing situation," said Commander Craig Skjerpen, the Charlottetown's commanding officer at the time. "I couldn't be more proud of having the ability to be in that ship with the fantastic team we had." more>>
|
(Nov. 8) After several Canadians in Libya had to hitch a ride out of the increasingly violent country earlier this year via Britain's air force and other non-Canadian modes of transport, military planners in Ottawa are taking a closer look at preparing for the next evacuation crisis. With much of the Middle East politically unstable and emnity between the two Koreas at its highest level in decades, getting military forces into troubled regions and transporting Canadian civilians out of harm's way are major challenges for Canada's military. more>>
|
(Nov. 8) More than 55,000 Canadians have served in Afghanistan since 2001 and veterans and their loved ones are reshaping the nation's concept of remembrance. Yesterday, The Globe and Mail started a "conversation" about how Canadians remember through stories, fragments, and photographs and documents submitted by veterans and their families.
more>>
|
(Nov. 8) Canada's privacy commissioner, Jennifer Stoddart, said Monday that an audit of Veterans Affairs Canada and how it handles privacy issues will be released early next year. The announcement was made as a third veteran went public with complaints into the number of times civil servants accessed his file. Sylvain Chartrand, who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after serving in Bosnia, says his file was accessed more than 4,000 times between 2003 and 2010. "We are currently conducting an audit of Veterans Affairs," said a spokesperson for the privacy commissioner's office. "It is examining, at a systemic level, the department's personal information management practices and compliance with federal privacy legislation. more>>
|
(Nov. 7) The Dept. of National Defence (DND) has told its managers about the procedures needed to lay off public servants as well as what such workers could be offered, including two years worth of retraining and up to a year's salary. Various "mechanisms to achieve reduction objectives" to be used include a hiring freeze, attrition and layoffs. Older workers would have pension penalties waived and be given "a cash payment of up to 52 weeks’ pay based on employee’s years of service in exchange for resignation." more>>
|
(Nov. 7) Some weapons depots in Libya have still not been secured properly and "much has already gone missing", according to the top U.N. envoy, Ian Martin. Stopping additional weapons from being smuggled out of country will be difficult, considering the nature of the large country, which is mostly desert. "That has to be a priority now, to secure what still remains in Libya," said Martin. "Over time, the international community can assist Libya and its neighbors with that, but I am afraid there is not a quick and easy solution to that problem." more>>
|
(Nov. 7) Another veterans' advocate, medically discharged Corporal Dennis Manuge, says government officials breached his privacy by unnecessarily going into his medical record hundreds of times. His complaint comes one year after Sean Bruyea settled a similar complaint with the government. Manuge is leading a class action lawsuit against the government over a claw-back on disability benefits. more>>
|
(Nov. 7) The men who killed the al-Qaeda chief have decided to speak out because they are tired of their "shabby treatment" by politicians who claim they were on a "kill mission".
They insisted there was no lengthy gun-fight in the compound and claimed they would have captured Bin Laden if he had surrendered. more>>
|
(Nov. 6) Veterans across Canada gathered on Saturday to protest $226M in proposed clawbacks that will substantially affect their benefits, despite assurances to the contrary from the government. The feeling among veterans is that the Veterans Affairs budget should not suffer from budget cuts as the Dept. of National Defence and other federal organizations are experiencing due to the implementation of the Harper government's deficit-reduction strategy. more>>
|
(Nov. 6) HMCS Preserver, one of the navy's supply ships, struck a dock in Halifax on Friday afternoon after tests at sea. The vessel, which underwent a $44.7M facelift during the past year, was damaged, as was the dock. No one was injured. An investigation will be launched. more>>
|
(Nov. 5) Stockpiles of sulfur mustard agent and chemicals used to make weapons are intact in Libya, weapons inspectors said Friday. The United Nations in particular was concerned that chemical weapons would be stolen during the civil war that toppled former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. The inspectors said that destroying the materials would resume as soon as possible. more>>
|
(Nov. 4) Maj Gen Peter Fuller, deputy commander of NATO's Afghan training mission, has been dismissed after he made disparaging comments about Afghanistan's leaders. In an interview with Politico, Fuller said the country's leadership was "isolated from reality." The head of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, Gen. John Allen, said Gen. Fuller's comments do not represent the U.S.-Afghan relationship, which he described as "solid." Fuller also said that Afghan president Hamid Karzai was unimpressive as a public speaker. more>>
|
(Nov. 4) Canadian fighter jet pilots who flew missions over Libya are returning to Canada today, said Chief of Defence Staff Walt Natynczyk Thursday. Sixteen crew members who worked on the Aurora surveillance aircraft provided by Canada to be part of the mission will return to their base in Nova Scotia tomorrow. Air force personnel were based in Trapani, Italy since March.
more>>
|
(Nov. 4) Tripoli fell more than two months ago but Libya's new leadership continues to struggle to secure weapons depots, stop munitions from being smuggled out of the country, and disarm thousands of fighters who toppled Gadhafi's regime. Canada and other nations have offered to help, but a new Libyan government will not be formed until mid-November. Libya's temporary leader has said he can't do much because he lacks the funds. Thousands of crates of rocket-propelled grenades and anti-aircraft rounds and 7,000 drums of raw uranium have been among the materiel found either totally unprotected or at sites lacking adequate protection. more>>
|
(Nov. 4) Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walter Natynczyk told the Parliamentary defence committee Thursday that contributing to the NATO Libyan mission and the Haitian post-earthquake relief effort would not have been possible without a trained and well-equipped military. "If you ask me how we're doing in maintaining our readiness, I'd say we're doing the best we can with all the resources we have," said Natynczyk. "Readiness is a perishable commodity and it's expensive." The Harper government has ordered the Dept. of Defence to submit two plans to reduce military spending, one for 5% and the other for 10%, in support of the government's deficit-reduction strategy. more>>
|
(Nov. 3) Staff from the federal auditor general's office travelled to F-35-maker Lockheed Martin's facility in Texas in September to review progress on the Joint Strike Fighter program. Their report will be tabled in Parliament in the spring. Also, Canada has been asked by the government of Australia and other nations that are planning to buy JSFs to perform a joint study of the program's delays amid "serious concerns" from the Pentagon's top official in charge of equipment testing and evaluation, Michael Gilmore, that the warplane needs another 10 months of testing and pilot training should be postponed. more>>
|
(Nov. 3) The new reality for the Dept. of National Defence and the Canadian Forces is considerably less less money. As part of its deficit-reduction plan, the Harper government has reduced defence spending over the next three years by $2.525B. Its 2008 Canada First Defence Strategy called for 70K Regular Forces and 30K Reservists, but the former is being capped at 68K and a 50% reduction in the latter has been recommended. Chief of Transformation, Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie, said in his report in August that 2,100 DND jobs and 30% of the $2.7B spent on professional and services contracts need to be cut to save $1B annually. Selling off DND real estate and even base closures has surfaced in the news recently. For the forseeable future, Canada's military will be smaller and equipped with as much modern equipment as the current and emerging fiscal realities allow. more>>
|
(Nov. 2) Buying an insufficient number of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to cover aircraft losses is a concern of RCAF planners, according to DND documents. "Canada is the only country that did not account (for) attrition aircraft" said a capability-and-sustainment briefing given to senior officers in late 2010. Buying replacement F-35s would increase the fleet bill. The Harper government has repeatedly said that 65 JSFs won't cost taxpayers more than $75M each, while current U.S. F-35 prices exceed $126M and Lockheed Martin and the Pentagon are at odds about prices for the next batch. "The cost drives anything and everything, every time," said Dean Black, Air Force Association of Canada executive director and a retired officer. "The folks in the highest offices in the country balance all of the considerations and we happen to be living in a tough economy. It is understood these are dire times." more>>
|
(Nov. 2) A flag-draped coffin carrying the body of Master Corporal Byron Greff travelled in a hearse along the Highway of Heroes after arriving at CFB Trenton on Tuesday. Greff was killed Saturday in Afghanistan along with other NATO troops, military contractors and civilians after a Taliban suicide bomber rammed his explosives-filled car into the armoured transport vehicle carrying Greff and others. The Edmonton-based soldier was in Afghanistan as part of the training mission and is the 158th Canadian soldier to be killed in war-torn country. He leaves behind a wife and newborn daughter. more>>
|
(Nov. 1) An Afghan soldier opened fire on foreign forces on Saturday, killing three Australian army trainers in southern Afghanistan. General Abdul Hameed, commander of 205 Atal corps, said the Afghan soldier had three years of experience and six other Australian troops and one Afghan officer were wounded. "The attacker was also gunned down by ISAF soldiers," Hameed explained. more>>
|
(Nov. 1) The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is concerned about large numbers of weapons that accumulated in Libya during the 42 years that Col. Moammar Gadhafi ruled the country. The UNSC recently called on the new Libyan government as well as the country's neighbours to stop the proliferation of looted arms. The fear is that weapons such as portable, shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles could fall into the hands of terror groups such as al-Qaeda. The UNSC's resolution also called on the new Libyan government to destroy chemical weapons in co-ordination with international authorities. more>>
|
And even if the F-35 is as effective as claimed, it may still be the wrong plane for Canada. It is not very fast and has less range and weapons-load capacity than other allied fighters — even more so compared with new planes being developed in Russia, India and China. There are a few multi-role fighter competitions taking place around the globe, and it is instructional to view which aircraft are rising to the top. The nations conducting the most in-depth fighter competitions are India, Brazil and Japan. more>>
|
(Oct. 31) A former Canadian soldier, Pascal Lacoste, says he was poisoned by military depleted uranium while serving in Bosnia in the 1990s and is planning to go on a hunger strike outside the office of Canada's Veterans Affairs minister until he gets medical treatment - or dies. Lacoste says Veterans Affairs Minister Steven Blaney and his department have denied his repeated requests for toxicology tests and decontamination treatments, even though his doctor says his body is carrying an unusually high level of uranium. "There's little doubt in my mind that he needs immediate attention and the advantage of further investigations," said Dr. June Irwin, a Montreal physician who has followed Lacoste's case since 2003. "This is a man who needs help." more>>
|
(Oct. 31) Prime Minister Stephen Harper has retreated from his risk assessment of the Canadian military's training mission in Afghanistan after an Edmonton-based soldier, Master Cpl. Byron Greff, and 16 other people, including four other NATO troops, were killed in an attack Saturday by a Taliban suicide car bomber. Afterward, Harper told reporters that the training mission "involves significant risks." Eleven months ago he said: "I think if we can continue a smaller mission that involves just training, I think frankly that presents minimal risks to Canada." Greff's death was the first for Canada's military since their combat operations ended in July. more>>
|
The Conservative government's controversial F-35 jet fighter project, plagued by delays, cost overruns and now economic turmoil in Europe, is at growing risk of being sharply curtailed or shelved - the defence minister's protestations notwithstanding. "It just seems like it's slowly unravelling," said an industry insider who specializes in aircraft procurement. "It's a mess." Another commented that "They expected a whole bunch of kudos for doing (the F-35). They believed this was win-win, industrially, that everybody would be happy [...] it just ain't so."
more>>
|
Some mistakenly believe that NATO troops involved in the current training mission are safe because instruction takes place "behind the wire" of fortified bases. But Kabul has become an increasing focus for spectacular Taliban attacks, including a 20 hour shoot-out near NATO's main headquarters and the U.S. embassy last month — a gunfight that involved Canadian troops who had just arrived at Camp Eggers in a convoy. "Afghanistan is a dangerous place," said a CEFCOM spokesman in Ottawa who insists that precautions are being taken, but "It was a bad attack." Walter Dorn, an expert in peacekeeping and the Afghan conflict at the Royal Military College of Canada, said no mission, even for training, is without danger. "The Canadian government calls it a non-combat mission, but there are cases where you might find your soldiers actually engaged in combat, if only for self-protection," he said. Insurgents clearly intend to target the Afghan army trainees and their foreign instructors both in the field and in their camps, he said. more>>
|
Israel’s air force bombed an Islamic Jihad base in the southern Gaza Strip on Saturday, killing a commander and four munitions experts from the Palestinian faction, officials on both sides said. The strike in Rafah followed a Palestinian cross-border rocket launch this week which the Israelis blamed on Islamic Jihad. That attack caused no casualties but a rocket landed deep enough to set off sirens on the outskirts of Tel Aviv. Fresh salvoes were fired on Saturday evening, wounding three Israelis, and another air strike killed two Islamic Jihad gunmen. The flare-up ended a relative lull in violence that surrounded the major, Egyptian-brokered prisoner swap on Oct. 18 between Gaza’s governing Hamas Islamists and the Jewish state. more>>
|
(Oct. 30) Master Cpl. Byron Greff from the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton was killed yesterday when a Taliban suicide driver rammed his explosives-laden car into an armoured bus carrying NATO troops. The blast killed five NATO troops, including Greff, eight civilian NATO contractors and four Afghans. Greff's role was to advise Afghan National Army trainers who teach other Afghan soldiers. "To say that he was highly respected by his fellow soldiers would be an understatement," said Col. Pete Dawe, deputy commander for the Canadian training mission, in a statement Saturday. more>>
|
(Oct. 30) The Harper government is considering buying nuclear submarines to replace Canada's problem-plagued fleet of diesel-electric subs, all of which are still undergoing repairs. The Dept. of National Defence said this week that one of the submarines, HMCS Victoria, might go back in service in 2012. The other three would remain out of service until at least 2013, with one possibly until 2016. The subs were bought second-hand in 1998 from the Royal Navy for $750M and have cost taxpayers approximately $3B in the past 13 years for repairs and upgrades. Defence Minister Peter MacKay recently hinted that the current submarine fleet might be replaced with nuclear-powered subs. more>>
|
(Oct. 29) A Canadian Forces search-and-rescue technician from CFB Trenton, Sgt. Janick Gilbert, died Thursday night during a rescue mission in the Arctic near Baffin Island. “On behalf of the Defence family and our brave men and women in uniform, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and comrades of Sgt. Janick Gilbert, who died yesterday in Nunavut,” said Lt.-Gen. Andre Deschamps, commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force in a statement. “He lost his life in the service of his country while unselfishly answering the call for help.” One report indicated Gilbert jumped in the water, along with two other technicians, to save two people stranded in a boat. The other technicians and people being rescued reportedly survived. The incident is under investigation. more>>
|
(Oct. 29) Seven CF-18 fighter jets, two Canadian military refuelling aircraft and about 270 crew members stationed at the Trapani-Birgi airbase in western Sicily since March will be returning to Canada next week. Dept. of National Defence spokesman Lt.-Col. Christian Lemay said Canadian pilots and crew will hold short ceremonies on Nov. 1 to thank their Italian hosts before preparing to withdraw. Lemay said nine RCAF aircraft have conducted 1,539 missions since March. more>>
|
(Oct. 28) The family of Cpl. Stuart Langridge, who committed suicide at CFB Edmonton in 2008, should receive federal assistance to fund their participation in a Military Police Complaints Commission (MPCC). The cost could be as high as $200,000. The MPCC has launched a public interest hearing into the handling of the investigation of Langridge's death. more>>
|
(Oct. 28) Weapons, untrained militias and enshrining women's rights are key issues facing the new Libyan government, Members of Parliament heard Thursday. Canadian Forces and Foreign Affairs personnel testified before the defence committee about the dynamic situation in Libya. Brig.-Gen. Craig King said there is a need for Libyan militias that fought troops loyal to former leader Moammar Gadhafi to be organized into a cohesive and professional military force. NDP MP Tarik Brahmi raised concerns about weapons, including landmines, munitions and chemical weapons, "left, right and center" and possibly flowing across Libya's borders into neighbouring countries. "The movement of weapons seems to be out of control," he said. more>>
|
(Oct. 28) An Afghan interpreter was killed and five U.S. troops and an American civilian were among eight injured Thursday during an insurgent attack on a former Canadian base - Camp Nathan Smith - in Kandahar. A second attack on another base formerly used by Canada's military was also attacked. The attacks involved small arms fire, rocket-propelled grenades and suicide bombers driving vehicles. more>>
|
(Oct. 27) The Harper government is planning to spend as much as $477M to participate in a U.S.-led military satellite program that is more than $2B over-budget, three years late, and short one-third the number of satellites originally envisoned. The Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) system has been marketed by the Pentagon as a communications system for "U.S. warfighters, allies and coalition partners during all levels of conflict, short of nuclear war." Earlier this year, Cabinet authorized Defence Minister Peter MacKay to pay up to $477M to ensure Canadian participation. Australia has paid $800M and New Zealand, Luxembourg, Denmark and the Netherlands are also interested. more>>
|
(Oct. 27) According to mid-level Taliban commanders interviewed by the BBC, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency has provided weapons and training to Taliban insurgents fighting U.S. and U.K. troops in Afghanistan. The Taliban leaders were interviewed for a two-part BBC documentary, "Secret Pakistan." The BBC said Pakistan has strongly denied the allegations made in the program. A former head of Afghan intelligence revealed in the program that Afghanistan gave Pakistan's former president, Gen. Pervez Musharraf, information in 2006 that Osama bin Laden was hiding in northern Pakistan close to where U.S. Special Forces killed him. more>>
|
(Oct. 27) The Ottawa Citizen's editorial board comments on a range of issues affecting the Dept. of National Defence and Canadian Forces, including possible bases closures and selling of DND/CF properties, the lack of a planned reduction in the senior civilian ranks, and more. more>>
|
(Oct. 26) Authors of a new and comprehensive Canadian military justice system manual are hoping their 1,900-page work, which took six years to produce, will generate discussions about how to improve it. "Military Justice in Action: National Defence Legislation Annotated", written by military legal expert and professor Col. (Ret.) Michel Drapeau and Federal Court Justice Gilles Letourneau, was released yesterday at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. Drapeau said that archaic measures in the military justice system deny defendant's basic rights, as guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, hence the need for the new manual. more>>
|
(Oct. 26) America's defense and aerospace industries are warning that the U.S. will lose one million jobs and $59.4 billion in wages and salaries related to their businesses if Congress’ deficit-reduction supercommittee fails and about $1 trillion in automatic spending cuts are imposed over the next decade. The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), a trade group which represents Lockheed Martin Corp., Boeing Co. and Northrop Grumman Corp., plans to use the figures in its lobbying campaign to persuade lawmakers on Capitol Hill to avoid the feared $1T-cuts scenario. The AIA "study shows the dramatic and devastating impact these cuts would have, not only on our industry but on the economy at large," said AIA president Marion Blakey Tuesday. more>>
|
(Oct. 24) The size of the regular Canadian Forces will be frozen at 68,000 people for the next several years and the military and Defence Department will look at selling off property and shutting down facilities as part of its belt-tightening, according to documents. more>>
|
(Oct. 25) In the House of Commons yesterday, NDP defence critic David Christopherson asked Defence Minister Peter MacKay for assurances that no Canadian Forces bases would be closed after an Ottawa Citizen article revealed that a new directive from CDS Gen. Walter Natynczyk and Deputy Minister Robert Fonberg outlined how the Dept. of National Defence will examine shutting down military facilities and selling off property as part of its cost-cutting efforts. MacKay did not say that no bases would be closed. The
NDP were seeking assurances that bases in Esquimalt, B.C. and Bagotville and Valcartier in Quebec would not be closed or personnel laid off. more>>
|
(Oct. 25) Thousands of Afghan and NATO troops have recently killed or captured 200 insurgents in eastern Afghanistan during operations that targeted the Haqqani network, which is affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Taliban. Roughly half of the fighters were leaders and the other half bomb makers or individuals who helped the network with distributing weapons and supplies, running safe houses or preparing areas for attack. “Removal of the midlevel cell leaders with their expertise and leadership has significantly disrupted insurgent operations and degrades the Haqqani network’s ability to coordinate and execute future attacks against combined team forces and the people of Afghanistan,” said German BGen. Carsten Jacobson, a coalition spokesman. more>>
|
(Oct. 24) As Libyans celebrated their liberation on Sunday, Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, the Canadian air force officer in charge of NATO’s Libya mission since March, said that eliminating former ruler Moammar Gadhafi was never a mission for the alliance. "We never once looked at targeting Gadhafi himself or regime change. In fact, for us the mission was pretty simple with protecting the population," said Bouchard. more>>
|
As strange as it may seem, Lockheed Martin vice-president Stephen O'Bryan told CBC News in an interview at the company's vast F-35 manufacturing plant in Fort Worth, Texas, that Canada's sticker price could be much lower than budgeted. Sure, the early prototypes are hideously costly — more than $150 million a copy, but Canada won't be buying until 2016, when production is at full speed, says O'Bryan, so the cost of each jet will fall. By then, he says, "average unit price of the airplane would be $65 million." Is that with an engine? "Yes, sir." more>>
|
(Oct. 23) Relations between Afghanistan and the United States are apparently still strained, as President Hamid Karzai recently said his country would align with Pakistan in a war against the U.S. The relationship between the Pakistan and the United States has deteriorated this year since American Special Forces killed Osama bin Laden in March. "God forbid, if ever there is a war between Pakistan and America, Afghanistan will side with Pakistan. If Pakistan is attacked and if the people of Pakistan needs Afghanistan's help, Afghanistan will be there with you," said Karzai. more>>
|
Future federal contracts will follow the same path as the $33-billion shipbuilding deal that has won glowing reviews, Public Works Minister Rona Ambrose vowed Friday. That promise comes a day after Ambrose dismissed Opposition questions from a regionally divided New Democratic caucus, which complained about the contracts going only to British Columbia and Nova Scotia - and not Quebec. "There's no case where politics should be involved in the evaluation of any bids on contracts," Ambrose said in Edmonton. Mixing politics with procurement "doesn't make sense," she said. "It's interference in the market." more>>
|
Responding to the Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence this week, Vice-Chief of the Defence Staff, Vice-Admiral Bruce Donaldson testified: "At present, we have implemented about a third of the recommendations in [Gen Leslie's Transformation] report; we are working on another third of those recommendations or have actively put them on the table; and we are studying the other third. That is where we are with the report."
|
They are difficult to detect, deadly and cheap to build. Despite the dubious legality of assassinating suspected terrorists and Taliban without a trial, the market for drones is heating up around the world. With Israel and China moving into the market, are we about to see a new arms race? The future belongs to drones; remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with sensitive reconnaissance electronics and powerful precision weapons provide the kind of system strategists have always wished for: They allow a military force to exert power while minimizing its own risks, and to carry out precise, deadly strikes, without sending its own soldiers into danger. more>>
|
(Oct 21) Public Works Minister Rona Ambrose announced details of a plan to upgrade 550 LAV IIIs so they can better withstand deadly roadside bombs and mines. Ambrose said the $1.06 billion contract awarded to General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada will protect jobs at plants in Alberta and Ontario, and suppliers across the country. "They will maintain 2,400 jobs across the country. These are very high-value, high-skilled jobs," Ambrose said. more>>
|
(Oct. 22) Veterans Affairs is planning to reduce its budget by $226M over the next two years, but the number of veterans from WWII and the Korean War aren't dropping as fast as projected, according to veterans' ombudsman Guy Parent. Also, the number of veterans from the Afghanistan War and modern military service is growing. Altogether, there are more than 700,000 veterans in Canada. "The Conservatives want our committee to spend the next six weeks studying their initiative to ‘commemorate’ veterans so they can sweep the fact that they just cut $226 million from veterans’ supports and services under the rug," said Liberal veterans affairs critic Sean Casey. "They are clearly afraid to discuss the consequences that their cutbacks will have on our veterans." more>>
|
(Oct. 22) The Turkish military incursion into Iraq this week after attacks by Kurdish militants is politically popular at home, but defeating the rebels, who are based in Iraq's northwestern mountainous region, would require a much larger operation and is filled with risks. The worst-case scenario would be not defeating the rebels and inflaming Turkey's Middle East neighbours. The last major incursion was three years ago when 10,000 Turkish troops swept into northern Iraq to go after Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) guerrillas, who regrouped after the offensive and continued to attack. Two dozen Turkish soldiers were killed by PKK fighters on Wednesday. more>>
|
(Oct. 21) Former Libyan ruler Moammar Gaddafi was killed yesterday in a crossfire in his hometown of Sirte as fighters loyal to the interim government renewed their attacks. His body was paraded in front of journalists and dragged through the streets. With Gadhafi gone, Prime Minister told reporters outside the House of Commons: "Our government shall be speaking with our allies to prepare for the end of our military mission in the next few days. He also congratulated the Canadian Forces and Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, the Canadian air force officer who has been overseeing NATO’s Libya mission, for their success. more>>
|
(Oct. 21) Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton warned Pakistani officials Thursday that there would be a “very big price” if they do not take action against militant groups staging attacks in Afghanistan. Clinton and four other top-ranking U.S. officials traveled to Islamabad to demand aggressive action against the Haqqani network, a Taliban affiliate that has carried out brazen attacks, including assassinations, in recent months. Relations between the U.S. and Pakistan have been badly strained this year. more>>
|
Jonathan Whitworth, president of Seaspan was out congratulating workers after the company won the noncombat component of the NSPS. The Pacific coast shipyard will see the development and construction of the AOR naval supply vessels and a variety of Coast Guard vessels including the massive polar ice breaker CCG John G. Diefenbaker which will be the world's largest non-nuclear icebreaker when it is completed in 2017. Canada's new shipbuilding strategy will add thousands of new jobs in British Columbia's marine technology cluster.
|
(Jan. 12) A member of Canada's military in Cold Lake whom the Dept. of National Defence would not name is facing several sexual assault and child pornography charges after a police investigation originating in Saskatchewan. The RCMP, with the help of Child and Family Services, visited the accused person's home "to check on the welfare of his family and arrested him without incident," according to police Wednesday. The Mounties say the man and his victim are from the same family and will not identify him to protect the family. more>>
|
(Oct. 20) Libyan fighters supporting the National Transitional Council (NTC) have relaunched their offensive on the besieged town of Sirte after recently being pushed back by Gadhafi loyalists. Rockets, artillery and tank fire hit pro-Gadhafi positions Wednesday. One NTC fighter told Reuters: "All we can think of is catching the rat Gadhafi. We are taking it slowly, step by step. We have been patient for 42 years." more>>
|
(Oct. 20) While Britain's military has been touting apparent progress made against the Taliban in the past year, UK diplomats in Afghanistan are calling progress "fragile and reversible." The Foreign Office is preparing a report about Afghanistan for Prime Minister David Cameron that highlights the fact that attempts to engage the Taliban in a political solution have failed. Some British officials say there is a need to prepare for the "significant risk" of a civil war or a Taliban takeover of some southern provinces once NATO has ended its combat role in 2014/15.
more>>
|
Irving Shipbuilding is celebrating its successful selection for the right to build Canada's future combat fleet under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). The company gathered late in the day to recognize its employees, community and government partners, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast for the outstanding support of Nova Scotia as a Canadian shipbuilding Centre of Excellence. "On behalf of the men and women of Irving Shipbuilding, we are honoured to be chosen by Canada to build the Navy's new combat vessel fleet for those who serve, and we look forward to successful negotiations in the coming months," said Jim Irving, CEO, Irving Shipbuilding. The company recognized the federal government for its leadership and vision in establishing the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy in June, 2010. This Strategy has now resulted in the creation of two centres of excellence for the construction of large vessels to deliver sustained value, productivity and skilled employment to Canada. This long term commitment to shipbuilding by the federal government will avoid the boom/bust cycles seen in the past and will ensure sustained investments in the industry.
|
Seaspan Marine Corp., has been granted a massive $8-billion non-combat contract with the federal government for navy support vessels and an Arctic icebreaker. There are currently 1,500 employees at Seaspan, and the non-combat work could require 3,000 workers. “We anticipate that the positive ripple effects of this contract will benefit businesses across multiple sectors and create jobs on a very large scale,” said John Winter, President and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce, adding the 20-year term of the contract will help B.C.’s economy for decades.
more>>
|
Irving Shipyards in Halifax is the big winner of the combatant component of the NSPS. Seaspan on the Pacific coast is awarded the non-combatant contract. Minister Rona Ambrose commented that prior to this announcement Canada was the only NATO country that did not have a strategic relationship with its own shipbuilding community. The economic impacts of these program are of an unprecedended magnitude, with estimates of 11,000 new jobs in Nova Scotia alone.
|
New Democrats say the three Canadian cities bidding for two multi-billion dollar federal shipbuilding contracts — that were to be awarded on Wednesday afternoon — should all be able to benefit from the deals. "There's enough work for all three shipbuilding places and companies," said the NDP's interim leader, Nycole Turmel, after the weekly party caucus. more>>
|
(Oct 19) Massive government shipyard contracts worth an estimated $35 billion will be awarded Wednesday, Defence Minister Peter MacKay says. The long-awaited decision is expected to generate controversy because Canada has three major shipyards bidding — in Vancouver, Halifax and Levis, Que. — but only two major contracts will be awarded, one to build approximately $25 billion worth of naval warships; another to construct approximately $8 billion worth of supply vessels and other non-combat craft. The Conservative government has gone out of its way to pledge that politics would not be part of the process. more>>
|
(Oct 19) The largest Canadian investor in Switzerland, with 900 persons working at three sites in the country, Bombardier is the recipient of the 2010 innovation award for its product development investment in TWINDEXX Swiss Express and MITRAC Train Control System – the new double deck intercity train generation for Swiss Federal Railways with more capacity, higher speed in curves, better comfort and less life cycle costs. MITRAC system and the new permanent magnet motor are part of Bombardiers ECO4 technologies initiative. It saves up to 10 percent of energy with 2.5 times higher installed traction power. In 2009 the company opened its new MITRAC Powerlab in Zurich to serve as the core competence center for locomotives and high power propulsion technology. The awards are named for the legendary Swiss hero William Tell and will be presented on October 26 by Switzerland’s Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Manuel Sager.
|
(Oct. 19) The Dept. of National Defence expects to have a contract in place for a new fleet of Arctic patrol ships by next summer, according to documents obtained by The Ottawa Citizen. A contract for the ships was supposed to have been awarded in May 2009, with the first delivery happening in 2013. That date has been pushed out to mid-decade. The projected cost is $3.1 billion. more>>
|
(Oct. 19) Pakistan's army chief, General Ashfaq Kayani, recently told his country's parliamentary defense committee that the United States should focus on stabilizing Afghanistan instead of pushing Pakistan to attack militant groups in the border region. Kayani also said that Pakistan alone will decide if and when to launch a full-scale offensive against Islamist militants in the North Waziristan region and the U.S. should think "10 times" before taking any unilateral action there. Tensions between Pakistan and the U.S. have increased significantly this year. more>>
|
(Oct. 19) A Canadian soldier who fought in WWI, Pte. Alexander Johnston, will be buried, with full military honours, at Le Cantimpre Canadian Cemetery in Sailly, France next week. Johnston's name is on the Vimy Memorial near the French community of Arras. His remains surfaced in 2008 at an industrial construction site in France where intense fighting occurred. His next-of-kin from Ottawa will travel to France to witness the military burial. more>>
|
Back in February 2011, when the NSPS RFP was released, five shipyards were shortlisted. Now, with only three bids, a compelling argument has been advanced that the combat component of the NSPS is large enough that it could be divided and given to two of the contenders, leaving the third to take on the non-combat component. This will appease political interests and could be both productive and desirable beyond the political and potential industrial advantages. Duplication provides reserve capacity for increased production if another major global conflict emerges. The long development and construction times of modern warships preclude the emergency building programs of earlier eras. A decision to divide the combat portion of the strategic building program would be of enormous value if such a threat is perceived. The problem with this assessment is that no public discussion is underway that could rationalize such a move. more>>
|
(Oct. 18) The Canadian Force's vice-chief of defence staff, Vice-Admiral Bruce Donaldson, has defended the size of the Dept. of National Defence's bureaucracy, including the large number of civilians and executives at DND headquarters. Donaldson told members of the Senate defence committee Monday that across-the-board cuts would be unrealistic. "I agree that we need to reduce it," he said. "It's just very difficult sometimes to know what it is that can be reduced." more>>
|
(Oct. 18) The staggering cost of a Canadian fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters - $30-odd billion over 30 years, by some estimates - might mean that the air force will forgo training fighter pilots in Canada and have the U.S. Air Force or a private contractor do it, according to government documents. A briefing in April 2010 said the F-35 fleet size is "constrained" by cost and other factors. Also, 65 F-35s will stretch the ability of the air force to meet its commitments, according to briefings given to the Chief of the Air Staff, Lt.-Gen. André Deschamps, last year.
more>>
|
(Oct. 18) The Obama administration intensely debated whether to initiate and prosecute a cyber-offensive against Libya's computer-networked air-defense system before launching attacks in March. The objective would have been to digitally penetrate network firewalls, sever military communications, and prevent early-warning radars from gathering data and relaying it to surface-to-air missile batteries aiming at NATO warplanes. Administration officials and even some military officers were uneasy about conducting cyber-warfare - a precedent for the U.S. - and questioned whether the attack could be mounted on such short notice. more>>
|
(Oct. 17) The Dept. of National Defence's plan to buy new firearms for soldiers, including rifles for the Canadian Rangers in the Arctic has been cancelled because international firearms companies refused to hand over their confidential technical data to one of their competitors - Colt Canada - so the weapons could be manufactured in Canada. The original notice to companies was for 10,000 pistols and the same number of rifles. more>>
|
(Oct. 17) Soldiers loyal to Libya's National Transitional Council (NTC) say they have entered Bani Walid, one of the last towns still loyal to the country's former ruler, Moammar Gadhafi. Pockets of loyalists have been fighting in not only Bani Walid, but Gadhafi's hometown, Sirte and late last week, on the south edge of Tripoli. In the capital, bulldozers have started to demolish Gadhafi's massive Bab al-Aziziya compound. NTC leaders said it was time "to tear down the symbol of tyranny." more>>
|
(Oct. 17) The governor for Afghanistan’s Paktia province, Juma Khan Hamdard, escaped unhurt from a Taliban attack Sunday. He was in a vehicle that was part of a convony that was attacked by suicide bombers with guns. One police officer and a civil servant were killed before the bombers were shot. A Taliban vehicle filled with explosives was also set off outside the governor’s compound. On Saturday, five heavily armed Taliban fighters, including at least two suicide bombers, attacked a NATO base in Panjshir Valley. On Friday, a suicide bomber blew himself up near a police checkpoint near the Pakistan border, killing three police officers. more>>
|
(Oct. 15) Abdelhakim Belhaj, the head of Tripoli's supreme military council, promised Saturday that National Transitional Council forces will go after pro-Gadhafi fighters and "sleeper cells" after recent gunbattles in the Libyan capital killed three people. Gunmen loyal to the former ruler of Libya clashed with NTC fighters on Friday in Abu Salim, a district on Tripoli's southern edge. "The fighters are in the process of clearing the buildings in the area of Gadhafi loyalists," said Hamad one NTC soldier. more>>
|
(Oct. 15) Many Afghans, particularly those who belong to non-Pashtun tribes, are preparing for the return of the Taliban, including arming themselves. The insurgency has proven itself to be more resilient - and resourceful - than Washington and its allies have expected during the past decade. "When the U.S. leave[s], in one week, the Taliban will return. I believe 100 percent they will take back power, whether the Afghan people want them or not," said Khalid Ahmad, a merchant in Kabul. "If they return, they'll reintroduce their Islamic laws, they'll do the same as they did before." Some top American officials have said that the U.S. will need to keep combat troops in Afghanistan well beyond 2014. more>>
|
Canada's armed forces remain a "fragile institution" and any cuts in defence spending need to be done so as not to jeopardize the military's hard won recovery from the bleak years of the 1990s, says the country's former top soldier. As the current government looks to reduce the deficit, there is concern that the military will again be an easy target. Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie, recently warned against spending cuts that might affect front-line capabilities. And he, like Hillier, alluded to the way the Chrétien era cuts seriously compromised the military's ability to function. more>>
|
Critical Infrastructure, Identity and Access Management, Cyber Security, Maritime Security, Transportation Security and Disaster Management & Emergency Planning are critical components to public safety and national security. SecureTech 2011 brings these issues together during a two-day Conference, Tradeshow and Networking Event for the benefit of public policy makers, end users and industry solutions providers. more>>
|
Paul Hines, was biking with his wife when he saw two male teenagers stealing pumpkins from a local store. Hines chased them down and told them to return the pumpkins, but they turned on him. The confrontation left Hines in a coma and he died in hospital on October 6. Hines' career highlights included being the DND Project Manager of the successful Halifax Class Modernization Project. He is survived by his wife of 33 years and two children. more>>
|
(Oct. 14) This year, Canada's military is accepting nearly half the number of recruits that it usually does because fewer members are leaving, more reservists are switching to the regular forces, and Ottawa has reduced funding for the Dept. of National Defence. Out of 100 categories of CF jobs or trades, only 13 list current openings, including dentists, musicians and social workers.
more>>
|
(Oct. 14) One-hundred, possibly two-hundred soldiers loyal to Libya's former leader, Moammar Gadhafi, is all that remains of armed resistance in Sirte, his hometown. "They have one and a half square kilometres at most," said Dr Salah al-Obeidi, a dentist before the war. "There are a hundred fighters, maybe a little more, holding us up. That is all." Some loyalist soldiers have been quietly slipping out of the coastal community by mixing in with escaping families. more>>
|
(Oct. 14) Since leaving Kandahar in July, Brig.-Gen. Richard Giguere, deputy commander for the last rotation of Canadian troops to fight in Afghanistan, described conditions in the country’s war-torn southern province as tentatively improving. “What I’ve seen in Kandahar in the last year was a lot of progress,” said Giguere Thursday. “But I’m not saying the situation is perfect because this is a huge task to do.” After a decade of Canadian commitment to Afghanistan, including 158 lives lost, many hundreds of soldiers injured, and $18B of taxpayers' money spent, the debate hasn't ended in Canada about whether getting involved in the U.S.-led war in the central Asian country was truly worth it or not. more>>
|
(Oct. 13) Two months ago, the Dept. of National Defence sent three Griffon helicopters and 65 Canadian Forces personnel to Jamaica to work with the Jamaican Defence Force and assist with search and rescue during hurricane season. The CBC's David Common went to the Caribbean island nation and flew with CF SAR crews. Click on "more" to read his report. more>>
|
(Oct. 13) U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday that the United States cannot dispense with its relationship with Pakistan, which "has a big stake" in the outcome of the Afghan conflict. During her speech on 'American Global Leadership' at the Center for American Progress, Clinton said: "This is a very difficult relationship, but I believe strongly that it is not one we can walk away from and expect that anything will turn out better, because I don’t believe that will be the case. Therefore, we are deeply engaged in finding ways to enhance cooperation with Pakistan and to further the Afghan desire for a legitimate peace and reconciliation process." more>>
|
(Oct. 13) About 40 Canadian soldiers based in Edmonton have been assigned to train, advise and mentor Afghan soldiers at Camp Shaheen in Afghanistan. The camp, which is outside Mazar-e-Sharif, about 450km northwest of Kabul, is expecting another 20 Canadian trainers. The contingent is part of a group of roughly 950 soldiers from Canada tasked with training Afghan security forces and supporting other elements of Operation Attention, a rebuilding effort that advances Afghan security, regional diplomacy, humanitarian assistance and the needs of children in Afghanistan. more>>
|
Egypt's military leaders blamed Christian protesters and "enemies of the revolution" for triggering clashes that left 26 dead, almost all of them Christians. The accusation was sure to enflame the fury within and beyond the Christian community over the worst violence since Hosni Mubarak's ouster. Many of those killed were crushed when armored military vehicles sped through crowds of protesters. Others had gunshot wounds. Maj. Gen. Adel Emara, a member of the ruling council and deputy defense minister, denied troops opened fire at protesters, claiming their weapons did not have live ammunition. He said it was not in "the dictionary of the armed forces to run over bodies ... even when battling our enemy." more>>
|
(Oct. 12) As of June, some 14,300 Canadian veterans were being treated for mental health issues, according to information recently presented in Parliament. Dept. of National Defence data shows that during the past decade, suicides involving military personnel have ranged from 10 in 2005 to 17 in 2009. More recently, sources have told the Toronto Star that at least three Canadian soldiers have taken their lives in the past six weeks. The DND expects the number of soldiers with wounded psyches/minds to increase for years to come. Some improvements in programs in the military to treat soldiers with mental/psychological health issues have been made, but more needs to be done.
more>>
|
(Oct. 12) Doctor Jason Bailey of Ottawa, who worked as a military physician at CFB Petawawa from 2007 to 2010, says in a letter this week to The Toronto Star that "the resources for mental health care on that base and the capacity of the medical system in Petawawa to handle mental illness are abysmal at best." more>>
|
(Oct. 11) After a year of research, including more than 320 interviews, the United Nations has released a devastating report about systematic torture of suspected insurgents at sites run by the Afghan intelligence service and the Afghan National Police. The Afghan government has denied the worst of the report's allegations, while acknowledging that there have been “deficiencies.” After seeing a draft of the report last month, Gen. John Allen, the NATO commander in Afghanistan, halted transfers of suspected insurgents to 16 of the facilities identified as sites where torture or abuse has routinely occurred. more>>
|
(Oct. 11) Amrullah Saleh, the former head of Afghan intelligence, recently appeared on the BBC's Hardtalk, saying that the idea that there is any moderate element of the Taliban's leadership leaning toward negotiating with the Afghan government with the United States at the table is "an invention." Saleh doesn't want talks; he wants tougher action against the Taliban and Pakistan. more>>
|
(Oct. 10) According to material obtained by The Ottawa Citizen, Canada's army plans to axe 250 civilian positions, the first of thousands of layoffs coming for Dept. of National Defence public servants. The personnel cuts have been described as “modest” in an email from BGen. M.R. Dabros, the army’s chief of staff for land operations. A leaked May report produced by Vice-Adm. Bruce Donaldson, the vice chief of the defence staff, stated that the DND plans to cut at least 2,100 of its civilian positions over the next three years, with more “adjustments” to follow. more>>
|
(Oct. 10) Libyan transitional government forces said Monday they had cornered troops still loyal to fugitive leader Moammar Gadhafi in the center of his hometown. Civilians were still trying to flee the fierce fighting. "Gaddafi's forces are cornered in two neighbourhoods near the sea, an area of about two kilometres square, but there is still resistance," Abdul Salam Javallah, commander of National Transitional Council units, told Reuters. "We are dealing with them now with light weapons because there are still families inside."
more>>
|
(Oct. 9) Gen. Walt Natynczyk, Canada's Chief of the Defence Staff, expressed his frustration with the news media in an internal letter sent to Canadian Forces members this week. He called the recent coverage of government Challenger jet flights sensational and exaggerated. Both Natynczyk and Defence Minister Peter MacKay have been under public fire for their use of the VIP jets. "Much of this coverage has featured exaggerated costs and sensational speculation that have significantly clouded the facts as I see them," Natynczyk wrote in the letter. more>>
|
(Oct. 9) Central Intelligence Agency officers and Special Forces (SF) troops were the first Americans to enter Afghanistan after 9/11 to organize Northern Alliance warlords and their fighters and take on the Taliban, who fled to Pakistan. CIA personnel and U.S. SF soldiers will probably be the last to leave Afghanistan, according to probable scenarios determined by U.S. military experts. One possible future formulated in Washington involves Afghan forces holding Kabul and other urban areas, but the Taliban returning to remote valleys or even whole provinces outside of larger communities. more>>
|
(Oct. 8) About 200 American veterans and protesters marched on Friday in Washington, D.C. to mark the 10th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan. They called on Washington to stop the war and focus on human needs at home. Since 2001, the USA has spent in excess of $1T on military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Longer-term bills, including caring for disabled veterans, is expected to cost up to $3.2 trillion. U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta issued a statement Friday that said over the past 10 years, Americans in uniform and their families have "borne a heavy burden to protect our country. Nearly 1,800 U.S. service members have lost their lives in Operation Enduring Freedom [Afghanistan War], and more than 14,000 have been wounded." more>>
|
(Oct. 8) Former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi came from the port city of Sirte and it is there that revolutionary fighters assaulted a convention center on Friday, one that forces loyal to the ousted leader had turned into their main base. Anti-Gadhafi forces have Sirte hemmed in on three sides and NATO warships patrol the Mediterranean on the fourth. According to a NATO official who asked to not be named, Sirte could possibly fall in days. more>>
|
(Oct. 7) Today marks the 10-year anniversary of the start of the U.S.-led War on Terror in Afghanistan. Although the Taliban no longer control the southern two-thirds of Afghanistan that they controlled between 1996 and 2001, they and their militant allies, notably the Haqqani network, are far from being a defeated force in the region. "Time is running out to leave Afghanistan in an acceptable shape that would justify the time, money, and lives spent in expanding the mission from counter-terrorism to state building," said Terry Pattar, senior consultant at defence intelligence group IHS Jane's. "There will have to be some form of rapprochement with elements of the Taliban if Afghanistan is not going to descend back into civil war." more>>
|
(Oct. 7) Nearly one year ago, Canada's Auditor General, Sheila Fraser, slammed the Dept. of National Defence for misleading the Treasury Board about Cyclone and Chinook helicopter procurements. Today, those reports are among several that will not be investigated by a Parliamentary committee after MPs voted not to study them. NDP MP Guy Caron, who is on the public accounts committee, recently made a motion to continue studying the AG's reports left over from last spring when the federal election was called. The Conservative majority on the committee voted to go in-camera - any debate and voting related to the studies would be done in secret - and won. For now, they've been shelved. "I really don't think it looks good, because it looks like they want to hide something," said Caron. more>>
|
(Oct. 7) Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Thursday that NATO's Libyan mission has been a success and is proof of the value of the military alliance. "Clearly with Afghanistan still on everyone's horizon, with the (Kosovo) mission, other challenges in places like Africa, Libya stands out as one of those missions that has truly reinforced the raison d'etre for NATO," he said while in Brussels at a defence ministers' meeting. MacKay also said that defense spending cuts in the United States and other allied countries will test NATO and affect the way the Canadian Forces operates in the future. more>>
|
(Oct. 6) Intelligence officials in Afghanistan say they have thwarted an assassination attempt on President Hamid Karzai. Six people in Kabul have been arrested, including one of Karzai's bodyguards. Afghan officials said the six are affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Haqqani militant group. more>>
|
(Oct. 6) After capturing Abu Hadi, a suburb south of Sirte, Libyan ex-leader Moammar Gadhafi's birthplace, revolutionary fighters have gone on a vengeance spree, looting and burning homes and making off with gold, furniture and automobiles. Other fighters have tried to persuade them to stop and taken action to protect innocent people of the local Gadhadhfas tribe, which Gadhafi drew from heavily during his 42-year rule of the north African country. more>>
|
Search-and-rescue (SAR) involving ships and their crews in eastern Canadian waters was once widely admired, according to this CBC investigative report, but has become "plagued with problems" in recent years. The Fifth Estate's Linden MacIntyre discovered that Canada "has one of the slowest emergency response times in the world." This recently-aired program, "Mayday", asks why the Dept. of National Defence believes three helicopters are sufficient to cover the SAR needs of an area the size of Europe and why getting in trouble at sea, particularly outside of 8AM-4PM, Mon.-Fri., resulted in delayed SAR and tragic deaths (click on "more" to watch). more>>
|
(Oct. 5) For most of the past decade, defence spending has risen. But now, reduced government funding is impacting Canada's military - and potentially putting some veterans support programs in jeopardy. The Univ. of British Columbia has put together the Veterans Transition Program, which is designed to help soldiers whose counselling and career transition needs aren't being fully by current Veterans Affairs Canada programs. The Canadian Legion has provided financial support for the program and the goal is for it to be established nationwide. more>>
|
(Oct. 5) If Canada's military does not cut back on contractors and the number of staff working at National Defence headquarters, front line CF personnel and the equipment they rely on will invariably suffer, Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie, who retired last month, told a Senate committee this week. However, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Leslie's recommendations are only one factor the government is considering and that all military spending will be examined "with a fine-tooth comb." more>>
|
FrontLine has learned that Canada is going ahead with plans to wind down its involvement in the NATO Airborne Early Warning & Control (AWAC) program in which crews from 17 countries fly 18 Boeing E-3A Sentries (sensor-equipped 707-320s) to provide all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications to allied forces. Defence Minister Peter MacKay shared that possibility with NATO counterparts last June in Brussels, and DND has now confirmed it in an e-mail, explaining that the decision won’t be implemented “earlier than fall 2012.”
Over the past year, DND had identified “numerous efficiencies that do not affect the core capabilities or readiness of our military, as part of the government's efforts to ensure best value for tax dollars.” Canada has historically been the third-largest financial supporter and contributor of NAEW&C crews, who have been a key element of Task Force Libeccio in the Libyan campaign. The average annual cost of Canada’s commitment has been approximately $50 million and DND points out that it also participates in a number of NAEW&C modernization projects at an estimated cost of $8.5 million in 2011-2012.
|
(Oct. 4) Retired Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie appeared Monday before the Senate's defence committee to answer questions about his controversial Canadian Forces transformation report. He told senators that he and his team looked at previous transformation reports to determine what had been recommended, how often, and what hadn't been implemented in terms of actions that could deliver more "bang for the buck" to Canada's military. Former chief of defence staff Rick Hillier said last month that Leslie's recommendations would "destroy" the Canadian Forces. "[I've] carried a rifle, fought for my country, fought for my troops," said Leslie. "I would never recommend anything that would destroy the Canadian Forces." more>>
|
(Oct. 4) Libyan fighters associated with the new government, the National Transitional Council, have begun what they say is the “final assault” on the Gadhafi loyalist stronghold of Sirte. Meanwhile, NTC officials pledged to appoint a new transitional government soon after the strategic coastal city is captured. A Red Cross convoy delivered urgently needed medical supplies to the hospital in Sirte after an earlier attempt was cancelled due to heavy fighting. more>>
|
(Oct. 4) In an interview for CBS News' 60 minutes, the new U.S. commander in Afghanistan, Marine Gen. John Allen, was asked about the U.S. government's plan to draw down 33,000 more soldiers from Afghanistan next year and large numbers of forces in 2013 and 2014. Allen responded by saying America's military will be in Afghanistan "for a long time." The video-recorded interview can be viewed by clicking on "more." more>>
|
(Oct. 3) Prime Minister Stephen Harper's office was so fixated with controlling public opinion as casualties mounted in Kandahar that even Defence Minister Peter MacKay was left on the outside, says a new book, "The Savage War," by Canadian Press defence writer and Afghanistan correspondent Murray Brewster. The book also reveals that the decision to deploy Canadian soldiers to the Taliban's home turf in the south of Afghanistan was partly driven by a sense of guilt that Canada did not participate in the U.S. war in Iraq, an armed conflict that lasted more than seven years and is projected to cost Americans $3.2 trillion, including longer-term veteran care expenses. more>>
|
(Oct. 3) The Pentagon's cancelled VH-71 presidential helicopter program will provide Canada's CH-149 Cormorant fleet with some spare parts at a cost of $163 million. Defence Minister Peter MacKay was warned last year in a briefing note that the Cormorant’s availability was “barely adequate” to meet SAR requirements. To fill the possible - and sometimes actual - gap, aging Sea King helicopters have been put on standby along the East Coast. more>>
|
(Oct. 3) Canada's half dozen Buffalo search and rescue aircraft are more than four decades old and need new engines, Defence Minister Peter MacKay has been told, but the DND has no plans to procure them. The $3B program to replace the old SAR airplanes has dragged on for years, leaving Air Force maintenance personnel to scramble to find parts. Viking Air of Victoria, B.C. holds the type certificate for the Buffalo and said in late 2008 that it had a plan to modernize the CC-115 fleet and save taxpayers half of the $3B Fixed Wing SAR program cost. DND has not acted on Viking's proposal. more>>
|
(Oct. 2) U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and Canadian Minister of Defence Peter MacKay met in person for the first time on Friday at the Pentagon, where Panetta paid tribute to Canada's "tremendous work" in Afghanistan and acknowledged Canadian sacrifices made there in the 10-year U.S. War on Terror. "Canada is one the NATO countries that suffered the most in terms of those who lost their life. And we pay tremendous respect to Canada for the sacrifice that they've made," said Panetta. The two leaders also discussed training of Afgan security forces, hemispheric security, and F-35 fighter jets. more>>
|
(Oct. 2) The NATO military mission in Libya is mostly finished and the alliance's involvement could begin to wrap up as early as this coming week after leaders meet in Brussels, according to Army Gen. Carter Ham, head of U.S. Africa Command on Saturday. NATO may decide to end the mission even though former leader Moammar Gadhafi is still at large and his forces remain entrenched in Sirte and Bani Walid. Ham said that the National Transitional Council and its forces are close to being in "reasonable control" of the country from a security perspective. more>>
|
(Oct. 1) The killing of a U.S.-born Islamic cleric in Yemen who advocated attacks on Americans is a "major blow" to al-Qaeda's most dangerous affiliate, according to President Obama. American officials also said Friday that U.S. intelligence showed that the chief al-Qaeda bombmaker in Yemen also died in the drone attack. more>>
|
(Oct. 1) The Dept. of National Defence plans to buy 10,200 new rifles for the Canadian Rangers and phase out their Lee-Enfield Mk4's, which are more than two generations old, in 2013 or 2014. The Rangers have provided input into the new type of rifle, which may be built in Canada. The DND is restricting the search to commercial, off-the-shelf products with only “minor customization." more>>
|
(Sept. 30) President Hamid Karzai and other senior Afghan leaders announced Thursday they plan to work closely with the U.S., Europe and India to plan the country’s future because negotiations with the Taliban and Afghanistan's relationship with Pakistan had yielded so little. “Despite making repeated attempts in the past three years, including sending several letters to the Taliban to open negotiations in order to bring peace and stability to the country, our leaders, scholars, influential figures, elders, women and children, old and young are being martyred,” the statement said. Burhanuddin Rabbani, the peace council chairman, was one of a number of high-profile assassinations carried by insurgents this year. more>>
|
(Sept. 30) The Federal Court has dismissed complaints from eight current and former military police officers - Lt.-Col. (Ret.) William Garrick, Maj. John Kirschner, Maj. Bernie Hudson, Maj. Michel Zybala, Maj. Ron Gribble, Chief Warrant Officer Barry Watson, Master Warrant Officer (Ret.) Jean-Yves Girard, and Brig.-Gen. Richard Blanchette - over hearings conducted by the Military Police Complaints Commission into issues relating to the treatment of Afghan detainees. The officers had argued they were being denied the right to a fair hearing with regard to whether they were at fault in their transfer of detainees to Afghan authorities, who allegedly abused some of the prisoners. more>>
|
(Sept. 29) Pakistan's interests may very well be helped by government elements supporting the feared Haqqani network, which has carried out some of the most brazen attacks in Afghanistan, particularly this year, former president Pervez Musharaff recently told The Telegraph, a leading British newspaper. Asked if Pakistan needed the support of the powerful insurgent group with ties to the Taliban, Musharaff said: “If I was in government I would certainly be thinking how best to defend Pakistan’s interests. Certainly if Afghanistan is being used by India to create an anti-Pakistan Afghanistan, we would like to prevent that.” more>>
|
(Sept. 29) National Transitional Council forces in Libya have urged NATO to conduct more air strikes following NTC losses in fighting in Sirte, birthplace of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, and his other remaining bastion, Bani Walid. In a radio message on Wednesday, Gadhafi, who whereabouts is reportedly unknown, hailed the resistance in Bani Walid. more>>
|
(Sept. 28) The chaos in Libya since March has resulted in looting of caches of conventional arms, including an unknown number of man-portable, surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) capable of downing aircraft. "Matching up a terrorist with a shoulder-fired missile, that's our worst nightmare," said Sen. Barbara Boxer, D.-California, a member of the Senate's Commerce, Energy and Transportation Committee. The White House announced Tuesday that it planned to expand a program to secure and destroy Libya's huge stockpile of SAMs. ABC News in the U.S. reported that large numbers of the weapons systems continue to be stolen from unguarded military warehouses. more>>
|
(Sept. 28) The Canadian Forces' new staging facility in Kuwait became operational last week, almost one year after the United Arab Emirates' government kicked out Canada's military from Camp Mirage due to an airline landing rights dispute. Brig.-Gen. Sylvain Bedard said of the new base that "as of 22 September, we consider it operational." On Monday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper thanked Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheik Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah during his visit to Ottawa. Harper said he was "personally grateful to his highness for his direct involvement in this important matter." more>>
|
(Sept. 27) Canadian Forces personnel will continue to be deployed in the skies over Libya and off the country's coast for up to three more months after Conservative and Liberal MPs voted Monday to extend Canada's role in the NATO-led mission. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Monday that leaving now would jeopardize the progress achieved to date because pro-Gadhafi forces remain a threat. "Canada was in at the very beginning," he said, "and we should be there until the job is done. Canada has never shirked a responsibility and certainly we cannot do so now." more>>
|
(Sept. 27) An Afghan man working for the U.S. government opened fire Sunday in the CIA compound in Kabul, killing an agency contractor and wounding another. The attack was inside yet another supposedly secure U.S. installation in Kabul. About two weeks ago, Haqqani network operatives attacked the U.S. embassy in Kabul as well as NATO's main compound in the city and Afghan police facilities. “Slowly, steadily, the insurgent attacks are breaking down every sense of stability and progress in Afghanistan,” said a former U.S. official who recently left Kabul and spoke on condition of anonymity. “Neither the Afghans or the U.S. is ready for a turnover, but no one wishes to acknowledge that.” more>>
|
(Sept. 26) U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta said last week it will be “very difficult” to cut more than $450B over the next decade from America's defense budget. The $450B in cuts is part of a quasi-detailed compromise agreement between Democrats and Republicans that if not fleshed out by year's end, will automatically increase by another $500B. more>>
|
(Sept. 26) Gunfire and an explosion have been heard from a compound believed to house the CIA station in Afghanistan's capital. A U.S. official confirmed there was an attack and described the situation as "fluid." The strike comes just two weeks after Haqqani network militants brazenly attacked the U.S. embassy and the NATO compound in Kabul as well as Afghan police stations in the most sophisticated and coordinated operation to date, according to experts.
more>>
|
(Sept. 25) Just two days after U.S. Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, accused Pakistan's intelligence service of supporting the insurgency that has carried out brazen attacks in Afghanistan, Pakistan's prime minister, Yousuf Raza Gilani, has publicly said that U.S. policy in Afghanistan is in "disarray" and America's "blame game is self-defeating." Relations between the United States and Pakistan have become increasingly strained this year, particularly since the covert U.S. raid in Pakistan in May that killed Osama bin Laden. Gilani's comments came soon after Pakistan's foreign minister, Hina Rabbani Khar, said Washington's allegation was "not acceptable" and warned the USA could lose a vital ally. more>>
|
(Sept. 25) Experienced Dept. of National Defence media officers are fed up with micromanagement and political interference and are leaving the organization. So far this year, a dozen public affairs officers have left, defence sources say. Two senior civilian public servants have also recently left the branch. Retired officers said that they became fed up with excessive controls on information brought in by the Harper government, ones intended to protect it from embarrassment, reportedly. more>>
|
In a report for the Canadian Defence and Foreign Affairs Institute and the Canadian International Council, military scholar Jack English presents a scathing account of 'sandbagging, obstruction, futile wheel-spinning' at DND. English shows how bureaucrats and leaders within the regular army, who saw any move to increase the militia as a threat, stubbornly stymied the wishes of their political masters (the reservist costs 80 per cent less than the full-time soldier). English recommends the militia be increased to 45,000 part-time soldiers, that several new militia units be formed, and that National Defence Headquarters be slashed, a move also recommended recently by Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie in his review of the Canadian Forces and by an independent commission in England, which this summer similarly urged that Britain's reserves be grown and given a broader role.
more>>
|
(Sept. 24) NATO can conclude its air campaign over Libya within the next three months, Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, the Canadian operations commander, said Thursday. Gadhafi support is reportedly isolated to three areas in the country: the former leader's hometown of Sirte with a strip of coastal access; an area in the town of Bani Walid to the west; and another section around Al Fugaha to the south. Bouchard's comments came after revolutionary fighters said Thursday they had to halt an assault on a key pro-Gadhafi pocket for a week due to a lack of ammunition and supplies. more>>
|
(Sept. 24) Master Cpl. Nicole Stacey was one of two pilots flying the Twin Otter airplane that crashed Thursday in Yellowknife, killing two people and injuring seven. Stacey, who was from Inuvik, joined the Canadian Forces in 2002 and served as a signaller in two communications squadrons before becoming a recruitment instructor in addition to her civilian flying job. more>>
|
(Sept. 24) Pakistani officials warned Friday that they could stop being an ally of the United States if U.S. officials continued to accuse Islamabad's intelligence agency of assisting militant Muslim groups, most recently the Haqqani network, who are based in the border region near Afghanistan. U.S. Adm. Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency supported the militant Haqqani network. Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar cautioned the U.S. the following day: "You cannot afford to alienate Pakistan; you cannot afford to alienate the Pakistani people." Pakistani army chief Gen. Ashfaq Kayani said in a statement that Mullen's remarks were "very unfortunate and not based on facts." more>>
|
(Sept. 23) The Taliban affiliate, the Haqqani network, which carried out brazen attacks last week in Kabul, is an "arm" of the Pakistani intelligence agency, Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told Congressional leaders on Thursday. Mullen's allegation will surely weaken already strained U.S.-Pakistan relations. Leon Panetta, the new U.S. Secretary of Defense, also testified to the committee along with Mullen, and said that recent attacks, including the assassination of President Hamid Karzai's chief peace envoy, Burhanuddin Rabbani, two days ago, are a sign of insurgency weakness. more>>
|
(Sept. 23) Canadian military trainers helped defend NATO's compound in Kabul last week when insurgents launched an audacious attack against the facility. Other targets were the U.S. Embassy and Afghan police stations. Sixteen Afghans were killed and dozens wounded. Capt. Mark Peebles said that during the battle, Canadian soldiers helped Afghan security personnel and other NATO forces push back the attack. Brig.-Gen. Craig King told Parliament's defence committee on Thursday that Canadian trainers in Afghanistan are operating in an “extremely violent” environment. more>>
|
(Sept. 23) Gadhafi loyalists have managed to put up fierce resistance against National Transitional Council forces and bickering has reportedly erupted among Libyan revolutionaries. Consequently, there are growing fears that the overthrow of the old regime will not mean an end to fighting in Libya. “Gadhafi for now is providing some sort of unified focus for resistance,” said Hugh Roberts, recent North Africa director of the International Crisis Group, a conflict research organization. Without this focus, he said, Libyans who don’t feel represented in the new government might rebel. “It could be more diffuse, but presumably more difficult to cope with,” Roberts said, “and that’s where the situation starts to show some parallels to Iraq and Afghanistan.” more>>
|
(Sept. 22) Canada's military establishment has routinely not complied with ministerial orders to increase the Reserves since the 1990s, according to a new report written by senior military scholar Jack English for the Canadian Defence and Foreign Affairs Institute. In "The Role of the Militia in Today's Canadian Forces", English wrote about a "wretched saga" of "sandbagging, obstruction, futile wheel-spinning, and endlessly wasted staff effort" to keep the number of reservists low because they have been viewed as a lesser priority than full-time personnel. NDP defence critic Jack Harris said that is no secret since reservists have been complaining for years that they don't have adequate resources to grow the militia. Today, there are about 16,000 reservists, some 14,000 fewer than called for in the Harper government's 2008 Canada First Defence Strategy. more>>
|
(Sept. 22) NATO announced a three-month extension of its campaign of air strikes against Libyan targets on Wednesday. The military alliance's secretary general, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, said in a statement: "We are determined to continue our mission for as long as necessary, but ready to terminate the operation as soon as possible." Fugitive ex-leader Moammar Gadhafi said in an audio message broadcast Tuesday that the new Libyan government, the Transitional National Council, will collapse after NATO ends its attacks on loyalist forces. more>>
|
(Sept. 21) Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Tuesday that he believes the Canadian Forces will be able to finish their Libyan mission “well before” their next three-month mandate is over at the end of 2011. He will ask the House of Commons this week to approve the extension. NATO countries have agreed to stay with the mission beyond the Sept. 27 deadline. more>>
|
(Sept. 21) The chance of a peaceful end to the 10-year war in Afghanistan blew apart on Tuesday after a Taliban bomber with an explosive device concealed in his turban killed Hamid Karzai's chief peace envoy, Burhanuddin Rabbani. A former president of Afghanistan, Rabbani was also a respected religious scholar and chairman of the country's high peace council. The suicide attack occurred in the heart of Kabul's diplomatic district and deprives Karzai of an important ally. more>>
|
(Sept. 19) The Army Run event is only in its fourth year, but has already managed to earn recognition as the fastest growing run in Canada, raising nearly $100,000 this year. Even the Governor General turned out to run this year, along with the Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay, Chief of Defence General Walt Natynczyk, and Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson.
more>>
|
(Sept. 19) Even though Canada's top soldier has told those in uniform it will be months before he has a clear idea of what needs to be cut from the military, battles inside National Defence headquarters are already under way as organizations try to protect their turf. more>>
|
(Sept. 19) Tony Blair used visits to Libya after he left office as prime minister of Britain to lobby for business for the American investment bank JP Morgan, The Daily Telegraph has been told. more>>
|
(Sept. 20) Revolutionary fighters in Libya have captured the airport and other parts of Sabha, a southern desert community, even as military offensives stalled northward. Libya's new rulers, the National Transitional Council, have struggled to overcome forces loyal to Gadhafi in his hometown of Sirte and the mountain enclave of Bani Walid, despite NATO backing in the form of air power, during the past month. The Sabha victory is providing needed morale-boosting among NTC troops and their militia allies. more>>
|
(Sept. 19) Nine-hundred armoured vehicles are involved in the assault on Sirte - where support for Moammar Gadhafi remains relatively strong - with more reinforcements arriving. There have been reports of heavy fighting around the eastern gate of Sirte, with Gadhafi loyalists using snipers and rocket fire to counterattack against National Transitional Council (NTC) forces. "The situation is very dangerous. There are so many snipers and all the types of weapons you can imagine," said NTC fighter Mohamed Abdullah. more>>
|
(Sept. 19) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has warned members of Congress that cutting defence spending by as much as $1T over the next decade would not only add 1 percentage point to the United States' unemployment rate, but also harm national security. The rate has stubbornly remained above 9% throughout 2011. The state of the economy and jobs are the main issues for Americans, according to polls. If a bipartisan panel fails to reach a deal on spending cuts by December 31, across-the-board reductions will be triggered that could slash defense and national security spending by a further $600B over the next decade on top of the $350B in cuts the Pentagon has been told to make. The U.S. federal deficit is a whopping $1.3T for FY2011. more>>
|
(Sept. 19) More military raids by US-led ISAF forces in Afghanistan have created a resentment among civilians that has undercut any battlefield gains from the tactic, according to a report released Monday by a U.S. think tank, the Open Society Foundations. The report's author, Erica Gaston, said the increase in raids has coincided with an increase in insurgent attacks, and that Afghan citizens are not feeling any of security benefits from the operations. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has publicly denouced nighttime raids, saying that the operations treat too many civilians as if they are insurgents and violate their privacy. "Night operations are an effective method of maintaining the pressure on the enemy while minimizing risk to innocent civilians," said U.S. Lt. Col. Jimmie Cummings. "Eighty-five percent of night operations are conducted without a shot being fired and account for less than 1 percent of civilian casualties." more>>
|
(Sept. 18) The U.S. ambassador to Pakistan, Cameron Munter, accused Islamabad on national radio of having links to the Haqqani network, a pro-Taliban militant group that American officials have blamed for the recent attacks on the U.S. Embassy and NATO headquarters in Kabul, Afghanistan. "There is evidence linking the Haqqani network to the Pakistani government. This is something that must stop. We have to make sure that we work together to fight terrorism," said Munter on Radio Pakistan. Afghanistan's Interior Minister Bismillah Muhammadi obliquely blamed Pakistan for the attacks: "The six cell phones we found on them [the attackers, who were eventually killed], and the evidence we got on them all shows that this plot was made across the borders of Afghanistan." more>>
|
(Sept. 18) More details in Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie's report about the Dept. of National Defence and Cdn. Forces have emerged, including: The number of general officers was supposed to be reduced to 70 or less, but it's climbed to 110; the number of colonels and navy captains has soared by 52 per cent since the 1990s; real fiscal growth for the Navy has been zero since 2005; and DND/CF personnel costs will exceed 70 per cent of the defense budget by 2015 if major changes are not implemented. The government's 2008 Canada First Defence Strategy pegged the human resources expense at 51 per cent of the budget. more>>
|
(Sept. 17) National Transitional Council (NTC) forces have been forced to retreat from Bani Walid, 140km southeast of Tripoli, after meeting fierce resistance from soldiers loyal to Libya's fugitive ex-leader, Moammar Gadhafi. NTC troops under heavy shelling and gunfire after entering the town. Also, east of Tripoli, forces are continuing an assault on Sirte, another remaining Gadhafi stronghold. Tens of thousands of civilians are still believed to be living in Bani Walid and Sirte, which has complicated the situation for Libya's new government and NTC forces. more>>
|
(Sept. 17) The US Senate has greenlighted a defense spending freeze of $513B plus $118B for the war in Afghanistan and ongoing military operations in Iraq for Fiscal Year 2012, which begins next month. The freeze means that an extra requested $26B - the equivalent of the entire Cdn. Forces budget plus $5B - will not be part of FY2012 US military spending. Nearly 600 line items are not going to be funded, including the US Joint Light Tactical Vehicle program, which has been terminated. Almost $700 million has been cut from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program and production of the warplanes over the next four years will be frozen at 32 annually. more>>
|
(Sept. 16) Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) officials said Thursday that thousands of their fighters advanced into the center of fugitive leader Moammar Gadhafi's hometown, Sirte, where they faced heavy resistance from loyalist snipers and other troops. Four NTC fighters have reportedly been killed and seven wounded. Also on Thursday, British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy were cheered by crowds as they toured Tripoli and the eastern city of Benghazi. The leaders said they would introduce a United Nations Security Council draft resolution that would establish a U.N. mission in Libya, unfreeze Libyan assets, remove the no-fly zone for civilian flights, and abolish the international arms embargo. more>>
|
(Sept. 15) Jalaluddin Haqqani has been a guest at the White House and served as one of the CIA’s chief assets in its war against the Soviets in Afghanistan during the 1980s. He also leads the most defiant insurgent group threatening Afghanistan. His is the militant Muslim organization responsible for this week's audacious attacks in Kabul at the US embassy, NATO headquarters and Afghan police facilities. “They are expanding their frontiers. They run purely on intimidation and violence,” said Matthew DuPee, an Afghan security specialist at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. “They are going to be the primary threat for the foreseeable future...Kabul will be a primary target.” more>>
|
(Sept. 15) The U.S. government has a "key concern" that conventional and unconventional weapons in Libya have been taken - and may be sold to terrorists. Journalists and human rights groups have observed that weapons caches of the Gadhafi regime in and around Tripoli have been poorly guarded. Mines, mortars and even shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles have been removed. Mustard gas stocks are believed to be secure, but their status has yet to be officially confirmed. more>>
|
The images were sad and sobering. Life-size photographs of tough-looking soldiers crying their eyes out; video clips of surgeons slicing into the flesh of wounded men; and, most poignantly, family snaps of men hugging wives or romping with sons and daughters before they went off to war. You would’ve had to be a numbed soul to leave the War Museum’s exhibition, “Afghanistan: A Glimpse of War,” dry-eyed. Canadians have had to rethink the role of the military, how we manage the border with the U.S., and how we see ourselves in the world. Robert Sibley argues that in addressing American security concerns after 9/11, Canada has emerged, paradoxically enough, with a stronger sense of national sovereignty. more>>
|
(Sept. 14) The U.S. Department of Defense will continue to buy Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft as a hedge against delays in producing the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), the Pentagon’s top weapons buyer, Dr. Ashton Carter, recently wrote Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn. For Fiscal Year 2012, which begins next month, the Pentagon is planning to spend US$2.6 billion to acquire 28 Super Hornets. F-35 production has been slowed due to funding and other issues. To reduce the price per JSF, Lockheed Martin and its F-35 component suppliers need bigger orders. more>>
|
(Sept. 14) Insurgents attacked the US embassy, NATO headquarters and police buildings in Kabul Tuesday. Armed with rocket-propelled grenades, automatic weapons, bomb vests and possibly a mortar, they battled Afghan and US forces for 20 hours. Haroun Mir, director of the Afghanistan Centre for Research and Policy Studies, said it was the first time that four groups of militants had attacked in four different places. "This is new as previously we had one or maximum two attacks. The Haqqani network has the full support of al-Qaeda and has the capacity to execute sophisticated attacks. It is the only group with this capacity." more>>
|
(Sept. 14) Libya's top diplomat in Ottawa, Abubaker Karmos, expects Canadian companies to benefit from Canada's active military involvement in the effort to topple the Gadhafi regime. "The Libyan people do see a country (Canada) that stood by them and helped them and answered their call when they needed them," Karmos said Tuesday. "They see those countries as better partners probably than some of those other countries that didn't show as much interest." more>>
|
(Sept. 13) In 2007, the Harper government said that a new air expeditionary wing would be created and based at CFB Bagotville. The Conservatives repeated their promise to create the self-contained rapid response unit during the election this past spring. However, according to leaked DND documents, a key problem has been finding the 550 personnel to staff the unit. Funding is also a likely issue; up to $300 million was supposed to be spent on infrastructure and equipment. Defence spending has been reduced by the Harper government this fiscal year ($525M) and for the next two years ($1B each) while the Afghan training mission and Libya mission together are costing in excess of $1.6B. more>>
|
(Sept. 13) Gunmen loyal to fugitive ex-leader Moammar Gadhafi attacked a major oil refinery Monday in rebel-held territory in eastern Libya, killing 17 guards. In the past couple of weeks, Gadhafi warned via broadcasts that his forces would conduct a guerrilla war in Libya. "We can't be complacent: We must always be vigilant," said Jalal Gallal, a spokesman for the National Transitional Council. more>>
|
(Sept. 13) The Pentagon is planning to slash U.S. assistance to Afghanistan's army and police by more than half over the next three years. For the forseeable future, a no-frills Afghan security force will have to increasingly deal with the Taliban-led insurgency as American forces leave the country. Spending is to be reduced on vehicles, air conditioning, car radios and other items. "We realized we were starting to build an army based on Western army standards, and we realized they don't need that capability," said Maj. Gen. Peter Fuller, the deputy commander of the US-led command in Kabul. more>>
|
(Sept. 12) Six Canadian soldiers - Lt. Guillaume Caron, Cpl. Bradley Casey, Pte. Tony Harris, Capt. Michael MacKillop, Master Cpl. Gilles-Remi Mikkelson, and Master Cpl. Marc-Andre Rousseau - will be awarded the Medal of Military Valour for their bravery in Afghanistan. The medal is one of three military decorations given to those in the Canadian Forces who displayed acts of courage and devotion in the face of combat with the enemy. more>>
|
(Sept. 12) Leading figures of the deposed Gadhafi regime continued to flee from Libya this weekend or were taken into custody by rebel forces, including one of Gadhafi’s sons, Saadi el-Gadhafi. The former foreign intelligence chief, Bouzaid Dorda, is a prisoner of the new government. El-Gadhafi managed to escape in a convoy to neighbouring Niger. In Tripoli, life appears to be returning to something approaching normalcy, with garbage trucks recently reappearing, residents helping to clean up streets, and students sweeping courtyards at the local university. more>>
|
(Sept. 12) A huge Taliban truck bomb exploded outside a US military base in eastern Afghanistan Sunday, injuring at least 77 American troops and killing five Afghans. The blast is believed to be the largest so far at a Western military installation in Afghanistan, and carried symbolic weight, coming on the eve of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. more>>
|
(Sept. 11) According to documents leaked to the Ottawa Citizen, the chief of the air staff, Lt.-Gen. Andre Deschamps, has informed Vice Admiral Bruce Donaldson, vice chief of the defence staff, that the Air Force is not training enough new pilots to fill vacancies. Retirements and pilots leaving the military for the airlines once their committment is completed is at the heart of the problem.
The Air Force has asked retired pilots to rejoin and a dozen have done so this year. more>>
|
(Sept. 11) Almost a decade after 9/11, which resulted in US forces invading Afghanistan and allying themselves with the Northern Alliance to go on the offensive against al-Qaeda and the Taliban, the future of the central Asian country is tenuous. However, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, Ryan Crocker, is promising that the United States will stand by Afghanistan, even as it continues to be undermined by corruption and a resilient insurgency that has demonstrated its ability to strike virtually anywhere within the nation's borders. Curiously, according to Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, a former Afghan foreign minister, the people of Afghanistan have disparate views about US and other NATO forces in their country, "from a complete withdrawal, nothing left behind, to permanent bases." more>>
|
(Sept. 10) Former Libyan rebel soldiers began attacking Bani Walid and Surt - Gadhafi strongholds - on Friday, a day before the surrender deadline took effect. “It’s full steam ahead right now," said Abdulrahman Busin, a military spokesman. The two communities are half of the remaining Gadhafi bastions in the country. The fighting started after Interpol issued arrest warrants for the fugitive ex-leader, his son Seif al-Islam, and Abdullah al-Senussi, former chief of Libyan intelligence. more>>
|
(Sept. 10) Within a couple of weeks of 9/11, U.S. President George W. Bush said to nations: "Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists." In his memoirs, Gen. Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan's president from June 2001 to August 2008, recalls being told by the Americans that "if we chose the terrorists, then we should be prepared to be bombed back to the Stone Age." The relationship between Washington and Islamabad has been better and worse - the latter is the current reality - since 9/11. "The United States and Pakistan are going to need to continue to cooperate on counter-terrorism, whether they like it or not," said Stephen Tankel of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace last week. "Both sides are not prepared to walk away from the relationship but are beginning to reassess what the nature of that relationship should be going forward." more>>
|
(Sept. 9) Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk said Thursday that Canada's military would be able to maintain personnel and equipment in southern Italy and the Mediterranean and continue with their Libyan mission past the September 27 deadline if the Harper government so orders. "The Canadian Forces air, land, and sea have tremendous capability and depth," said Natynczyk. "It depends on what the international community wants, but the Canadian government has all kinds of options." more>>
|
(Sept. 9) Libya's new rulers say a special unit of soldiers has been deployed to track down Col. Moammar Gadhafi, ruler of the north African country for the past 42 years until very recently. Intelligence has reportedly been gathered by eavesdropping on his aides' telephone calls, reviewing satellite images, interviewing witnesses and tips from Libyans. According to a French intelligence official familiar with the manhunt, France and other NATO countries are helping with the effort. more>>
|
(Sept. 8) Libya's fugitive leader Moammar Gadhafi said Wednesday that speculation he has fled to neighbouring Niger has been nothing more than lies and psychological warfare. He made his comments in a telephone call - apparently inside Libya - to a pro-Gadhafi television channel in Syria. Gadhafi promised his forces would defeat the National Transitional Council and NATO. more>>
|
(Sept. 8) According to Desmond Morton, historian, professor emeritus at McGill University, and adviser to Conservative Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in the 1980s, 9/11 and its aftermath fundamentally reshaped Canada's military and Canadians' attitudes toward the national armed forces institution. On the political level, Canada quickly emerged after 9/11 as a supportive ally willing to participate in the U.S. government's War on Terror - at least as it was being waged in Afghanistan, and not, starting in March 2003, Iraq. more>>
|
(Sept. 7) A military watchdog will launch a probe of Canadian Forces police officers following a bungled investigation into the suicide of Cpl. Stuart Langridge, a veteran of the Afghanistan War and operations in conflict-ravaged Bosnia. After months of addiction and mental health problems, Langridge killed himself in March 2008 in the barracks at CFB Edmonton. His parents allege that three separate military police investigations into the incident were tainted by conflicted investigators more interested in protecting the reputation of the force. Also, military police reportedly concealed the existence of Langridge's suicide note for his parents from them. more>>
|
(Sept. 7) A convoy said to be carrying dozens of armed Gadhafi loyalists with weapons and valuable assets has travelled across the Libyan desert and into neighbouring Niger. "Vehicles carrying gold, euros and dollars crossed from Jufra into Niger with the help of Tuaregs from the Niger tribe," said Fathi Baja of Libya's National Transitional Council. Meanwhile, Gaddafi's security chief, Mansour Daw, is among several former regime officials who arrived in Niamey, the capital of Niger, on Sunday. more>>
|
(Sept. 7) Canadian decision-makers supported a revised counter-insurgency strategy in Afghanistan only after NATO's highest office took an interest in it, a leaked August 2009 diplomatic cable shows. NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen liked the "key village approaches" strategy and wanted it to be a cornerstone of the alliance's counter-insurgency tactics in "Kandahar and beyond." The cable leaked by WikiLeaks says: "The positive attention from NATO and ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) leadership has helped the Canadian leadership in Kandahar sell this approach in Ottawa." It is signed by Karl W. Eikenberry, the American ambassador to Afghanistan and a former top U.S. military officer. more>>
|
(Sept. 6) Prime Minister Stephen Harper warned dictators of the world Thursday that Canada will not shy from using force to oust them. "A handful of soldiers is better than a mouthful of arguments," Harper said. "For the Gadhafis of this world pay no attention to the force of argument. The only thing they get is the argument of force." Canada has about 655 troops, seven CF-18 fighter jets, three refuelling aircraft and the naval frigate HMCS Vancouver assigned to the NATO-led mission in Libya, which began in March. more>>
|
(Sept. 6) Over the past few days, NATO aircraft have been dropping leaflets on pro-Gadhafi communities in Libya, including Bani Walid, southeast of Tripoli; Sirte, Gadhafi's birthplace on the Mediterranean coast; and Sabha, deep in the Sahara desert. The leaflets have told loyalist fighters, many of whom are believed to be mercenaries, to give up, and for the non-Libyans to leave the country. Col. Roland Lavoie, spokesman for the NATO military operation in Naples, said that Gadhafi loyalists still have some surface-to-air missiles and thus are a threat to air traffic, including humanitarian flights. more>>
|
(Sept. 5) Soldiers of Libya's new government have surrounded the Gadhafi-held desert town of Bani Walid and say their talks with the loyalist side have failed. Military commanders will decide what to do next. Bani Walid is 150km southeast of Tripoli and one of four communities still controlled by pro-Gadhafi forces. The others are Jufra, Sabha and the fugitive ex-leader's birthplace, Sirte. NTC chairman Mustafa Abdel Jalil said the pro-Gadhafi hold-outs were being given humanitarian aid and time to surrender "to avoid further bloodshed." more>>
|
(Sept. 5) According to The Globe and Mail, the four second-hand submarines that Canada bought from Britain 13 years ago have spent far more time in dry dock than in the water and cost nearly $3 billion to acquire, repair and properly weaponize. None of the subs is operational, either. The Navy's plan is to have two subs fully operational next year and all four in 2013. more>>
|
(Sept. 4) Rebel soldiers in Libya have moved forward to the outskirts of one of Moammar Gadhafi's last bastions: Sirte, Bani Walid and a handful of towns. The deadline for Gadhafi loyalists to surrender expired yesterday. National Transitional Council media coordinator Adel Zintani said rebel fighters could enter the Gadhafi stronghold of Bani Walid by Sunday morning. "Some tribal leaders and many of the residents have surrendered their weapons, but there are still many loyalists who are protecting Moammar Gadhafi and his sons," Zintani explained. Gadhafi's spokesman, Musa Ibrahim, said in a telephone call that key tribal leaders in Bani Walid remain loyal to the fugitive ex-leader. more>>
|
(Sept. 4) Documents obtained by The Globe and Mail show that China offered to the Gadhafi regime at least $200M worth of truck-mounted rocket launchers, fuel-air explosive missiles, anti-tank missiles, small and portable surface-to-air missiles, and other weapons in violation of United Nations sanctions. Algeria and South Africa were to be the conduits for the weapons, according to the papers. Omar Hariri, chief of Libya's National Transitional Council’s military committee, said that his men encountered brand-new weapons on the battlefield. “I’m almost certain that these guns arrived and were used against our people,” he remarked. more>>
|
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) - or drones - may cause the obsolesce of the F35 Joint Strike Fighter program. After years of development, a U.S. Predator drone took off from California, guided by a pilot sitting in a comfortable leather chair in an air-conditioned room in Utah. Almost a day later, taking commands bounced off our satellites, it landed safely in Australia. Everyone - Army, Air Force and CIA - said, "I want one, too." Now we have them flying missions against terrorists in Arab countries. more>>
|
(Sept. 3) Family members, friends, senior officers and Defence Minister Peter MacKay greeted the returning crew of HMCS Charlottetown in Halifax Friday. The warship and its 240 crew members spent most of the past six months in the south Mediterranean as part of an international coalition enforcing an UN-mandated arms embargo on the Gadhafi regime. "I wanted to be here with all of you this morning to congratulate our returning soldiers, saliors airmen and women," MacKay said. more>>
|
(Sept. 3) CDS Gen. Walt Natynczyk says Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie's Transformation 2011 report needs further study to ensure the recommendations won't hurt the military's ability to carry out operations. To save hundreds of millions of dollars annually, Leslie wrote that some 11,000 military and Dept. of National Defence civilian employees either need to be reassigned or let go. “I knew the ideas would be novel. I knew the ideas would be contentious and I accept the report,” Natynczyk said. “From my point of view, it's a very good report. It's a question now of parsing through it. What can we do in the short-term? What needs more study?" more>>
|
(Sept. 3) Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said Friday that Canada needs to help the Libyan government ensure that weapons of mass destruction acquired during 42 years of rule by Col. Moammar Gadhafi do not fall into the wrong hands. "There's significant stockpiles of mustard gas and other chemical weapons that have been secure for a number of years, but we want to make sure they don't fall into the wrong hands," Baird said. "So there's another area where we can help demilitarize a country so hopefully it'll have a peaceful future." more>>
|
(Sept. 2) CDS Gen. Walt Natynczyk said Thursday that some of the recommendations in Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie's Transformation 2011 report are being implemented, with more to come, depending on what the Harper government decides. "I can't implement all of this. A lot of this is government decisions," said Natynczyk. Leslie calculated that the Dept. of National Defence needs to cut $1B in costs annually in order to remain operationally effective, significantly because of the high cost of replacing military fleets. Cutting civilian jobs and the number of full-time Reservists is among his recommendations. Up to 11,000 military and civilian jobs will be affected if Leslie's recommendations are fully implemented. more>>
|
(Sept. 2) Even though Libyan ex-leader Moammar Gadhafi is in hiding, he did manage to get out a message via a loyalist TV channel in which he said he is ready to fight "a long, long drawn out war" against "traitors and agents of the colonialism." Gadhafi claimed that 2,000 tribes stood ready to defend Libya and "The people will not allow you to take the oil and rob Libya's wealth that God has endowed Libya with. Prepare yourselves for a gang and guerrilla war, for urban warfare and popular resistance in every town to defeat the enemy everywhere." more>>
|
(Sept. 2) August was the deadliest month for Americans - 67 were killed - in nearly a decade of war in Afghanistan. The downing of a Chinook helicopter with several Special Forces members onboard added significantly to the death toll. In July, 65 US troops were killed in Afghanistan, making it the second deadliest month. To date, 1,755 Americans have been killed in the Afghanistan war, compared to 380 for Britain and 157 for Canada. In June, President Obama announced that 10,000 U.S. troops would leave Afghanistan this year and 23,000 more would leave by next summer in advance of the 2014 deadline to fully hand over security to the Afghans. more>>
|
(Sept. 1) Four Chinook helicopters flown by the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan are being sent to the U.S. Air Force’s boneyard in Arizona because the Dept. of National Defence hasn't been able to find a buyer. The dry and dusty environment of Afghanistan has been particularly hard on rotary-wing aircraft, which kicked up many a duststorm when landing and taking-off. Afghan airfields are also relatively high elevation-wise, putting a further strain on turbine engines operating in the thinner air. The DND is asking “fair market value” for the Chinooks, but has declined to provide an estimated price.
more>>
|
(Sept. 1) The Royal Air Force has flown £140m of Libyan banknotes (280m Libyan dinars) to Libya after a freeze on assets directed at the Gadhafi regime was lifted. Future shipments of cash in excess of £800m will be handed over to Libya's Central Bank. Part of the money will be used to pay doctors, nurses, teachers, police officers and other public sector workers who have not been paid in months. "Returning money to the Libyan people is part of our commitment to help the National Transitional Council rebuild Libya and help create a country where the legitimate needs and aspirations of the Libyan people can be met," said UK Foreign Secretary William Hague. more>>
|
(Sept. 1) The United States has lost many billions of dollars to waste and fraud in Iraq and Afghanistan, the bipartisan Wartime Contracting Commission revealed Wednesday. Dov Zakheim, a commission member and former Pentagon comptroller, said: "I personally believe that the number is much, much closer to $60 billion." According to Commission members, large changes are needed related to how the U.S. government awards and manages contracts for battlefield support and reconstruction projects. more>>
|
(Aug. 31) Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said Tuesday that Canada's Libyan military mission may not end on September 27, the final day of the mandate given by Parliament, including the NDP. "Canadian Forces, as long as our NATO allies are on this UN-sanctioned mission, are there to ensure that we continue to protect civilians," Baird said. The NDP, the official Opposition party, has said that it will not support an extension of the deployment of CF personnel and equipment beyond Sept. 27. The Libyan civil war appears to be ending, but Gadhafi is still on the run and pockets of resistance still exist. more>>
|
(Aug. 31) The Taliban are apparently having a change of heart. On Sunday, their leader, Mullah Mohammed Omar, issued a message in which he promised economic development, including investment in key industries such as mining and energy. He criticized foreign “aggressors” for ignoring “strategic projects” that would benefit the Afghan economy, told his fighters to refrain from extorting Afghanistan’s business elite, and offered an olive branch to the Karzai government and warlords in the northern provinces. “The policy of the Islamic Emirate,” he wrote, “is not aimed at monopolizing power. Since Afghanistan is the joint homeland of all Afghans, so all Afghans have the right to perform their responsibility in the field of protection and running of the country.” more>>
|
(Aug. 30) Mustafa Abdel Jalil, chairman of Libya's National Transitional Council, said Monday he feared Gadhafi supporters remained capable of brutal counter-attacks and the former dictator might have concealed Scud missiles, stocks of mustard gas, and other weapons. "Gadhafi is still capable is doing something awful in the last moments," Abdul-Jalil said. "I call for continued protection from NATO and its allies from this tyrant. He is still a threat, not just for Libyans but for the entire world." more>>
|
(Aug. 30) Tension between senior officers at National Defence headquarters and Harper government officials has left the future direction of Canada’s military up in the air, according to the Globe and Mail. Recommendations by Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie were reportedly not endorsed by CDS General Walt Natynczyk nor embraced by other top military brass. DND has been ordered to prepare plans to reduce its $21B budget by as much as 10% as part of the Conservatives' efforts to eliminate the deficit. Leslie’s recommendations would save about $1B annually. more>>
|
Too many businesses are reluctant to blow the whistle when they have a bad experience with a federal government department, says Canada’s government procurement watchdog. Frank Brunetta, the federal government’s procurement ombudsman, said he is concerned that suppliers aren’t coming forward because they fear reprisals and are wary of losing out on government contracts. “The office has heard of supplier reticence to disclose the names of departments with which they have procurement concerns, for fear of being excluded from future business opportunities,” wrote Brunetta in the 2010-11 annual report tabled in the House of Commons last week. more>>
|
(Aug. 29) Afghan officials say at least five people were killed and more than 40 wounded in three bomb blasts in southern Afghanistan this past weekend. Afghan soldiers and police officers who had lined up at a bank to collect their salaries were among the casualties. The attacks occurred in Helmand and Kandahar provinces. NATO also reported that a service member died Saturday because of a bomb attack. more>>
|
(Aug. 29) The Dept. of National Defence is planning on spending $750M to $1B for 4,000 military trucks of various types. Truck fleet replacements were to begin three years ago but will not happen now until the spring of 2014. Jack Harris, the NDP’s defence critic, questioned why the government is proceeding with the new procurement when the 2006 truck acquisition program has been stalled for half a decade. "How can they do this when they can’t get their act together on the other trucks? It doesn’t seem like a coherent program to me." He said parliamentarians on the Commons defence committee were never told that a second truck purchase was needed. more>>
|
(Aug. 28) A Canadian military court-martial heard Friday that soldiers at the Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan repeatedly violated safe weapons handling rules in 2007. Capt. James Young testified that while many cases were the result of forgetfulness, there were also instances of flagrant and "shocking" abuse. Young was an infantry instructor and the camp sergeant-major responsible for deportment and discipline among Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan. He was testifying in the court martial of Matthew Wilcox, a former army reservist on trial in the death of his friend Cpl. Kevin Megeney. more>>
|
(Aug. 28) The Dept. of National Defence wants the Harper government to take part in rebuilding a Cold War ocean surveillance system, saying in a report to Defence Minister Peter MacKay in September that Canadian waters, including those in the Arctic, are vulnerable to Chinese and Russian submarines. The current system is overseen by the U.S. military. Critics argue that neither China nor Russia pose a military threat of significance to Canada, U.S. submarines traverse Arctic waters without letting Ottawa know, and money spent on the project could be better spent elsewhere. more>>
|
(Aug. 28) Nearly 50,000 Libyans arrested by the Gadhafi regime since mid-February when the protests began have not been accounted for, according to rebel military spokesman Col. Ahmed Omar Bani recently. The rebels believe the prisoners may be in underground bunkers, which have since been abandoned by Gadhafi loyalists, and time is running out to find them. Bani appealed for anyone with information to come forward, adding that it would be "catastrophic" if they had been killed. more>>
|
(Aug 28) Around 300 militants crossed into Pakistan from Afghanistan’s territory and stormed seven security checkpoints along the Durand Line. There are conflicting casualty reports in the coordinated attacks by Taliban militants. The military put the figure at 25 while other reports claimed killing as many as 80 security personnel and capturing another six. more>>
|
(Aug. 27) Members of Canada's Libyan community report have reported that the body of Abdulhamid Darrat of Ottawa was found this week among 150 others in a Tripoli warehouse. Darrat, who ran a successful Internet company in Libya, was taken by government officers along with five co-workers and shoved into the back of a van in May. According to one source, Darrat was beaten and killed only a few days after he was taken captive. A commander with Libya's rebel army in Tripoli recently reported the massacre of the 150 people to Agence France-Presse. "There were instances of revenge in the last few hours before the fall of the regime," said Abdel Nagib Mlegta, head of operations for the takeover of the capital. more>>
|
(Aug. 27) A new study by Ipsos-Reid shows that most Canadians think the Canadian Forces are important, but would like to see the military return to its traditional peacekeeping role. The study is part of an effort to provide the Dept. of National Defence with valuable information so that the military's roles, mission mandates, requirements and activities are better communicated to Canadians. Concerning Afghanistan, the study said: "In general, many participants seemed to feel that they were under-informed about the Canadian Forces' role in Afghanistan, and that they did not know why the Canadian Forces was still there." more>>
|
(Aug. 26) Nader Ben Raween, a 24-year-old from Edmonton who was fighting with Libyan rebel soldiers, was shot dead by a sniper this week. Ben Raween was taking part in a raid on the massive compound of deposed Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi when he was killed Tuesday. He was living in Ottawa when he decided to go to Libya and fight for the rebel cause. more>>
|
(Aug. 26) The United Nations has called on Gadhafi loyalist fighters and rebel troops to ensure there are no acts of revenge are committed. The U.N. call comes as reports emerge of abuses and alleged summary killings by both sides. The reports have been supported by physical evidence and "powerful testimonies", according to various sources, including the human rights group Amnesty International. more>>
|
Canada’s aerospace industry apparently isn’t as vulnerable as many of its counterparts, according to the Conference Board of Canada. “Faced with massive budget cuts, the U.S. and many European countries are planning to tighten ... spending over the next several years,” the think-tank points out in an industry overview. Canadian companies’ exposure to a global downturn in defence spending is “not overly large” it notes, explaining that major companies manufacture a broad array of products, such as aircraft, engines and satellites while the smaller ones are mainly subcontractors. “Large companies enjoy economies of scale in design, manufacturing, and purchasing. Smaller companies can succeed by concentrating on select components and parts manufactured for the larger players.” However, Board noted that Canadian companies face challenges that include rising labour costs and an appreciating dollar which affects export potential.
|
Dick Harris, Member of Parliament for Cariboo-Prince George, on behalf of Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, is expected to make an announcement that will benefit the aviation industry in northern B.C.
|
European farmers regularly find live artillery shells on former battlefields, but in Canada they're a rarity, especially in residential neighbourhoods like West Vancouver. Earlier this week, though, workers excavating a construction site unearthed two old military munitions. Police said the shell's primer, the part of the shell that ignites the powder in the casing, was still intact. more>>
|
(Aug. 25) Pockets of die-hard soldiers supporting the essentially-extinct regime of Col. Moammar Gadhafi, dictator of Libya for 42 years, are still fighting in some parts of the North African country. While one young rebel soldier told the Globe and Mail that it was because of "God, and our men" that victory has been essentially achieved, it was, significantly, NATO air strikes and unnamed donor nations providing light weapons and recoilless rifles to rebel fighting groups. The National Transitional Council has offered a $2M bounty for Gadhafi - dead or alive. more>>
|
(Aug. 24) Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi said in a radio address early Wednesday that his retreat from his Tripoli compound was a "tactical move." He also declared that he would fight on or suffer death against "aggression." While rebel soldiers have entered and looted Gadhafi's former residence and military barracks, snipers loyal to the regime leader continue to target rebel troops in parts of Tripoli. According to Reuters, Gadhafi has called on Libyans to "sweep through Tripoli and comb it for traitors" and al-Arabiya TV said that his forces attacked the Libyan town of Ajelat, west of the capital. more>>
|
(Aug 22) Layton, 61, lost his battle with cancer early this morning at his Toronto home. His wife, MP Olivia Chow and his children, Sarah and Michael, released a joint statement shortly after 7:30 Winnipeg time. Layton's death has saddened and shocked Canada's political centre, with condolences coming from all sides. more>>
|
(Aug. 22) The Dept. of National Defence has posted a public tender for a hybrid-electric snowmobile that would allow soldiers to move quietly across the Arctic. More than half a million dollars for a prototype is being made available.
more>>
|
(Aug. 22) While Libyan rebel soldiers seized control of much of Tripoli on Sunday, heavy fighting around Moammar Gadhafi's compound continues. The rebels met nominal resistance as they moved in from east, south and west of the capital. A rebel spokesman says pro-Gadhafi forces still control about one-fifth of Tripoli and Saif al-Islam, Gaddafi's son, is in their custody. He is wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. more>>
|
(Aug. 20) Cpl. Mark Fuchko, who lost both legs below the knee in 2008 while serving in Afghanistan, and other Canadian soldiers wounded in Aghanistan and recovering - Warrant Officer Quinn Beggs, Cpl. Lucas Mullens and Cpl. Dallas White - were part of a group of climbers who recently scaled Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain (elevation 5,896 metres). "I’m not going to lie, there were some parts where I was severely hurting and the thought had crossed my mind that I should just quit, but I just could not do it. I dug as deep as I could and kept carrying on, pushing myself as hard as I could. I was successful and that just made it all the sweeter," said Fuchko. The climbers' goal was to raise $575,000 for the Orthopedic Surgery Centre at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. They raised more than $800,000. more>>
|
(Aug. 19) The Globe and Mail has obtained a copy of Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie's Report on Transformation 2011 report, which Defence Minister Peter MacKay received last month. The report details major changes needed in the Dept. of National Defence and Canadian Forces if Canada's military is to be able to fulfill its mandate. The report includes 43 recommendations on how “to reduce the tail of today while investing in the teeth of tomorrow.” Redeploying or eliminating 3,500 regular forces and civil servants in the DND and cutting the number of full-time reservists in half are among the many recommendations. more>>
|
(Aug. 18) While Washington tries to persuade Islamabad to carry out armed assaults against Haqqani hideouts in tribal regions, Pakistan's military says it can bring the notorious network to the U.S.-led negotiation table. The Haqqani network has been affiliated with the Taliban and al-Qaida for years and blamed for most of the major attacks in Afghanistan. According to a study released this month by West Point's Combatting Terrorism Center, "The Haqqani network has been more important to the development and sustainment of al-Qaida and the global jihad than any other single actor or group." Washington and Kabul are seeking a negotiated end to the near-decade-long war in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Aug. 18) The U.S military estimates that some $360 million has ended up in the hands of the Taliban, criminals and power brokers with ties to both since 2001. The illicit process is known as "reverse money laundering." Payments from Washington go to Afghan companies hired by the U.S. military to provide transportation, construction, power projects, fuel and other services. A portion of the businesses have ties to the insurgency and/or Afghan criminal networks. "Funds begin as clean monies," according to one U.S. document, then "either through direct payments or through the flow of funds in the subcontractor network, the monies become tainted." more>>
|
(Aug. 17) A U.S. Air Force cargo plane collided with an unarmed drone in the skies above Afghanistan Wednesday. The pilots flying the C-130 Hercules carried out an emergency landing. "The C-130 received light damage during the incident and the aircrew was unharmed," said USAF spokesman Capt. Brockhoff. The pilotless aircraft, an RQ-7 Shadow, is usually operated by the Army and the Marine Corps. Referring to the drone, a military official said: "We were in complete control up until the collision." more>>
|
(Aug. 17) Having recently seized strategic towns west and south of Tripoli and in firm control of Libya west of the capital, the Libyan National Transitional Council is confident that rebel soldiers finally have the upperhand and will topple the 42-year-old regime of Moammar Gadhafi by the end of this month. The NTC said Tuesday that within eight months of that happening, an elected national assembly will be in place and a nation-wide referendum on a new constitution would come with 20 months. U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Tuesday that Gadhafi's "days are numbered." more>>
|
(Aug. 16) Libyan rebel forces are now just 50km west and 80km south of Tripoli, having taken part of the town of Zawiyah and the southern garrison town of Gharyan on Monday. Moammar Gadhafi reportedly has dwindling forces and supporters, as evidenced by the recent 'vacation' of longtime loyalist Nasser al-Mabrouk Abdullah, who arrived in Cairo with nine members of his family. Gadhafi's beleaguered regime fired a Scud missile at rebel territory as opposition forces closed in on Tripoli, but it landed in the desert. It's likely that the rebels lack sufficient forces for an all-out assault on Tripoli. Nevertheless, they're hoping their encirclement of the capital will bring down Gadhafi's government or trigger an uprising. more>>
|
After more than 60 years of carrying the venerable Lee Enfield rifle, those who form Canada's first line of defence in the Arctic are getting new guns.
If all goes well, the Canadian Rangers will receive their new rifles before the end of 2014, army officers say.
more>>
|
(Aug. 15) John Rawson "Ross" Kennedy Stewart of Aylmer, Ont. is a Royal Canadian Navy veteran who had five of his service medals vanish half a century ago. His grandson, Scott Stewart, recently came across them by accident on the Internet. They had been put up for sale. After cajoling the seller, the medals were delivered to their rightful, 90-year-old owner.
more>>
|
(Aug. 14) Six suicide bombers attacked a security meeting in one of Afghanistan's most secure provinces - Parwan, which is about 50 kilometres north of Kabul - on Sunday, killing 22 people. On the same day, three NATO troops were killed in two separate improvised bomb attacks. Abdul Basir Salangi, the governor of Parwan, survived the attack and picked up an assault rifle and shot at least one of the attackers dead. The latest Taliban attacks have proven that the main insurgency group in Afghanistan can strike virtually anywhere in the country at will, a grim reality that will make the job of Afghan security forces increasingly difficult as NATO troops withdraw. more>>
|
(Aug. 14) Amrullah Saleh, Afghanistan's spymaster from 2004 to 2010 - the CIA and MI6 regarded him as one of their most reliable partners - recently told The Telegraph: "Very simply, the Taliban are our killers, they are not our brothers. The Taliban say they have a licence from God to kill, to torture, to marginalise women. That we don't accept. No Taliban will say my licence comes from Mullah Omar, their leader: they say my licence comes from God. Settlement with that type of group is a disaster for Afghanistan." He said attempts by the Karzai government to negotiate with the Taliban will push Afghanistan back into civil war because "The mechanism he [Pres. Karzai] has established is operating in darkness." Tajiks, Uzbeks and Hazaras of the north have been rearming, "preparing for the worst" as NATO countries reduce their troops in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Aug. 13) The Harper government is reducing defence spending by $2.5B over three years beginning this fiscal year as part of its strategy to reduce deficits. The government is closing two search-and-rescue coordination centres in Quebec City and St. John's, however, it has decided to spend $77M on kitchen and eating facilites at CFB Borden. more>>
|
(Aug. 13) Maj.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, the director of the strategic joint staff, told Parliament's defence committee Friday that there is no way to tell right now whether NATO will need to extend its Libyan operation past the end of September or not. The civil war in Libya has dragged on for several weeks longer than first expected by Western leaders and the rebel army has repeatedly struggled to make gains against the forces of Moammar Gadhafi. Vance told the committee that a NATO withdrawal would "an absolute calamity." NDP defence critic Jack Harris said: "The problem that we [the NDP] have is that we don’t want this to morph into some sort of prolonged mission." more>>
|
(Aug. 12) A widening rift between Afghan President Hamid Karzai and his NATO backers in the past couple of years and Taliban assassinations of some of his powerful allies are likely reasons why the United States' man in Kabul since 2001 announced Thursday he would not seek a third term. Karzai's exit from the Afghan political scene may help in terms of negotiating a possible power-sharing arrangement with the Taliban after foreign troops leave Afghanistan over the next three years. NATO’s relations with Karzai have deteriorated so badly that the Afghan president has publicly referred to NATO troops as "an occupying force." Civilians killed during U.S. aerial drone strikes and ground operations have repeatedly angered Karzai. more>>
|
(Aug. 12) After recent reports of dozens of civilians killed in war-torn Libya, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the belligerents to do as much as possible to avoid killing innocent people. He spoke with Libyan Prime Minister Baghdadi al-Mahmudi on Wednesday and expressed his concern about civilian casualties and the "absolute lack of progress in the efforts to find a politically negotiated solution to the crisis in Libya." Ban said that "there can be no military solution to the Libyan crisis" and called on both sides to respond to the ideas of his envoy, Abdel Elah al-Khatib, for a settlement. more>>
|
(Aug. 12) The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) reported Thursday that an unmanned hypersonic glider developed for defence research was lost after the experimental craft began flying autonomously on the edge of space. The program is reportedly in its infancy. The U.S. Dept. of Defense is developing a pilotless craft that could strike a target anywhere in the world within an hour. Reported top speed of the Falcon Hypersonic Technology Vehicle-2 is 20 times the speed of sound - about 21,000 kilometres per hour. more>>
|
(Aug. 11) Western diplomats have confirmed that secret exploratory peace talks between the United States and the Taliban leadership have broken down after details of the negotiations were leaked. Blame has been placed on "paranoid" people in the Afghan government. Discreet meetings were held in Germany and Qatar earlier this year with Tayeb Agha, Taliban leader Mullah Omar's former private secretary, and senior officials from the U.S. State Department and Central Intelligence Agency. Taliban leaders were reportedly very anxious about entering into talks because of scepticism among their own commanders. more>>
|
(Aug. 11) According to Voice of America, former CIA Director Michael Hayden and former Director of National Intelligence Dennis Blair both say Pakistan has been trying to use Taliban groups to maintain influence in Afghanistan. "It is clear, it is unarguable, that the Pakistani government, particularly the Pakistani security establishment - the army and the ISI - view the Haqqani network, that's the Taliban group in North Waziristan, [as] more of an - in their calculus they know it's an enemy of the United States, but in their calculus it's dominated by the fact that they believe that the Haqqani network is a friend of Pakistan. And that may be the single most troubling aspect of the relationship: our divergence of views on that particular network," said Hayden.
more>>
|
(Aug. 10) Despite the challenges of communicating in English and Russian, this week's aerial counter-terrorism exercise over the Arctic involving the military forces of Canada, the U.S. and Russia went well. Exercise Vigilant Eagle began on Sunday, with a simulated U.S. passenger jetliner flying over Alaska and failing to respond to air traffic control. The mock terrorism scenario involved NORAD and Russian military commands and controllers, with jet interceptors and air surveillance from both sides. The next scenario - on Monday - involved a mysterious airliner coming out of Russia. "Both days went off pretty much flawlessly," U.S. Air Force Capt. Uriah Orland said at NORAD's Alaskan headquarters. more>>
|
(Aug. 9) The Chinook helicopter that crashed on the weekend and killed 38 U.S. and Afghan troops was probably caused by an insurgent firing a rocket-propelled grenade - a "lucky shot" - according to U.S. military officials. The large Chinook is particularly vulnerable to weapons fire when landing or taking off because of its low speed. The Pentagon is considering the downing "a one-off incident", said spokesman Marine Col. David Lapan. "It's the danger of operating aircraft in combat." more>>
|
(Aug. 8) A 90-year-old Royal Canadian Navy veteran of WWII, Terry Nordman, who lives in B.C., has recalled for The Province newspaper a Canadian naval action in 1940 involving a German ship off the west coast. "We didn’t want any of those ships going back to Germany," said Nordman. In 1940, Canada's navy was unprepared for war and the ship Nordman served on, HMCS Prince Robert, was a passenger liner hastily converted to a warship. “There was a lot of shaking every time the [six-inch] guns went off. It was not made for it,” Nordman recounted. more>>
|
(Aug. 8) The National Transitional Council (NTC) has received help from Western powers to create a plan - 70 pages - for post-Gadhafi Libya. The NTC concedes they have little chance of toppling the colonel's regime, but says that internal divisions will force him out. If that happens, the NTC plans to set up a "Tripoli task force" comprised of up to 15,000 personnel to secure the capital and capture prominent Gaddafi supporters. To avoid a repeat of the chaos of Iraq after U.S. forces invaded in March 2003, some 5,000 Libyan policemen would be recruited to serve as the interim government's security forces. Meanwhile, the Gadhafi regime claims to have retaken the strategic southwest town of Bir Ghanam. more>>
|
(Aug. 7) Libyan rebel soldiers launched a new offensive Saturday, leaving their stronghold in the western mountains and fighting Moammar Gadhafi's forces on a new front. Their objective is to break a months-long deadlock and push toward Tripoli, the capital of Libya and the nexus of Gadhafi's diminished power. Rebel commander Col. Jumma Ibrahim said his forces captured Bir Ghanam, 80 kilometres south of Tripoli, and had moved a few miles beyond it. One captured soldier said Gadhafi had misled his troops by saying to them they were fighting NATO and al-Qaeda. more>>
|
(Aug. 6) Moammar Gadhafi's regime and the NATO-backed Libyan rebel government have employed propaganda during the past few months as the civil war has dragged on and no winner has emerged. The latest propaganda ploy from the mercurial colonel's regime is allying with Islamists. "Libya will look like Saudi Arabia, like Iran. So what?" one of Gadhafi's sons, Saif Al Islam, told the New York Times this week, adding the regime would now form an alliance with Islamists among the rebels. "It’s childish scare tactics,” Libyan activist Hafed Al Ghwell told Reuters. "The logic is, ‘Let’s frighten the hell out of the West by suggesting we’ll ally with Islamists.’" Rebel public relations have also become suspect after the mysterious death on July 28 of their military leader, Abdel Fattah Yunis, and the lack of information from the rebel council about exactly what happened to the man who was a close associate of Gadhafi for 40 years. more>>
|
(Aug. 5) A prominent group of Libyan lawyers and judges who guided the revolution against Moammar Gadhafi and his regime earlier this year has sharply criticized its own rebel council, calling for resignations after the recent and mysterious killing of General Abdel Fatah Younis. The February 17 Coalition has called for the dismissal of the rebel defence and foreign ministers and the disbanding of armed groups that support the rebellion but do not fall into the structure of the rebel military. Islamist militias who have been fighting for the rebel cause reportedly disagree with such a change. more>>
|
(Aug. 5) The Canadian Forces will soon be deploying drones in the High Arctic for the first time during Operation Nanook, Canada's largest military exercise in the Far North. Boeing ScanEagle pilotless aircraft similar to those used by the Army for surveillance in Afghanistan will provide a technological edge as the CF and other federal agencies practice a major air disaster scenario near Resolute, which is some 3,000 kilometres from Ottawa. "We'd like to see how we can begin to use UAVs in the North and as part of the domestic scenario," said Lt.-Gen. Walter Semianiw, head of Canada Command. "UAVs over urban areas have a number of limitations, in the North perhaps less. We want to see whether or not we can use them up there and how they are going to work." more>>
|
(Aug. 4) Three Canadian navy ships - frigate HMCS St. John's and coastal defence vessels HMCS Moncton and HMCS Summerside - will depart St. John's on Friday with a U.S. Coast Guard cutter, USCGC Willow, for an extended mission to the Arctic. They will participate in Operation Nanook and be joined by the Royal Danish navy in the Arctic, which will be conducting its own patrols and surveillance operations. more>>
|
(Aug. 4) A nationwide poll commissioned by Sun Media reveals that almost 60 per cent of Canadians doubt whether this nation's sacrifice and that of its soldiers on behalf of Afghanistan and its people was worthwhile. Only 30 per cent felt it was. The poll also found that most Canadians thought the combat mission was incomplete as the multi-year operation wrapped up last month. The poll also found that support for the mission was lowest in Quebec and among females and parents. However, soldiers did receive good support from Canadians - generally - pollster Dave Scholz noted. more>>
|
(Aug. 3) Forces loyal to Moammar Gadhafi killed seven rebels and wounded 65 in a counter-attack in a key town on Tuesday even as Gadhafi's son said the war would continue until the rebellion is eliminated, whether or not NATO stops its bombing campaign. Hopes for a diplomatic solution to end the civil war, which has dragged on far longer than governments of NATO countries, including Canada, expected, are increasingly faint. As the Muslim holy month of Ramadan gets underway, NATO continued bombing targets. Aircraft from the military alliance also dropped leaflets calling on Gadhafi loyalists to give up. more>>
|
(Aug. 2) The Canadian, U.S. and Russian Air Forces will hold aerial anti-terrorism exercises on August 8-11 for the second year in a row. "The main aim of the drills is to improve the Russian Air Force's and NORAD's capabilities for fighting terrorism in the air," said Igor Muginov, the Commander in Chief of the Eastern military district, on Monday. The exercises will involve fighter jets and refueling and AWACS (airborne early warning and control) aircraft. more>>
|
(Aug. 2) Rebel fighters in Libya's Western Mountains marked the start of Ramadan yesterday committed to keep on fighting, but confused about the recent and mysterious assassination of their top commander, Abdel Fatah Younis. Rebel leaders have said a rogue rebel military unit, allegedly loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi, killed Younis, but many rebels suspect he was slain by a fellow rebel, perhaps a rival unit, or fighters who didn't trust him because of his long ties to Gadhafi. The rebels have made military and diplomatic progress in the past five months, but have yet to score a decisive breakthrough. A lull in fighting during Ramadan could give Gadhafi's forces a chance to strengthen their lines. more>>
|
(Aug. 1) According to iCasualites, a website that has tracked NATO casualties in Afghanistan for years, between January 1 and July 31, 2011 330 NATO soldiers were killed compared to 411 in the same period last year. Of the 330 NATO troops, 3 were Canadians, 234 were Americans and the remaining 93 came from other NATO nations supporting the International Security Assistance Force. more>>
|
(Aug. 1) Libyan rebel leaders said Sunday that their forces hunted down and clashed with supporters of Moammar Gadhafi who had posed as rebel fighters to infiltrate the opposition’s eastern stronghold. The rebels are trying to rid their ranks of enemies after the assassination last week of their military chief, Abdel-Fattah Younis. The leadership insists the slaying was the work of Gadhafi's regime, but several witnesses have said Younis was killed by fellow rebels. On Friday, infiltrators carried out two prison breaks that freed 200 to 300 inmates, including pro-Gadhafi mercenaries, fighters, and other regime loyalists. more>>
|
(Aug 1) Julian Fantino, Canada’s associate minister of national defence, emerged from a meeting with Italy’s secretary of state Monday trumpeting the two countries’ military co-operation as well as their involvement in the Joint Strike Fighter program. It was the first of what will be a five-day visit to the Italy for Fantino, who was born in the country before immigrating to Canada at age 10. more>>
|
Allen-Vanguard Corporation of Ottawa has been awarded a five-year contract, worth $7.5 million, to provide 94 integrated heavy bomb suits to the Canadian Forces. The Med-Eng bomb suits will offer chemical and respiratory protection and provide cooling (for heat stress). Most of the work to produce the suits will be done at Allen-Vanguard’s manufacturing facility in Pembroke, Ontario.
|
(July 31) A bomb attack in eastern Afghanistan on Friday killed two NATO soldiers and five Afghan soldiers and wounded two Afghan soldiers and a NATO interpreter. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack, which was carried out in the Zurmat district of Paktia province where there has been relatively little insurgent action over the years. more>>
|
(July 30) Canada's military police received 784 complaints of physical and sexual assault and other criminal incidents causing harm in 2010, more than in any of the past four years, according to the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal's annual report. Col. (Ret.) Michel Drapeau, who practises and teaches military law, says the numbers - 176 reports of sexual assault and 518 of assault last year — are troubling. While Forces members are "well-paid, disciplined and operating within a hierarchical system," according to Drapeau, an alarming number engaged in criminal and abusive behaviour last year. more>>
|
(July 30) Mohammad Stanekzai, chief executive of the Afghanistan Peace and Reintegration Program, recently told Voice of America News that talks with the Taliban are underway - even as fighting, bombings and assassinations continue - but the insurgent group will not be allowed to control the country as they did between 1996 and 2001. "It is not the return back to the Emirate of the Taliban. It is that we provide the opportunity for Afghans that they can be part of the society, of the political system," he said. "But at the same time, we should respect the wishes of all the people. All people of Afghan do not want that rule again. And they understand that, that they cannot rule the country." more>>
|
(July 30) NATO says it has disabled three Libyan state television satellite transmission dishes in Tripoli through a "precision air strike". The military alliance said the operation was intended to stop "inflammatory broadcasts" by Col. Moammar Gaddafi's regime. A NATO statement said: "Our intervention was necessary as TV was being used as an integral component of the regime apparatus designed to systematically oppress and threaten civilians and to incite attacks against them." more>>
|
(July 29) Air Force investigators have concluded that Capt. Darren Blakie, the fighter jet pilot who ejected from his CF-18 Hornet in November, was blinded by light reflecting off of falling snow before he ejected. Blakie was wearing night vision goggles while approaching CFB Cold Lake just before midnight. A landing light came on and he was "almost immediately disoriented." He pulled the nose of the aircraft up but felt that he was in a dive and thought he was rapidly approaching the ground. The CF-18 was fully serviceable before the crash. The Air Force report said that Blakie was inexperienced in night flying and had not been on a training flight using night vision goggles for 224 days. more>>
|
(July 28) The Dept. of National Defence intends to end its long-term charter agreement with the owner of a cargo ship that was hired to transport military supplies and equipment because millions of dollars have been spent on the contract but the ship not used. Documents show that most of the time, the ship has either been waiting for orders or sailing empty, at a cost of $21.3 million to taxpayers. "Of that, only $3.4 million is directly attributed to the movement of cargo with the remainder for empty transits, standby while awaiting tasking as well as support to two Naval exercises," said a briefing note prepared for Defence Minister Peter MacKay. Gen. (Ret.) Rick Hillier, the former defence chief, had proposed that the military acquire a transport landing ship that would not only haul supplies, troops and helicopters, but the proposal was shelved. more>>
|
(July 28) Canada has joined France and Britain in accepting the idea that Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi can stay in his country as long as he cedes power, something he recently said publicly he will never do. The NATO-backed, rag-tag rebel army has been unable - so far - to push forward into the all-important objective of the Libyan capital of Tripoli, where Gadhafi and forces close to him have managed to stay alive and relatively organized, despite repeated NATO airstrikes. After four months of the Libyan civil war and no end in sight, Western nations are grasping for ways to finish the conflict before the stalemate settles into a long siege of Tripoli. more>>
|
China's Defense Ministry says its first aircraft carrier would be used for "research, experiments and training" and would not affect its defensive naval strategy, in an apparent attempt to ease regional concerns that the vessel could be used to enforce Chinese territorial claims. Senior Colonel Geng Yansheng, a Defense Ministry spokesman, also confirmed that Chinese pilots were training to operate from the carrier, which is based on an empty hull bought from Ukraine, and which is due to start sea trials this summer. But he said it would take a long time to become fully operational. more>>
|
(July 27) As of Tuesday, 1,571 members of the U.S. military died in Afghanistan as a result of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in late 2001. At least 1,304 military personnel have been killed in hostile action and 12,877 wounded in Afghanistan since 2001, according to the Pentagon. more>>
|
(July 26) The U.K. government has joined France and Libya's rebel leadership in an about-face of their former position that Col. Moammar Gadhafi leave Libya. William Hague, the Foreign Secretary, has admitted that Britain could agree to cut short the war and allow Gadhafi to remain in Libya. The new olive branch, as it were, would allow the dictator to escape war crimes charges at the International Criminal Court. Hague qualified the British position: "[W]hatever happens Gadhafi must leave power." The Libyan leader refused last week to do so. more>>
|
Shipbuilding bids from Seaspan Marine (British Columbia), Irving Shipbuilding (Nova Scotia), and Davie Shipyards (Quebec) were all submitted by Thursday's deadline, but federal officials have to decide whether to allow the new owner of the Davie yard to compete. A sale of the assets of the huge Davie shipyard to Ontario's Upper Lakes Group was approved by Quebec Superior Court just hours before the bid deadline. Davie had been shortlisted to bid but has been in creditor protection since last year. Talks with one potential buyer failed just days ago, and Upper Lakes, also shortlisted to bid, stepped in at the last minute, with consortium partners Montreal's SNC-Lavalin, an engineering and construction firm, and South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering, a builder of container ships and oil tankers. The winning shipyards are expected to be announced in September, a senior official with the National Shipbuilding Procurement Secretariat said Thursday. more>>
|
The beleaguered Quebec shipyard will find out soon if bureaucrats are going to greenlight its eleventh-hour bid for a lucrative contract to build the next generation of warships and coast guard vessels. Senior officials from the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy Secretariat say they’ll decide in the days ahead if Davie Yards is fit to be vying for work that’s worth billions of dollars. Upper Lakes Group is involved in a consortium with SNC Lavalin and the South Korean firm Dae Woo. But Upper Lakes is the only buyer of all the assets of Davie, a transaction valued at about $28 million. more>>
|
(July 23) Col. (Ret.) Michel Drapeau, Canada's leading expert in military law, said Friday that legislators should look into possibly changing aspects of the National Defence Act that bar Canadian Forces members from having sexual relationships with one another. Drapeau, an adjunct professor at the Univ. of Ottawa, made his comments after a military tribunal found retired Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard guilty of having a sexual affair with a subordinate while in Afghanistan. Drapeau said that the military's non-fraternization rule is important but questioned whether violating it should be a criminal offence. more>>
|
(July 23) Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, the last senior officer of Canadian combat troops in Afghanistan, and 117 men and women under his command arrived back in Canada yesterday. "This marks another chapter in Canada's contribution in Afghanistan and again, we feel good. We feel proud of the accomplishments," Milner told reporters. He said governance has improved in the districts Canadian troops were operating in and significant progress has been made in mentoring Afghan security forces. As to the future outcome of Afghanistan, he said he was "guardedly optimistic." more>>
|
(July 23) Libya is willing to participate in more talks with the United States and rebels supported by NATO, who have been trying to overthrow Moammar Gaddafi. However, government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim said Friday that Gadhafi will not bow to demands he quit or leave Libya. "Other meetings in the future...will help solve Libyan problems," Ibrahim told reporters in Tripoli. "We are willing to talk to the Americans more." Hours later NATO aircraft bombed targets in the capital, causing damage and casualties, Libyan state television said, without providing details. NATO said it had hit a "command and control node." more>>
|
(July 22) Moammar Gadhafi said Thursday that he will not negotiate with rebels on the future of Libya. "I will not speak to them. There will not be any talks between me and them until Judgment Day," he said during a speech at a rally in his home town of Sirte, east of the capital Tripoli. Gadhafi's recent plea to tribes to fight the NATO-backed rebels happened a week after his government sent Libyans text messages urging them to march on the western mountains to fight forces opposed to him, a recruitment campaign with negligible results, apparently. "This farce must end. Shame on you people of Misurata...How can you accept this?" he said. more>>
|
CFB Esquimalt is inviting the public to explore Canada's West Coast naval base this summer. People can see 19th-century heritage buildings, modern warships and discover how local history can be linked to the British and Canadian naval presence. Details are online at www.navy.forces.gc.ca/marpac or by clicking here: more>>
|
(July 21) The Conservatives are decreasing military spending by $2.5B over the next three years as part of their strategy to reduce deficits. However, Canada's fixed-wing search and rescue (SAR) aircraft - including six CC-115 Buffaloes, which are 44 years old - need to be replaced, at a reported cost of $3B. Consequently, the government is looking at privatizing SAR in order to free up funds for other major military equipment procurements. more>>
|
(July 21) Moammar Gadhafi has again called on Libya's tribes to support his regime by fighting Libyan rebels, who have been combatting forces loyal to Gadhafi on three fronts, including the western mountains. "Look at the tribes of the Warshafana, who dares to challenge them? No one can; they will help free Libya from the hands of these rebels," Gadhafi's said at a rally Tuesday. "You are preparing today to march to the western mountains to cleanse it and liberate it from the traitors and mercenaries." The rebels dismiss Gadhafi's campaign to drum up support as little more than propaganda. more>>
|
(July 20) Brig.-Gen. (Ret.) Daniel Menard, who was once considered among Canada's most distinguished military leaders, will face a court martial Thursday over accusations he engaged in an illicit romantic relationship while commanding troops in Afghanistan. The former Joint Task Force Afghanistan commander left the military in December after he was relieved of his command in Afghanistan in May 2010 amid allegations he engaged in sexual activity in-theatre with a female subordinate. Menard faces two counts of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline under the National Defence Act. An additional four counts of obstructing justice under the Criminal Code of Canada — the more serious charges which carry a maximum 10-year sentence — have been dropped. more>>
|
(July 20) As the final combat soldiers return home from Afghanistan this month, military bases like CFB Gagetown swell with veterans. The transition back home is eased by a lengthy post-deployment leave and a swath of military programs designed to help soldiers reintegrate into civilian life. "The system has grown by leaps and bounds over the last 10 years," says Chief Warrant Officer Gary Foley, co-ordinator of CFB Gagetown's Deployment Support Centre. "The military sometimes gets a black eye because one soldier has fallen through the cracks but there are not a lot of cracks to fall through anymore." According to media reports, post-deployment screening has revealed that as many as one in four Canadian soldiers returning from Afghanistan suffers from mental-health issues or high-risk behaviour, such as erratic driving and excessive drinking. Foley says although there is less stigma and more resources allocated to mental-health issues in the military today, there are still "a few soldiers that think they're hurting their manhood if they admit something is not quite right." more>>
|
(July 19) Hundreds of Afghans who worked as interpreters for the Canadian military in Afghanistan will be resettled in Canada, according to Immigration Minister Jason Kenney. Interpreters who worked for Canadian soldiers and officials have been threatened by the Taliban. "There are Afghans who face extraordinary personal risk as a result of their work in support of Canada's mission in Kandahar," Kenney said. "Their lives and those of their families may be threatened by insurgents, and some have suffered serious injury and can no longer work." more>>
|
(July 19) Officials from the United States and Libya have confirmed that they held their first face-to-face talks on Saturday. The Libyan conflict, a civil war, essentially, began four months ago and has not gone as Moammar Gadhafi or NATO has hoped. Three hours of U.S.-Libyan talks were held on neutral ground in Tunisia. A State Department official said Washington informed the Libyan government that Gadhafi has to step down. "We support any dialogue, any peace initiative, as long as they don't decide Libya's future from outside," Libyan government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim told journalists in Tripoli. "We will discuss everything, but do not condition your peace talks. Let the Libyans decide their future." more>>
|
In his final address before the formal end of operations, General Walt Natynczyk urged returning soldiers to watch their "battle buddies" and take care of each other as they begin the long journey back to regular life at home. His remarks had a poignant ring for the soldiers of the 1st Battalion Royal 22e Regiment, as two of the four deaths in the last combat tour were suspected suicides. The CDS also spoke to the uncertainty most soldiers feel about the end of the Kandahar mission and what will become of an army that has evolved and takes enormous pride in being a fighting force. more>>
|
(July 17) Shortly after Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan ended earlier this month, the Taliban issued an unusual parting message to Canadians. Gone were the usual religious exhortations, exaggerated accounts of bravery, and brazen demands. Instead, the Taliban said: "The people of Canada have to ask their government and military chiefs what are the objectives and achievements that they have obtained during the past decade, apart from the innumerous losses in life and equipment. If they have no answer, then why (do) they allow them to continue their illegitimate intervention in Afghanistan under another title in the name of military training." The insurgency's remarks about the training mission alluded to new losses and a "bitter outcome like the precedent of their war mission." more>>
|
(July 16) After this week's failed assault involving the rag-tag army of Libyan rebels and a similar recent reversal in the western Nafusa mountains, diplomats and military leaders from several NATO countries are saying they have serious doubts about whether the rebel factions are capable of winning the civil war in Libya. In Istanbul on Friday, ministers from 30 countries, including Canada, met to publicly offer official recognition and support to the rebel forces fighting dictator Moammar Gadhafi and to discuss what the endgame for conflict-afflicted Libya might look like. more>>
|
(July 15) Canada's military is exploring ways to cut costs and accelerate the movement of troops and equipment to the Arctic by building new bases - hubs - in the region, according to a Dept. of National Defence report. The plan could result in remote bases and a military presence year-round in northern communities such as Iqaluit, Yellowknife, and Rankin Inlet, and possibly Resolute. “The hub concept referred to in this report is just one of many ideas being examined at the time to enhance our capabilities up in the North,” said Navy Lt. Greg Menzies. more>>
|
Sources suggest Canada is pushing for the military effort to be guided by a much reduced "strike" group -the 17 or so countries involved in bombing Libya and enforcing the no-fly zone and naval blockade -rather than the unwieldy Contact Group -a much larger council of nations and representatives from the United Nations, Arab League, NATO, European Union and Islamic organizations. Chiefs of defence staff among the combatant nations are already meeting and the Canadian government is understood to be keen to replicate that model at a political level to improve the effectiveness of the mission. more>>
|
Syrian forces shot dead two pro-democracy protesters on Thursday in eastern provincial capital Deir al-Zoran, residents said, as a crackdown escalated against dissent in the tribal region bordering Iraq's Sunni heartland. Also injured were seven protesters who had gathered in the main square of the city on the Euphrates river to protest against President Bashar, al-Assad whose family has ruled Syria with an iron fist since 1970. Civilians were also killed when security forces stormed a neighbourhood near the Turkish border. more>>
|
Moammar Gadhafi plans to blow up facilities such as oil refineries as the embattled leader's forces retreat from Western-backed rebels in Libya, says Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, the Canadian commander leading NATO's mission. However, "just because Gadhafi has given direction, it doesn't mean that direction is being undertaken by his troops," Bouchard said. "We are seeing a fair bit of his generals surrendering, of troops abandoning their post and therefore, one has to put all these aspects under consideration when looking at the situation on the ground." more>>
|
(July 15) Violence surrounding the assassination earlier this week of the Afghan president's brother continued yesterday with an extraordinary attack by a suicide bomber at memorial services for Ahmed Wali Karzai. A teenage bomber gained access to one of Kandahar's largest mosques and triggered explosives hidden in his turban, killing three people in addition to himself, and wounding 15. At about the same time, another person was killed and two others wounded when a roadside IED exploded in the sprawling slum neighbourhood of Lowe-Wala in north-end Kandahar, which is considered a fertile recruitment area for the Taliban. more>>
|
(July 14) Diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and hooked on prescription drugs, 25-year-old Canadian soldier Stefan Jankowski returned home to Windsor from the war in Afghanistan to face a losing battle with his own demons. He died Saturday from a prescription drug overdose after getting little help from the military, according to his family. They said the Department of National Defence "washed their hands of him" and didn't give Jankowski the help he needed after he was discharged. "He's been found in the front yard of his house jumping over the railing, thought he was still in the war, running around on the grass in his underwear," said Jankowski's father. more>>
|
(July 14) Pakistan's Daily Times has published a piece by Dr. Mohammad Taqi that provides insights into the regional situation involving Pakistan and Afghanistan - and the United States, of course. Dr. Taqi article writes: "The Pakistani military leadership has been betting on a US withdrawal from Afghanistan that leaves the field wide open for them. It is an erroneous assumption and will likely result in the Pakistani security establishment biting off more than it can chew." more>>
|
(July 14) Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird is heading to Istanbul this week for the fourth meeting of the Contact Group on Libya, a body that includes foreign ministers from Western and Arab countries, Libyan rebel leaders as well as representatives from the United Nations, NATO and various non-governmental organizations. "We need to maintain political and military pressure on the [Gadhafi] regime to end its violence against civilians as well as to continue to demonstrate international solidarity in support of the Libyan people," Chris Day, Baird's spokesman, told Postmedia News. "Gadhafi must go to ensure the safe and free future that the Libyan people are calling for...The Contact Group in Istanbul is an opportunity to plan for the transition to a post-Gadhafi regime." more>>
|
(July 12) With an extended July 21 bidding deadline, federal officials from several departments are preparing to review proposals for fleets of combat and support ships required by the Canadian Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard. The original deadline was July 7 and while two potential bidders had requested a two-month extension, the government decided two weeks was sufficient. A $33-billion initiative the government hopes will help revitalize an essentially moribund industry over the next 30 years, the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy was unveiled in June 2010 after extensive consultations to determine whether there was legitimate shipyard capacity. Five yards were short-listed: Davie Yards Inc. of Lévis, Que.; Irving Shipbuilding Inc. of Saint John; Vancouver Shipyards Company Ltd. of North Vancouver; and two Ontario companies, Kiewit Offshore Services of Milton and Seaway Marine & Industrial Inc. of St. Catharines. The review, which is expected to take at least a couple of months, is the largest federal government shipbuilding program since the Second World War. Two shipyards will be awarded major contracts while the rest are left to compete for a series of smaller contracts.
|
(July 12) In a reversal of its former position, France has called for talks between Libyan rebels and the Gadhafi regime and suggested the Libyan even might be allowed to remain in Tripoli, albeit out of office. Col. Gadhafi can “be in another room in his palace with another title,” France’s Defence Minister Gerard Longuet said, suggesting the wily, self-styled African “king of kings” might be able to remain in Libya, albeit out of power. In the wake of Longuet’s surprising comments, both the U.S. and British governments insisted there had been no change in alliance strategy and that Gadhafi must leave Tripoli. The mixed message hints at worsening cracks in the NATO-led alliance relative to dealing with the Libyan conflict. more>>
|
(July 11) A harsh reality facing Canadian and other NATO trainers over the next three years is that nearly 50 NATO soldiers have been killed by Afghan forces who have turned on them or gunmen disguised in military uniforms. "All you need is for one of them to be coerced, to be threatened, to be disgruntled and then you potentially have a problem on your hands," said Col. Peter Dawe, second-in-command of the training mission. Brig. Gen. John Hammond with the U.S. Task Force said training soldiers in Afghanistan frequently face danger. "With any force there are threats in Kabul every day of the week," said Hammond. more>>
|
(July 9) As the training mission in Afghanistan spools up, the lessons learned by Canadian soldiers in battle are being passed on to Afghan security forces. "Nothing tests soldiers and leaders as much as combat does, and our men and women have seen plenty of that in southern Afghanistan," said Col. Peter Dawe, deputy commander of Canada's new military training mission. "That means they [Canadian soldiers] have trained with, lived with and fought alongside Afghans in the most challenging conditions against a resilient and brutal insurgency." By the fall, 950 Canadian advisors, trainers and support staff will be working on the Afghan training mission. more>>
|
(July 7) As Canadian combat troops complete their final withdrawal from Afghanistan this week, a fresh contingent of soldiers has joined the ambitious NATO training mission in the war-torn country. There are some 1,600 military trainers from dozens of countries and approximately 1,900 private military contractors. The goal of the mission is to create a 300,000-strong military and paramilitary police force that can take over security in Afghanistan before NATO countries leave at the end of 2014. About half of the promised 950 Canadian trainers have arrived during the past month in Kabul, where they are so far acting mainly as advisers to Afghan army instructors. more>>
|
(Dec. 2) U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, said Thursday that Syria has entered a state of civil war, with more than 4,000 people dead in the past eight months and more soldiers defecting from the army to fight security forces still loyal to the al-Assad regime. The conflict shows no sign of dissipating. Activists reported as many as 22 people killed Thursday, adding to what has become a daily orgy of violence. more>>
|
(July 6) Other nations with territories in the Arctic have - or are in the process of developing - capabilities that exceed Canada's in various respects. The U.S. and Russia have increased submarine activity in the Arctic, Sweden has mused about increasing its submarine capability, and Norway is looking to counter Russian air and sea power in the region. "You're seeing a buildup of capabilities that simply hasn't been there before, period," said Rob Huebert, University of Calgary Arctic security expert. more>>
|
(July 6) Col. Moammar Gadhafi reportedly put out feelers recently concerning the possibility of handing over power in exchange for security guarantees, Russia's respected Kommersant newspaper said on Tuesday. But the Libyan government denied it was in talks about the veteran leader stepping down. "Information about negotiations about Gadhafi stepping down or seeking a safe refuge inside or outside the country is simply untrue," Libyan government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim told Reuters. "Gadhafi is not negotiable, this is our position of principle, and the future of Libya will be decided by Libyans. Gadhafi is an historical symbol, and Libyans will die to defend him." more>>
|
(July 5) The Duke of Cambridge, a Royal Air Force SAR helicopter pilot, did something yesterday no British military pilot is trained to do: set down into water. According to the BBC, "Canada is the only country to train its pilots to perform 'waterbird' landings, in which the helicopter's engine is cut before it is landed on water." Prince William was coached in the Sea King by Col. Sam Michaud of the Canadian Forces, who described the royal family member as "relaxed and professional". Michaud said the duke told him his RAF colleagues would be jealous. more>>
|
(July 5) Canadian soldiers have universally praised the use of Chinook transport helicopters that the federal government bought from the Americans a few years ago for operations in Afghanistan. In 2008, the Manley Report recommended that the Afghan mission should end if the helicopters were not acquired due to the danger of improvised explosive devices planted by the Taliban. The Chinook helicopter fleet has transported about 92,000 passengers and six million pounds of cargo in the past 31 months. more>>
|
(July 4) The Harper government should create a new defence procurement agency to oversee the estimated $240 billion worth of military equipment the Conservatives want to purchase, says a federal report produced by a review team. Brought in to analyze recommendations from the country's defence industry, agrees with a recommendation put forward by CADSI that there be "a single point of accountability for defence procurement," and noted that "defence procurement and defence trade are neither free, open, nor transparent." Alan Williams, DND's former ADM(MAT) says "the only way there would be one organization responsible for procurement is if the prime minister steps in says ‘Do it.' Otherwise you'll just have infighting among the departments and resistance to any change."
more>>
|
(July 4) Mustapha Abdul-Jalil, the chairman of the rebel Transitional National Council, said in an interview with Reuters Sunday that rebel leaders had offered Col. Moammar Gadhafi the option to leave power and remain in his country about a month ago. Gadhafi reportedly did not reply. Some Libyan rebels have reacted angrily to the news. "Either he leaves the country, or he goes to prison," said Salah Ibrahim Eissa, who is from a town in the Nafusah Mountains region that has been attacked by Gadhafi's forces in recent months. Another rebel leader, in Benghazi, Abdul Hafidh Ghoga, told The Associated Press that the proposal was "not part of any discussions on our part in negotiations." News of the proposal coincided with a visit to Benghazi by the Turkish foreign minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, who recognized the rebel council as the legitimate representative of the Libyan people and promised the rebels $200 million in aid. more>>
|
(July 3) Canadian soldiers will soon join flood-fighting efforts in southwestern Manitoba along the Souris River, Premier Greg Selinger announced Saturday. "The Town of Souris asked the provincial government for additional resources and, given the short time frame and the need to quickly mobilize resources, I authorized the request to the Department of National Defence for military support," said Selinger. Two-hundred troops will be involved. A local emergency co-ordinator, Sven Kreusch, said the Souris rose about 30 centimetres in one night alone. more>>
|
(July 3) The National Post has published an examination of the war in Afghanistan, which includes: "Ten years on then, where are we? Certainly, our military can look over that decade with pride. They have performed miracles of valour and industry." This article also says: "On a larger scale, however, the Canadian military drawdown in Afghanistan has to be unsettling and unsatisfactory. We are-and the United States is as well-leaving or proposing to leave when Afghanistan is not militarily secure; nor does it have those civil and democratic institutions that we have been insisting on as a precondition for progress. All the good that has been done there could be undone once we're gone."
more>>
|
(July 3) NATO said Saturday that it has begun increasing its airstrikes on military targets in the western part of Libya, where rebel forces have been struggling to consolidate new gains in territory still largely under Col. Moammar Gadhafi's control. Meanwhile, the African Union called on member states to disregard an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against Gadhafi, presumably to give him an out should he wish to take it, something he does not appear to be interested in doing. more>>
|
(July 2) Prince William and Kate Middleton congratulated the Canadian Forces yesterday - Canada Day - for "a job well done." The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge released a personal message through Clarence House in which they spoke of their "deep sense of pride and admiration" for CF members. The couple thanked them "from the bottom of our hearts" for their "extraordinary commitment and contribution to the cause of peace". more>>
|
(July 2) Many of the Canadian combat troops deployed in southern Afghanistan celebrated their final Canada Day in the war-torn country Friday as they prepare to return home by the end of July. Festivities were held at the Kandahar Airfield, where soldiers were entertained by Quebec comedian/impersonator Andre-Phillipe Gagnon, the CBC's Rick Mercer, and other Canadian celebrities. Hamburgers were served and each soldier was permitted two beers. more>>
|
(July 2) Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi threatened Friday to carry out attacks in Europe if NATO does not stop its air campaign against his regime. The defiant leader delivered his warning by audio message played to thousands of supporters during one of the largest pro-government rallies in recent weeks. Gadhafi said that unless NATO halts its campaign of airstrikes "we can decide to treat you in a similar way" and his government would target European homes, offices and families. more>>
|
(July 1) Many immigrants become Canadian citizens on Canada Day and the federal government is strengthening the symbolic power of the military by having a member of the Canadian Forces (CF) play a prominent role in citizenship ceremonies. The Department of Citizenship and Immigration said earlier this year in an operational bulletin that highlighting the service of CF members is a way to underline to every new Canadian the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship. more>>
|
(July 1) Toronto Star reporter Rosie DiManno has written that Canada's "protracted, quixotic mission" in Afghanistan has been "a nation-building endeavour of extraordinary challenges and numerous setbacks, where not a single life lost — and there have been 157 soldiers who drew their last breath in this pitiless country — has been in vain." "War may be hell", she says, but in the case of Canadians' efforts in Afghanistan, it's been "ennobling." She interviewed Lt.-Col. Michel-Henri St-Louis, CF battle group commander, who commented that "Soldiers don’t ask for much — to be well-equipped, to be well-led, and to have a clear mission at the behest of, maybe, hopefully, a grateful nation." more>>
|
(July 1) Mary Stonaker, an independent scholar, most recently with the Middle East Institute, National University of Singapore, provides an analysis of the Libyan situation, including: "In Libya today, it is clear that Mr. Qaddafi will not relinquish his seat of power to the opposition forces." That fact "makes NATO’s job now extremely difficult. A few supportive air strikes have turned into what looks like it will be a long- term commitment, a manhunt to “cut the head off the snake.” As long as Mr. Qaddafi is living in Libya, NATO forces must now continue to support the Libyan people. Sending in ground troops has been discussed though is almost entirely impossible given the military obligations in Iraq and Afghanistan of NATO Allies, and American forces in particular." more>>
|
(June 30) The International Security Assistance Force said Thursday that a senior commander in the Haqqani network, which has links to al-Qaeda, was recently killed in an air strike. The commander, Ismail Jan, was wanted for involvement in the attack last weekend on the Hilltop Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul. Twenty-one people, including nine insurgents, were killed in the battle at the popular hotel. Security forces tracked Jan based on intelligence reports from Afghan government officials, citizens and "disenfranchised insurgents" before calling in the air strike, ISAF said in a statement. more>>
|
(June 29) On Monday, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for embattled Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, a development analysts say might complicate his possible departure from war-torn Libya. With a warrant hanging over him, Gadhafi may simply decide to tough it out until the bitter end, a decision that could prolong the civil war that has already claimed tens of thousands of lives. Mohammed al-Gamudi, Libya's justice minister said recently that NATO has committed "crimes against humanity" and Libya might look for ways to prosecute the military alliance. more>>
|
(June 28) Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird is urging patience for those anxious to see democracy come to Libya. He said Monday he was politically surprised and personally moved by his first-hand look at Libya’s rebel council. "I was struck by their courage, their determination. They’ve put themselves and their families at risk in this battle for freedom. It’s quite impressive," Baird said in an interview. He remarked that council members have a strong dedication to democracy, but warned that no one should expect that transition to take place overnight. Nevertheless, he was impressed with the council’s ambitious post-Gadhafi road map that calls for a constitution, elections and a full-scale leap towards democracy in less than a year. more>>
|
(June 27) Master Corporal Francis Roy, a nine-year veteran of the Canadian Forces who was serving as a transportation specialist attached to the elite Special Forces in Kandahar, is Canada's latest casualty in Afghanistan. Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, the commander of the Canadian task force, said Roy died of non-combat wounds, but gave no further details. His body was discovered Saturday by fellow soldiers. Death due to enemy action has been ruled out, according to a CF spokesman. Other possibilities would include suicide or accidental death. more>>
|
(June 27) The truck bomb that exploded in Afghanistan near a maternity hospital on Saturday may have been intended for the district governor's office and police station next door, officials in the eastern province of Logar say. "Personally I think the attacker made a mistake," Abdul Hakim Sulemankhel, the head of the provincial council, said in a telephone interview. "I think he mistakenly thought it was the governor’s office." In another incident on Sunday, an eight-year-old girl in the southern province of Uruzgan was killed when a bomb she was carrying exploded. The Afghan Ministry of Interior said insurgents gave the child the explosive and then detonated it by remote control as she approached a police checkpoint. more>>
|
(June 27) Libyan rebel forces have battled troops loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi about 80 kilometres southwest of the capital, Tripoli. A rebel spokesman said there had been heavy fighting on the outskirts of the strategic town of Bir al-Ghanam and rebel soldiers are pushing toward Tripoli. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court is to decide whether to issue an arrest warrant for Col Gadhafi or not. A decision by a three-judge panel is expected on Monday. The ICC's chief prosecutor has also requested arrest warrants for Col Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, and the head of Libyan intelligence, Abdullah Senussi. more>>
|
(June 25) Christopher Hill, a former U.S. special envoy for Kosovo and a negotiator of the Dayton Peace Accords, is dean of the Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. The Globe and Mail has published an article by Hill about the current state of NATO, particularly in relation to the Libyan operation, that armed conflict, and NATO's "dim" and "dismal" future, quoting U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates earlier this month, and quoted in the article. more>>
|
(June 24) Government documents released earlier this week revealed that Canadian diplomats were aware of allegations of widespread abuse by Afghan authorities in Afghan prisons where Canada's detainees were held. The documents describe private torture chambers, squalid prisons, and rumours of executions and of officials losing track of detainees. Opposition parties are demanding a public inquiry. more>>
|
(June 23) President Barack Obama announced yesterday that America's wars are coming to an end, with Iraq winding down and 33,000 U.S. soldiers returning from Afghanistan by the end of next year. The one-third reduction in troops in Afghanistan has failed to please many Republicans - for being too much, too soon - and Democrats, Obama's own party, for being too few and not fast enough. General David Petraeus had reportedly urged only modest withdrawals. Michael O'Hanlon, a foreign affairs specialist at the Brookings Institute and author of "Toughing It Out in Afghanistan," said: "The president's plan strikes me as solid in concept but a bit rushed." more>>
|
(June 22) Gen. Walter Natynczyk, Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff, is reportedly keen to become NATO's Chairman of the Military Committee when the post becomes vacant in September. He will require the prime minister’s support to run for the job because Canadian taxpayers would have to foot the multi-million-dollar bill for Natynczyk's salary, staff and security. A government spokesman said it is "premature" to comment on the General’s prospective candidacy. more>>
|
(June 22) A bus full of U.S. soldiers rolled over at CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick on Monday, resulting in 16 injuries, none serious. The soldiers were from the 251st Engineer Company of the Maine National Guard. Capt. Shannon Cotta, public affairs officer with the Maine National Guard, said the soldiers were at CFB Gagetown conducting training in urban reconnaissance and other tactics.
more>>
|
(June 21) Canadian family members, relatives and friends greeted members of the Royal 22nd Regiment at Quebec City's Jean-Lesage airport Monday. The Van Doos are wrapping up their seven-month combat mission in Afghanistan, the last group of soldiers from Canada to do so. "I'm most proud of the fact we were able to improve the lives of people in the villages that we were assigned to. But it feels great to be home," said one of the returning Van Doos. more>>
|
(June 20) LCol Michel-Henri St. Louis, the last Canadian commander to be responsible for former Taliban-controlled territory west of Kandahar City, says that what the Canadian Forces have accomplished in Afghanistan "is something to be praised." He measures the success in terms of improved security for Kandaharis from "the district governor down to the people in the bazaar", the number of villages visited and meetings held with village elders, and the significant advances made by Afghan security forces. more>>
|
(June 19) Half a decade ago, the official U.S. government position on dealing with militant groups like the Taliban was articulated by Pres. George W. Bush: "We do not negotiate with terrorists. We put them out of business." Five years, hundreds of billions of dollars, and many American lives later, it was confirmed by U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates today that the State Department has made contact with the Taliban in recent weeks. Gates, who steps down as SecDef on June 30, said "real reconciliation talks" with the insurgent group are not likely to make any "substantive headway" until at least this winter. more>>
|
(June 18) Recent polling in the U.S. shows that the American people have turned strongly against the war in Afghanistan. A Washington Post/ABC News poll before Osama bin Laden was killed in early May showed that nearly two-thirds of Americans (64%) no longer believed that the war was worth fighting and more than seven in ten Americans (73%) favour a substantial withdrawal of U.S. troops next month. U.S. generals do not want such a troop reduction because they believe that the Afghan army and police need more time to train and gain experience before taking over security duties from NATO forces. Another major concern in the U.S. is that the Afghanistan War is costing $120 billion this year alone. more>>
|
(June 18) Reports are filtering in that the regime of Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi is using novice soldiers to defend against a potential insurrection in Tripoli. The professional soldiers of the Gadhafi's militias who once cruised the streets of neighborhoods like Souq al-Juma in the Libyan capital in their Toyota pickup trucks appear to have been re-assigned to the front lines near Misurata, the Nafusa Mountains or the eastern oil city of Brega. Although weakened by NATO air strikes, the regime still had enough influence to recently organize a pro-government rally in Tripoli involving thousands of people. more>>
|
(June 17) The Department of National Defence has released a cost breakdown of the Libyan mission to June 1 and more than a quarter of the $26 million spent so far has gone toward bombs and other ammunition. With Parliament approving an extension on the mission, the cost to the end of September is projected to be $60 million. South of the border, the Pentagon has spent $715.9 million on U.S. military involvement in the NATO mission (to June 3), 55 per cent for munitions. more>>
|
(June 17) High-frequency radios and satellite phones are the new communications gear recently obtained by the Libyan rebel fighters that are allowing them to stretch forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi thin along three fronts. How the rebel army acquired the mobile communications equipment has not been reported on, but it would be a surprise to no one if the answer was NATO countries heavily involved in the three-month old armed conflict. NATO air strikes have been putting the squeeze on the Libyan strongman and his remaining military forces, including mercenaries.
more>>
|
(June 16, 2011) Sources have confirmed that, after many months of negotiations, French shipbuilder DCNS has a signed deal with the Russian Navy for at least 4 copies of the Mistral Class amphibious ship. The first 2 are to be built at DCNS shipyards in France and the next 2 ships will be built at Russian shipyards as they complete their own preparations for the modern builds. The announcement is expected to be made at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, an annual summit called “the Russian Davos.” For more info on the Mistral, click here: more>>
|
(June 16) Twenty-five US senators, mostly Democrats, have urged President Barack Obama to carry out a "sizable and sustained reduction" of American forces in Afghanistan next month. Approximately 100,000 US military personnel are in the central Asian country. The letter signed by the senators and sent to Obama told the president that the US "will never be able to secure and police every town and village in Afghanistan. Nor will we be able to build Afghanistan from the ground up into a Western-style democracy." The cost of prolonging the war "far outweigh the benefits. It is time for the United States to shift course in Afghanistan," they wrote. more>>
|
(June 15) The Canadian Forces has re-deployed soldiers who suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder overseas for a number of years. Ottawa psychologist Ken Welburn, director of the Ottawa Anxiety and Trauma Clinic, has treated soldiers with PTSD. He told CBC News: "I think that soldiers with PTSD should not be re-deployed into a war zone." The controversial practice partly stems from a decades-old military rule called Universality of Service, which says that CF members must be fit to carry out duties assigned to them, including deploying on operations, as required. The rule has created a Catch-22 that prevents some soldiers from admitting they have PTSD. more>>
|
(June 15) The federal government had little idea of the complexity of Libya in terms of its power structure before signing on to the NATO military mission. This Globe and Mail article explains that "Libya is a country of sorts, an authoritarian state overlaying a multiplicity of tribes, some of which are loyal to Colonel Gadhafi, others fiercely hostile to him." If the NATO-supported rebels are successful in overthrowing Gadhafi and his forces, what then? Will the NATO countries - relatively few as they are - involved in the Libyan war expend their resources to support the victors, who have been a rag-tag army of mostly young adults? Will Canada be expected to provide nation-building support in Libya - as in Afghanistan - assuming that Gadhafi and his forces are eventually defeated? If yes, for how long? What will the increasingly lengthy civil war and post-conflict support, if any, end up costing Canadian taxpayers? These and other points are discussed in this article. more>>
|
(June 14) Cpl. Ryan Elrick's armoured vehicle hit a roadside bomb in Afghanistan in June 2006. In March of this year, he was officially discharged from the military despite having trained as an intelligence officer and done exemplary work in that capacity, according to his superiors. Elrick's military career was terminated because he lost both legs as a result of the IED attack five years ago. A military policy known as universality of service says that if a soldier cannot perform combat duites, he or she is not fit to be part of the Canadian Forces. Elrick filed a lawsuit earlier this month arguing that the CF's policy is discriminatory and violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. His claim also asserted that former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier personally assured him there would be a spot in the Forces for him despite his injuries. more>>
|
Canadian air force general Charles Bouchard has been directing NATO operations in Libya for nearly three months. According to this Globe and Mail report, the conflict "is running NATO’s trickiest war to date: 10,000-plus sorties, taking out Libyan tanks, fighting in alleyways with no boots on the ground while sending food and medicine to both sides and keeping the United States out of the uncomfortable limelight of commanding hostilities in a third Muslim nation." On the fight between Gadhafi loyalists and mercenaries against a rag-tag rebel army that is ill-trained and ill-equipped, Bouchard says: "It’s a knife-fight in a phone booth." more>>
|
(June 13) Winning the war and winning the peace in Afghanistan are two separate things, as this Canadian Press report explains. The Afghan government's reconciliation program is starved of cash and red-tape-heavy and insurgents who give up fighting Afghan and foreign security forces because of promises of amnesty, money and a fresh start with a job have become quickly disillusioned. Kabul unexpectedly cut off the food stipend of former insurgents' on the weekend, angering many. "You [the government] are forcing us to go back and join the Taliban," Mullah Azizullah, a cleric, bomb-maker and gunslinger, recently told Kandahar mayor Ghulam Hayder Hamidi. "I am ready to go back (to the Taliban)," Graan, Azizullah's associate, said. "At least there we could eat." more>>
|
(June 12) Canadian troops and police will start work over the coming weeks in Kabul, Herat and Mazar-i-Sharif in Afghanistan, far from Kandahar Province. As they interact with soldiers and police, they will be vulnerable to attacks by insurgents disguised as 'friendlies.' Disguised insurgents have carried out several attacks in recent weeks, including one that killed General Dawood Dawood, a powerful police chief in northern Afghanistan, and Mawlawi Shah Jahan, the police chief of Takhar. "It’s a very real threat and it’s very disconcerting," said Col. Peter Dawe, deputy commander of Canada’s new military training mission. "But you just keep doing what you’re doing. We’re all military professionals and the vast majority of us have been here before. We know the risks." more>>
|
(June 11) NATO faces a "dim, if not dismal" future, U.S. Secretary of Defence Robert Gates said Friday in his final policy speech before he retires on June 30, if members do not pull their weight. The SecDef's blunt address targeted NATO countries' penny-pinching and lack of political. "Future U.S. political leaders — those for whom the Cold War was not the formative experience that it was for me — may not consider the return on America's investment in NATO worth the cost," he told a European think-tank. Despite more than two million troops in uniform, not counting the U.S. military, NATO has struggled, at times desperately, to sustain a deployment of 25,000 to 45,000 troops. more>>
|
(June 11) Two military flight instructors in a CT-155 Hawk jet trainer were forced to eject Friday after their single-engine aircraft lost thrust due to some type of explosion in the engine compartment. Lt.-Col. Lee Vogan and Danish flight instructor Capt. Jens Lundgreen-Nielsen were a few kilometres from CFB Cold Lake when they ejected. "They have been to the doctor, been X-rayed, and do have minor scrapes and are going to be a little sore tomorrow, but both are up and walking around and that's good news for us," said Col. Dave Wheeler, the wing commander at the base. more>>
|
(June 10) Canada's Libyan military operations have cost $26 million to date and could cost $60 million by September, according to Defence Minister Peter MacKay Thursday. Canadian Forces pilots have dropped laser-guided bombs on targets in Libya from March 19 to June 2, MacKay said at the start of a two-day meeting of NATO defence ministers. MacKay told a news conference that Parliament will be asked to vote next week on whether to extend the mission until the end of September. more>>
|
(June 10) While NATO Airborne Warning And Control System (AWACS) airplanes have been used in Afghanistan and Libya and partly crewed by Canadian Forces personnel, the Dept. of National Defence has decided to stop participating in the multi-national program in order to save money. AWACS aircraft monitor airspace and guide fighter jets to their targets. Crews come from 17 NATO countries and about 100 Canadian Forces personnel have flown missions. more>>
|
(June 9) Officials and experts on Afghanistan say there significant issues that have not been resolved related to switching from NATO to local control in key cities. Exact dates for when the first seven areas will transition are still unclear, a conference on the issue has been postponed twice and the United States has yet to decide how many American troops are leaving this summer. Some Afghan politicians believe local security forces are not sufficiently prepared for the switch amid fears that the Taliban will target relatively peaceful areas. more>>
|
(June 8) "The next time Canada goes to war, we should know what we're getting into," writes Eugene Lang. Three major lessons are explained in this Ottawa Citizen article.
more>>
|
(June 7) Matthew Fisher of Postmedia News has visited Afghanistan 23 times since 2002 and written about the early days of Afghan conflict involving the Canadian Forces. Nine years ago, conditions at the bombed and bullet-hole-pockmarked Kandahar airfield were primitive, one and many difficult realities faced by Canadian soldiers. This article is part of a series by Fisher on Canada's involvement in the Afghanistan War.
more>>
|
(June 7) The incident on Saturday when HMCS Corner Brook struck the sea floor off the central east coast of Vancouver Island effectively disabled Canada's only fully operational submarine. Corner Brook hobbled back to CFB Esquimalt and divers and engineers have been inspecting the submarine to ascertain external or internal damage, if any. The Navy has not said how soon HMCS Victoria, another of Canada's four submarines, will be fully ready for operations. HMCS Windsor is undergoing repair and maintenance in Halifax, and HMCS Chicoutimi, which suffered a fatal fire in 2004, is at the Victoria Shipyards.
more>>
|
(June 6) A $223-million Canadian submarine, HMCS Corner Brook, struck bottom near Nootka Sound off the west coast of Vancouver Island on Saturday and two sailors were bruised as a result. The sub was under the command of Lt. Cmdr. Paul Sutherland and conducting submerged manoeuvres during advanced submarine officer training. The boat was able to move under its own power and returned to CFB Esquimalt. An investigation will determine the cause of the mishap. Corner Brook was scheduled to undergo an extended refit this fall and be replaced by HMCS Victoria, which has spent most of its life in Canada since 2003 undergoing repairs costing $195 million. more>>
|
(June 6) U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said Sunday that combat units should be kept in place in Afghanistan and as many support troops be withdrawn from the country as possible. The U.S. troop withdrawal begins next month. "If it were up to me I'd leave the shooters until last," said Gates said. He told reporters that it made sense to keep as much "combat power" in place as possible to preserve and extend fragile security gains that have been achieved in the past two years, significantly due to the U.S. troop surge ordered by President Obama shortly after he came to power in January 2009. more>>
|
(June 6) Russia's deputy prime minister, Sergei Ivanov, told a military forum in Singapore that NATO's recent use of attack helicopters is "the last but one step before the land operation." British and French attack helicopters joined the pummeling last week. Russia has repeatedly called for a negotiated solution to the conflict. British foreign secretary William Hague defended the use of the helicopters and said ground forces would not be sent into Libya. more>>
|
(June 5) Today is Canadian Forces Day and Minister of Defence, Peter MacKay, used the occasion to remind "our men and women in uniform that they have earned our recognition and respect." In a statement, MacKay said that "Canadian Forces members carry their life-saving and dangerous duties with valour and bravery, with dedication and commitment" on a daily basis. more>>
|
(June 4) British Apache and French Gazelle attack helicopters under NATO command struck Libyan military targets for the first time Saturday, increasing pressure on Col. Moammar Gadhafi and forces still loyal to hiim. The British helicopters flew from HMS Ocean. "This successful engagement demonstrates the unique capabilities brought to bear by attack helicopters," Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard, commander of Operation Unified Protector, said in a NATO statement. "We will continue to use these assets whenever and wherever needed, using the same precision as we do in all of our missions." more>>
|
(June 3) Forces loyal to Libyan ruler Col. Moammar Gadhafi fired a dozen rockets at HMCS Charlottetown on Monday. "I can assure you that they weren't close enough to frighten anybody or cause any concern for damage," said Capt. Jennifer Stadnyk, of Canadian Forces expeditionary command in an interview. Jay Paxton, a spokesman for Defence Minister Peter MacKay, said: "The ineffective attempt to strike a NATO ship simply highlights the pro-Gadhafi regime's desperation to have some effect on the systematic reduction of its forces." more>>
|
(June 3) Military transport planes and helicopters have airlifted the last of 1,100 residents from the remote Saskatchewan communities of Wollaston Lake and Hatchet Lake First Nation. A massive forest fire in the past couple of days has threatened the communities. Duane McKay, Saskatchewan's director of emergency response, told CBC News that the operation has gone "really, really smoothly, and we're very grateful for the Canadian Forces assistance." Lt.-Gen. Walter Semianiw, commander of Canada Command, said in a news release: "The Canadian Forces is always ready to provide its unique capabilities in service of our fellow Canadians in their times of need. I am proud of the speed and efficiency displayed by all personnel involved in this important mission." more>>
|
(June 2) The United Nations has accused Col. Moammar Gadhafi and his regime of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Libyan leader has vowed to die in his country. Also, the federal government said Wednesday it will extend Canada's mission in Libya following the decision by NATO countries to extend bombing operations in the north African country until September. The current campaign expires on June 27. In recent weeks, NATO warplanes have been bombing a variety of targets almost daily, including government buildings in Tripoli. more>>
|
(June 2) A massive forest fire is threatening Wollaston Lake and Hatchet Lake First Nation in northern Saskatchewan. Two Canadian Forces' Hercules transport airplanes and three Griffon helicopters were sent Wednesday to the isolated communities to evacuate hundreds of people. Another Hercules was enroute Wednesday evening and more aircraft will be sent Thursday morning. According to officials, the wildfire now covers some 500 hectares and was close the Points North Landing airport Wednesday morning. Heavy smoke made landing difficult. more>>
|
(June 1) The body of Bombardier Karl Manning returned to Canadian soil Tuesday. Manning's family members and friends lined the tarmac at CFB Trenton as military pallbearers carried his flag-draped casket from a transport plane to an awaiting hearse. The 31-year-old radar operator from Chicoutimi, Que. was found dead by fellow soldiers on Friday at a remote outpost in the Zangabad area, 45 kilometres southwest of the Kandahar airfield. The military has launched an investigation into his death and said enemy action or foul play had no role. Reporters have wondered if Manning killed himself, an action that is unthinkable to his mother and not supported by the fact that he had recently bought a home and was engaged. more>>
|
(June 1) British prime minister David Cameron must not withdraw any more troops out of Afghanistan until late 2012, Britain’s top commander in the country, Lt Gen James Bucknall, has warned. British public support for the war in Afghanistan, which has lasted more than nine years, has never been strong and Cameron has ordered 450 of the UK’s force to return this year. Bucknall has warned that withdrawals could send mixed messages to the Taliban and said: "The coalition has had a good winter. We have got to hold on to what we have gained and hold that over this fighting season." more>>
|
(June 1) Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi told South African President Jacob Zuma on Monday that he will not step down. NATO warplanes have destroyed an estimated 80 per cent of Libya's military capability and a number of government buildings with the aim of pressuring Gadhafi to depart. Libyan rebels and NATO have set Gaddafi's departure as the main condition for any ceasefire but his refusal to leave combined with ongoing fighting involving troops still loyal to him and mercenaries have protracted the conflict in which thousands of people have died.
more>>
|
(May 31) Five generals, two colonels and a major have defected from Libya and received asylum in Rome. They are reportedly against the killing of Libyan civilians and met with journalists in the Italian capital yesterday. The officers said that Gadhafi's military strength had been reduced by 80 per cent. Only ten generals remain loyal, said Gen. Melud Massoud Halasa, one of the defectors. More than 100 army officers have left Libya in recent days, according to Abdurrahman Shalgam, Libya's ambassador to the United Nations, who defected himself in the early days of the uprising against Gadhafi's regime. NATO has stepped up pressure on the Libyan leader to quit with air strikes against government buildings. more>>
|
(May 31) Prime Minister Stephen Harper visited Afghanistan Monday for a surprise visit and told Canadian troops that they have done "exceptionally well" in the most difficult province in the war-torn country. Harper said Canadian soldiers have made progress in a complex and dangerous environment and the Afghan war had already lasted longer than the First and Second World Wars combined. General Walter Natynczyk, who accompanied the prime minister to a lookout above Sperwan Gar, pointed toward a $10-million road the Canadian military built into the Horn of Panjwaii and called it "a dagger through the Taliban's heart." more>>
|
(May 30) The much-delayed, $3B program to buy new fixed-wing search-and-rescue aircraft will be one of the military’s top procurement goals over the next three years, according to the Dept. of National Defence's latest business plan (May 2011). The half dozen CC-115 Buffalo airplanes are 44 years old and require significant maintenance. Obtaining spare parts has also been an issue. Other items on the shopping list are F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs), new frigates and destroyers, Arctic patrol vessels, upgraded Light Combat Vehicles, and a new computerized personnel management system. Concerning the JSFs, "DND now acknowledges the F-35 will cost more [than $75M each]. It is not sure, however, how much the aircraft cost will increase." Military fleet procurements are subject to federal funding for defence, which is being reduced by $2.525B over the next three years, as well as other factors.
more>>
|
(May 30) An unnamed 26-year-old Canadian Forces member has been arrested in connection with break-ins and a stabbing of a 58-year-old Victoria man in Victoria, B.C. this past weekend. CTV News has learned that the arrested man was training as a Naval Communicator at CFB Esquimalt. A base spokesperson confirmed that an ordinary seaman was involved in an off-base incident and is facing charges.
more>>
|
(May 30) At least two people are dead and several injured at an Italian-led Provincial Reconstruction Team base in the city of Herat as a result of an attack by militants on Monday. Herat is in western Afghanistan. The Taliban recently declared a "spring offensive" and have carried out a number of brazen attacks in the past month alone. more>>
|
(May 30) NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Monday that Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi's "reign of terror" is coming to an end. Since March, NATO warplanes have pounded Libyan ground targets, including Gaddafi's compound in the center of Tripoli. Britain said on Sunday it would add "bunker-busting" bombs to its arsenal with the aim of convincing Gadhafi to quit. The Libyan leader has denied attacking civilians and says the NATO military intervention is an act of colonial aggression aimed at grabbing Libya's plentiful oil reserves. more>>
|
(May 30) The Canadian Forces have ruled out an accident, "foul play and enemy action" in the seemingly mysterious death of 31-year-old Bombardier Karl Manning, whose body was found Friday morning in a small outpost in Zangabad in Kandahar province. What the military has not said is that Manning did not kill himself. His family, particularly his mother, is in shock. Manning had bought a house and was getting ready to send out wedding invitations. "It’s wrong, completely wrong," his mother said. "He had lovely projects on the go, he wanted to have a baby. I don’t know how they can say such things." more>>
|
(May 29) A suicide bomber killed one of the most powerful men in north Afghanistan on Saturday, General Dawood Dawood, police chief of the north part of the country, a former deputy interior minister and a close associate of mujahideen commander Ahmad Shah Masood. A provincial police chief, at least two Afghan policemen and two German soldiers also died in the attack and another 10 people were injured. The suicide bomber was disguised as a policeman. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the attack.
more>>
|
(May 29) The Canadian Forces have ended Operation Lustre, the 18-day mission that involved 1,800 soldiers who helped Manitoba fight the worst flood in three centuries. Filling and moving sandbags, monitoring and repairing dikes, assisting with evacuations from the flood zone, and protecting 160 private homes were the main tasks done by soldiers. CF personnel filled some 167,000 sandbags and placed another 440,000, according to the Department of National Defence. "I'm really proud of how the men and women responded out there," said Defence Minister Peter MacKay. "A staggering number of sandbags were moved." more>>
|
(May 28) Prime Minister Stephen Harper is planning to extend the Canadian military mission in Libya. NATO warplanes, including Canadian CF-18 Hornets, have been attacking Libyan targets since March but Libyan strongman Col. Moammar Gadhafi and troops loyal to him have proven to be resilient. Harper said he would ask Parliament in June to agree to an extension of the mission. "We've had good, strong support across parties in Parliament for this mission," he said at the close of the G8 summit in France. G8 member Russia as well as various non-G8 countries have criticized NATO for exceeding its UN mandate to protect Libyan civilians. more>>
|
(May 28) The body of the 31-year-old Bombardier Karl Manning was found Friday at a forward operating base in Zangabad in the Horn of Panjwaii. Manning is the 156th Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan and the second to be killed in 2011. "Bombardier Karl Manning's remains were discovered by fellow comrades," Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, the Canadian contingent commander, said in a statement delivered in front of a memorial to Canada's war dead in Afghanistan. "While an investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding his death, foul play and enemy action have been ruled out." more>>
|
(May 28) Russia has signed a contract with the US Army to deliver 21 MI-17 helicopters to Afghanistan. The deal is valued at $367.5 million and includes the helicopters and "delivery of spare parts, on-ground service, and material-technical support," according to the Russian defence news organization, RIA Novosti. Afghanistan's fledgling air force will begin receiving the helicopters in October. more>>
|
(May 27) Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced Thursday at CFB Shearwater that the "interim" Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone that arrived two weeks ago will be used to train Canadian Forces personnel until "formal delivery" happens later this year. Cyclone-maker Sikorsky was more than two years late on delivering its first CH-148. Sheila Fraser, Canada's Auditor-General, who retires within days, said in October that the Cyclone program was over-budget by $2.6B (84%). She also found that DND incorrectly assumed maintenance costs for the Cyclones would be the same as for the aged CH-124 Sea Kings and they could keep using Sea King warehouses, training and squadron facilities when the Cyclones arrive. The unanticipated costs total about $1.3B. more>>
|
(May 27) Libya’s prime minister, Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi, called for a cease-fire Thursday, saying for the first time that the government would be willing to talk to the rebels. However, the White House immediately rejected the offer as not credible. The Libyan government has called for a ceasefire several times since a NATO bombing campaign began in mid-March, but it has in the past refused to acknowledge the rebels' group, the Transitional National Council. “The time has come for serious negotiations,” al-Mahmoudi said, adding soon thereafter, “We have not conceded to anything.” more>>
|
(May 27) Nine NATO soldiers were killed in Afghanistan, including seven patrolling U.S. troops who died when an improvised explosive device exploded, officials said. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the IED attack, the worst in terms of fatalities since October 2009. One NATO service member was killed when a helicopter crashed in the east of the country on the same day. more>>
|
(May 27) Edmonton police said Thursday that a body found on Sunday was that of Master Cpl. Richard Curnow, a soldier who went missing on May 5 during a training run. The 25-year-old soldier was last seen starting a 10-kilometre morning run with eight fellow soldiers through Emily Murphy Park in Edmonton's river valley. He did not show up at the finish area and his vehicle was still in the parking lot. more>>
|
(May 26) The Dept. of National Defence (DND) has released information about Canadian combat operations in the skies over Libya: CF-18 Hornet fighter jets have dropped 240 bombs in 324 flights. Releasing the information is opposite to the DND's position one week ago that such information might compromise the safety of Canadian pilots and the success of the NATO mission. France, a significantly larger contributor in terms of sorties flown and air strikes, has shared its data weekly. The DND is still refusing to say where Canadian bombs have been dropped, whether they’ve successfully struck their targets and how much the mission has cost Canadian taxpayers to date. more>>
|
(May 26) The dire fiscal situation in the USA is creating a 'sea change' in thinking concerning military spending, which is about to enter a steep decline that may force the Pentagon to abandon some military missions and shrink the U.S. armed forces and perhaps America's role in the world, according to U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates Tuesday. Gates, who retires next month, identified several weapons systems as "absolutely critical" for the future, including new air tankers, more Navy ships and new nuclear-armed submarines. The U.S. federal debt hit the legislated ceiling of $14.3T ten days ago. An extra $2T in debt is needed over the next 18 months alone to pay Washington's bills, including military ones. Acquiring new military equipment is dependent on unprecedented borrowing in the United States. more>>
|
(May 25) Haaretz, Israel's leading daily newspaper, reported yesterday that "Senior members of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee last week instructed the Pentagon to come up with alternatives to the jet fighter of the future, the F-35, with the project facing massive cost overruns." The Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) was selected by the United States, Israel, Canada and other countries to replace aging fleets of fighter aircraft, but development delays, rising costs, large federal debts - more than $564B in Canada and $14.3T in the USA now - and other problems have forced a re-think about the JSF in various nations. "We cannot sacrifice other important acquisitions in the Department of Defense investment portfolio to pay for this [F-35] capability," said Senate Armed Services Committee chairman Senator Carl Levin. more>>
|
(May 25) For the last time before Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan ends in July, relatives of the fallen attended a poignant memorial Tuesday in front of marble wall that has images of their kin etched in the stone. The ceremony included for the first time the mother and brother of a British soldier. Capt. Ben Babington-Browne of the Royal Engineers and Maidstone, Kent, died when a Canadian Griffon helicopter crashed as it took off from a U.S. base in neighbouring Zabul province in July 2009. Two Canadians were also killed in the accident. "We all encounter storms. None is greater than the loss of our loved ones," Padre Guy Chapdelaine told the gathering. "Perhaps you are outside your comfort zone. This is understandable. But believe in this journey to this place. It is a unique experience." more>>
|
(May 24) Quebec Premier Jean Charest has asked Defence Minister Peter MacKay to send another 250 soldiers into the flooded St-Jean-sur-Richelieu area south of Montreal. “I spoke to Mr. MacKay yesterday (Sunday) and told him the importance of having the Canadian Forces present,” Mr. Charest said at a news conference on Monday. Strong winds up to 70 km/h propelled waves that flooded properties, destroyed homes and eroded shorelines. more>>
|
(May 24) U.S. Gen. David Petraeus praised Canadian soldiers on Monday for their efforts in Panjwaii district over five long and bloody years. "This has been Canada's area," Petraeus said in an interview. "What Canada hands off now to the U.S. elements that take over is dramatically improved." The senior NATO/ISAF commander said that Panjwaii is one of the toughest areas in Kandahar province, an "area that used to be Mullah Omar's hometown and used to be a Taliban stronghold." Meanwhile, on the same day Haji Fazluddin Agha, the governor of Panjwaii, pleaded for more money and resources to convince stubborn Taliban fighters to lay down their weapons. The Karzai government has pleaded with NATO countries for years to back a re-integration program and received only a tepid response. more>>
|
(May 24) NATO warplanes have carried out an intense bombardment of central Tripoli, hitting a reserves' base and killing three people, according to Libyan officials. The nighttime bombing was around the Bab al-Aziziya government compound. The Libyan government is claiming that 150 civilians were injured from the surrounding neighbourhood. On Monday, France said that British Apache and French Tiger attack helicopters would be sent to Libya to fight ground forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi from closer range. more>>
|
(May 23) With high winds expected to cause the Richelieu River to rise again and worsen an already bad flooding situation south of Montreal, Quebec Premier Jean Charest has asked the federal government to send more Canadian soldiers to the St-Jean-sur-Richelieu area. There are currently a few hundred troops helping with sand-bagging, but more are required. "We are going to ask the Armed Forces to be vigilant with the change in the weather patterns that may actually make things worse," Charest told reporters Saturday after meeting with mayors of the affected communities. more>>
|
(May 23) Pakistani Taliban militants attacked the Mehran naval aviation base in Karachi Sunday, killing at least 11 soldiers, destroying and damaging aircraft, and taking hostages, including two Chinese military personnel. "It was the revenge of martyrdom of Osama Bin Laden. It was the proof that we are still united and powerful," Taliban spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan told Reuters news agency. Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani condemned the attack, saying such a "cowardly act of terror could not deter the commitment of the government and people of Pakistan to fight terrorism." more>>
|
(May 22) On Friday, Manitoba's premier, Greg Selinger, thanked Brig.-General Paul Wynnyk and the Canadian Forces for their assistance during this year's flooding. "Without the additional support we had from the troops, its quite likely that we would have seen a good chunk of southern Manitoba underwater," Selinger said at a ceremony at the provincial legislature. Brig.-Gen. Paul Wynnyk accepted Manitobans' thanks on behalf of the military. The premier said troop levels will be reduced because the worst of the flooding has passed. Soldiers at critical points are still engaged in sandbagging and shoring up dikes. more>>
|
(May 22) Taliban gunmen wearing suicide vests stormed a government building in eastern Afghanistan early Sunday and killed at least three police officers. Insurgents also blew up a tanker on Sunday that was carrying fuel for NATO, killing sixteen. Yesterday, a Taliban suicide bomber infiltrated the capital's main military hospital and killed at least six Afghan medical students. The Taliban have increased attacks as part of their spring offensive against NATO and Afghan government installations and officials. Insurgents have also promised revenge attacks after the killing of Osama bin Laden by U.S. commandos earlier this month. more>>
|
(May 22) In an attempt to weaken Col. Moammar Gadhafi’s regime further, NATO air strikes hit desert command centers and sea patrols intercepted ships on Saturday. Today, NATO warplanes have targeted the heavily fortified Gadhafi compound in Tripoli. However, NATO has come under increasing criticism that it is overstepping the UN Security Council’s mandate, which provides for the protection of civilians but not for wider attacks. The Pan African Parliament, the legislative body of the African Union, plans an emergency session next week to discuss what it calls NATO’s ”military aggression.” more>>
|
(May 21) Ashton Carter, the U.S. chief of weapons systems procurement, told the Senate Armed Services Committee two days ago that the cost of building the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is "unaffordable" in its current version and must be reviewed. According to the Pentagon, the F-35 program has cost US$385B so far and the average per unit expense - without an engine - has reached US$113M. Since July, the Harper Conservatives have repeatedly said that Canadians will not pay no more than $75M per JSF, including an engine. Republican Senator John McCain called the F-35's cost "truly troubling" and said "It seems to me we have to start at least considering alternatives." more>>
|
The PBS FRONTLINE webpage says that "Kill/Capture" takes viewers "Inside the [U.S.] military's extraordinary secret campaign to take out thousands of Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters". Persons interviewed in the documentary include U.S. general and senior ISAF commander David Petraeus; Afghan President Hamid Karzai's Chief of Staff Mohammad Daudzai; Pentagon adviser Lt.-Col. (Ret.) John Nagl; a former Taliban commander who switched sides to work for the Karzai government; and two current Taliban commanders. The one-hour program can be watched online by visiting the PBS FRONTLINE "Kill/Capture" website (click on "more"). more>>
|
BBC News has a webpage about "10 notable examples" of governments using Special Forces during the past four decades. Click on "more" to go to the site.
more>>
|
A British journalist and camera operator were given unprecedented access to a Royal Air Force Sentinel spy airplane. The Sentinel, a Bombardier Global Express business jet greatly modified as an airborne battlefield and ground surveillance platform, allows the RAF "to police the Libyan no-fly zone." Click on "more" to watch the video report. more>>
|
(May 20) About 100 Canadian soldiers outside St. Laurent, MB were filling tens of thousands of sandbags Thursday as rising waters threaten properties around Lake Manitoba. "Right now, we are filling sandbags about as fast as we can," said Lt.-Col. William Fletcher, commander of the 1st battalion PPCLI, stationed in Edmonton. "By being here, hopefully we're able to raise public confidence a little bit and let people know that we are taking this seriously across the province and the federal government." The troops were filling about 2,500 bags per hour, expecting to reach 40,000 by the end of day. more>>
|
(May 20) Sikorsky's first interim CH-148 Cyclone maritime arrived at 12 Wing Shearwater, Nova Scotia last week to support training of aircrew and technicians. The Cyclone's arrival is not a formal delivery to the Canadian Forces as Sikorsky has not yet met all of its contractual requirements. However, it is a step towards delivery of fully-functional CH-148's, which are at least one year away.
more>>
|
(May 20) Working on soldiers' bodies ripped apart by improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan has been part of the more extreme work of Canadian Forces doctors, nurses and medics over the past five years. "Of all the places for Canada to choose, we came to Kandahar so we learned fast," said Capt. Dylan Pannell, a general practitioner who is returning to Canada after half a year at NATO's U.S. navy-run Role 3 Hospital, to begin studying to become a surgeon. "The type of medicine here is unlike anywhere else except in another active war zone. It is the best education you can perceive of." more>>
|
(May 19) A female officer leading a group of male soldiers is not something that exists in the Afghan National Army. But it has been a reality in Afghanistan involving Canadian Forces personnel. "The women of Afghanistan see that, they see what's possible," said Lt-Gen. Andrew Leslie recently. He added that the country can't be transformed by might alone and the "humble Canadian way" can be a persuasive force. Leslie added that if all goes relatively well over the next five years, the Afghan army will be one-quarter million strong and should be the single most respected organization in the country. He also observed that the most potentially destabilizing force in Afghanistan is corruption. more>>
|
(May 19) Speaking in Washington this week, Gen. Chen Bingde said the United States' armed forces are far more advanced than China's despite considerable progress made by Asian giant in recent years to enhance the quality of its military. Chen did warn that further U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, a renegade province as far as Beijing is concerned, could damage U.S.-China military relations. "China never intends to challenge the U.S.," Gen Chen, chief of the General Staff of the People's Liberation Army, said at the National Defense University in Washington. "As to how bad the impact [on U.S.-Chinese relations] will be, it will depend on the nature of the weapons sold to Taiwan," he said. more>>
|
(May 18) Col. Peter Dawe, deputy commander of Canada's training mission in Afghanistan, spoke with CBC News about the three-year project that gets underway this month. "It's a huge effort, all with a view to ensuring that the Afghan national security forces work towards this objective of a professional trustworthy, viable, self-reliant, self-sustaining force in the long run," Dawe said. Details are in this CBC report.
more>>
|
(May 18) Canada is one of a number of NATO countries that is reportedly running out of guided munitions to drop on Libyan targets and is ordering more. The Montreal Gazette reported yesterday that "the Defence Department has quietly ordered more than 1,300 laser-guided smart bombs." John Pike, director of the Washington-based defence think-tank, GlobalSecurity.org, says each Paveway 'smart' bomb costs about $100,000. As of Monday, CF-18 fighter jets had flown about 300 sorties but DND has not said how many bombs the Hornets have dropped. The United Nations Security Council mandate is for NATO forces to protect Libyan civilians from Gadhafi's forces. NATO jets recently bombed a key oil terminal in Libya. more>>
|
(May 17) Colin Perkel of the Canadian Press recounts what happened inside the Canadian Forces CH-147 Chinook helicopter that crashed yesterday in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(May 17) The CF reported yesterday that in March, a CP-140 Aurora from 14 Wing Greenwood, N.S., landed for the first time at Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Alert, the most northerly, permanently inhabited location in the world. “CFS Alert is an airfield we’ve flown over for decades in the Aurora, but it’s a place we’ve never landed,” said pilot Major Al Harvey. Experts with the Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment had determined that the frozen airstrip would not represent a risk to the four-engine turboprop aircraft. more>>
|
(May 17) One day after Britain’s top general, Gen. Sir David Richards, was quoted as saying that NATO would have to broaden its bombing campaign to include infrastructure targets in Libya to prevent Colonel Qaddafi from "clinging to power", officials linked to the government of Col. Moammar Gadhafi threatened Monday to post "human shields" at telecommunications sites under threat of NATO bombing. Damage estimated at $1 billion has already been done, according to Mohammed ben Ayad, head of the Libyan telecommunications authority. more>>
|
(May 16) Four Canadian soldiers were injured when the Ch-47 Chinook transport helicopter they were in Monday "rolled" during a "hard landing" on a river bed in Afghanistan. The accident occurred during night operations by the Royal 22nd Regiment in the Horn of Panjwaii. Insurgents were not blamed in the incident. The helicopter was badly damaged and may not be salvageable. more>>
|
(May 16) Just as the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court wraps up his investigation into crimes against humanity by senior members of the Libyan government and says he is "almost ready for trial", Libya's prime minister offered a truce Sunday to a visiting United Nations envoy in return for an immediate NATO ceasefire. Libyan rebels have taken full control of the western port city of Misrata and General David Richards, the head of Britain's military, told The Sunday Telegraph newspaper there is a risk the conflict could result in Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi clinging to power if NATO does not "up the ante." more>>
|
(May 15) As the Canadian combat mission in Afghanistan winds down, there are visible indicators of the great effort and sacrifice that soldiers have made: improved security, a road that runs the length of the Panjwaii district, hundreds of children going to school, and more. According to this Cdn. Press report, troops have a sense of accomplishment, but it's not complete. "There's a little bit of bitterness," says Maj. Francois Dufault, deputy commander of Canada's last deployed battle group. "We're battling for the last period but we will not be able to touch the Stanley Cup, because the Americans or other contributors will raise the cup in the air while we'll be out in the bleachers watching." more>>
|
(May 14) Eight sailors tested positive for illicit drugs and were booted off HMCS Charlottetown before it arrived in Libyan waters as part of a U.N.-sanctioned military mission, the Canadian Forces said Friday. All 235 crew members on the warship were tested 48 hours before the vessel left Canada. The sailors left the ship at its first port of call en route to Libya and were replaced.
more>>
|
(May 14) Hundreds of Afghans protested on Saturday against the accidental killing of a 15-year-old boy by Afghan and foreign troops in the Hesarak district of eastern Nangarhar province. According to the governor, shots came from the protesters and troops returned fire. It is not known if the boy was armed or simply an innocent bystander who was unintentionally killed. Civilian casualties in Afghanistan due to ISAF/NATO action have been a major source of friction between the Karzai administration and its Western backers. more>>
|
(May 13) The Canadian Forces will not be able to deploy combat troops overseas until the end of 2012, according to LGen Peter Devlin, Chief of the Land Staff. "We will have the means, by December 2012, to deploy a capable task force — not of this size — to respond if the government of Canada wants to commit us," Devlin told reporters. The CF is in the process of moving helicopters, ammunition, heavy armoured vehicles and some 1,000 sea containers filled with gear from Afghanistan back to bases in Canada. The lull in overseas operations will give soldiers much-needed time at home to catch up with family and friends and the chance to attend courses that have in some cases been missed for years due to Afghan tours of duty. more>>
|
(May 13) Working with the British destroyer HMS Liverpool and an unnamed French warship, sailors aboard HMCS Charlottetown helped thwart an attack by Libyan forces in the Libyan port of Misrata, according to NATO on Wednesday. The Canadian and British warships returned fire after pro-Gadhafi forces opened up with artillery and anti-aircraft cannon shells directed towards the allied warships. more>>
|
(May 13) According to BBC News, "British and US commanders in Afghanistan are keen to describe most recent operations as 'Afghan-led', while doing their best to play down the problems that remain." The Afghan National Army is reportedly growing by some 2,800 soldiers per month to meet its October 2011 target of 171,600. However, illiteracy, a lack of solid leadership, desertion and other issues linger. LGen William Caldwell, the U.S. commander in charge of NATO's training mission in Afghanistan, recently told reporters that although 110,000 Afghan men had been recruited in 2010, attrition reduced security forces by about 40,000 personnel. U.S. SecDef Robert Gates recently warned that earmarking billions of dollars annually for Afghan security forces training is unsustainable longer-term. more>>
|
(May 12) Canadian Forces' BGen Richard Blanchette, who heads the NATO Libyan mission, said Wednesday the crisis in the north African nation ultimately requires a political solution. "From a military perspective, we are currently very much aware that we need to have a political solution to this conflict. There's no pure military solution to it," Blanchette said when answering a question about United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon's call for an immediate ceasefire Wednesday. "Communications between organizations such as the UN and NATO are obviously part of that solution," Blanchette said. "From a military perspective, we continue with the mission with the instruction that we've received from our political guidance." more>>
|
(May 11) The first 100 Canadian trainers are expected to replace American contingents within ten weeks and take over existing facilities by the end of July, the month in which the combat mission for Canada's army ends in Afghanistan. A staggered deployment through the summer until November will distribute some 950 Canadian troops to locations in and around Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif in the north and Herat in the west. Six-hundred Canadian advisers will directly support more than 2,000 Afghan instructors as they attempt to professionalize and equip locals to take charge of security after 2014. more>>
|
(May 10) Canadian Forces troops have been working steadily in flood-ravaged parts of Manitoba doing sandbagging, mostly, in a major effort to hold back flood waters that pose a significant risk to MB communities. Soldiers have provided much needed relief and assistance to tiring sandbagging crews in some of the worst hit areas in the province. About 1,200 people remain evacuated from roughly 420 households south of the Assiniboine River.
more>>
|
(May 10) Withdrawing 70,000 troops from Afghanistan over the next three years and relying increasingly on special forces to lead operations is a plan being considered by the Obama Administration. The plan includes 10,000 American soldiers leaving Afghanistan by the end of this year. According to a recent poll, nearly six in ten Americans believe it is time for the White House to bring U.S. troops in Afghanistan home. However, General James Bucknall, the commander of British forces in Afghanistan warned on Tuesday that the Taliban will exploit a power vacuum in Afghanistan after the 2014 security handover to local forces and that the West must not abandon the country. more>>
|
(May 10) Peter Goodspeed writes in the National Post: "NATO leaders may have decided targeting Muammar Gaddafi could be the quickest way to solve Libya’s military stalemate." According to Godspeed, "Though they repeatedly deny it, saying they merely want to degrade the regime’s ability to attack civilians, NATO air raids are increasingly seeking out command and control targets that might also double as convenient hiding places for Col. Gaddafi and [his] top aides." Rumours are reportedly surfacing that Gadhafi "may be dead or seriously wounded." more>>
|
(May 10) Most Cdn. Forces personnel want the next defence minister to be the guy who took on the job in Aug./07: Peter MacKay. The Conservative MP from Nova Scotia was re-elected on May 2. MacKay started as defence minister just as the U.S. subprime 'bubble' was starting to implode. Trillions of dollars of wealth and millions of jobs were lost and the U.S., Canada and other countries haven't been the same since. Less, not more funding is the reality the next defence minister will have to deal with. In the coming fiscal year, funding for the CF will reportedly be $525M less, followed by $1B less in 2012/13, and again in 2013/14. Navy supply ships, destroyers, SAR and maritime patrol aircraft, and other CF fleets need to be replaced. And then there is the F-35 fighter jet fleet acquisition. more>>
|
(May 10) The Military Police Complaints Commission, which oversees Canada's military police, announced Monday that it will conduct a public interest investigation into the suicide of an Edmonton-based soldier, Cpl. Stuart Langridge, in 2008. Langridge, a veteran of Bosnia and Afghanistan, had been in and out of psychiatric facilities for depression and substance abuse before he killed himself at CFB Edmonton. His family have maintained that the military contributed to Langridge's death by failing to get him help. more>>
|
(May 10) Rebels have been fighting Col. Moammar Gadhafi's troops on a deadlocked front line in eastern Libya. The rebel army has been bogged down for weeks in the area around Ajdabiya, unable to move on to the oil town of Brega, which has an oil terminal and Libya's second-largest petroleum facility. The rebels say their weapons cannot reach more than about 20km while Gadhafi's forces can fire rockets and shells up to twice that distance. Also, in the skies over Tripoli early Tuesday NATO warplanes released their bombs in the heaviest bombing of the Libyan capital in weeks.
more>>
|
(May 9) Premier Sellinger of Manitoba has requested that the federal government send about 200 Canadian Forces troops to help raise dikes east of Brandon as soon as possible. "We have been relatively lucky with the weather, but last weekend's storms and the additional rain forecast will result in unprecedented flows of water on the Assiniboine River," said Sellinger. "The increase poses a risk to the Portage diversion." The soldiers would likely come from Shilo, MB, but could include reservists and out-of-province forces as well. more>>
|
(May 9) Amidst increasing calls in the U.S. from some legislators and many ordinary Americans that the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan be accelerated, NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Sunday that western powers will "stay the course." The Taliban have, in recent operations, proven that they are far from being a spent force. The war in Afghanistan is approaching its 10th anniversary later this year.
more>>
|
(May 9) Canada is one of just half a dozen nations participating in Operation Unified Protector, the UN-sanctioned air campaign against Libyan strongman Colonel Moammar Gadhafi and his forces, that has provided strike aircraft. Star columnist Rosie DiManno writes: "NATO may be a sturdy military alliance but it’s also a colossal bureaucracy, with opt-out provisos. That both complicates and restricts the broad campaign plan being implemented by LGen Charles Bouchard, Canadian commander of the Libyan mission, though he’s far too polished to say so baldly." more>>
|
(May 8) The effects of global warming, more trans-Polar airline flights, and oil and gas companies gearing up to do more drilling in the Arctic are presenting NORAD with more challenges in terms of continental security and emergency response. "There are a host of issues that face us as this beautiful part of the world opens up more and more," said U.S. Adm. James Winnefeld, commander of the U.S. Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defence Command. "And in order to be prepared for that, we have to keep our eye on the defence side of it, the security side of it, the environmental side of it, search and rescue, the safety side of it," Winnefeld said. more>>
|
(May 8) The Taliban unleashed a major assault Saturday on government buildings throughout the city of Kandahar, attacking the governor's compound, mayor's office, intelligence agency headquarters, three police stations and two high schools. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Webster Wright, a spokesman for NATO's Regional Command Southeast, said about 40 to 60 insurgents were involved in the assault and included suicide bombers. The attacks cast doubt on how successful the U.S.-led military coalition has been in its campaign to establish security and stability in Kandahar. more>>
|
(May 8) Forces loyal to Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi destroyed three huge fuel tanks in the besieged city of Misurata, the rebel leadership said Saturday. The loss of the tanks could lead to critical shortages of gasoline for vehicles and fuel for electricity in the stricken city, said Jalal el Gallal, an opposition spokesman. Elsewhere in Libya, fighting in the western part of the country again spilled into neighbouring Tunisia, where the government strongly condemned the mortaring of its territory. A Tunisian communique said the government would act “to preserve (the) integrity of its national territory and security of its inhabitants and refugees,” according to the official Tunisian news agency. more>>
|
(May 7) The first priority of Col. Peter Dawe, the commander of Canada's three-year training mission in Afghanistan, is to protect Canadian soldiers from lethal threats, including possible attacks by local troops who go 'rogue'. NATO and Afghan security forces have been killed or injured by Afghans in training who were either Taliban plants or turned by the insurgency. "We are certainly going to take measures to mitigate the risks, whether transiting from Point A to Point B or doing our jobs as advisers in the various camps," Dawe said recently. more>>
|
(May 7) In the remote mountains of western Libya, anti-Gadhafi fighters have proven themselves organizationally and operationally superior to the 'rag-tag' militia of forces in the east. They have learned from their mistakes more quickly and modified their tactics to increase their chances of winning in battles with troops loyal to Libya's strongman. "The medical infrastructure is so well honed that critical battlefield casualties are often whisked to Tunisia – sometimes along smuggler routes," writes Scott Peterson, the author of this article. more>>
|
(May 6) The Canadian Forces has dispatched troops and equipment to in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, south of Montreal, to help residents cope with the worst flooding in 150 years. About 500 soldiers from CFB Valcartier were dispatched to the area. Another 100 reservists from the Montreal area have been sent to the flood zone to support local emergency officials. "Basically, we'll be filling out sandbags, distributing food or water, protecting any infrastructure, or if requested, evacuating people," said 2nd Lt. Julien Beauchamp-Laliberté. The Royal Military College is among the buildings evacuated. more>>
|
(May 6) U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said in Rome yesterday that the Obama Administration will seek legislation so that part of the $30B in frozen assets in the United States belonging to Col. Moammar Gadhafi and his regime will be freed up and made available to the Transitional National Council. The TNC is the quasi-government comprised of anti-Gadhafi rebels that was formed mere weeks ago. About 20 countries had representatives in Rome on Thursday, some of which have pledged tens or hundreds of millions of dollars to assist the TNC. more>>
|
University of Alberta has established a new research chair at its Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. This will have direct implications for soldiers and Veterans across Canada. The U of A is one of the top 100 teaching and research universities in the world.
|
(May 5) Quebec Premier Jean Charest had asked that the Canadian Forces provide assistance to flood victims in southeastern Quebec. Soldiers are expected to be deployed today to assist with sand-bagging and other tasks as residents in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu and other communities in the area struggle to cope with the effects of heavy rain and rising floodwaters. Students at the Royal Military College in St-Jean had to be evacuated to a neighbouring garrison because of rising water. "We've never seen flooding like this," said Charest.
|
(May 5) The U.S., Britain, France, Italy and other nations are meeting in Rome to discuss providing the Transitional National Council (TNC) that governs eastern Libya, with $2B-$3B. Most of the money would be put in a trust fund under international control and used for medical aid, food and basic services like electricity in TNC-controlled territory. France's Foreign Minister Alain Juppe said he hoped the Libyan armed conflict would not last "more than a few weeks, at the most months." TNC spokesman Mahmud Shamam said it was "a question of weeks, not months" before Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi and forces loyal to him are defeated. more>>
|
(May 4) U.S. intelligence officials believe Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi is still alive even though he was in his son's house on Saturday when it came under a NATO missile attack. Gadhafi's son and three of his grandchildren were killed. The colonel, who no doubt fears for his life, has not been seen in public since before the attack. More than a month after NATO countries began an air assault on Libya, fighting is dragging on between forces loyal to Gadhafi and a rag-tag army of rebels who had hoped to quickly force him from power.
more>>
|
(May 3) Like their U.S. counterparts, Canadian troops in Afghanistan have welcomed the news of Osama bin Laden's death. As soldiers gathered around television sets in mess halls and recreation areas at the Kandahar Airfield, they cheered and exchanged high-fives. Yet the daily work of Cdn. Forces personnel in Afghanistan goes on, unchanged. more>>
|
(May 3) The federal government issued a statement Sunday commemorating the 68th anniversary of one of the pivotal struggles of World War II — the Battle of the Atlantic. "We remember, with everlasting gratitude, the valiant service and remarkable bravery of those who made the supreme sacrifice — those whose final resting places cannot be marked by graves — and of those who survived," the government said in a statement. Canada's and Britain's navies fought Germany's 'wolf packs' - subs that hunted convoys crossing the Atlantic. The Allies won the Battle of the Atlantic as a result of cracking German radio codes, signals intelligence, using new technologies such as radar, and creative tactics. more>>
|
(May 2) Osama bin Laden, the longtime leader of al-Qaeda and the FBI's Most Wanted terror suspect, was killed by U.S. forces in a mansion outside Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, along with other family members. In an address late Sunday night, President Obama said: "Today, at my direction, the United States launched a targeted operation against that compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. A small team of Americans carried out the operation with extraordinary courage and capability. No Americans were harmed. They took care to avoid civilian casualties. After a firefight, they killed Osama bin Laden and took custody of his body." Fearing retaliatory attacks, U.S. diplomatic facilities around the world have been placed on high alert. Obama called bin Laden's death "the most significant achievement to date in our nation's effort to defeat al Qaeda." more>>
|
(May 2) A blue wave swept through Canada as the Conservative Party, led by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, won the federal election with an absolute majority.
The party increased its seats from 143 to 167, well above the 155 needed to form a majority government.
In the previous parliament, the party could only govern by forming a coalition with other parties.
The reaction of the public to the results are mixed:
The progressive NDP also tripled its share from a mere 37 seats to 102, making it the official opposition party. Liberals, in power for most of Canada's history, sustained a decisive defeat, as did the separatist Bloc Québécois party.
On the surface, the outcome might be the continuation of Conservative rule, but there's no denying that the political landscape has changed dramatically.
While the Conservative Party has won a majority in parliament, the progressive NDP party also had its biggest win in history; this shows the sharp polarization of Canadian politics and society. Only time will tell how this redrawn political map will affect Canada.
|
Battle of Atlantic Sunday (the first Sunday in May) annually commemorates the sacrifices of sailors, merchant seamen, RCAF and Canadian Army personnel who gave their lives in the North Atlantic. The Royal Canadian Navy sacrificed over 2000 dead and 24 warships. More than 900 RCAF and Canadian Army personnel were also lost. The elements were often as vicious as the foe, with raging storms, pack ice, bitter cold, fog, and the dense blackness of North Atlantic nights. The RCN and the Merchant Navy made nearly 26,000 safe crossings carrying over 181 million tons of supplies to Great Britain.
|
(May 2) Between January and October last year, 458 soldiers from CFB Petawawa sought professional counselling for stress or anger issues, problem drinking, mood swings and struggles settling back into family life after being deployed to Afghanistan, according to military records. Of the 155 Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan since 2002, about one-quarter were stationed at Petawawa. "We're dealing with trauma, we're dealing with stress and we're dealing with loss," said Lt.-Col. Rakesh Jetly, a senior military psychiatrist. more>>
|
(May 2) Two soldiers based at CFB Shilo in Manitoba died early Sunday after their SUV went out of control in wintry conditions. Police say the 26-year-old male driver and a passenger in the front seat died at the scene after their SUV went out of control while crossing a bridge east of Brandon, landing upside down in a creek. “The weather was horrible. Roads were terrible. We have a lot of water here in Manitoba as you know, and it’s creating a lot of havoc,” said RCMP spokeswoman Line Karpish. The news media has not yet been informed of the soldiers' names. more>>
|
(May 2) Two soldiers based at CFB Shilo in Manitoba died early Sunday after their SUV went out of control in wintry conditions. Police say the 26-year-old male driver and a passenger in the front seat died at the scene after their SUV went out of control while crossing a bridge east of Brandon, landing upside down in a creek. “The weather was horrible. Roads were terrible. We have a lot of water here in Manitoba as you know, and it’s creating a lot of havoc,” said RCMP spokeswoman Line Karpish. The news media has not yet been informed of the soldiers' names. more>>
|
(May 1) Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi escaped a NATO missile strike in Tripoli on Saturday, but his youngest son and three grandchildren, all under the age of 12, were killed. The strike came hours after Gadhafi called for a ceasefire and negotiations in what rebels called a publicity stunt. NATO targeted the house of Gadhafi's youngest son, Seif al-Arab, when the Libyan leader and his wife were inside. Canadian Lt. Gen. Charles Bouchard, the NATO commander, said he regretted "all loss of life, especially the innocent civilians being harmed as a result of the ongoing conflict." more>>
|
(May 1) The United Nations in Afghanistan has issued a plea for all sides in the war to avoid civilian casualties. The Taliban have warned civilians to stay away from public gatherings, military bases, convoys, and government centers and buildings. In Paktika province, a suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest blew up himself, killing four civilians including a local council leader and wounding 12 others. The number of civilians killed in Afghanistan last year increased 15% from 2009 to 2,777, with insurgents responsible for about three-quarters - 2,083 - of the deaths. more>>
|
(Apr. 30) In a nine-point message on a Taliban website, the insurgency that recently broke out at least 480 of its comrades from a prison in southern Afghanistan says its spring 2011 military offensive will begin on May 1. The site states that "Mujahideen’s attacks must remain [against] foreign invading forces, members of their spy networks and (other) spies, high-ranking officials of the Kabul Puppet Administration, both military and civilian, members of the cabinet, members of the parliament, Heads of foreign and local companies working for the enemy and contractors." The site text says that "advanced weapons against the air and ground forces of the invaders" will be used. more>>
|
(Apr. 30) The government of Libyan strongman Col. Moammar Gadhafi says NATO air forces bombed a site near the national broadcast offices early Saturday while he was inside delivering a speech to the nation. Tripoli says the bombing shows allied forces are specifically targeting Mr. Gadhafi. In his hour-and-a-half long televised speech, Gadhafi vowed to never step down from power. He also called on NATO countries to stop the bombings and negotiate an end to the conflict. more>>
|
(Apr. 29) The Pentagon reported on Friday that "tangible progress" has been made in expanding security across Afghanistan, significantly due to the surge of 30,000 U.S. troops ordered by President Obama during his first year in office. Senior officials in Kabul and Washington, however, tempered the upbeat tone of the Pentagon's report by saying that the Taliban and other insurgent groups were expected to attempt spectacular counterattacks in the future. The recent prison break-out of hundreds of Taliban was hard evidence that the group has the imagination, will and people to pursue at least some its larger objectives. more>>
|
(Apr. 29) Fighting in western Libya has spilled across the border into Tunisia, where tensions were high Friday after the Foreign Ministry condemned the shelling of its territory and demanded that the Libyan government "take immediate steps to put an end to these violations." The incursion raised the specter of an escalation of the war between a rebel force backed by NATO air power and Gadhafi forces. According to Tunisia's official news agency, TAP, fighting on Thursday "caused deaths and injuries of many people. These clashes also caused panic among local residents and Libyan refugees in Tunisia." more>>
|
(Apr. 28) Britain has committed one million pounds (CAD$1.6B) to help Libyan rebels get rid of Col. Muammar Gaddafi and the country's commitment is open-ended, according to U.K. defence secretary, Liam Fox. "Our resolve will not waver," he told MPs on the cross-party Commons defence committee. Fox said Wednesday that he believes operations against Gaddafi's forces were sustainable and denied there was a stalemate in the conflict. more>>
|
(Apr. 28) After 37 years in the U.S. military, Gen. David Petraeus will retire later this year and take charge of the Central Intelligence Agency and as such, part of Pres. Obama's national security team. Many had expected Petraeus to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Since 1947, five people have taken the job of CIA Director while they were either uniformed officers or shortly after retiring from the military. more>>
|
(Apr. 27) The mud house where insurgents began digging a tunnel used to free hundreds of Taliban had been searched less than three months months before the prison break by security forces, who failed to notice anything amiss. Afghan Justice Minister Habibullah Ghaleb faulted security forces for overlooking evidence of the tunnel such as excavated dirt on the floor. Eighteen insurgents spent five months digging the tunnel and used steel provided by the US to Afghanistan to shore it up. Ghaleb also blamed foreign troops, noting that Canadian forces had been stationed at the prison in the past, and that U.S. troops had been building living quarters and judicial offices at the prison for four months as the tunnel was dug beneath them. more>>
|
(Apr. 27) Eight NATO troops and a contractor died Wednesday after an Afghan military officer opened fire in a meeting following an argument. Five Afghan soldiers were wounded. The shooting occurred in an operations room of the Afghan Air Corps at Kabul airport. The episode is the deadliest to date involving an Afghan turning against his own coalition partners. The officer was a veteran military pilot. The nationalities of the eight NATO service members have not been released. more>>
|
(Apr. 26) Eighteen Taliban insurgents spent five months digging a tunnel 230 metres long that went from a compound opposite Sarpoza prison in Kandahar province, under Highway One, and directly to a point beneath the prison's political section where hundreds of Taliban were held, then straight up and through a concrete floor. At least 480 prisoners escaped early Monday morning as guards slept. One escapee told Britain's Guardian newspaper: "The guards are always drunk. Either they smoke heroin or marijuana, and then they just fall asleep. During the whole process no one checked, there was no patrols, no shooting or anything." The official spokesman for President Hamid Karzai called the mass breakout a "disaster." more>>
|
(Apr. 25) QMI Agency's Ezra Levant writes in the Toronto Sun: "Anybody know what we're doing in Libya? Anybody want to talk about it during the election campaign?" He also argues that NATO is exceeding the UN mandate, as per Security Council Resolution 1973. "Startlingly, U.S. Senator John McCain actually visited the rebels in Libya, and called for deeper involvement. Sounds a lot like the days of U.S. 'advisors' training the South Vietnamese army," Levant points out. With Pres. Obama recently authorizing the use of armed drones (to fly at lower altitudes than fighter jets), is NATO getting pulled deeper into the Libyan conflict? If yes, what are the ramifications for Canada's military? more>>
|
(Apr. 26) On Saturday, the Pipes and Drums of the 49th Battalion, Loyal Edmonton Regiment, led a line of marchers one kilometer long from the Jefferson Armoury to the Prince of Wales Armouries, and then on to the Legislature in support of Valour Place, a residence for injured soldiers and their families. "This is an incredible turnout," said the regiment's honourary colonel Dennis Erker, who is leading the effort to build Valour House, a temporary home for injured soldiers and their families while they receive medical and rehabilitation treatment. more>>
|
(Apr. 25) US allies, most notably Britain and France, have been urging President Barack Obama to target Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi and intensify air strikes on the capital where he is based, Tripoli. "The focus should now be to cut the head of the snake off," Senator Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican and a leading voice on foreign affairs, said Sunday. It’s time, he added, to "start bombing Gadhafi’s inner circle, their compounds, their military headquarters in Tripoli." Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staffs, recently warned that NATO air strikes – mostly high-level bombing of targets in the open – are insufficient to tip the balance and that the war between Gadhafi's forces and the rebels "is certainly moving toward a stalemate." more>>
|
(Apr. 25) The Taliban staged a bold break from the Kandahar Prison Monday, freeing at least 476 prisoners through a long tunnel, according to the warden, Gen. Ghulam Dastagir Mayar. The prison is the largest in southern Afghanistan and housed Taliban captured in Kandahar, Zabul and Oruzgan, including senior leaders. A Taliban spokesman said 541 prisoners had escaped, including 106 Taliban commanders. The audacious prison break provides the insurgency with a human resources and psychological boost after a year of being pushed out of parts of Afghanistan due to the US troop surge and improvements in Afghan security forces. more>>
|
(Apr. 25) After years of expensive refits and repairs to make it seaworthy, the Canadian Navy submarine HMCS Victoria stationed at CFB Esquimalt is out of the dry dock and back in the water. Canada bought four second-hand submarines from Britain for $891M 11 years ago. Since 2000, HMCS Victoria has spent most of its time in drydock undergoing $195M in repairs. The Navy and the Dept. of National Defence have not commented on the plans for the submarine now that it is operational. An official launch will take place in the coming weeks. more>>
|
(Apr. 23) The Libyan army will withdraw from the besieged city of Misrata, according to a senior Libyan government official. Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Kaim said armed tribesmen would replace the army. "We will leave it for the tribes around Misrata and the Misrata people to deal with the situation in Misrata," he told reporters Friday. Misrata has been under siege for nearly two months by forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi. An estimated 1,000 civilians in the city are believed to have died due to shelling and sniper fire. more>>
|
(Apr. 23) The Taliban are saying they shot down a NATO helicopter Saturday, but it is unclear whether that's the case. What is certain is that two crew members were rescued. The crash occurred in eastern Afghanistan. Aziz Rahman Tawab, acting governor in Kapisa province, told the Associated Press that the helicopter crashed into a mountain.
more>>
|
(Apr. 22) The latest Pentagon operating cost analysis submitted to Congress for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) estimates that 2,443 JSFs will cost nearly $1 trillion over 30 years or in excess of $409 million per warplane. The estimate is based on 266.67 hours of flight time per F-35 per year for three decades. Canada's CF-18 Hornet flies about 300 hours annually.
more>>
|
(Apr. 22) The United States and its allies may find they have "turned a corner" by the end of 2011 if gains against the Taliban during the past year can be sustained in the peak fighting season, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday. "We have driven the Taliban out of areas they have controlled for years, including their heartland," Gates said. "They clearly intend to try and take that back. If we can prevent them this year from retaking the areas that we have taken away from them, and we can continue to expand the security bubble, I think it's possible that by the end of this year we will have turned a corner, just because of the Taliban being driven out and, more importantly, kept out." more>>
|
(Apr. 22) U.S. President Barack Obama has approved the use of Predator drones armed with Hellfire missiles to launch airstrikes against ground targets in Libya. NATO's mandate from the United Nations has been to protect civilians from Col. Gadhafi's troops, but his forces have repeatedly shelled, killing and injuring scores of civilians. U.S. SecDef Robert Gates denied Thursday that the decision to deploy the drones was evidence that U.S. forces were being drawn deeper into the Libyan conflict - 'mission creep' - that increasingly looks like a military stalemate. more>>
|
(Apr. 22) U.S. scientists have published a study - commissioned by the U.S. Department of Defence - that examined soldiers suffering from wartime trauma. The scientists found that food can play a vital role in mitigating the damage done by traumatic brain injury. Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan have experienced brain injuries due to explosions of improvised devices or being thrown inside a vehicle they were riding in that went over an IED at the moment of detonation. more>>
|
(Apr. 21) Canadian Forces trainers will be posted in two cities outside the Afghan capital of Kabul, including Mazar-e-Sharif, where protesters stormed a United Nations compound earlier this month and killed seven people. Most of the 950 troops in the training mission will go to Kabul, but two other contingents will go to Herat, in Afghanistan's west, and Mazar-e-Sharif, in the north. more>>
|
(Apr. 21) CF-18 Hornet fighter jets have flown more than 100 missions over Libya as part of a NATO coalition that anti-Gadhafi rebels first praised, then criticized. Instead of leaving Libya, Col. Moammar Gadhafi and his forces have changed their tactics, including using human shields, and remained entrenched in the capital, Tripoli. Canada has committed six Hornets and one spare to the mission, three of which were swapped out this past week for three new planes from Cold Lake, Alta. more>>
|
(Apr. 21) The Taliban were successful in planting and detonating a bomb on a minibus used to transport Afghan police officers. Three were killed and six wounded Thursday. The insurgency has killed and injured scores of Afghan soldiers and police and NATO troops in the past few months. In February, 38 people died when five suicide bombers dressed in police and army uniforms and armed with machine guns stormed a bank where Afghan security forces were collecting their salaries. more>>
|
Former Chief of the Air Force, LGen (ret) Angus Watt, a supporter of the F-35 acquisition, explains some of the confusion over program cost and engine pricing. more>>
|
(Apr. 20) British military commanders have warned that the Taliban will probably use "large-scale, spectacular attacks" to try to destabilize the transition process in Afghanistan once the fighting season begins this summer. The commanders expect the insurgency to change its tactics in an attempt to regain ground lost to coalition and Afghan forces over the past half year. Major General John Lorimer gave the warning during a briefing at the U.K.'s Foreign Office in which officials reported on political and military progress as well as unresolved problems in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Apr. 20) British military advisers will follow CIA teams already deployed in Libya as part of a Western effort – beyond any UN mandate – to help rebel forces oust Col. Moammar Gadhafi. Despite the expanded military role, London has denied that mission creep is happening. "Our officers will not be involved in training or arming the opposition’s fighting forces," said British Foreign Secretary William Hague. He did not elaborate on what type of 'advising' British officers, who will take handguns and leave their uniforms at home, will be doing. Some British MPs are comparing the escalation to the ill-fated decision by U.S President John F. Kennedy to send additional U.S. military advisers to Vietnam in the early 1960s. more>>
|
(Apr. 20) The National Post has published an opinion piece by Colin Kenny, former chair of the Senate Committee on National Security and Defence. He writes: "With all the gaps in Canada’s capacity to defend its own territory, why focus on the far north, where attacks are least likely to come from? Forget all those government scare stories about Russians assaulting our air space. They’re all bluster, and every sane military observer on the planet knows it." Kenny urges voters to "take a close look at the government’s plan to purchase six to eight Arctic patrol vessels to defend Canadian sovereignty in the North." Why? They're the "Wrong tools. Even if you give credence to the argument that flexing some military muscle would add to our credibility in the North, these patrol vessels would make us look silly, not strong. They won’t break ice any thicker than what you’d hear clinking inside glasses at a cocktail party." more>>
|
(Apr. 18) A gunman in a military uniform shot and killed two soldiers inside the Kabul compound of the Afghanistan Defence Ministry on Monday before being killed with return fire. "It is difficult to say at this time if he was an infiltrator or a real soldier," said Defense Ministry spokesman Gen. Mohammad Zahir Azimi. It was the third deadly attack inside an Afghan or international installation in four days. The Taliban have increasingly targeted NATO and Afghan soldiers using operatives disguised as military members or police officers, or 'sleeper' agents. more>>
|
(Apr. 19) One day after the Montreal Gazette reported that Dept. of Defence documents said F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) engines "are provided as gov’t-furnished equipment", DND officials and Conservatives responded by saying $9B for the JSF fleet does include engines. more>>
|
(Apr. 18) Mere hours before Kandahar's provincial police chief, five U.S. soldiers, and four Afghan troops were killed last week by suicide bombers, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Habibi predicted the Taliban would launch such attacks. "The enemy has realized that he has no ability to conduct large scale operations anywhere, so he has switched tactics," said Habibi, commander of the Afghan army brigade that is partnered with Canadian and U.S. troops in Panjwaii and Dand districts. "He will try his best to assassinate high government officials and ISAF soldiers." more>>
|
Reports that Canada's F-35s are being sold without engines are misleading. Prices quoted always include the engine, but the government-to-government Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) allows individual countries to choose their preferred engine from two choices: the F135 Pratt & Whitney engine and the GE-Rolls Royce F136 (known as Fighter Engine Team) engine. Canada is scheduled to choose an engine in 2012. At the present time, only the F135 P&W engine is certified, and is the engine currently being used. The F136 GE/RR engine has not received funding from the U.S. government in this Budget, as Congress and the Obama Administration are reluctant to fund the second engine. However, GE/RR are funding it themselves.
|
(Apr. 18) Running out of oil, global warming resulting in food shortages, and unprecedented worldwide demand for natural resources are among the predictions in a new and sobering report prepared by a special Canadian military research group. The report discusses four possible future scenarios, including a worst-case "global quagmire." Peter Gizewski, a strategic analyst on the team, told Postmedia News: "It all depends on what kind of steps are taken today that could lead to various futures." The best-case scenario is where Canada transitions to a 'green' economy and becomes a world leader in terms of using clean and renewable sources of energy. more>>
|
(Apr. 18) Elections Canada is making sure that every member of the Canadian Forces serving in Afghanistan has the opportunity to vote, a process that begins today. Soldiers in remote outposts in Kandahar province are visited by five teams that are shuttled around Afghanistan by military air transport. Voting booths are set up in mess halls and other locations where troops are able to cast their ballot. This CTV News report explains in detail the process by which CF members in Afghanistan vote. more>>
|
(Apr. 17) After dawn on Saturday, Col. Moammar Gadhafi's forces poured rocket fire into Misrata, killing five civilians and injuring others. Residents of the only western Libyan city to be controlled by rebels vented their anger at NATO for failing to halt the deadly assault. Also, a human rights group has accused the Gadhafi regime of using cluster bombs in Misrata. The bombs kill and maim indiscriminately and have been banned by most countries. The Libyan government denies the charge. more>>
|
(Apr. 17) Members of the Canadian Forces acted as paramedics on the U.S. west coast, rushing to the scene of a skydiving accident that left one man dead and another in hospital, critically injured. Dozens of CF personnel were at the Perris Valley Skydiving site in Perris, CA on Friday for military skydiving training when the two victims collided in the air and spiralled to the ground following their jump. "They [CF personnel] sprinted hundreds of yards over. They were heroic and immediately began emergency treatments until the regular emergency crews arrived," said Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld, manager of the skydiving facility. more>>
|
(Apr. 16) A suicide bomber dressed in an army uniform killed five NATO and four Afghan soldiers Saturday at the Afghan military's eastern headquarters. Four other Afghan soldiers and four translators were injured. The Taliban, which claimed responsibility for the attack, has increasingly used suicide bombers disguised as soldiers or police officers as weapons against NATO and Afghan security forces. Earlier this week, the Rideau Institute and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives issued a report that said Canadian soldiers involved in the Afghan training mission will be at risk. According to the report, the Taliban have increasingly targeted training and recruitment facilities. more>>
|
(Apr. 16) NATO wants more warplanes able to strike ground targets with precision like Canada's upgraded CF-18 Hornets. So far, Canada's contribution to NATO operations in Libya involves six Hornets, two refueling planes, two Aurora maritime surveillance aircraft, a frigate and more than 500 personnel. On Wednesday, CF spokesman Brig.-Gen. Richard Blanchette was asked if Canada could contribute more warplanes and replied: "I would not speculate on such a move right now given this is something that would have to take place within the headquarters with hard facts." He said CF-18s have conducted 98 of the 832 fighter missions flown by NATO jets. more>>
|
(Apr. 15) As security in areas in Kandahar province where Canadian troops have held the line against the Taliban for the past decade are steadily transferred to U.S. and Afghan forces, Canada's acting commander in southern Afghanistan is upbeat about the region's future even as the combat mission winds down. "There is a positive momentum going on right now in our area of operations," Col. Richard Giguere said Thursday. The situation has changed significantly in the past nine months or so, according to Giguere, including the near completion of an important road in the region. more>>
|
(Apr. 15) NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has asked alliance members for "a few more" aircraft for its mission in Libya. Britain and France have been trying to persuade other NATO members to provide more support for the mission. London and Paris have been urging allies to get provide more warplanes that can be used to attack ground targets. NATO countries are not unanimously behind the mission; Turkey and Germany oppose it. more>>
|
(Apr. 15) American, British and French leaders have said in a joint letter there can be no peace in Libya while Col. Moammar Gahdafi remains in power. To allow him to remain in power, they argue, would be a betrayal of the Libyan people. They also say that NATO aerial combat operations will continue over Libya to keep pressure on Gaddafi's government. The U.S., U.K., France, Canada, Belgium, Norway and Denmark have been conducting air strikes on Libyan targets.
more>>
|
(Apr. 14) In war-torn Afghanistan, the idea of allowing captured insurgents to return home unpunished is difficult for many people to embrace. Lt.-Col. Michel-Henri St-Louis, the commander of the Canadian battle group, is one of a number of military and government officials in favour of reintegration. "I think the district governor has a great opportunity to convince some of the fighters to live in peace, and maybe these two can be the start," he recently told the governor of Panjwaii, Haji Fazluddin Agha. "If these two individuals [insurgents] came here with their village elders, admitted to some of the choices they've made and vowed a future of peace, I think you could have the start of something very positive." more>>
|
(Apr. 14) Campaigning federal politicians are, not surprisingly, saying that if their party forms the next government, transfer of command of the Pacific fleet from CFB Esquimalt to Halifax will not be allowed to happen. The Navy has been looking at reorganizing itself to improve efficiency and reduce costs. According to the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, a transfer of naval command, as happened in the 1980s, would have very negative effects, with West Coast jobs losses topping the list. more>>
|
(Apr. 14) Winslow Wheeler, director of the Straus Military Reform Project of the Centre for Defense Information in Washington D.C., was in Ottawa on Tuesday and warned that the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) will not meet Canada's defence needs. "You're getting an underperforming airplane for a huge amount of money," he said. Wheeler called the F-35 a "gigantic performance disappointment" and said the aircraft has sluggish aerodynamics and its performance as a ground attack warplane is average. Regarding the cost of a JSF fleet, Wheeler said: "Nobody on this Earth is going to be buying F-35's in flyable condition at $75 million a copy. That's not in the cards." more>>
|
(Apr. 13) France and Britain exhorted their NATO allies on Tuesday to increase military action against Libyan ruler Col. Moammar Gadhafi and his forces, the latter bombarding positions in two strategic cities held by Libyan rebels. Forces opposing Gadhafi have appealed for weapons, equipment and humanitarian aid. French Defence Minister Gérard Longuet complained that France and Britain have been left by other NATO countries to carry "the brunt of the burden." The UK and France are also not happy with the reduced U.S. role. Longuet also criticized Germany, which is not partaking in the military operation, and said Berlin's commitment to provide humanitarian assistance was lacking. more>>
|
(Apr. 13) With the ongoing war in Libya and popular uprisings across the Middle East, the near-decade-old conflict in Afghanistan is becoming a "forgotten war", former British foreign secretary David Miliband said Tuesday. He also told the BBC that a political solution - negotiations with the Taliban - was needed in Afghanistan before British and U.S. troops are withdrawn in 2014. "The American surge has taken place, but without a political framework, a political settlement, then we are going to be getting closer to the end date of 2014, but without an endgame and I think that is dangerous," said Miliband. more>>
|
(Apr. 13) An international conference on Libya's future is scheduled to begin Wednesday in the Qatari capital of Doha. The United Nations delegation will be led by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who will attend the first meeting of the Libya Contact Group. The meeting comes a day after bloody violence in the war-torn city of Misrata in northwestern Libya. On Tuesday, at least 10 people were killed and 30 others wounded in heavy shelling. more>>
|
(Apr. 13) The Toronto Star has published an opinion piece by Michael Byers, who teaches political science at the Univ. of British Columbia, and Stewart Webb, a research associate of the Salt Spring Forum, about the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. They write: "The F-35 is the only fighter jet that meets Canada’s specifications, according to the Department of National Defence. But you have to take this on faith, since the Harper government has deemed the 'statement of operational requirements' confidential." They also ask an important question that has been on the minds of many Canadians since July - Is the F-35 really the best plane? - and explain why, in their view, it's not. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) ISLAMABAD - With the great 2011 Arab revolt still simmering, Western leaders are scrambling to bring to an end the 10-year war in Afghanistan, where the Taliban-led insurgency remains unbeaten. A step in the direction of an endgame through a political reconciliation process is likely to be taken at a preparatory conclave on the security and reconstruction of Afghanistan to be held in Turkey's capital Ankara next month. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) Extending the Afghanistan mission by three years in a training support role carries high risks and a low chance of success, says a report released Monday by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives and the Rideau Institute. The report notes that the Taliban have infiltrated the Afghan Army and police and killed and wounded several NATO trainers in the past six months alone, most of them Americans. According to analysts Michael Byers and Stewart Webb, the Taliban have increasingly targeted training facilities as well. Their report says that widespread illiteracy and high desertion rates among Afghan soldiers and police and worsening security in the country as a whole doom the effort to failure. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has released its latest assessment of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, which says that "Only about 4 percent of JSF capabilities have been completely verified by flight tests, lab results, or both." The April 2011 GAO report also says: "After more than 9 years in development and 4 in production, the JSF program has not fully demonstrated that the aircraft design is stable, manufacturing processes are mature, and the system is reliable." The F-35 is a highly-computerized fighter jet. However, according to the GAO report "Software development — essential for achieving about 80 percent of the JSF functionality — is significantly behind schedule as it enters its most challenging phase." The latest cost per F-35 calculated by the GAO is US$156M, more than twice the sum the Conservatives have been telling Canadians the JSF will cost them. more>>
|
(Apr. 12) Canadian soldiers assigned to train Afghan forces will be operating out of the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif, the site of a recent attack that left seven United Nations workers dead. Canadian Forces troops have been in the area conducting reconnaissance for the upcoming mission. According to this Ottawa Citizen report, "Defence Minister Peter MacKay approved the Mazar-i-Sharif deployment before the federal election was called but held off making an announcement because of concerns negative publicity might arise from the fact the mission is not centered on Kabul as promised, sources say." more>>
|
(Apr. 11) Hours after NATO airstrikes hit 25 Libyan tanks used by forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi, a delegation of African leaders said Sunday that he has accepted their "road map" for a cease-fire with rebels. The African Union's plan calls for an immediate cease-fire, co-operation in opening channels for humanitarian aid and starting a dialogue between the rebels and the government. AU officials, however, made no mention of any requirement for Gadhafi to pull his troops out of cities as rebels have demanded. more>>
|
(Apr. 11) A week-long sweep across Panjwaii district involving Canadian, U.S. and Afghan troops ended Sunday, with weaponry and homemade explosives used by the Taliban being discovered as well as large quantities of drugs used to fund the insurgency. “The caches were mostly in the fields, not in the compounds,” said Maj. Martin Larose, operations officer for the Royal 22nd Regiment battle group. “Because we also found a lot of stuff in compounds in January and February, they may have changed their tactics.” more>>
|
(Apr. 11) Canada's second-hand submarines are incapable of firing the Mod 4 MK-48 torpedoes the Navy has, reports the Toronto Star. The price tag for U.S. kits to upgrade the torpedoes is $125M. The four used British subs have cost Canadian taxpayers more than $800M so far in acquisition and repair costs. The Mod 7 torpedo, developed by the U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, is reportedly optimal in deep water and has advanced “counter-countermeasure capabilities,” according to the U.S. Navy.
more>>
|
(Apr. 11) The Xinhua News Agency, the official press agency of the government of the People's Republic of China, is reporting that the "Canadian government's plan to buy a fleet of F-35 stealth fighter jets has become an important campaign issue, with Prime Minster Stephen Harper defending the decision again Sunday." The report explains that Harper's "challenger, main opposition Liberal Party leader Michael Ignatieff, is telling voters that the F-35s will cost the cash-strapped Canadian government much more than the 75 million Canadian dollars per plane claimed by Harper." more>>
|
(Apr. 10) The new commander of Canada’s special forces, Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson, said Friday that countering any terrorist threat at home is still the primary role for his troops. However, training of foreign units will likely increase, he commented. Soldiers under Thompson's command include Joint Task Force 2 at Dwyer Hill and the Canadian Special Operations Regiment at CFB Petawawa. more>>
|
(Apr. 10) How much have Afghan forces planned the latest operation to be conducted in Kandahar's Panjwaii district involving Canadian troops? "Not as much as I would've liked as the lead planner," Major Robert Tesselaar said. "But a fair bit." According to this Canadian Press report, "The Afghan National Security Forces have indeed improved their skills and boosted their ranks under the guidance of the Canadian military." However, "the ability of Afghan forces to maintain security independently is an open question, despite Canada's five-year stay in Kandahar." more>>
|
(Apr. 9) While the Pentagon has publicly revealed how much military action in Libya has cost U.S. taxpayers so far, Canada's Dept. of National Defence (DND) has been mum on the bill to date. DND has not said when it will disclose deployment costs. "The department is not in the practice of putting forward estimates that may be subject to change because of all sorts of variables that are still in play," said DND spokeswoman Jessie Chauhan. "It's more about prudence at the end of the day, ensuring that there is a reasonable level of accuracy in terms of the full scope of our support to a mission, than it is about just putting numbers out there."
more>>
|
(Apr. 9) NATO says it "strongly regrets" the loss of life caused by an attack on Libyan rebel forces in the east of the country Wednesday in which at least people were killed, and possibly as many as 13 according to local doctors. The military alliance said it had not been told the rebels had tanks. The apology came from NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, hours after the British deputy commander of the Libya operation refused to say he was sorry. Rasmussen said: "This is a very unfortunate incident. I strongly regret the loss of life. The situation on the ground is very fluid. We have seen in the past that tanks have been used by the Gaddafi regime to attack civilians." more>>
|
(Apr. 8) The Times Colonist in Victoria - next to Esquimalt, BC - reflects on the navy's proposed change to move command of Canada's west coast fleet to Halifax. The newspaper writes that "no change should be made without a clear and credible demonstration that the savings are significant and the risks small", "there is benefit in having top officers within walking distance of the ships and their crews", and "problems can be sorted out - and identified - when the brass are walking the docks." The editorial concludes that "the navy should go slow on the restructuring plan." more>>
|
(Apr. 8) Aviation Week and Space Technology, a leading U.S. industry publication, reports that "The embattled F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is facing the threat of $3 billion or more in higher costs related to taxes and tariffs on components and subassemblies traveling around its international supply network." Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin F-35 executive vice president and general manager, said: "Tariffs and VAT [value-added tax] costs could exceed $3 billion ... and it could be a lot of extra cost if we can’t resolve that." more>>
|
(Apr. 8) Rebels in eastern Libya say their forces were mistakenly hit in a NATO air raid and doctors in Ajdabiya told the BBC at least 13 rebel fighters were killed in the strike. Reportedly, it's the third such incident in recent days involving international forces deployed to protect Libyan civilians. more>>
|
Intuit offers TurboTax Online Military Free File at no charge to members of the Canadian Armed Forces or Police who served on active duty overseas during the 2010 tax year. This also applies to spouses if they prepare their taxes together. The offer applies to TurboTax Online Standard or Platinum versions. TurboTax Online is accessible to anyone with an Internet connection; spouses can file together regardless of location at home or abroad.
|
(Apr. 7) "It's amazing that we're fighting two wars during an election campaign and nobody is talking about them as issues," Says Paul Willcocks of the Victoria Times Colonist. While Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan is winding down, the training mission is gearing up and is slated to continue to 2014. Meanwhile, in Libya, a civil war, for all intents and purposes, rages. Col Gadhafi shows no sign of leaving the country. Willcocks also asks: "How many years will Canadian jets patrol Libyan skies?" (as part of a NATO deterrent to keep Gadhafi's remaining forces from massacring Libyan civilians, which has reportedly already happened. "Is there a limit to which Canada (and the rest of NATO) limit our (their) responsibility?" more>>
|
(Apr. 7) The latest semi-annual White House report to Congress says Pakistan lacks a robust plan to defeat the Taliban and the Muslim nation's security forces struggle to hold areas cleared of al-Qaeda-linked fighters at great cost. The report notes a deterioration of the situation in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas in the country’s northwest alongside the Afghan border between January and March this year. The report also discusses recent bloodshed in Afghanistan, particularly among civilians and warns that Pakistan still had no clear path to triumph over insurgents and the Taliban were turning more and more to soft civilian targets. more>>
|
(Apr. 7) Canada has increased the number of personnel involved in the NATO-led mission in Libya by nearly 200, the military said Wednesday. There are now 570 Canadian Army and Navy personnel taking part in international efforts to crack down on Libyan strongman Col. Muammar Gadhafi. When the mission began a few weeks ago, it was 380 members of the Canadian Forces. more>>
|
(Apr. 6) Winslow Wheeler, a defence spending expert with the Center for Defense Information in Washington, DC and a former staffer with the U.S. Government Accounting Office, says that a fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) will cost Canadians billions more than what the government has been saying since mid-July. “Ultimately, the cost of this airplane is going to be about $200 million,” he says. The Tories have repeatedly said the cost per F-35 will be no more than $75M. While not saying if he was referring to the Conservatives or JSF-maker Lockheed Martin or both, Wheeler said: “To get to that number, they use several crude, disingenuous tricks. And they sprinkle a little fairy dust, in terms of ‘learning curve’ and other magical potions, to pretend it’s got some science behind it. It’s all hogwash.” more>>
|
(Apr. 6) The Harper government is trying to curtail what the Military Police Complaints Commission (MPCC) can report relative to its investigation into whether Canadian Army police ignored suspected abuse after transferring prisoners to Afghan authorities. more>>
|
(Apr. 6) Canada’s senior naval leadership is reviewing a controversial plan that would have control of west coast navy ships transferred to Halifax while senior officers on the West Coast would be responsible for overseeing maintenance and training for both coasts. The plan is meeting some internal resistance but top navy officials argue the reorganization would be more efficient and that ships can be controlled from anywhere in the country. Retired Rear Admiral Roger Girouard, former commander of Maritime Forces Pacific, said: "I get the march toward efficiency. But I am concerned that the capacity to look at where the rest of the world is going to be [growing Asian economic and military power] for the next two or three generations, if not longer, is going to be diminished." more>>
|
(Apr. 5) Forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi are staging a "massacre" in the besieged city of Misrata, evacuees said on Monday, as Libya said it was ready to discuss political reform, to be led by the 68-year-old colonel. Evacuees from Misrata, the rebels' last major stronghold in western Libya, described the city as "hell". They said Gaddafi's troops were using tanks and snipers against residents, littering the streets with corpses and filling hospitals with the wounded.
more>>
|
(Apr. 5) Today, at 2PM ET, The Globe and Mail is broadcasting on its website a discussion about the pros and cons of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter involving Lt.-Gen. Angus Watt, former Chief of the Air Staff (2007-2009) and Winslow Wheeler, a Washington-based defence-spending watchdog, who argues Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page’s JSF cost estimate of $29.3B over 30 years is too low - by as much as $10B, possibly. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) ABIDJAN — France ordered more troops into Ivory Coast to protect civilians on Monday as forces backing presidential claimant Alassane Ouattara prepared a “lightning” assault to remove Laurent Gbagbo from power. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) JALALABAD, Afghanistan - A "rogue" Afghan border policeman shot dead two foreign soldiers on a training mission on Monday, and hundreds of people turned out on the streets for a fourth day of protests against the burning of a Koran by a fundamentalist U.S. pastor. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) Decorated Air Force trailblazer Lt.-Col. (Ret.) Karen McCrimmon is running as a Liberal candidate in Carleton-Mississippi Mills against incumbent retired Army Brig.-Gen. Gordon O'Connor, the former defence minister who now serves as the Conservative government's chief whip. The central defence issue in this election is the F-35 fighter aircraft purchase, and like their political parties, the candidates hold strong and conflicting views about its merits. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) Since Friday, several people in Afghanistan, including four Nepalese policemen guarding a UN compound in Mazar-e-Sharif, a female Norwegian military pilot, other UN workers and two Afghan policemen, have been killed by Afghans angry that an American pastor of a small church in Florida burned the Qur'an last month. Afghans took to the streets in Jalalabad and Kandahar Sunday for a third consecutive day of protests. According to Afghan and Western officials, Taliban insurgents have exploited the ongoing tumult, using the riots as cover for attacks against Western and government targets and reaping propaganda benefits by allying themselves with popular fury over the desecration of the Muslim holy book. more>>
|
(Apr. 4) A key reason touted by the Conservatives for acquiring the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter was to counter Russian aircraft in the Arctic, and thus protect Canadian sovereignty. The Tories are now pointing to the Libyan conflict as proof that the F-35 fleet is needed. However, U.S. defence specialist Winslow Wheeler says the Libyan war shows that sophisticated high-tech stealth fighters like the F-35 are not required. He noted the U.S. did not use any of its stealthy fighter jets in the conflict, but relied on non-stealth aircraft and cruise missiles. more>>
|
(Apr. 3) According to Paul O'Neill, the U.S. Treasury Secretary during the first two years (2001/02) of the George W. Bush administration, regime change in Iraq was high on the agenda of Bush and his neo-conservative colleagues from the beginning. And they said U.S. military operations in Iraq would cost no more than $60B. Not so with the Obama administration in relation to Libya. Obama is acutely aware of the effects of the mostly-disastrous Iraq War, which killed more than 100K people and cost $1T. Long-term medical costs and other expenses for thousands of wounded veterans and replacing damaged and destroyed equipment is estimated to cost an additional $2T. The U.S. cannot afford to put boots on the ground to aid the rebels in Libya. more>>
|
(Apr. 3) Canada's top military police officer, the provost marshal, will gain greater authority and power, a change that critics have called for over years. "What it will do is allow us a bit more oversight on general policing duties in a place like Kandahar Airfield or Kabul to identify something that is more serious that needs to be examined and reach in with a bit more agility," said Col. Tim Grubb, the current provost marshal. The change is linked to the Afghan prisoner abuse debate and the question of whether military police should have investigated reports that Afghan jailers might have tortured prisoners handed over by Canadian troops. more>>
|
(Apr. 2) Embassy Magazine published an article this week that says: "At least one Ottawa diplomat is privately worried about further price jumps in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter [JSF] program, adding another voice to the chorus of governments already expressing concern." According to the article, "On condition of anonymity, the diplomat said his country is definitely worried about the situation as a result of recent developments." more>>
|
(Apr. 2) Six U.S. soldiers were killed and at least 15 others wounded earlier this week in Afghanistan when they came under fire by Taliban insurgents. The soldiers were with the 101st Airborne Division patrolling in a remote area close to the Pakistan border. According to ABC News, who had a reporter imbedded with the troops, the firefight lasted for hours. more>>
|
(Apr. 2) Canadian troops could be complicit in the deaths of innocent civilians if the government proceeds with weak recommendations in the international treaty to ban cluster munitions, says Earl Turcotte, Canada’s former lead negotiator. Turcotte resigned last month from Foreign Affairs after nearly 30 years in the public service. During the past decade, he was involved with disarmament issues. In an interview with the Canadian Press, Turcotte said he was removed as Canada's chief negotiator after U.S. officials complained to his superiors that he pressed too hard in negotiations. Internationally, several organizations are seeking to have cluster bombs eliminated. more>>
|
(Apr. 1) Prime Minister Stephen Harper emphasized today that no Canadian troops will be deployed to Libya. According to CTV News, "Gadhafi's forces have reversed almost all the gains rebels made since international air strikes began earlier this month and the setbacks have prompted the United States and Britain to consider supplying weapons." more>>
|
(Apr. 1) The Globe and Mail has published an opinion piece by Robert Joustra, editor of Cardus Policy in Public and a lecturer in international politics at Redeemer University College in Ancaster, Ontario, that presents a different angle on the F-35s-for-Canada debate. Joustra's piece includes: "Here’s a basic pitch: The F-35s are a minimalist hat tip to Canada’s taking its own sovereignty seriously. The Canadian air force isn’t equipped or designed for long-term overseas three-block warfare. In other words, spending money on fighter jets means a more traditional security posture." more>>
|
(Apr. 1) Pollster Craig Charney, president of Charney Research, a U.S. firm, and James Dobbins, director of the International Security and Defense Policy Center at Rand Corp. and U.S. special envoy to Afghanistan (2001-2002) share some key facts about Afghanistan in 2011 compared to 2001 that speak to the years of hard work of Canadians, including thousands of CF troops since early 2002, and personnel from other NATO countries. more>>
|
(Mar. 31) WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama has signed a secret order authorizing covert U.S. government support for rebel forces seeking to oust Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, government officials told Reuters on Wednesday. more>>
|
(Mar. 31) Despite the fact that the Pentagon recently estimated it will pay $151M for each F-35A, the air force version of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) that the Conservatives plan to sole-source, Prime Minister Stephen Harper is standing by his government's cost estimate of $70M-$75M per JSF. The opposition parties and Canada's Parliamentary Budget Officer have disputed the government's F-35 price. CTV News reports that the U.S. Government Accountability Office has "pegged the cost between $110 million and $115 million per plane. But defence experts said that report doesn't take into account recent changes to the program." more>>
|
(Mar. 31) The Canadian Forces is planning its first disaster response test that would quickly send CF resources to the site of an airplane crash, environmental incident or shipping accident in the Arctic. The Rapid Reaction Force North is to make its first deployment next week as part of annual Arctic training, said Lt.-Col. Gino Chretien, who will be commanding Operation Nunalivut from Resolute, Nunavut. more>>
|
(Mar. 31) Domestic violence on Canadian military bases has increased steadily in recent years, coinciding with the return of soldiers from Afghanistan, some of whom have returned to Canada with physical and psychological battle wounds. The problem exists in military communities across the country, but is acute at CFB Petawawa where a spike in cases was noted after troops returned from Operation Athena in 2007. more>>
|
(Mar. 30) Canadian CF-18s have destroyed another ammunition depot in Libya, the second in a week. As well, the Canadian Forces have co-ordinated other coalition air raids over Libya involving up to 20 warplanes. Four Hornet fighter aircraft from 425 Squadron out of Bagotville, Quebec took part in the Sunday raid. more>>
|
(Mar. 30) Mike Sullivan, director of acquisition management at the U.S. General Accountability Office (GAO), the top U.S. budget watchdog, told the CBC Tuesday that each F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) for Canada will cost more than $100M. "Probably somewhere between $110-115 million," he said.
Since July, the Harper government has repeatedly said that the F-35 will cost taxpayers no more than $75M. But three years ago, a GAO report put the cost per JSF at $122M and the latest order from the Pentagon for the air force version, the F-35A that the Conservatives want to sole-source, has a unit cost of US$126.6M. Also, GAO life-cycle costs are estimated to total $264.4M per F-35. more>>
|
(Mar. 30) Residents of a Belgian village are furious after their mayor ordered the removal of a Royal Air Force war memorial, honouring British troops.
The monument in Doel, on the River Schelde near Antwerp, was taken away in the early hours of Monday and its plinth was destroyed by workmen. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff promised Monday to re-examine a deal to buy the next-generation F-35 stealth fighter plane, but military experts say it would be pointless for a Liberal government to hold a "fly-off" competition to replace Canada's deteriorating CF-18 fighter-bombers given that there is no alternative that would suit the Canadian Forces' needs. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) WASHINGTON — U.S. President Barack Obama on Monday night rejected escalating military action in Libya specifically to oust Col. Moammar Gadhafi from power, warning Americans that the use of force to accomplish regime change would be a "mistake" akin to the invasion of Iraq in 2003. more>>
|
(Mar. 29) In an Ottawa Citizen article, David Pratt, senior vice-president of public affairs for GCI and a senior research fellow of the Canadian Defence & Foreign Affairs Institute, writes that "the Army Reserve performed exceedingly well and drew accolades from the senior command. As Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie noted recently, 'The Army could not have done what it did in Afghanistan without the Reserve. We would have crashed and burned. The country owes them a huge debt of gratitude.'" Pratt says Canada needs to direct "some attention to the Reserve. As an institution, it has been largely forgotten." more>>
|
(Mar. 29) Having served in Afghanistan, Canadian Forces medic Alannah Gilmore is no stranger to physical trauma. Her CF training and experience helped emergency personnel recently as they responded to a five-car crash in the Ottawa area on Sunday. Although Gilmore did everything she could to help a little girl who was seriously injured in the crash, the 5-year-old later died in hospital. Ottawa Paramedics spokesman J.P. Trottier said her efforts saved crews precious time in a rescue where every second counted. "It was exactly what the little girl required, but unfortunately she passed away," Trottier said. "That’s very typical of Canadian Forces people. They always stop by and help." more>>
|
(Mar. 29) World powers recently met to lay the groundwork for a Libya without Col. Gadhafi and his regime. U.S. President Barack Obama said Thursday that American forces would not try to topple the Libyan leader. British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy called on Libya's strongman to go and his followers to abandon him before it was "too late." U.S. and NATO aircraft have pounded Gadhafi's tanks and other powerful ground weapon systems, allowing rebels to go back on the offensive and push west. The London meeting is expected to set up a high-level steering group, including Arab states, to provide political guidance for the international response to the crisis and co-ordinate long-term support to Libyans. more>>
|
(March 28) Grant Derrick awarded Silver Star for 'exceptionally valorous conduct and also received the Purple Heart for injuries suffered during the same battle on May 4, 2010 in Laghman province, east of Kabul.
more>>
|
(Mar. 28) NATO's Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, said Sunday the military alliance has decided to take on the whole military operation in Libya. NATO will enforce "all aspects" of the UN resolution authorising action to protect civilians. "Nothing more, nothing less," Rasmussen told reporters. Libyan rebels have been advancing westwards toward Tripoli at breakneck speed, capturing towns abandoned by Col. Gaddafi's forces.
more>>
|
(Mar. 28) Corporal Yannick Scherrer of Montreal was killed Sunday by a roadside bomb during a foot patrol near Nakhonay, southwest of Kandahar City. Scherrer, age 24, was a member of the 1st Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment, based in CFB Valcartier in Quebec. It was his first tour in Afghanistan. His death brings to 155 the number of Canadians troops killed in the war-torn country. In a statement issued in Kandahar Monday, Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, Canada's top soldier in Afghanistan, expressed condolences on behalf of the military, adding that "Canadians can be proud of the progress our soldiers have accomplished for the people of Kandahar province." more>>
|
(Mar. 28) A Conservative candidate in Ontario, Raymond Sturgeon, lobbied for Lockheed Martin, the U.S. aerospace giant that makes the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The Harper government announced in July it would sole-source 65 F-35s for $9B, a move that has been controversial and was partly responsible for triggering the upcoming federal election. Sturgeon is currently employed by CFN Consultants, the Ottawa-based firm that is considered to be the home of the country's premiere defence lobbyists. more>>
|
(Mar. 27) The Star Phoenix (Saskatoon newspaper) reports that "For a country that couldn't win the support of enough of its friends, neighbours and (particularly) Arab nations to get a seat on the UN Security Council, suddenly being thrust to the fore in another war in a Muslim nation speaks to the convoluted nature of international politics." According to this report, the French, "who have taken a lead role in the Libyan campaign...don't seem all that pleased with Canada's leadership." France's president, Nicolas Sarkozy, "has belittled NATO for being too timid in going after Moammar Gadhafi's regime." In Canada, federal politicians spread out across the country to try to woo voters and verbally jab at the other parties. Meanwhile in Libya, fighting with weapons continues. more>>
|
(Mar. 27) Two CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircraft arrived in Trapani, Italy Friday to join the Canadian contribution to Operation Odyssey Dawn, the international military effort to enforce a UN Security Council-mandated no-fly zone over Libya. It is unknown at this point how long the Auroras, the CF-18 fighter aircraft, and the CC-150 Polaris air tankers based in Italy will be in-theatre.
more>>
|
(Mar. 26) Less than four months after Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced that the Harper government intended to sole-source 65 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for $9 billion, his statement in early November that the JSF acquisition would probably be an election issue can now be regarded as a certainty. Yesterday, the opposition parties won a no-confidence vote against the government and campaigning starts today. Earlier this week, the procedure and House affairs committee tabled a report that said the Harper government was in contempt of Parliament for refusing to supply requested information on the cost of the F-35s, Tory justice system reforms and their projections for corporate profits and tax rates. more>>
|
(Mar. 26) According to retired Major-General Lewis Mackenzie, the multi-national military mission in Libya has experienced "mission creep." Mackenzie was referring to the French military’s widening of its attacks beyond the UN’s formal confines, but Canada’s role has also expanded in the past month. Canadian troops first went into Libya to rescue people, "then to deliver aid, then to escort sorties. Now they’re dropping bombs," says this Globe and Mail article. It also says that "with the leadership of the mission in day-to-day flux, no exit strategy on the horizon and Canada’s decision makers distracted by election excitement, who knows where the actions of Moammar Gadhafi will take us?" more>>
|
(March 25) Lt.-Gen. Charles Bouchard of Canada will take over command of the NATO mission in Libya, Canadian Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Friday. more>>
|
(Mar. 25) Canada is sending CP-140 Aurora patrol aircraft to Italy to provide "strategic maritime surveillance" in support of the UN-backed mission in Libya. The announcement from Defence Minister Peter MacKay came as the ground battle between Libyan rebels and forces loyal to Col. Gadhafi raged on, following a fifth night of targeted air strikes by the international coalition. more>>
|
(Mar. 25) NATO agreed Thursday to take over enforcement of the no-fly zone over Libya after days of intense negotiations among its members. NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen made the announcement in Brussels, telling reporters: "At this moment there will still be a coalition operation and a NATO operation. We are considering whether NATO should take on the broader responsibility in accordance with the UN Security Council resolution, but that decision has not been reached yet." more>>
|
(Mar. 25) The Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reported Thursday that "Canada's Parliament is expected to vote today on a no-confidence motion that would topple the government of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and force new elections, in part because opponents say the administration has not been honest about the cost of buying F-35s." The report mentions the recent $29.3B F-35 fleet cost estimate (over 30 years) by Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page and the report "also says the cancellation of the second [GE/Rolls Royce] engine could result in cost increases because of a lack of competition and the possibility of problems arising with the Pratt & Whitney engine." U.S. politics related to the GE/RR engine are discussed in the report. more>>
|
(Mar. 24) Four CF-18 fighter jets have conducted two bombing missions, destroying a Libyan ammunition depot in the process. The first attack took place at Misrata, east of Tripoli on the Mediterranean coast, the scene of heavy fighting between rebels and Gadhafi forces. A doctor in Misrata told the Associated Press that air strikes forced Gadhafi’s tanks to withdraw and one bomb hit a local aviation academy and a second struck a vacant lot outside the central hospital. Reportedly, it's unclear whether the bombs came from any of the CF-18s or other aircraft. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) The federal government is importing a U.S. program aimed at helping veterans transition from combat to construction. On Tuesday, the Harper government's unveiled its budget, which includes a program called "Helmets to Hardhats." Reportedly, the program is primarily "a new website aimed at matching skilled veterans and newly released Canadian Forces members with the construction sector."
more>>
|
(Mar. 23) Libyan strongman Muammar Gadhafi may try to hang on to power despite the multinational military mission pounding his forces, U.S. President Barack Obama said in an interview Tuesday. Obama hopes the military action will create enough space for rebels to oust and replace the Gadhafi regime. "I think - our hope is - that the first thing that can happen once we've cleared the space is that the rebels are able to start discussing how they organise themselves, how they articulate their aspirations for the Libyan people and create a legitimate government," Obama told CNN. more>>
|
(Mar. 23) Aviation Week and Space Technology is reporting that "Customers for Lockheed-Martin’s stealthy F-35 Joint Strike Fighter—among them Canada, Israel, Britain and Australia—are shifting their mood from anxiety to paranoia over increasingly unpredictable costs." The AW&ST report says that "Foreign analysts now expect JSF prices to significantly exceed even the latest Pentagon estimate, putting government officials in fiscal and political jeopardy as they try to craft a rational purchase plan for the fifth-generation warplane." more>>
|
(Mar 23) By Ken Pole: The Department of National Defence will bear an overwhelming majority of the nearly $2.6 billion dollars the government plans to trim from spending programs over the next three years, according the main background document to the Conservatives’ latest budget plans. With the opposition parties united in rejecting Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s sixth budget and expected to force a general election unless the government amends its budget to their satisfaction, the proposals would die, but a series of national opinion polls over the past few months indicates that another Conservative minority is likely to emerge from the next election, which would mean the “strategic review” currently under way could be expected to continue.
The focus on cost-cutting is expected to yield what Mr. Flaherty described in his budget speech as “substantial additional savings through greater efficiency and effectiveness” but he left it to the budget document to set out the details of how the savings were expected to grow from $194.5 million in the current fiscal year, 2011-2012, to $796.4 million in 2012-2013 and then to $1,569.2 million in 2013-2114. While DND is not on the list of first-year savings, it would account for $525 million or 66 per cent of the second year and $1 billion or nearly 64% of the third year, and there was no indication how this would affect an array of military equipment programs. The bulk of the rest of the savings in each year would be accounted for by cuts within the Human Resources & Skills Development, Infrastructure and Public Works & Development departments.
|
CADSI, the Canadian Association for Defence and Security Industries, calls today’s commitment by the Conservative government to achieve maximum domestic industrial participation and jobs in Canada from defence spending, "welcome news" for the 90,000 Canadians with knowledge-based careers in the defence and security sector. more>>
|
(March 22)
Canadian fighter jets on a combat mission in Libya turned back without releasing their bombs Tuesday after it was determined that the risk of "collateral damage" was too great, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said. more>>
|
(March 22) Earlier this year, a small group of Canadian soldiers from CFB Petawawa touched down in Senegal to help train African special forces. It was a first for Canada, and underscored the West’s growing concern about the inroads al-Qaeda is making in the region known as the Sahel. But Exercise Flintlock, which involved soldiers from a dozen western and African countries, wasn’t designed to only teach the Africans combat skills — hearts and minds were also targets. And the Canadians learned a few things too. more>>
|
(March 21) KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — The area of southern Afghanistan, where Canadian forces are clustered, has been left off a list of regions where Afghan troops will begin taking over command authority from NATO forces. more>>
|
(Mar. 22) Canadian CF-18 fighter pilots have flown their first mission as part of an international effort to enforce a no-fly-zone over Libya. Four CF-18s plus two Canadian Forces CC-150 Polaris refueling planes took off from a base in Trapani, Italy on Monday morning to conduct patrols and provide support to other fighters. "Simply put: We want to disable their [the Libyan] air force," Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Monday.
more>>
|
(Mar. 22) After a weekend meeting of world leaders in Paris in which Prime Minister Stephen Harper described joint military action against Libya as "war", his government wants the opposition parties to support a motion related to the military action. However, neither Ottawa nor its U.S. or European allies have been clear on what, exactly, is the ultimate objective of enforcing the no-fly zone over Libya. more>>
|
(Mar. 22) Afghanistan's president, Hamid Karzai, will reveal Tuesday the first areas where his government's security forces will take over from NATO, starting a transition that is supposed to be finished by late 2014. However, doubts remain over how ready Afghan security forces really are to assume control, with military leaders complaining of a lack of resources and some analysts citing corruption and low retention rates. "Afghanistan still lacks a cohesive national security strategy and the Afghan military and police remain dangerously fragmented and highly politicized," notes the International Crisis Group. more>>
|
(Mar. 21) A NATO probe into the shooting of a Canadian convoy in Kandahar on Boxing Day by Afghan troops has called for improved training for coalition and Afghan forces so that a repeat situation never happens. The Afghan soldiers shot at the convoy after a language problem resulted in the convoy commander not getting his superior to come forward. "Most of the ANA soldiers fired into the air, but several TFK vehicles were struck by bullets," said Lt.-Col. Webster Wright, a public affairs officer with Regional Command South. more>>
|
(Mar. 21) The Interdepartmental Maritime Integrated Command, Control and Communications (IMIC3) system is leading-edge technology that will help Navy and Coast Guard commanders protect Canada’s maritime environment better. IMIC3 installed on vessels and in onshore operations centres will provide data-collection and -sharing in near-real-time. more>>
|
(March 21) Prime Minister Stephen Harper's decision to use Canadian military jets to help secure a Libya no-fly zone has given him the opportunity to stand prominently on the world stage as the "leader of the people," an image the other parties must counteract if they hope to be successful in a looming federal election, political experts say. more>>
|
(March 21) Five long years have passed for Tim Goddard since his daughter, Capt. Nichola Goddard, became the first female Canadian soldier to be killed in combat.
In that time, there have been many occasions to lay wreaths, say prayers and shed tears over her death, but Goddard felt there was still one thing he needed to move a little nearer to some form of closure. So when he was recently presented with an invitation to travel to the country where his daughter died, he couldn't say no. more>>
|
(March 21) TRIPOLI — Western powers launched a second wave of air strikes on Libya early on Monday after halting the advance of Moammar Gadhafi's forces on Benghazi and targeting air defences to let their planes patrol the skies. more>>
|
(March 21) Libya’s air force is enormously outmatched by the coalition's air power. more>>
|
(Mar. 20) French and British fighter jets and 112 Tomahawk cruise missiles from British and U.S. warships pounded command-and-control and other military installations in Libya Saturday as part of UN-sanctioned action. Gadhafi's forces reportedly broke the ceasefire, which triggered the coalition military response. On Friday, six CF-18 fighter aircraft departed CFB Bagotville for Italy, from where they will be part of a multinational effort to enforce a no-fly zone over Libya. more>>
|
(Mar. 20) Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Saturday that a $4.2-million care facility for members of the military and their families in Nova Scotia is expected to be built by January 2012. MacKay said the large complex will provide a range of specialty treatments and programs for ill and injured military personnel, and also their families. more>>
|
(Mar. 19) A United Nations diplomat and former senior federal bureaucrat says Canadian troops have an important role to play in combating rising terrorism in Africa. Starting in mid-December 2008, Robert Fowler was held hostage by al-Qaida-inspired terrorists in Niger for four months. Members of the Canadian Special Operations Regiment from Petawawa recently returned from Senegal where they helped train a counter-terrorism unit from Mali that is involved in fighting the militant group al-Qaida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb, or AQIM. more>>
|
(Mar. 19) Although Libyan strongman Colonel Moammar Gadhafi unilaterally issued a ceasefire today following a United Nations resolution authorizing a no-fly zone over Libya, Prime Minister Stephen Harper says Canada is still sending six CF-18 fighter jets to help enforce the zone. Canada's warplanes will join an international effort involving fighter aircraft from Britain, France and the United States. In addition to the CF-18s and their pilots, about 150 support staff from CFB Bagotville will be temporarily based in Italy while the zone is enforced.
more>>
|
(Mar. 19) Children, village elders, police officers, and family members and relatives were among the people killed by U.S. missiles fired from two drones in the Pakistani region of North Waziristan on Thursday. "We are a people who wait 100 years to exact revenge. We never forgive our enemy," tribal leaders said in a statement after the attacks. "It was just a jirga being held under local customs in which the prominent elders of Datta Khel sub-division, and common people were participating to resolve a dispute. But the Americans did not spare our elders even." Pakistan's army chief condemned the raid in unusually strong terms, calling it "intolerable... and in complete violation of human rights." more>>
|
(March 18) KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — In addition to lessons on marksmanship and bomb detection, Canadian soldiers will be teaching Afghan forces to read, write and practice medicine when the country's new training mission begins later this year. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) Canada will contribute six CF-18 fighter jets to help enforce a no-fly zone in Libya, CTV News reported Thursday. "The Canadian government has made the decision late today that Canada will send six CF-18 fighter jets to join the Americans, the British and the French and other countries that will participate in imposing a no-fly zone," said CTV's Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) Defence Minister Peter MacKay has concluded a tour of Afghanistan, sites where Canadian Forces members could be stationed for the upcoming training mission. MacKay said the mission will include a medical component. more>>
|
(Mar. 18) After a hearing about the Harper government possibly being in contempt of Parliament for failing to disclose F-35 cost data, the Conservatives finally provided the information Thursday. Opposition MPs suggest the new cost estimates dated 2009 are out of date because they do not take into account additional costs the U.S. government has since projected publicly.
more>>
|
(March 17, 2011) TRIPOLI - Libyan government soldiers battled rebels on the road to the insurgent stronghold of Benghazi on Thursday as the United States raised the possibility of air strikes to stop Muammar Gadhafi's forces. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) Haji Fazluddin Agha, the new governor of Panjwaii district in southern Afghanistan where many insurgency attacks during the past five years killed several Canadians said Tuesday that the area is free from insurgents. "I can say Panjwaii is now 100 per cent secure. We have government presence and influence all over the district, we can travel anywhere in the district, people are supporting us and we have created a level of good understanding with Canadian Forces," he said. Canada's top soldier in Kandahar, BGen Dean Milner, is more cautious in his assessment, noting that the historical spring fighting season is around the corner. He did agree, however, that the security situation has improved dramatically. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) Five Chinook helicopters are part of the equipment that the Canadian Forces is trying to sell as it continues to wind down combat operations in Afghanistan and come home. More than 1,000 sea containers must be emptied and nearly 1,000 vehicles must be cleaned before leaving the dusty country. Thousands of rounds of ammunition must be properly stored or disposed of. "The amount of stuff is really the equivalent of a small town and we're not just tossing it and running away," said Lt.-Col. Steve Moritsugu, who is in charge of the CF move. more>>
|
(Mar. 17) In June, the Harper government pledged to spend $35 billion over several years for 28 new large ships and 100 smaller vessels, providing significant work for two shipyards that would be selected "in a fair and transparent process," said Defence Minister Peter MacKay. Embassy Magazine (EM) explains that there are five shortlisted companies - one in Quebec, New Brunswick, and British Columbia each and two in Ontario. EM says: "Forming these partnerships is key to the government's stated objective of firing up two sustainable and robust private shipbuilding clusters in Canada through which it can pipe its various big-ship requests. It's also part of its unstated objective of currying favour with key voters, say experts who follow the shipbuilding saga." more>>
|
(Mar. 16) An $860-million reconstruction of CFB Trenton that started two years ago is 18 per cent finished, with another eight years of work to go. The reconstruction includes: a new, $84.7M hangar large enough to accommodate two CC-177 Globemaster III strategic airlifters, the Aerospace and Telecommunications Engineering Support Squadron refinishing facility, the Air Mobility squadron's training centre, the new Transportation Electrical, Mechanic Engineering squadron facility, the new Canadian Forces Land Advanced Warfare Centre, and a new firehall. more>>
|
(Mar. 16) Ottawa says it's ready to provide "any and all" possible aid to Japan, including sending Canadian troops, following the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck the country's northeast region on Friday. The aid offered includes chemical, biological, and nuclear technical expertise and equipment. The Canadian Forces may be ordered to send personnel, aircraft and its Disaster Assistance Response Team to help with the humanitarian relief effort. more>>
|
(March 15) Most young Canadians know little or nothing about most of the wars and peacekeeping missions their countrymen have served in, according to a survey done last year for Veterans Affairs Canada. more>>
|
(Mar. 15) Despite initial reservations, the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan have agreed to help initiate a controversial program in the Panjwaii district that will enlist and arm local civilians to defend their villages against insurgents. CF members may even assist with training for the Afghan Local Police or ALP initiative. With recruitment for the Afghan National Police still falling short of desired numbers, Canadian Brig.-Gen. Milner says he is now fully behind the idea of community-based forces to help protect areas recently cleared of insurgents. more>>
|
(Mar. 15) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, Conservative Member of Parliament, and former fighter jet pilot Laurie Hawn told told CBC's Power and Politics on Monday that the price of Canada's new fighter jets is not fixed and could increase. "It's not a firm, fixed price," Hawn said. "[But] all things factored in suggest to use that we will be paying somewhere between $70 and $75 million [a plane]." In December, the Pentagon's chief weapons buyer, Dr. Ashton Carter, said that the U.S. government will not pay more per F-35 than US$92M. The Harper government intends to sole-source 65 Joint Strike Fighters from Lockheed Martin for $9B. The Dept. of National Defence has reportedly calculated the 20-year cost of the F-35 fleet to be as high as $21B. Hawn's calculation, as per this report, is $17.6B. more>>
|
(Mar. 15) Canada is open to supporting a no-fly zone over Libya but still has some reservations, Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon told reporters Monday before a G8 meeting in Paris. "We want more details on how to implement it," he said. The Arab League backs a no-fly zone while Europe is split on the issue. more>>
|
(Mar. 15) When retired Maj. Deanna Brasseur, who is 57, joined the Canadian Forces, there were only two types of careers open to women, according to her recollection: finance administration and supply jobs. Pushing against generations-old entrenched thinking in a male-dominated organization, Brasseur pushed the envelope and trained and qualified as a fighter jet pilot, one of Canada's first. Brasseur is to speak to students and the public in Edmonton about opportunities for women and taking a crack at fulfilling big dreams. more>>
|
(Mar. 14) The shooting death last week of Afghan President Hamid Karzai's cousin during a nighttime raid has been ruled a tragic accident by U.S.-led Regional South Command in Afghanistan. "The security force member assessed the male as an immediate threat to the security force, and engaged him with precision small arms and killed him," they said in a statement Sunday after concluding its investigation into Karzai's death. The member in question believed that someone was armed with an AK-47 and a flashlight and was about to attack soldiers conducting a raid. Relations between the Afghan president and NATO have been strained in recent weeks because of civilian shooting deaths. more>>
|
(Mar. 14) Rebels fighting Libyan strongman Colonel Gaddafi and troops loyal to him prepared for more aerial attacks and artillery bombardments on Sunday night. They were forced to retreat to the town of Ajdabiya in the east, while an uneasy calm reigned in the rebel stronghold of Benghazi, Libya’s second largest city. Rebel Abdel Hadi Omar said, "We’re in danger. The Libyan people can’t cope with Gaddafi’s weapons. We have people but we don’t have means." On Saturday, Arab League foreign ministers meeting in Cairo called on the U.N. Security Council to impose a no-fly zone over Libya. more>>
|
(Mar. 13) What began in Afghanistan in late 2001 as Canada contributing to the United States' "War on Terror" has morphed in the past nine-plus years into fighting a resilient indigenous enemy that did not carry out the 9/11 attacks and billions of dollars of nation-building, with 158 Canadians killed, including 154 Canadian Forces members. Retired CF colonel Michel Drapeau says the goal of Canada's mission in Afghanistan, particularly in Kandahar, has never been clear. "Was it a mission to destroy or neutralize the Taliban?" he asked. "Was it to control the territory, to render it safe for the local population, or was it to gain time to allow for the Afghan authorities to take control of their own security?" more>>
|
(Mar. 13) The U.S. military has grounded the entire fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) while it investigates a dual generator failure and an oil leak that recently occurred. Lockheed Martin spokesman John Kent said the problem happened to one of the F-35A (Air Force) JSFs flying over southern California. The Harper government plans to sole-source 65 F-35As for Canada's air force. more>>
|
(Mar. 12) The Harper government is attacking the credibility of the parliamentary budget officer’s damning cost assessment of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. PBO Kevin Page reported Thursday that the F-35 fleet cost to taxpayers over two decades would be $22B - a sum near the Dept. of National Defence's calculation of almost $21B - and nearly $30B over 30 years. Laurie Hawn, a Conservative MP and the junior defence minister, dismissed Page's work as "speculative" and "illogical" despite the fact it was reviewed by officials at the U.S. Government Accountability Office and experts in Britain, Australia and at Queen’s University’s defence management centre in Kingston. more>>
|
(Mar. 12) NATO has approved a plan to transfer control of six Afghan regions to government forces. The list includes cities where Canadian soldiers are stationed or the Canadian Forces want to have training roles. The cities of Herat in the west and Mazar-i-Sharif in the north are slated to be handed over in the first transition phase, likely to begin in the next two months. Kabul, except for the Surobi district, is listed as is Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand province, and Bamiyan and Panshir provinces.
more>>
|
(Mar. 12) Canada should not adapt foreign designs to replace its 40-year-old Navy supply ships, says Jamie Vaslet of the CAW/Marine Workers Federation. Vaslet represents over 1,000 workers at Halifax Shipyard and says expertise to design and build the ships exists in Canada. The Navy is looking for consultants to assess the risks and cost of altering German and Spanish military supply ship designs to Canadian needs. They are also being told to be ready to assist federal officials with detailed drawings. "No matter what way you slice the pie, its Canadian tax dollars leaving Canada to go to another country to help them out in an economic crisis when we’re in our own," Vaslet said. more>>
|
(Mar. 11) Parliament's Budget Officer, Kevin Page, released his report Thursday on the government's plan to sole-source 65 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters and his cost estimate of operating the fleet over 30 years is $29.3B. His sum greatly exceeds the Harper government's figure in July of $16B and Defence Minister Peter's MacKay's figure in September of $14B. Opposition MPs have accused the Conservatives of being secretive about the deal and Page agreed Thursday that the government isn't fully informing the public about the F-35s. "I don't think they have been transparent," he told reporters. He added that there is "a lot more" the Dept. of National Defence could do to share information. more>>
|
(Mar. 11) Sikorsky's president Jeff Pino reportedly said at the Heli-Expo show in Orlando this week that the first of Canada's CH-148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopters (MH) would be delivered this month. Since late 2008, Sikorsky has repeatedly failed to meet MH Project deadlines, including delivering "interim" Cyclones last year. The "interim" CH-148s will not be the final, complete aircraft as they lack fully-operational avionics due to software issues and General Electric's new CT7-8A6 engine. On the plus side, deliveries of non-fully-compliant Cyclones will allow Canadian Forces aircrew to start training. more>>
|
(Mar. 11) Various news providers have reported that Haji Yar Mohammad Khan, a cousin of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, was shot and killed during an attack on his house by soldiers late Wednesday. While the area is still under the command of the Canadian Forces, troops in the area are mostly from the United States. more>>
|
(Mar. 10) The United Nations said Wednesday that the death toll of the war in Afghanistan last year included 2,777 civilians. Approximately 75 per cent of those killed died at the hands of the insurgency, up from 67 per cent in 2009. In Kandahar province where Canadian and other NATO forces have been involved in counterinsurgency operations, 550 Afghan civilians perished violently in 2010. more>>
|
(Mar. 10) Canada's navy is looking for consultants to help it adapt German and Spanish designs for the replacement of its 40-year-old supply ships. Eric Lerhe, a retired commodore and fleet commander, says neither of the foreign ships have much capacity to transport army equipment and stores, which the original Canadian design had. According to Peter Cairns of the Shipbuilding Association of Canada, it's the second time Ottawa has looked offshore for designs, which is contrary to the Harper government's national shipbuilding strategy. more>>
|
(Mar. 10) Canadian soldiers have been making inroads in Afghanistan by building up the trust of citizens and national security forces Canadian Forces Captain Mehdi Imtiaz recently told an audience in Innisfil, Ontario. He said that conditions have improved for Canadian soldiers and Afghan citizens alike. However, Afghanistan, which has a population divided into 20 main tribes, is still in a period of political, economic and societal transition. "How we managed to hold Kandahar province for all these years with 3,000 troops is amazing and something (U.S. soldiers) study at their staff school. It's something close to impossible to do," said Imtiaz. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) Between 2006 and 2009, Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan were hospitalized for traumatic brain injury nearly three times as often as U.S. soldiers, according to a National Defence study obtained by The Globe and Mail. The military attributed the "significantly higher" hospitalization rate to "the risky nature of our Kandahar operation." Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) symptoms noted in Canadian soldiers have included long-term memory loss, depression and behavioral changes. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) Canadian troops in Afghanistan were laughing on Tuesday night thanks to the comic genius of comedian Tom Green, who poked fun at everything from Saddam Hussein’s capture to his fight with testicular cancer. Green’s stand-up routine was the finale of a day of events that included music, autograph sessions and ball hockey games. "Team Canada" also paid a visit to the Kandahar airbase. Hall of Famer Lanny McDonald, who has travelled to Kandahar twice before, said he returned because he enjoys providing a welcome diversion for battle-hardened soldiers. "It's great for the troops because it’s a little break in their action," he said. more>>
|
(Mar. 9) For three and a half years during the Second World War, Margaret Haliburton was part of the Royal Canadian Navy, monitoring German submarine radio traffic. Lt.-Col. Susan Beharriell joined the Air Force in 1973 and became a senior intelligence officer. She and her female colleagues faced "discrimination and resentment" - and persevered, proving to closed-minded men in the Canadian Forces that women were just as capable as their male counterparts. Haliburton and Beharriell are two of several thousand Canadian women over the generations who have helped to transform Canada's military. more>>
|
(Mar. 8) The Canadian Forces aerobatics team is back in the air six days after a CT-114 Tutor jet landed on its belly and the Snowbirds were grounded. The Air Force said Monday that a series of factors led to the accident and measures have been taken in flying procedures and plane maintenance to prevent a re-occurrence.
more>>
|
(Mar. 8) Since 2006, the Canadian Forces Soldier On program has boosted the spirits and physical health of serving and retired CF personnel who deal with physical and psychological disabilities. Kayaking, skiing and snowboarding are activities that have taken place to date, with others planned. more>>
|
(Mar. 8) A flurry of storm activity over the past few weeks is muddying the progress of a key road that Canadian Forces engineers are constructing through a volatile district west of Kandahar city. "We were ahead of schedule because some parts of the project went very fast, but that changed when the bad weather came in," said Capt. Jean-Francois Huot, deputy commander of the engineer squadron serving with the Canadian battle group in Afghanistan.
more>>
|
(March 8)
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — In what could be the last event of its kind, a group of former National Hockey League stars have come to Kandahar Airfield to visit with Canadian troops. more>>
|
(March 8) Pressure is growing for Western nations to intervene militarily in Libya’s emerging civil war. As we noted in an editorial published on Thursday — and as the embarrassing capture of a contingent of British special-forces troops over the weekend shows — there are good reasons to be wary about such a campaign. But Muammar Gaddafi’s apparent willingness to exterminate large numbers of his citizens in recent days has served to marginalize such concerns: Whatever the risks that attend military intervention, we must not permit a North African Srebrenica. more>>
|
(March 8) WASHINGTON - U.S. President Barack Obama said Monday he would lift the two-year freeze on new military trials for Guantanamo Bay terror suspects and issued new guidelines on the treatment of those held indefinitely. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) Canada's Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Walter Natynczyk, said in an interview on Sunday that establishing a no-fly zone in the skies over Libya would be a major military offensive. The zone is desired by a number of top U.S. lawmakers who want the ability of Libyan strongman Col. Gadhafi to attack rebel forces on the ground from the air eliminated. Natynczyk also said the HMCS Charlottetown is expected to arrive off the coast of Libya by Wednesday and has a mission to provide humanitarian relief, not engage in combat operations of any kind. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) Afghanistan's president, Hamid Karzai, has rejected a U.S. apology for the mistaken killing of nine Afghan boys in a NATO air attack on March 1, saying civilian casualties were no longer acceptable. The boys, aged 12 and under, were killed by helicopters, not drones. "President Karzai said that only regret is not sufficient and also mentioned that civilian casualties during military operations by coalition forces is the main reason for tension in relations between Afghanistan and United States," the Afghan government statement said. more>>
|
(Mar. 7) Former National Defence assistant deputy minister Alan Williams, who headed military procurement, is one of a number of informed persons on the F-35 attacked for their stance on the Joint Strike Fighter by Conservative MP Laurie Hawn in an e-mail obtained by the Ottawa Citizen. Others include a retired Australian air force officer and an Australian aviation analyst. Hawn, who is Defence Minister Peter MacKay's parliamentary secretary, wrote that Williams is spreading "BS" about the F-35. William responded by saying the Hawn "doesn’t want to debate the issues. Instead he just attacks the individual." more>>
|
(Mar 6) The Conservative government is slamming the door on a British proposal that the two countries work together in building new warships. "Canada will not be pursuing collaboration with the United Kingdom on our new surface combatant fleet," said Jay Paxton, a spokesman for Defence Minister Peter MacKay. Paxton was reacting to comments made by London's top diplomat in Ottawa, who told The Canadian Press that Canada and Britain could make better use of scarce public dollars by collaborating on new warships. The possibility of a joint frigate program had earlier sent nervous ripples through Canada's struggling shipbuilding industry. more>>
|
(Mar. 5) Canada is strengthening its military presence in the region around Libya by dispatching a warship and special forces. Potentially more difficult evacuations could be in the future. As the U.S. moves two amphibious warships and 400 Marines to the area, U.N. Security Council members still haven't come to a consensus about implementing a no-fly zone over Libya. So far, more than 140,000 people have fled the conflict-ridden country.
more>>
|
(Mar. 5) Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd said Saturday there are clear signs of progress in Afghanistan. He visited the country for three days and met with Afghan President Harmid Karzai and senior military commander U.S. General David Petraeus. "What is encouraging, however, is the clear evidence of progress being made in our mission," Rudd said in a statement released on Saturday. more>>
|
(March 4) President Barack Obama on Thursday said the U.S. has prepared a "full range" of military options to deal with the crisis in Libya, but suggested American forces are most likely to be used only amid a large-scale humanitarian crisis in the North African nation. more>>
|
(March 4) NEW YORK — U.S. President Barack Obama will soon announce that his administration will breathe new life into the military commission system that last fall convicted Canadian-born Omar Khadr of terrorism offences, Postmedia News has learned. more>>
|
(Mar. 4) The Calgary Sun has published online a series of photographs of the Canadian Forces in Libya. more>>
|
(Mar. 4) More than $2.5 billion over-budget and nearly three years behind schedule, the CH-148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopter Project (MHP) has taxed the federal government's patience to the breaking point. Ottawa is now imposing penalties of up to $8 million against CH-148 designer/maker Sikorsky for the latest MHP delivery delays. “It is important to note that when the government signs a contract, we expect the contractor to deliver on time,” said a spokeswoman for Public Works Minister Rona Ambrose.
more>>
|
(Mar. 4) A new service insignia recognizing significant amounts of time spent at sea on Canadian Navy ships and submarines is being issued to hundreds of military personnel at CFB Esquimalt, including those in naval, air force and army uniform. The first group of military members were issued the new Sea Service Insignia at a special ceremony Thursday. more>>
|
(March 3) HALIFAX — More than 240 sailors and airmen said goodbye to anxious loved ones Wednesday before sailing out of Halifax Harbour on board the naval frigate HMCS Charlottetown on a largely undefined mission to the coast of Libya. more>>
|
(March 3) WASHINGTON — U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Wednesday warned against “loose talk” about imposing a no-fly zone over Libya as fractures appeared within the Obama administration over possible military action against the regime of Col. Moammar Gaddafi. more>>
|
(Mar. 3) Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi warned Wednesday that thousands would die if the West intervened to support the uprising against him. Any foreign troops in Libya "will be entering hell and they will drown in blood." He warned European leaders: "There will be no stability in the Mediterranean if there is no stability in Libya." Western powers toned down expectations of an early imposition of a no-fly zone over Libya, with U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates saying such a zone would require attacks on the country's air defences. more>>
|
(Mar. 3) A British soldier from the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, was killed in a firefight in the Afghan province of Helmand on Tuesday. His sniffer dog, Theo, suffered a seizure and died shortly after his master. Lt.-Col. David Thorpe Lancs, Commanding Officer of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, said of Tasker: "He was a strong, reliable soldier and an expert dog man. He was one of the highly qualified dog trainers in Afghanistan. The work he did in his 5 months in Afghanistan saved countless lives, of that I have no doubt." more>>
|
(Mar. 3) The U.S. Defense Department said on Tuesday it wants further price reductions and the "lowest price" possible when it negotiates with Lockheed Martin Corp. for the next batch of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. So far, the Pentagon has saved $4B by cutting 124 F-35s out of a five-year procurement plan. The US$382B F-35 program is the most expensive in history and remains under close scrutiny as political pressure mounts to cut deficits that exceed $1T. more>>
|
(Mar. 2) HMCS Charlottetown will begin its high seas voyage toward violence-racked Libya on Wednesday to assist with evacuation and humanitarian efforts in the North African country. The frigate and her crew will team up with an American carrier battle group led by the USS Enterprise. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said it could take about a week for the frigate to get to the region from Halifax. more>>
|
(Mar. 2) Global News is reporting that a Canadian Air Force "investigation is underway after a CT-114 Tutor aircraft suffered damage to the belly while landing at 15 Wing Moose Jaw Tuesday afternoon." It is unclear whether the cause was pilot error or mechanical. Two pilots were in the aircraft and walked away from the accident.
more>>
|
(Mar. 2) According to a British Commons foreign affairs committee report, evidence suggests that the present counter-insurgency campaign in Afghanistan is not succeeding. The report said the campaign could derail efforts to resolve a situation that is fundamentally political and the U.S. must step up efforts to hold talks with the Taliban if a political resolution is to be reached. London wants to withdraw British combat troops from Afghanistan by 2015. more>>
|
(Mar. 1) Canada has sent a reconnaissance team and medics to Malta in what could be a signal of deeper military involvement in the crisis in Libya. On Monday, two Canadian Forces C-130J transport aircraft joined two C-17 jet airlifters in Malta. The aircraft will be used for further evacuations of Canadian citizens and foreign nationals from the chaotic North African country. more>>
|
(Mar. 1) As U.S. and South Korean forces began joint exercises on Monday, North Korea threatened "all-out war" and warned it would turn the South Korean capital, Seoul, into a "sea of flames." Talks aimed at defusing tensions and restarting dialogue between the two sides broke down earlier this month. more>>
|
(Mar. 1) Six NATO troops were killed in various parts of Afghanistan Monday. Military officials did not specify the nationalities of five of the six soldiers or details about the location of the attacks. The Italian Defense Ministry said one of its lieutenants was killed in Herat province. The attacks come as Afghan officials express alarm over the number of civilians killed this year, including more than 200 Afghans during two weeks in February. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) More than 150 workers were dramatically rescued from the Libyan desert as two Royal Air Force Hercules aircraft – backed by the Special Air Service, Britain's equivalent of Canada's Joint Task Force 2 – pulled off a high-risk evacuation of British and other citizens. It is believed that units of British special forces secured runways south of Benghazi to allow the Hercules aircraft to land safely. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) A young Canadian traveller who reportedly visited one of the most dangerous areas of Afghanistan to learn Pashto has gone missing, with the Taliban claiming they have captured a Canadian “secret agent” by the same name. Colin Rutherford disappeared while visiting Afghanistan as a tourist, the Foreign Affairs Department said Sunday. One version of the insurgents’ communiqué said they planned to release a video of the hostage soon, and had already made unspecified demands for his release to the Canadian government. more>>
|
(Feb. 28) The cost to refit one of Canada's problem-plagued submarines is over budget by tens of millions of dollars. In 2010 alone, the Navy spent $45M on repairs to HMCS Windsor; the budgeted amount was $17M. Major problems include: bad hull welds, broken torpedo tubes, a faulty rudder and tiles on the side of the sub that keep falling off. The refit of the Windsor is also taking four extra years to complete. According to documents obtained by CBC News, the Navy's three other submarines are not faring much better. more>>
|
(Feb. 27) Two Canadian Forces C-17 airlifters are on standby in Malta to assist in the evacuations of Canadians and other ex-pats from Libya as anti-Ghadhafi forces move to surround the capital, Tripoli. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Sunday that at least 100 Canadians are still in Libya and want to leave. "We are there to assist not just Canadians but other foreign nationals," said MacKay. "We are working in a coordinated way with a number of our international allies to assist in the evacuation. Given the volatility of the country, we want to be as helpful as we can in assisting what is a very difficult, and dire, and deteriorating situation." more>>
|
(Feb. 27) The recent Fiscal Transparency report from Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page says that the federal government has withheld crucial information about the multi-billion-dollar planned purchase of F-35 fighter jets as well as crime legislation, and has issued questionable forecasts on the impact of coming corporate tax cuts. "On the 65 fighter jets - estimated by the Harper government to cost $14 billion for initial purchase and five years’ upkeep - the report says the feds have failed to provide an accounting of all the cost drivers, and has not detailed what will actually drive the costs." more>>
|
(Feb. 27) In this Toronto Sun opinion piece, columnist Mercedes Stephenson writes that "Canada must maintain a presence in Afghanistan, but it is difficult for Canadians to walk away from combat operations in Kandahar before the job is done, given the heroic efforts and sacrifices of our soldiers." Stephenson adds that "Canada earned a new level of respect and influence during the Kandahar mission, and specifically through committing to combat — something Lt. Gen. Peter Devlin, Canada’s army commander, told me last week in an exclusive interview. Much of the reputation the Canadian Forces have earned us in Afghanistan will be left in the dust of Kandahar." more>>
|
(Feb. 26) Canadian soldiers have developed an approach to training and mentoring Afghan security forces that is regarded as effective. This Montreal Gazette report says: "An Afghan captain who works with [Capt.] Eric Bouchard says he is sad to see Canadians leaving the field, since they have been respectful of allowing the Afghan army to proceed according to their own culture and values. Capt. Safiq, who declined to provide a last name, said operations such as the search-and-clear mission would not have been a success without Canadians stressing the importance of 'co-ordination and communication'." more>>
|
(Feb. 26) Defence Minister Peter MacKay told a group of defence experts Friday not to expect Canadian troops - or United Nations peacekeepers - to intervene in Libya anytime soon. News reports suggest up to 2,000 Libyan protesters have been killed in the past few days, some reportedly by Libyan warplanes. Liberal senator and retired Canadian general Romeo Dallaire, who was in charge of the failed UN peacekeeping mission in Rwanda during the genocide, and Conservative Sen. Hugh Segal have called on the Harper government to work to build consensus at the UN to initiate intervention in Libya under the Responsibility to Protect Resolution. more>>
|
(Feb. 26) In a briefing Saturday, the Prime Minister's Office said a Canadian Forces C-17 Globemaster III airlifter left Libya on Saturday carrying 46 evacuees, including 24 Canadian citizens. Among the passengers were Sandra McCardell, Canada's ambassador to Libya, and other Canadian diplomatic staff. The Australian dipomatic team was also on board, said Dimitri Soudas, the prime minister's communications director.
more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Grant Derrick, a duel Canadian-American citizen who served with U.S. Special Forces in Afghanistan received the Silver Star on Friday for his part in a 14-hour battle in Hendon village, an isolated community east of Kabul. The former Ottawa man, a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces, was part of a raid in the mountains of eastern Afghanistan in May. more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Speaking to the Canadian Defence Association's annual meeting Friday, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said that cancelling the purchase of 65 F35s for $9 billion will cost Canada $1 billion in the long run. The Conservatives' decision to sole-source an F35 fleet will surely be a major issue during the next federal election campaign. Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page is expected to report on the F-35 fleet cost in the coming weeks. more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Soon after meeting U.S. General William Caldwell in Afghanistan last June, Bob Rae offered the strongest signal to date his party would support keeping Canadian troops in the country past 2011 to help train Afghan troops.
more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Bids to get Canadians out of the chaos in Libya are apparently continuing to falter, even as the federal government condemns — in increasingly strong terms — violent efforts in the African nation to suppress an uprising there. more>>
|
(Feb. 25) KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — The head of Canada's battle group in Afghanistan says his troops are having one of their best months to date in finding stashes of weapons hidden by insurgents. more>>
|
(Feb. 25) Chayne den Ouden will never forget the scene at the Tripoli airport this week — a virtual refugee camp with hundreds of people crammed into every available space. Tensions were rising and she feared a riot. more>>
|
(Feb. 24) Corporals, not just senior officers, will be sent to Afghanistan as trainers, Lieutenant General Peter Devlin, Canada's Chief of Land Staff, revealed today in an interview. They will join officers and senior NCOs such as sergeants and warrant officers. Corporals have a "level of maturity and capability and pride that we think is important to share with the Afghans," said Devlin. more>>
|
(Feb. 24) As Washington struggles with deficits well in excess of $1 trillion, even the Pentagon has been told to cut back. Over the next eight months, cost-cutting at U.S. Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command will result in 40 military positions and 39 civilian jobs, five per cent of the workforce, being eliminated.
more>>
|
(Feb. 24) The federal Liberals continue to hound the Harper government over what they allege is prolonged secrecy over the plan to sole-source F-35 Joint Strike Fighters and operational costs. "Despite repeated reasonable requests by Liberal MPs for precise cost estimates on the Conservative stealth fighter purchase ... the Harper government continues to hide these numbers," Liberal Defence critic Dominic LeBlanc said Wednesday. Other than revealing that the F-35s will cost $9B to acquire and the annual fleet maintenance bill is expected to be $250M-$300M, the government has not disclosed any other cost numbers. more>>
|
(Feb. 23) Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Tuesday that a new, $150-million helicopter facility will be built at CFB Patricia Bay, just outside Victoria, B.C. He also said it will eventually become the home base for the Canadian Forces' fleet of new maritime helicopters. "This facility and the new Cyclone helicopters it will house are part of providing the Canadian Forces with the people, equipment and support they need to get the job done," Harper said. "It is a solid investment in the future of naval aviation in Canada." more>>
|
(Feb. 23) A Dept. of Defence study says it's risky for the Air Force to continue using CH-146 Griffon helicopters for search and rescue in Central Canada. The Griffon is reportedly too small for certain types of rescues, lacks the range to reach wilderness sites in Northern Ontario and Quebec without refuelling, has limited communications, and has no GPS, all-weather radar, flotation equipment, and de-icing system, yet has been flown during winter rescues. NDP critic Jack Harris said the Harper government should buy more Cormorants, which operate over the west and east coasts, to cover the gap. more>>
|
(Feb. 22) Doubts about methods used to train Afghan soldiers are growing among German troops after a deadly shooting on Friday killed three soldiers and injured six more, some critically. The attacker was a trainee who may have either been planted by the Taliban or turned by them. German troops are worried that joint missions with Afghan comrades are too dangerous. "The mood," one soldier wrote from the outpost OP North where the shooting took place, "has hit rock bottom." He said he didn't want to judge all Afghan troops, but added that German soldiers have become much more apprehensive. more>>
|
(Feb. 22) TRIPOLI, Libya - Libya's Moammar Gadhafi used tanks, helicopters and warplanes to quell a growing revolt, witnesses said on Tuesday, as the veteran leader scoffed at reports he was fleeing after four decades in power. more>>
|
(Feb. 22)
A collection of framed portraits hangs in the foyer of Peter MacKay’s office at the Department of National Defence headquarters, marking a photographic chronology of the ministers in the decades before him.
more>>
|
(Feb. 22)
ISMAILIA, Egypt — Two Iranian naval ships entered the Suez Canal on Tuesday and were heading towards the Mediterranean, a canal official said, a move certain to anger Israel. more>>
|
(Feb. 21) Since a major road project in the troubled Panjwaii district involving Canadians has been targeted by the Taliban, the Canadian Forces brought in "heavy muscle" to discourage the insurgents: Leopard 2 tanks. The Panjwaii road has become one of the most crucial projects for Canada's campaign in Afghanistan.
more>>
|
(Feb. 21) New York Times op-ed contributors, Nathaniel Fick, chief executive of the Center for a New American Security and a former Marine captain, and John Nagl, Center president and a former Army lieutenant colonel, explain why the war in Afghanistan has been improving. more>>
|
(Feb. 20) One hold-out landowner at the edge of CFB Trenton stands in the way of relocating the Canadian Forces' special forces unit Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2) to the base. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Friday that negotiations with farmland owner Frank Meyers, who refused to sell his land last year, is still ongoing. The government can expropriate the land, but for now has decided to continue to talk with Meyers. The local mayor, John Williams, said he received a guarantee from MacKay that the move of JTF2 from its current headquarters near Ottawa to Trenton will happen. "My gut feeling is that it will happen sooner than later," said Williams. more>>
|
(Feb. 20) Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner recently visited the village of Nakhonay in Afghanistan's volatile Panjwaii district to try to convince the local malik - equivalent of a mayor - to sway his fellow villagers to cooperating with ISAF security forces. "Nakhonay is a difficult nut to crack," said Maj. Frank Dufault, the deputy commander of Canada's battle group in Afghanistan. One-quarter of last year's deaths of Canadian soldiers occurred in and around Nakhonay, an area of importance to the Taliban. more>>
|
(Feb. 20) Dateline NBC has recently aired a news special about Russell Williams, former military pilot, disgraced Canadian Air Force commander, and convicted petty thief, rapist and killer. The program informed viewers that according to a Toronto Star report, "Williams had been taking multiple pain medications for at least two years before his arrest. Among them was prednisone, which has been documented in some instances to produce mind-altering side-effects." more>>
|
(Feb. 19) A report released by the Taliban on Friday said that nine Canadian troops were killed along with an Afghan soldier in two hours of fighting in the Pol-e-Khumri district of Baghlan province. Canadian officials have not reported the death of any Canadian soldier since December 19, 2010. more>>
|
(Feb. 19) The Canadian Forces has completed a month-long deployment to the Caribbean Sea, where it helped intercept $33 million worth of cocaine, the Defence Department said Friday. CF resources in the multinational team included about 250 Canadians, HMCS Toronto, a Sea King helicopter and two CP-140 Aurora surveillance planes. "I'm very proud of the part played by the men and women of HMCS Toronto, and our aircrews, in keeping drugs off Canadian streets," said Defence Minister Peter MacKay in a statement. more>>
|
(Feb. 19) A large-scale military sweep in southern Afghanistan involving Canadian troops has yielded the seizure of massive weapons caches, 113 kg of marijuana, three unexploded improvised explosive devices, and components for assembling bombs. The goal of the five-day operation, planned and led by the Afghan National Army with support from Canada's Royal 22nd Regiment, the Van Doos, and an American company was to find weapons and capture Taliban militants just arriving in the region. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) Canadian troops working to stabilize one of the most troublesome districts in Afghanistan have been substantially expanding their frequency of night patrols, a nerve-racking venture for the soldiers that seems to be producing big dividends with the local population. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) Computer systems of three key federal organizations were cyber-attacked earlier this year, including that of Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC), the civilian agency of the Department of National Defence. DRDC assist Canada's military with its scientific and technological needs. The attacks seemed to originate in China. According to CBC News, "The government initially issued a terse statement, passing it all off as merely an 'attempt to access' federal networks. It has refused to release any further information." This report explains how the hacking was accomplished. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) The Dept. of National Defence is making a "significant" announcement at various Canadian Forces bases today at 9 a.m. Eastern time related to support for ill and injured CF personnel, their families, veterans and families of the deceased. Defence Minister Peter MacKay will travel to CFB Trenton to announce the creation of five new Joint Personnel Support Units, a type of one-stop centre for soldiers and families of soldiers with injuries, disabilities, addictions and mental health problems. Other units will be established at CFBs Borden, Comox, Cold Lake, and Bagotville. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) President Barack Obama's government is unsure whether the United States can afford a further buildup of Afghan security forces, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on Thursday. The U.S. is struggling to balance mounting fiscal concerns at home with the need to stand up a capable Afghan fighting force that would be able to take over more security responsibilities as foreign troops withdraw. The U.S. plan under consideration would increase Afghan security forces by another 43,000 to 73,000 personnel, up from 305,000, which is approximately three times the size of the Canadian Forces. more>>
|
(Feb. 18) Government documents obtained by the Liberals show that at least 600 hours of overtime has been charged to taxpayers as federal ministers, military officers, and public servants have fanned out across Canada in an attempt to sell Canadians on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the Harper government's plan to sole-source 65 of the warplanes. Yesterday's report says: "Defence Department sources have told the Ottawa Citizen some officers have been uncomfortable with the situation but the military is being pressured by the Privy Council Office and the Prime Minister's Office to spearhead the sales effort." more>>
|
(Feb. 17) CTV News has published several photographs online that were taken in Afghanistan involving Canadian and Afghan troops as Canada's combat mission winds down. more>>
|
(Feb. 17) Since the Canadian Forces purchased six CH-47Ds from the U.S. Army, its personnel have been training with National Guard units throughout the U.S., including mountain training with B Company of the 1st Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion out of Stockton, Calif. more>>
|
(Feb. 16) Canadian Forces member Jonathan Laporte has been released on bail worth $50,000 in cash and bonds after appearing in court on charges of assault, uttering death threats, firearms charges, break and enter, endangering the lives or safety of the public, possession of stolen property, and mischief to property. This report does not include a rank for Laporte or his unit.
more>>
|
(Feb. 16) The Pentagon said no decision has been made on when General David Petraeus will leave his post as senior commander in Afghanistan after The Times, a British newspaper, recently reported he would step down this year. Petraeus, probably the best-known U.S. military officer in the world, has been mentioned as a leading candidate to succeed Admiral Mike Mullen as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, whose term ends in September.
more>>
|
(Feb. 15)
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — Two senior Canadian generals are to oversee critical multi-billion dollar training programs that NATO hopes will lead to Afghan security forces taking over the lead from alliance forces by the end of 2014. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) Ally Dunlop, a 14-year-old student at Hillfield Strathallan College in Hamilton, Ontario, warns that red, one of two colours Prime Minister Stephen Harper reportedly wants painted on a CC-150 Polaris jet operated by the Air Force and used for VIP transport, could result in bird strikes. Dunlop’s recent science fair experiment showed that ducks, Canada Geese and other wild birds are attracted to red. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) Col. Hercule Gosselin, the commander of the Operational Mentor Liaison Team in Kandahar who works closely with the Afghan National Army and police, says, "There are many lessons here that we can share with the instructors going to Kabul." His advice is that trainers need to teach and mentor with a measure of humility, which translates to respect. "When you gain the respect of Afghans, it is amazing what can be achieved," Gosselin said. "The center of gravity for my unit is the credibility that we have with the ANA and ANP." more>>
|
(Feb. 15) In a 2009 diplomatic cable from the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia, recently revealed by WikiLeaks, diplomats offered suggestions on how to make sure an American company wins the contract to supply fighter jets to the Brazilian armed forces: "The Super Hornet [Boeing's F/A-18] has the lowest life cycle cost. Because it is already in operation, we can state with confidence what this cost will be. Competitors can only guess and are apt to underestimate." more>>
|
(Feb. 15) An al-Qaeda turncoat who agreed to be the star Crown witness in Canada's first post-9/11 terrorism prosecution in exchange for leniency is free after serving four-and-a-half years of a possible 70-year sentence in the United States. more>>
|
(Feb. 15) It was a hot and dusty July day and Master Corporal Shawn Grove was stuck in a traffic jam on a narrow, crowded road in Kandahar City. more>>
|
(Feb. 14) CTV News reports that "Prime Minister Stephen Harper has been locked in a lengthy tug of war with his defence minister over the future of the military's VIP Airbus." Harper and his staff in the Prime Minister's Office want one of the grey CC-150 Polaris aircraft painted white, with red markings. MacKay and military officers argue that white "would be too visible whenever the passenger jet is sent on troop and cargo missions to risky locales, as happens now when the aircraft is not needed by the prime minister or the Governor General." more>>
|
(Feb. 14) Master Cpl. Shawn Grove of the member of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, 1st Battalion, has done what perhaps no other Canadian soldier in the past nine years has accomplished: taught himself to speak Pashto, the main language of Afghanistan. In this intriguing report, readers can learn about how a young man, who never studied a second language prior to going to Afghanistan, has managed to pleasantly shock the locals and open doors in the war-afflicted country.
more>>
|
(Feb. 13) The Canadian Air Force needs more flight engineers for search-and-rescue helicopters as it struggles to fill vacancies created by retirements and highly trained personnel who left to work in the private sector. A 2010 Air Force report warning that the number of flight engineers was "dangerously low." The situation could worsen as more than 60 per cent of the Air Force's flight engineers are eligible to retire with pensions. more>>
|
(Feb. 13) Andrew Yakimak, an ordinary seaman on HMCS Athabaskan, was charged in December with attempting to smuggle prohibited goods, failing to report imported goods and making false statements to border agents. Customs officers allegedly found stun guns, brass knuckles, switchblade knives and pepper spray during a search of the ship at the Halifax Dockyard on Dec. 2. Yakimak plead not guilty in court in Halifax this past week and the Crown's prosecution continues. more>>
|
(Feb. 12) While Canadian Forces Chinook helicopters haul heavy loads in support of Ottawa-sponsored road construction in Afghanistan, Griffon helicopters equipped with rapid-fire mini-Gatling guns and surveillance equipment scare the Taliban away. The air bridge has kept about 40 Canadian convoys and 1,000 CF troops off Panjwaii's heavily mined roads for what would have been an eight-hour round trip.
more>>
|
(Feb. 12) Because Yan Joseph Marcel Berube, a former corporal with Princess Patricia's Light Infantry, suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, a B.C. judge stayed weapons charges against the Afghanistan war veteran Friday. Berube's PTSD likely stems from a 2002 friendly fire incident that saw four Canadian soldiers killed, including his best friend, Cpl. Ainsworth Dyer. The judge told the defendant: "Mr. Berube, I am going to say to you that you need to re-engage with Veterans Affairs. You need to follow their course of treatment and, above all, you need to stop self-medicating. It is getting you into all sorts of trouble." more>>
|
(Feb. 11) Unnamed sources reportedly suggest "the North American perimeter security talks announced last week will include an intriguing proposal: expanding NORAD to cover land and sea operations." As envisioned, Canadian and U.S. navies and land forces would integrate their command structures, headquarters and operations when it comes to continental security. Canadian sovereignty is one of the related issues and will likely be a part of the national debate during next federal election, which must be held by October 2012. more>>
|
(Feb. 11) The sixteenth next-of-kin visit to Kandahar occurred this week. The Canadian Forces program invites relatives of those who have died to see where their son or daughter served and how Canada remembers them in Afghanistan. The memorial contains images of all the Canadian soldiers and civilians who have died in the country etched into black marble. Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, who commands Task Force Kandahar, described the memorial to the fallen as "a living monument" because it was visited so often by his troops.
more>>
|
(Feb. 11) A recent debate in the British House of Commons revealed that the U.K. has been engaged in a “close discussion with the Canadians” about the Global Combat Ship (GCS) program. However, a spokesperson for Defence Minister Peter MacKay has played down the talks. Hit by defence spending cuts, British warship builder BAE Systems has been looking for international partners to defray costs associated with developing the GCS. The Canada First Defence Strategy says that the current fleet of 12 frigates needs to be replaced by 2028.
more>>
|
(Feb. 11) Conservatives should make it a "priority" to advocate for the creation of a "North American Community" composed of Canada, the United States and Mexico, which could include an "assembly" of elected representatives from the three nations, says a prominent Tory senator. more>>
|
(Feb. 10) Fallen heroes from the Coast Guard, Canadian Forces and RCMP who died in the line of duty will be honoured Thursday when Canada's new fleet of nine mid-shore patrol vessels get their new names. Ministers Peter MacKay, Gail Shea and Jean-Pierre Blackburn will announce the nine new ships' names at a ceremony at the National War Museum. Family members of the ships' namesakes will be in attendance for the ceremony. more>>
|
(Feb. 10) According to a U.S. State Department cable recently made public by the controversial website, WikiLeaks, Canadian Navy Captain Chris Dickinson warned officials three years ago that lines between government, pirates and terrorists were blurring in Somalia. According to the cable, Dickinson found evidence of "collusion" while he worked at escorting food-aid ships off the Horn of Africa's coast.
more>>
|
(Feb. 10) All Canadian government workers in the south of Afghanistan will leave during the next few months. Winding down the civilian mission, which began several months before combat troops arrived in the spring of 2006, is underway. Only 60 Canadian civilians are now based in Kandahar, down from 75 last summer. Starting next month, more civilians will be catching flights back to Canada.
more>>
|
(Feb 9) More investment needed. Canada has fallen to 5th place on the list of international aerospace countries, losing to Germany in terms of industry revenue. "The future of the industry is almost entirely dictated by how much you reinvest today in technology and the ability to be globally competitive," said Barry Kohler, president of Bell Helicopter, speaking at Calgary's Aerospace Museum. In 2010, the industry represented $1.3 billion in provincial revenues, adding an estimated $3.3 billion in Western Canada, and $24 billion from companies across Canada. It represents more economic diversification for the province, which joins Ontario and Quebec as the only provinces with an aerospace strategy, said David Peace, with Alberta Finance and Enterprise.
more>>
|
(Feb. 9) Military police are investigating a stabbing at the Work Point barracks at CFB Esquimalt on Monday night. A man was rushed to hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Dept. of National Defence has not released the individual's name or whether he was a Canadian Forces member or not.
more>>
|
(Feb. 9) Fourteen Canadian Forces members and three members of the Australian Defence Force have accepted the challenge of a five-day skiing and snow-boarding camp on Mount Washington in western B.C. The fourth annual camp, which is hosted by the Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports, Mount Washington Alpine Resort, and the Soldier On program, introduces disabled veterans to adaptive skiing and snowboarding. A number of dignitaries are attending, including Australia's high commissioner and military attaché and a lieutenant-colonel from the Australian Army.
more>>
|
(Feb. 9) Insurgents killed two members of NATO's mission in southern Afghanistan Wednesday. Their names have not been released or specific information about where they were killed. Ten ISAF members have died so far this month. Earlier this week, a suicide bomber in Kandahar province killed a retired U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer and wounded three other U.S. Customs workers. The Taliban in Kandahar are attacking officials and others who support pro-government forces. Earlier this month, a suicide bomber killed the province's deputy governor. more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Canada's lead weapons treaty negotiator has been removed from his post after American negotiators complained he was "too tough and aggressive" on behalf of Canada in disarmament talks. more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Brig.-Gen. Michael Day, commander of Canada's special forces, has been selected as deputy commander of NATO's training mission in Afghanistan. His new position involves a promotion to Major-General and he will report to U.S. Lt.-Gen. William Caldwell. Defence Minister Peter MacKay made the announcement Monday along with a series of other promotions in the military's senior ranks.
more>>
|
(Feb. 8) On Monday, Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced a number of changes, including promotions, in the Canadian Forces. Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson will take over from Brig.-Gen. Michael Day as the commander of Joint Task Force 2, Canada's elite special forces unit. This Ottawa Citizen report includes other changes announced today by MacKay.
more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Veterans Affairs is failing Canadian veterans who have reached a mental health breaking point, Ombudsman Guy Parent told a House of Commons committee Monday. "People at Veterans Affairs need to be trained to deal with people in crisis," he said, noting the department is currently unable to help veterans who need quick access to care. "The complexity of the process doesn't allow for a response to immediate needs." more>>
|
(Feb. 8) Aviation Week & Space Technology reports that "Details of the revamped F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program are emerging and showing that, despite more than nine years of work, almost six years of challenging development and testing still lie ahead for the Lockheed Martin-led project." Just 600 of 7,800 test flights have been completed and only half of eight million lines of programming code have been written. The Pentagon "will seek an additional $4.6 billion in its fiscal 2012 budget for the replanned program." more>>
|
(Feb. 7) According to this National Post report, during the past five years of the Harper Conservatives being in power, in terms of people Canada's military has grown in size by nearly nine per cent. Overall, the federal public service "swelled by 33,023 people, slightly more than 13%, over five years."
more>>
|
(Feb. 7) The NDP have tabled in Parliament a U.S. Senate report that criticized Canada's Dept. of National Defence and Foreign Affairs for hiring Afghan security contractors with warlords on their payrolls. According to the report, Canada spent more than $41M on 11 companies. In one case, Foreign Affairs paid nearly $8M to ArmorGroup Securities Ltd., recently cited in a U.S. Senate investigation as relying on Afghan warlords who engaged in "murder, kidnapping, bribery and anti-Coalition activities." more>>
|
(Feb. 6) Senator John Kerry, Vietnam War veteran and later opponent, U.S. presidential candidate in 2004, and former backer of the U.S. troop surge in Iraq has concluded that the US strategy in Afghanistan has to be revised. Kerry is calling for a more limited focus and fewer American troops than the 155,000 now in the country. In the coming weeks, the highly experienced senator will hold oversight hearings to examine how the Obama Admin. expects military gains in recent months to be sustained over the long term by a viable Afghan government. more>>
|
(Feb. 5) U.S. and Afghan forces are setting up joint bases across the Zhare district, the birthplace and heartland of the Taliban and ancestral home of many of its top leadership, including Mullah Muhammad Omar. Zhare stands as one of the most important tests of the U.S. surge and the question on everyone’s minds is whether American and Afghan forces can hold on to their gains as the spring approaches and fighting may resume, depending on what the Taliban opts to do. more>>
|
(Feb. 5) With the U.S. government running record deficits, the Pentagon and other federal departments are under pressure to reduce costs. Eliminating Lockheed Martin's F-35B program, which Secretary Gates put on probation last month, has been recommended, but not building 311 F-35B's for the Marine Corps would mean thousands of jobs would not be created. A political battle is shaping up in Washington, as this Bloomberg.com video report explains. more>>
|
(Feb. 4) The United States threatened to take military action against China during a secret "star wars" arms race within the past few years, according to leaked documents obtained by The Daily Telegraph. more>>
|
(Feb. 4) Canadian special forces troops from CFB Petawawa will soon be heading to Senegal in northwest Africa to train troops in the region who are fighting al-Qaeda insurgents. The training exercise is led by the U.S. and involves not only Canadian soldiers, but also ones from Spain, France, the Netherlands and Germany as well as Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Nigeria.
more>>
|
(Feb. 4) According to U.S. Army commanders, about 4,000 troops of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division from Fort Wainwright, near Fairbanks, Alaska, will be taking over from Canada's battle group in Afghanistan by July. The "Arctic Wolves" are to train in the Californian desert for their impending 12-month tour, according to The Stars and Stripes, a popular U.S. military newspaper.
more>>
|
(Feb. 3) An in-depth article by Embassy Magazine reveals that "the risks inherent in participating, or moving to participate, in the JSF [Joint Strike Fighter] program are quite large for firms. Competing has required taking on more and more financial risk as politics becomes mixed into the situation. As more program delays are experienced by Lockheed and others, pundits and politicians grow ever more skeptical and stockholders, for example, grow jumpy." Embassy also reviewed Harper government ministerial actions related to their F-35 promotion plan and reports on their findings. more>>
|
(Feb. 3) National Defence is investigating after the Canadian Forces revealed it had handed out tens of millions of dollars in benefits to deployed soldiers and their families over five years without government approval. According to Defence Minister Peter MacKay, "There were oversights that occurred. Those will be corrected; Treasury Board approvals will be given."
more>>
|
(Feb. 3) On Thursday, three warships from CFB Esquimalt will set sail for Hawaiian waters to participate in training exercises involving U.S. submarines. HMCS Vancouver, HMCS Winnipeg and the supply ship Protecteur are taking part in a two-week exercise during which Canadian sailors, as part of a coalition effort, will simultaneously hunt for and evade submarines and protect shipping. Three Sea King helicopters and an Aurora long-range maritime patrol airplane are also going. more>>
|
(Feb. 3) Canada’s top military police officer should request an investigation by the RCMP into allegations Canadians committed war crimes in Afghanistan, Amnesty International lawyer Paul Champ told the Military Police Complaints Commission Wednesday. Champ said military police charged with keeping Canada on the right side of international law were intimidated and marginalized by senior commanders into ignoring the torture allegations. more>>
|
(Feb. 2) The Canadian Forces paid tens of millions of taxpayers' dollars in benefits over the past five years without the government's approval. Vice-Admiral Bruce Donaldson, the vice-chief of defence staff, said Tuesday "We didn't do our homework ... we didn't make sure that we actually had the authority to do some of these things." more>>
|
(Feb. 2) Commission lawyers looking into the Afghan detainee issue say Canada's military police failed to ask the right questions of commanders for fear of intruding on and disrupting the chain of command, a problem that must be addressed by strengthening police independence. "The (military police) were too deferential to the chain of command and authority. You heard it again and again in the testimony," lawyer Paul Champ said in an interview. more>>
|
(Feb. 2) The Dept. of National Defence is seeking buyers for five Chinook helicopters used for combat operations in Afghanistan. They were second-hand from the U.S. military; Canadians paid $282 million for them. So far, there have been no takers. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) Egypt’s army shows signs of siding with anti-government demonstrators even as its commander-in-chief, President Hosni Mubarak, continues to cling to power. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) SPANGDAHLEM, Germany — It will probably cost Canada an extra $90 million to sustain and then wind up its mission in Kandahar by the end of the year because its military aircraft are still banned from the United Arab Emirates, according to calculations by Postmedia News. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) Because the United Arab Emirates ejected the Canadian Forces from Camp Mirage late last year over a squabble with Ottawa related to landing rights in Canada, the bill to transport troops and equipment back to this country could be $90M higher. However, an option that has been recently explored by the CF is to fly a shorter route north from Kandahar over Turkmenistan and then across eastern Europe to land at a U.S. air base in Germany. From there, CC-177 Globemaster III airlifters would return to Canada. The shorter northern route would save about 2,000 kilometres each way. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) The Canadian Forces are planning for an upcoming major winter war games-type exercise south of Timmins, Ont. next month. Canadian Reservists from regiments in 13 Ontario communities will be participating as well as Canadian Rangers involving First Nations volunteers, officer cadets from the Royal Military College, and U.S. National Guard units. more>>
|
(Feb. 1) NATO will not win the war on Afghan opium production, says Hayatullah Ahadyar, one of the six judges in Afghanistan who sit on the court that oversees major drug busts. "How many people should we capture and put in jail? Maybe nobody will be left in Afghanistan, everyone will be in jail," Ahadyar told Agence France-Presse in an interview ahead of a meeting with NATO officials in Brussels on Monday. "Lack of security, lack of education, lack of a better life, this is why farmers are growing drugs," the judge said.
more>>
|
(Feb. 1) The Dept. of National Defence denied Monday the latest set of F-35 shortcomings reported yesterday by the Ottawa Citizen. The report said F-35A Joint Strike Fighters for Canada do not have the right kind of system to do mid-air refueling with CC-150 Polaris tankers and the DND "is looking at having manufacturer Lockheed Martin install a 'drag' chute on the plane." Maj.-Gen. Tom Lawson, assistant chief of air staff, told CBC News Monday that he wants to "de-lie" what he regards to be F-35 myths. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said in the House of Commons Monday that any F-35 modifications for refueling will be done within the current budget. It was the first time since his F-35 procurement announcement in July 2010 that MacKay mentioned such a modification. more>>
|
(Jan. 31) The Canadian Forces' CC-150 Polaris air tankers have a system for mid-air refueling that is not compatible with the F-35A, the air force version of the Joint Strike Fighter that the Harper government plans to sole-source from Lockheed Martin (LM). The Dept. of National Defence is examining a number of options to address the issue, including having LM modify F-35's or buy new refueling aircraft at a cost of "several hundred million dollars, depending on how many new tankers are needed." Although tankers were not identified in the government's Canada First Defence Strategy as part of Major New Fleet Replacements, "Military officers argue that by 2020 the Polaris aircraft might need to be replaced any ways." The CC-150 fleet was procured in 1992-1993. more>>
|
(Jan. 31) The Waterloo (Ont.) Record has published an opinion piece about the Harper government's F-35 plan by Geoffrey Stevens, author, former Ottawa columnist and managing editor of the Globe and Mail, and political science instructor at Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Guelph. Stevens' piece includes an historical review of Canadian jet fighter/interceptor/ground attack aircraft and discusses the U.S.-Canada political dimension related to Joint Strike Fighter.
more>>
|
A majority of Canadians don't want their lives interrupted by an election and believe the government is working appropriately, results from a new poll suggest. In an exclusive poll conducted for Postmedia News and Global News, 64% of surveyed Canadians said the federal political process is working "just fine" and that there's "no need" for an election, while 36% said an election is necessary.
"Canadians don't want to be bothered by politics. Asking them if they want to experience the election is a little bit like asking if they want to take some bad cough medicine. The system itself may be necessary, but they just don't want to have it right now. They just don't see a need for it," said John Wright, senior vice-president of Ipsos Reid, which conducted the survey. more>>
|
(Jan. 31) The Canadian Forces' CC-177 Globemaster III airlifters proved to be very useful in terms of transporting military equipment and personnel from Camp Mirage late last year after the United Arab Emirates gave notice to Canada's military to leave following a dispute with Ottawa about airline landing rights in this country. The CF's new hub, an American air base in Germany, will be used in the coming months as the combat mission in Afghanistan winds down and troops and gear are flown back to Canada. more>>
|
(Jan. 30) In 1957, Robert Moore of Toronto was one of several Canadian soldiers sent to the Suez Canal in Egypt as part of the first U.N. peacekeeping force ever. Moore, now 75, learned last month that each soldier who served on U.N. peacekeeping missions between 1956 and 1988 has been awarded a piece of the 1988 Nobel Peace Prize as the world's first generation of peacekeepers.
more>>
|
(Jan. 30) The US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, Major General Arnold Fields, has issued a damning assessment of the $11.4-billion program to rebuild roads, bridges and key buildings in the war-torn country. The report cites poor planning, inadequate supervision and the inability of local leaders to keep projects going as well as serious failings in Pentagon's plans to provide facilities for the Afghan National Security Forces and dozens of development projects funded by the military. more>>
|
(Jan. 30) On the CBC’s Power & Politics on Thursday, Conservative MP Laurie Hawn, a former fighter pilot and supporter of the government's controversial plan to sole-source F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSF), said, "I'm confident we are going to get the airplane for between $70 and $75 million per copy." Such a price range would be at least 18-24% less than the amount the U.S. government will reportedly be paying. Last month, Ashton Carter, the Pentagon's procurement chief, told an audience in New York that the F-35's cost has almost doubled to US$92M and the U.S. government would not pay more than that sum. However, the Pentagon has reduced F-35 production, and plans to slash $1-plus-trillion federal deficits may result in hundreds of F-35s for the U.S. military not being ordered, the opposite of what Lockheed Martin needs to drive down the cost per aircraft. CBC host Evan Solomon's discussion with Hawn and Opposition MPs about the JSF and the government's F-35 plan is online at the link provided. more>>
|
(Jan. 29) Two Canadians were injured in a deadly suicide attack Friday at a Kabul supermarket that is located near embassies and caters to foreign tastes. The attack killed eight people, including three foreign women and a child, none of whom were Canadian. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying employees of a U.S. security firm were the intended targets.
more>>
|
(Jan. 29) Twelve months ago, U.S. Secretary of Defence Robert Gates fired the Marine Corps general in charge of the Pentagon's Joint Strike Fighter program, put Vice Admiral David Venlet in charge, and ordered US$614M in payments withheld for poor performance. Venlet's exhaustive review of the JSF program resulted in the F-35B being put on probation for two years and reduced production for the A and C models. LM CEO Robert J. Stevens held a conference call yesterday with investment analysts and "seemed to carry a note of exasperation", according to this U.S. news report. more>>
|
(Jan. 28)
CAIRO - President Hosni Mubarak sent troops backed by armoured cars into Cairo and other Egyptian cities on Friday in an attempt to quell street fighting and mass protests demanding an end to his 30-year rule. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) At his joint news conference yesterday with U.S Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, Peter MacKay, Canada's Minister of Defence, said that F-35 Joint Strike Fighters would arrive in this country "around the year 2017, 2018." In mid-July 2010, MacKay announced that the first F-35 delivery would be in 2016. Five months later, during his visit to Lockheed Martin's JSF facility in Texas, MacKay said that the Canadian Air Force would start receiving F-35s "in the 2016-2017 timeframe." The delivery slippage is related to ongoing and newly discovered F-35 troubles and Washington's fiscal woes. While the US$382B F-35 program needs at least another US$4.6B for the development phase and a Pentagon report earlier this month revealed new F-35A and F-35B problems - the Conservatives plan to sole-source 65 F-35As - the projected U.S. deficit for 2011 is now US$414B higher than just five months ago, rising to US$1.48T. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) OTTAWA — Canada's participation in a massive fighter-jet purchase is critical for all players involved, U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday, amid suggestions that a Liberal government could jeopardize the project. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) Farewell "yellow" terror alerts. "Green" and "blue," we barely knew you.
Americans who have been puzzled for years about whether there was any meaningful difference between the country's "red," "orange" or "yellow" terror alerts will no longer need to try deciphering the system. more>>
|
(Jan. 28)
CAIRO - Egypt mounted a security clampdown in Cairo and blocked Internet sites and the mobile phone system in a face-off with thousands of protesters who promised a "Friday of Wrath" aimed at ending Hosni Mubarak's 30-year rule. more>>
|
(Jan. 28) U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates met with Canadian Defence Minister Peter MacKay in Ottawa Thursday. Concerning the F-35, MacKay said that Canada needs the warplane, and accused the Opposition Liberals of "playing political games." When asked what he thought about the Harper government's plan to sole-source F-35s from Lockheed Martin, U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said he didn't want to get involved in domestic affairs. On Afghanistan, Gates praised Canada's contribution, and offered sympathy and thanks to the families of killed Canadian soldiers. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) The "Rethinking the Top of the World: Arctic Security Public Opinion Survey" Report was released yesterday. The survey was conducted by the Munk School of Global Affairs and examines opinions on the development of the Arctic regions in the eight Arctic states. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) The Canadian military investigated what appears to be a leak of several secret documents from a work station at the Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. The workstation had several users, which has made investigating the apparent breech difficult for military police. About half a dozen security lapses happen every year, mostly when classified data is transferred to the military's unclassified network. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) Private Martin Bell, 24, from the 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, became Britain's 350th military death on Tuesday when he was killed by an improvised explosive device in Helmand province in Afghanistan. Bell was killed as he was going to help a comrade who had been injured by a separate IED. more>>
|
(Jan. 27) Turkey may buy up to 116 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters but issues such as new troubles with the warplane and higher per-unit costs could end up making procurement unpalatable. Various governments have reduced the number of F-35s they are going to buy or postponed acquisition. Norway has not only shrunk its JSF procurement from 48 aircraft four years ago to 16, but delayed getting the warplanes by two years. Britain is also buying fewer F-35s and U.S. Secretary of Defense Gates has put the F-35B on probation. Fewer sales and delayed production will likely increase the cost per F-35, a major concern for NATO member Turkey. more>>
|
(Jan. 26) A Canadian Army sergeant has been charged under military law with behaving in a disgraceful manner after he performed medical exams on five female recruits in Quebec. Sgt. Christian Boudreau faces a total of ten charges, including five counts of breach of trust.
more>>
|
(Jan. 26) The federal government will spend $56 million to modernize two radar systems that it says will play a pivotal role in defending North American airspace. The two new systems are portable and will be based a CFB 4 Wing in Cold Lake, Alberta and CFB 3 Wing in Bagotville, Quebec.
more>>
|
(Jan. 26) The number of U.S. troops killed by roadside bombs in Afghanistan soared by 60 per cent last year, while the number of those wounded almost tripled, according to Pentagon data. In 2010, 268 American soldiers were killed by improvised explosive devices, about as many as in the three previous years combined. More than 3,360 troops were injured, an increase of 178 percent over the year before. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) More than 35 people were killed as a suicide bomber struck Russia's busiest airport on Monday in the most deadly terrorist attack of its kind in history. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) TORONTO — It is only a matter of time before Israel launches an attack on Iran to prevent it from developing nuclear arms, a soldier in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told a university crowd on Monday. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) Al-Jazeera's release of 1,700 leaked Palestinian documents, outlining 11 years of secret Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, only confirms how agonizingly drawn-out, complex and opaque the Middle East peace process really is. more>>
|
(Jan. 24) Canadians need to be able to see through the many misconceptions that surround the F-35 acquisition, which is a vital element in the securing of our nation's future, write Paul Manson (former Chief of Defence Staff and CF-18 program manager) and Angus Watt (former Chief of the Air Staff). There is a lot of mythology out there about the F-35 program. This is not surprising, given the complexity of the technology, the uncertain strategic threats facing Canada and her allies, and the cost of the acquisition. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) The national debate about Canada acquiring a fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters isn't letting up. This time, Alan Williams, former head of defence procurement for the federal government, challenges the views of Gen. (Ret'd) Paul Manson and Lt.-Gen (Ret'd) Angus Watt. more>>
|
U.S. Air Force officials have touted the "Gordon Stare" system as an "all-seeing eye" and a revolutionary advance over drones' current surveillance system, which provides a single video feed of a much smaller area. But in testing that began in October, the new system had trouble tracking humans during the day and larger objects, such as vehicles, at night, according to the assessment that was marked "draft" and "predecisional" by weapons testers at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Even when the Gorgon Stare could find such targets, it could not determine their exact location, which is necessary to fire weapons at them. The camera system "is not operationally effective and operationally suitable," according to the report, which recommended against deploying it. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) Hundreds of Canadian veterans of the war in Afghanistan have lost limbs, skin, hearing or sight. Others have been traumatized from witnessing bloodshed or encountering close calls with their own death. Most grieve fallen friends. Lt.-Col. Rakesh Jetly, adviser to the Canadian Forces surgeon general on mental health and psychiatry, was among a group of Canadian and American academics, doctors and chaplains taking part in a joint symposium at the University of Southern California this week. The panel discussed innovative therapies and treatments to help the swelling ranks of psychologically scarred and physically injured veterans. more>>
|
(Jan. 25) The senior Canadian military officer in charge of the transition from combat operations to training Afghan security forces, Brig.-Gen. Charles Lamarre, says the training mission is taking shape. The army was caught by surprise in November when Prime Minister Harper committed the Canadian Forces to the NATO training mission. As late as October, Canada's overseas command had done no planning for a follow-on mission in Afghanistan, taking Harper at his word that all Canadian troops would be out of war-torn Afghanistan by the end of 2011, other than "the odd guard guarding an embassy." Considerable progress has been made in the past two months in terms of transition planning. more>>
|
(Jan. 24) The Dept. of National Defence is searching for parts for the military’s aging Snowbirds acrobatic airplanes even as it tries to keep the fleet operating until 2020. CT-114 Tutors, as they are known, have been used by Canada's military since 1963 and as the Snowbirds flight demonstration team since 1970.
more>>
|
(Jan. 23) Rory Stewart, a British Conservative member of parliament, said Sunday the United States and Britain have lost the legitimacy and trust necessary to find a resolution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Stewart, a former diplomat said, "There is no confidence in the ability of the United States to sort this out. It no longer has the trust or the legitimacy. I think it is extremely unlikely that the United States is going to develop a coherent focused policy towards negotiation." He also remarked that it is "very difficult" to see any progress on talks with the Taliban's leadership. more>>
|
(Jan. 23) Canada's combat troops in Afghanistan will begin withdrawing from "outside the wire" between "the middle and end of June" and all will be back at the Kandahar Airfield or in Canada "by the end of July," says their commander, Lt.-Col. Henri-Michel St-Louis. Ottawa, Washington and NATO have been negotiating for several months about the best time for the Royal 22nd Regiment battle group to withdraw. Formal transfer of the Panjwaii district to U.S. authority will likely take place sometime early in July. more>>
|
(Jan. 23) In an ironic move, the U.S. Tea Party, which has backed many pro-military Republican political candidates in the past year, now says it supports military spending cuts. Total U.S. defence spending for Fiscal Year 2011, including combat operations in Afghanistan and homeland security, is US$895 billion, a US$40-billion increase since 2010. However, the U.S. deficit for FY2011 will exceed US$1 trillion and Washington is implementing no plan to balance the budget this decade or even have deficits of less than $500 billion, a significant concern for Tea Partiers, who want reduced government spending and low taxes. more>>
|
(Jan. 22) "From my perspective," said Chief of Defence Staff General Walt Natynczyk, "the F-35 is the best aircraft with the best value for Canada." He also commented on the recent war crimes allegation by a Canadian soldier related to JTF2, the training mission in Afghanistan, and winding down the combat mission. more>>
|
(Jan. 22) Canadian troops and equipment will use Cyprus as a staging post when Ottawa pulls its troops from Afghanistan next year, according to Cypriot government spokesman Stefanos Stefanou on Friday. Stefanou said he made the announcement in order to deny a newspaper report that Cyprus would be used as a temporary military base by Canada to support operations in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) LONDON - Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will appear before an inquiry into the Iraq War for a second public grilling on Friday to clarify his earlier evidence detailing his reasons for joining the invasion. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) Dan Gardner of the Ottawa Citizen weighs in on Prime Minister Stephen Harper's performance over the past half decade in relation to Afghanistan, including his promise over two years that all Canadian troops would be withdrawn from the war-torn country by July 2011, F-35 fighter jets, and other issues that the Conservatives have, according to Gardner, tried to present as apolitical when in fact they have been covered with the Conservatives' politics. more>>
|
(Jan. 21)
Cormorant search-and-rescue helicopters won't be available to cover central and parts of western Canada and the north until at least 2014 because of ongoing problems that have plagued the aircraft fleet, according to newly released Defence Department documents. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) A Canadian construction worker wanted in the United States on terror-related charges made a brief court appearance Thursday, marking the start of a months-long legal process as the U.S. seeks to have him extradited. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) South Korea agreed Thursday to a North Korean offer of high-level military talks, a major breakthrough in the crisis on the peninsula that improves the prospect of renewed aid-for-disarmament negotiations. more>>
|
(Jan. 21) It's a crucial question with no clear answer: will the Taliban return in strength to Kandahar when the traditional fighting season resumes after the annual opium harvest ends this spring? more>>
|
(Jan. 21) A Canadian Forces program that sends battle-weary troops to a sunny seaside resort in Cyprus to wind down after a tour of duty in war-torn Afghanistan has piqued the interest of U.S. military mental health officials. Last month, a team of military experts and academics from the Univ. of Southern California travelled to observe the CF program and hope to replicate it for a pilot project in the United States.
more>>
|
(Jan. 20)
NEW YORK — U.S. President Barack Obama said Wednesday he believes China’s emergence as a major power was good for the United States economically, but revealed Washington’s doubts about the long-term political goals of the world’s most populous country, which remains under Communist party rule. more>>
|
(Jan. 20) KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — It's a crucial question with no clear answer: will the Taliban return in strength to Kandahar when the traditional fighting season resumes after the annual opium harvest ends this spring? more>>
|
(Jan. 18) OTTAWA — Canadian military police have cleared the Canadian Forces of any wrongdoing in the shooting death of a 17-year-old Afghan male. more>>
|
(Jan. 20) Canada's military is looking for another staging base to move troops and supplies in and out of Kandahar. Last fall, the Canadian Forces were told to leave Camp Mirage near Dubai in the United Arab Emirates because Ottawa refused to grant UAE airlines additional landing slots at Toronto’s Pearson airport.
more>>
|
(Jan. 20) An Australian Special Air Service soldier, named in the national press as Corporal Ben, will be awarded the nation's highest military honour, the Victoria Cross for Australia, on Sunday for taking on a large Taliban force in October 2010. A book published last year, "SAS Sniper", says "He has excelled as an operator in the regiment, and is also an SAS sniper, but his main calling is as an assaulter and he is exceptional." more>>
|
(Jan. 19) A Joint Task Force 2 member felt his peers were being "encouraged" by the Canadian Forces chain of command to commit war crimes in Afghanistan, according to documents from the military ombudsman's office obtained by CBC News. The documents also indicate that the soldier didn't believe the military was taking his allegations seriously and that he had lost faith in the Forces' leadership. The soldier also claimed that three years ago, his team was sent to conduct a mission with a U.S. special operations team and the Americans killed a man who was wounded and unarmed. He said the "vision of the southern friends is being pushed" — an apparent reference to the more aggressive reputation of U.S. soldiers. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) Cpl. Jean-Michel Deziel was installing a telecommunications antenna when he fell from a roof at CFB Valcartier Monday. He was subsequently pronounced dead. Deziel was a member of the Headquarters and Signals Squadron and had served in the CF since October 2006. Col. Jean-Marc Lanthier, commander of the 5th Canadian Mechanized Brigade, offered his condolences to Deziel's family and colleagues. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) The Air Force and Marine Corps versions of the Lockheed Martin (LM) F-35 JSF have previously undisclosed problems with handling and the avionics, afterburner and helmet-mounted display, according to a report by the Pentagon’s Director of Operational Test and Evaluation. The report also says that various components are not as reliable as expected and calls for the F-35’s On-Board Inert Gas Generations System, which generates inert gases to prevent oxygen building up inside the fuel tanks, to be redesigned. The F-35 program is over-budget by US$185 billion and more than two years late. Controversially, the Harper government plans to sole-source 65 F-35As from LM for Canada's air force for $9 billion. Two decades of JSF maintenance could reportedly cost taxpayers as much as an extra $12 billion. more>>
|
(Jan. 19) Following China's unveiling last week of its reportedly stealthy fighter jet, the J-20, Britain's Secretary for Defense, Liam Fox, said Tuesday that Britain was remaining committed to the U.S. F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Fox was in Sydney, Australia for talks about strengthening defense cooperation in Asia. JSFs for Britain survived a recent government defense review that involves cuts of some £81 billion (CAD$129 billion) over four years as part of a wider deficit-fighting strategy.
more>>
|
(Jan. 18) TIKRIT, Iraq -- A suicide bomber wearing a vest filled with explosives attacked Iraqi police recruits on Tuesday in former dictator Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit, killing at least 42 and wounding over 100, officials said. more>>
|
(Jan. 18) Canadian military investigators say they have found no reason to charge soldiers who allegedly shot an unarmed Afghan teen in the back of the head in June 2007 and then tried to cover it up, according to Ahmadshah Malgarai, a former interpreter. Malgarai, whose codename was “Pasha,” told a House of Commons committee in 2010 about the alleged shooting by Canadian troops.
more>>
|
(Jan. 18) Canadian and U.S. military experts are meeting in Los Angeles Tuesday to collaborate on ways to help soldiers physically disabled and psychologically scarred from war. Canadian Forces physicians, psychiatrists, chaplains and wounded soldiers are gathering with their American counterparts to discuss innovative programs and treatments in a symposium at the University of Southern California called "Wounded Warriors — Healing the Mind, Body and Soul." more>>
|
(Jan. 17) Canada's Army has restricted the use of nearly one-quarter of the G-Wagon or Light Utility Vehicle Wheeled fleet due to safety concerns that the turret could come loose. The problem first arose in mid-2008 and was addressed by a requirement for weekly inspections. The restriction does not significantly affect the Afghan mission, according to the Army, as the LUVW is no longer used outside Kandahar airfield.
more>>
|
(Jan. 17) During the past two decades, the Russian government has recognized with a medal non-Soviet sailors who braved dangerous Arctic waters and prowling German U-boats to deliver desperately-needed supplies to the Soviets during the Second World War. The Canadian government has not - until now.
more>>
|
(Jan. 17) Half a century ago today, U.S. president Dwight D. Eisenhower, a retired five-star general who served as the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during World War II, warned the American people of the "unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex." Fifty years later, the U.S. spends more money on its military, including US$382 billion on the F-35 program in the past decade, than the next 34 nations. Columnist Stephen Staples writes, "Canadians are being asked to spend between $16 and $21 billion of public dollars in initial purchase and maintenance costs, according to Department of National Defence estimates, on these U.S.-built fighter-bombers, without a clear explanation of why they are needed for our protection. The plane's stealth and ground-attack capabilities make it ill-suited for patrolling the arctic." Eisenhower told his fellow Americans: "Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, is a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and not clothed." The debate in Canada about buying F-35s continues. more>>
|
(Jan. 16) Canadian and Afghan forces in Kandahar province have been employing psychological warfare - focusing on hope for the rising generation and even envy - to try to shift pro-insurgency attitudes in stubborn Afghan villages. With spring and warmer weather coming soon and the pullout of Canadian forces by July, unorthodox, non-violent psychological tactics are being used to create what Canadian Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, commander of the Kandahar mission, calls "momentum." more>>
|
(Jan. 16) NDP Leader Jack Layton said Friday that Canadian soldiers participating in the post-2011 training mission in Afghanistan may end up training future Taliban insurgents. Layton said even NATO has acknowledged one of the dangers of its mission is the possibility that a portion of the one in five soldiers who quit the Afghan National Army each year later join the Taliban.
more>>
|
(Jan. 15) While a delegation of Afghan government officials recently claimed that ISAF operations in Kandahar have cost almost $100 million in damage to fruit crops, livestock and other property, damage caused by Canadian activities has been less than one per cent of that sum. Maj.-Gen. James Terry, the commander of all NATO forces in southern Afghanistan, disputes the Afghan figure. more>>
|
(Jan. 15) Bell Helicopter Textron Canada was awarded a 10-year, $640-million contract Friday to service the Canadian Forces’ CH146 Griffon fleet. Three-hundred aerospace workers in Mirabel and Calgary will benefit from the contract, which runs until the expected retirement of the helicopter fleet in 2021.
more>>
|
(Jan. 14) The Harper government has put on hold its search for bidders to operate and maintain the chain of early-warning radars that guards against foreign incursions into Canadian and U.S. airspace in the Far North. more>>
|
(Jan. 14) Iran's proposal for a tour of its nuclear sites floundered Thursday after China effectively rejected the invitation and Russia said such a trip could never replace UN inspections or talks between Tehran and world powers. more>>
|
(Jan. 14) Foreign troops in Afghanistan have paid $1.4 million to Afghans in the past two months for damages in the country's south where NATO has been waging an expanded military campaign against the Taliban. An Afghan government report presented to President Hamid Karzai this week says that ISAF action has caused more than $100 million damage to fruit crops and homes in Kandahar province alone. International Security Assistance Force officials in the province say the damage estimate in the report is "extremely exaggerated." more>>
|
(Jan. 14) Mortar shells fired from Afghanistan hit a border village in northwest Pakistan's tribal region, killing five civilians and wounding six, military officials said Friday. Intelligence officials said the mortar attack came from the Afghan province of Khost. Both Taliban and NATO forces use mortars as part of combat operations. A NATO spokesman in Kabul said it had received no reports of coalition forces firing mortars in the area. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) KHARTOUM - Three helicopter crew members contracted to the UN World Food Program were kidnapped in Darfur on Thursday, the agency said, the latest in a wave of abductions hindering aid in Sudan's war-torn region. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) A sense is building in the United States that the US$382-billion F-35 program has become a white elephant. China, which has a military budget about one-tenth that of the U.S., recently unveiled its 5th-generation manned stealth fighter. How were the Chinese able to accomplish such an aerospace feat when the Joint Strike Fighter program, which is a decade old, still requires billions of dollars for its development phase, is more than two years late, and won't be ready until 2016 at the earliest? Americans have been wondering. Analysts say the whole F-35 program has become a money pit. "The incredibly unfortunate phrase 'too big to fail' applies to this aircraft more than any other defense program," said Richard Aboulafia, an aerospace industry analyst with the Teal Group. more>>
|
(Jan. 13) U.S. officials are rushing to strengthen local governments across southern Afghanistan before the spring and Taliban insurgents are able to launch new attacks. Henry Ensher, the top U.S. civilian in the region, told reporters Thursday that the military has created a "security bubble" that, for the first time, has allowed local residents to meet with government officials and one another without Taliban influence. However, the effort has been slower and more cumbersome than anticipated. Army Maj. Gen. James Terry, the coalition commander for forces in southern Afghanistan, told reporters, "We have made definite progress, but we also acknowledge that it is fragile and perhaps can be reversed." more>>
|
(Jan. 12) The Harper government is standing by its multi-billion-dollar plan to sole-source 65 Joint Strike Fighters from Lockheed Martin, says Government House leader John Baird. The $9-billion purchase - plus billions more for F-35 maintenance - will create job opportunities in Canada for decades. Liberal industry critic Marc Garneau said the government's $12-billion estimate of F-35 work for Canadian companies is "very optimistic." He pointed out that by not holding a bidding competition for the CF-18 Hornet's replacement, the Conservatives have made it impossible that best-value-for-tax-dollars and Canadian job guarantees are secured. more>>
|
(Jan. 12) As Canadians prepare to leave southern Afghanistan, command of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team was turned over to the Americans Wednesday in a ceremony at Camp Nathan Smith. "We hope to keep building on what Canada has already achieved," said U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan James Keith. He credited Canadians with having made a "tremendous contribution" to improving the lives of Kandaharis, "and we hope to live up to that standard." more>>
|
(Jan. 12) The Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Adm. Mike Mullen, said Wednesday that the enemy in Afghanistan are losing. In another part of the country today, a suicide bomber on a motorcycle killed Afghan intelligence personnel in a minibus. On Friday, a suicide bomber killed 17 people, including a police chief, in a bathhouse in southern Afghanistan. Mullen said that he expects violence to rise as U.S. and Afghan forces continue to confront Taliban strongholds. "I have every confidence that (the enemy) will continue to lose, so long as coalition and Afghan forces increase their presence and their pressure on his operations and improve their own capacity," he told reporters. more>>
|
(Jan. 11) U.S. Army Lt.-Gen. William B. Caldwell wants Canadian personnel to train Afghan security forces in Kandahar, according to his paper published online by the Canadian Defence and Foreign Affairs Institute. Late last year, the Harper government said Canadian trainers would be based "inside the wire" in the relative safety of Kabul. Despite what the government has promised, Canadian military commanders have said that not all Canadian troops will be based in the Afghan capital. more>>
|
(Jan. 11) Lt.-Col. Steve Moritsugu, leader of the Canadian Forces mission transition and liaison team in Afghanistan, says that nearly 3,000 personnel and thousands of pieces of military equipment are being prepared to be transported out of the central Asian nation over the next few months. The enormous undertaking is "like moving a very large village or small town, lock, stock and barrel," he remarked.
more>>
|
(Jan. 11) Maj. Dave Bolton, commander of Task Force Erebus, says the military will ground Canada's unmanned surveillance aircraft (UAV) program and disband his squadron after the Afghan combat mission ends in July. Propeller-driven CU-170 Heron UAVs have operated out of Kandahar Airfield since 2009. more>>
|
Former U.S. Army Vice Chief of Staff, General Richard Cody, leads an ambitious effort to build and donate 100 specially adapted homes to severely injured veterans as chair of the "100 More…Homes for Our Troops" campaign. In the last six years, Homes for Our Troops, a national nonprofit veterans support organization, has built or has under construction 100 specially adapted homes. The keys to five specially adapted homes to five severely injured veterans and their families were presented throughout the week of Veterans Day 2010. more>>
|
(Jan. 10) It's the third time in less than 12 months that the multi-billion-dollar Close Combat Vehicle program has stumbled and procurement is now a year behind schedule. Public Works is looking for more companies interested in bidding after a new armour protection standard resulted in the disqualification of armoured vehicles built by five major manufacturers.
more>>
|
(Jan. 10) Operation Palaci is the largest mobile avalanche-triggering program in the world. It involves two detachments of soldiers firing howitzer shells into the snow pack on the Selkirk Mountains in Glacier National Park. Their unusual work helps to keep some 4,000 vehicles and 40 trains safe each day. more>>
|
(Jan. 10) A NATO airstrike in central Afghanistan Monday killed three Afghan police officers and wounded three others. They were all mistaken for insurgents and their deaths will probably cause new friction between NATO and the Karzai government. more>>
|
(Jan. 9) Canadian soldiers are in the midst of a massive coalition effort to pacify the troublesome Panjwaii district. Soldiers have stepped up their searches for hidden caches of enemy weapons, an effort that has yielded results. Crews are building a major road through the district. Afghan and Canadian forces are "invading" villages as per a new strategy to keep the Taliban off balance. more>>
|
(Jan. 8) Canadian soldiers on as many as 35 snowmobiles hauling their supplies on wooden sleighs made by them are training on Lake Winnipeg Saturday in preparation for a 300-kilometre trek into the Arctic. Exercise Northern Bison will see CF members travel on snowmobile from Churchill to Arviat, Nunavut from Feb 19-27. more>>
|
(Jan. 8) Since 2002, hundreds of interpreters have worked with the Canadian mission in war-torn Afghanistan. Virtually all have been targets of the Taliban and some have been killed or injured. A program started in October 2009 by the federal government has opened the door to 28 Afghan interpreters and their families emigrating to Canada. When the program began, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney pointed out that Afghans face “extraordinary personal risk as a result of their work in support of Canada’s mission in Kandahar.” more>>
|
(Jan. 8) A 30-year-old U.S. Army soldier suffering from headaches and nightmares - classic symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - has been ordered to Afghanistan and told to seek counseling in the war-afflicted country. Spc. Jeff Hanks, who turned himself in on Veterans Day after going AWOL and returning home to North Carolina, is a member of the 101st Airborne Division and has been deployed numerous times to Iraq and Afghanistan. more>>
|
The Air Force Association produced a position paper regarding the imperative to sustain the Defence budget despite fiscal pressures faced by the Government to reduce the deficit quickly. Future budgets must sustain defence funding if the Canada First Defence Strategy priorities are to be met, and the Government must remain committed to a strong and capable military force. more>>
|
(Jan. 7, 2011) The U.S. government announced Thursday that the development of the model of the F-35 fighter jet ordered by the U.S. Marine Corps will be put on a two-year "probation" due to "significant testing problems" and will be cancelled if it cannot be fixed. more>>
|
(Jan. 7, 2011) The United States has ordered an additional 1,400 marines to southern Afghanistan to pre-empt a Taliban spring offensive, despite a planned troop drawdown starting in July, the Pentagon said Thursday. more>>
|
(Jan. 7, 2011) When soldiers on patrol discover a roadside bomb, the frustration with villagers suspected of hiding something is obvious, writes Doug Schmidt. more>>
|
(Jan. 7) A Quebec judge has sentenced a Canadian Forces soldier to 15 months in prison for raping his ex-girlfriend when she refused to consent to “a final bang” following their breakup. Jean-Philippe Laforce, 31, is based at CFB Valcartier. A CF representative told the court that the army has not yet decided whether to kick him out. more>>
|
(Jan. 6, 2011)
Canadian snipers who have served in Afghanistan report being less traumatized by the war than the average soldier, according to a study that offers a rare glimpse into the minds of Canada’s battle-hardened troops. more>>
|
(Jan. 6, 2011) South Korea has dismissed a North Korean call for unconditional talks to ease tensions, saying the offer was "propaganda" it does not take seriously. The North's move on Wednesday came as the United States met Chinese and South Korean officials for talks on how to calm the Korean peninsula and persuade the North to stop its nuclear work. more>>
|
(Jan. 6) U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates presented his plan to lawmakers Thursday to save US$102 billion. Changes include reducing F-35 production to pay for more development work on the Joint Strike Fighter. The JSF is US$185 billion over budget and more than two years late. U.S. Vice Admiral David Venlet's preliminary estimate is that another $5 billion is required for the development phase. The planned doubling of F-35 production by 2013 "has never been credible," according to defense analyst Jim McAleese. Gates' plan includes eliminating and scaling back various equipment programs. How today's announced changes affect the Harper government's plan to sole-source 65 F-35's from Lockheed Martin remains to be seen. more>>
|
(Jan. 6) A school in Afghanistan renovated with Canadian tax dollars stands empty in the village. Jobs funded by international partners offered to locals are not filled despite unemployment. What is the problem? “If our children come to this school, the Taliban will come at night,” said an old villager, who was nearly hanged by the insurgents. Night letters on doors, threats posted at mosques and beatings by the Taliban are keeping Afghan villagers in fear despite coalition successes of the past year. more>>
|
(Jan. 5) U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is expected to announce as early as Thursday US$100 billion in savings for the Pentagon that involves eliminating some weapons programs and extending timelines for others. Lockheed Martin's US$382-billion F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program is facing another restructuring that could extend the development phase by up to two years, according to a source familiar with the plans. The F-35 program was already restructured last year, adding 13 months to the development phase. more>>
|
(Jan. 5) Members of an Afghan peace council left Tuesday for an ice-breaking visit to Pakistan. The 17-member delegation was set to meet with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani, but their government positions are in jeopardy because a key political party pulled out of the ruling coalition in parliament this week. Afghan officials and council members say Pakistan's support for the peace process involving the Taliban, who are almost all Pashtun and have deep roots in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and other tribal groups in Afghanistan is critical. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring its enemies. more>>
|
(Jan. 5) For producing and showing lewd videos while second-in-charge of the USS Enterprise showing cursing, anti-gay slurs, simulated sex acts and - apparently - two female sailors in a shower together, Capt. Owen Honors is being relieved of his command of the massive aircraft carrier. "While Capt. Honors' performance as commanding officer of USS Enterprise has been without incident, his profound lack of good judgment and professionalism while previously serving as executive officer on Enterprise calls into question his character and completely undermines his credibility to continue to serve effectively in command," said Adm. John Harvey, commander of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command, on Tuesday. more>>
|
(Jan 4)
Environment Minister: Peter Kent
Minister of State Foreign Affairs: Diane Ablonczy
Minister of State (Seniors): Julian Fantino
Minister of State (Finance): Ted Menzies
|
(Jan. 4) A wobbly economic recovery, unprecedented deficit spending, and a colossal federal debt heading toward $628B - $60B more than its previous high in 1996/7 - are major issues facing the Harper government. Negative fiscal realities have already impacted the DND/CF, with "adjusted" spending last year and Reserves training and certain types of flight hours and maintenance reduced. Neither the Conservatives nor the Opposition Liberals have laid out a military agenda that can meet the needs of a rapidly changing world, according to this StarPhoenix (Saskatoon, SK) report. "This sets Canada apart in many ways from its most strategically important allies," the report says. more>>
|
(Jan. 4) With the heads of the U.S. presidential deficit reduction committee recently calling for the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter program for the Marine Corps to be cancelled and only half of the planned F-35A's and C's for the Air Force and Navy, respectively, to be built, 2011 will be a pivotal year for the JSF program. Reporter Bob Cox of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram writes, "Hounded by controversy for much of the past two years, the F-35 has become the poster child for troubled, vastly overbudget military weapons programs." With Washington's debt exceeding $14 trillion and another US$1 trillion of debt being added to the books this year alone - assuming the U.S. economy does not slide back toward recession - what will the F-35 program look like by year's end? more>>
|
Defence contracts are messy. Few things prove as difficult to explain and likely to blow up in their face as massive procurements of military hardware. Cost overruns and production delays are the norm and rarely does the average Canadian ever understand why we need exactly what we are buying. So it is with the purchase of 65 next-generation multi-role F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. more>>
|
(Jan. 4, 2011) The federal government paid nearly $30 million in rent last year for thousands of National Defence employees housed in crowded and often dilapidated buildings across the capital as the department struggles to cope with exponential growth and the demands of safety and security, federal government documents obtained by the Citizen show. more>>
|
(Jan. 4) An analysis of Question Period transcripts shows the opposition asked far more questions about Canada's mission in Afghanistan and government ethics than any other subjects in 2010. more>>
|
(Jan. 3) The first of Canada's new Hercules C-130J transport aircraft arrived at the Kandahar Airfield over the weekend, with a second scheduled to arrive in the spring. The new C-130J models will eventually replace the older Hercules aircraft, which are smaller and slower and have been in service for nearly half a century. more>>
|
(Jan. 3) The mother of a 26-year-old Canadian soldier who was injured in Afghanistan when the military vehicle he was in was destroyed by an improvised explosive device shares her thoughts about the home stretch of Canada's combat mission in Kandahar. more>>
|
(Jan. 2) Captain Ray Wiss, a 51-year old emergency medicine specialist at the Sudbury Regional Hospital in Ontario and Canadian Forces Reserves medical officer, has written a book based on his tours in Afghanistan, "A Line in the Sand: Canadians at War in Kandahar." John Boileau, a retired Canadian army colonel who served in the armoured corps for 37 years, has reviewed Wiss' book. more>>
|
(Jan. 2) With a possible federal election in 2011, the Harper Conservatives have put themselves in an unfavourable political position by clinging to their controversial decision to sole-source 65 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) from Lockheed Martin for as much as $21 billion over 20 years, according to one Dept. of National Defence report. Given the fact that polling shows most Canadians are against the Tories' JSF plan, why has the government been tenaciously pursuing an agenda that has lost them voter support? Columnist Stephen Maher of The Chronicle Herald explains. more>>
|
(Jan. 1) "An International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) service member died following an improvised explosive device attack in southern Afghanistan today," ISAF said in a statement today, without providing information about the member's country or area of assignment. Last year, 711 international troops were killed in Afghanistan, the highest annual death toll since the war started in 2001. more>>
|
(Jan. 1) According to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, who is visiting Afghanistan, the United States has made "significant progress" in combating terrorist threats to the border region of Afghanistan and Pakistan. "The Obama administration remains fully committed to combating threats of terrorism in Afghanistan," Napolitano said in a statement released Saturday. She met with President Hamid Karzai and Minister of Finance Mohammad Omer Zakhiwal to discuss her department's efforts to combat the trafficking of chemicals used to manufacture improvised explosive devices and expand border protection training and guidance to the Afghan government. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) In November, when the Harper government committed Canada's military to do training in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2014, the prime minister and defence minister assured Canadians that soldiers would be "inside the wire", working at secure bases in the relatively stable area around Kabul, the capital. The impression given at the time was that the training mission would be considerably safer than the combat mission in Kandahar province since 2006. CTV News has learned, however, that training positions in the safer regions of Afghanistan are few and far between and NATO needs trainers at sites across the war-torn country. Insurgent attacks in diverse parts of Afghanistan using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombers, snipers and other guerrilla warfare methods have killed hundreds of NATO and Afghan security forces. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) An Italian soldier has been killed in Afghanistan while standing guard in a tower. Italy has about 3,500 soldiers in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) Dr. Edmund Pries, Global Studies instructor at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, explains in this opinion piece why buying a fleet of stealthy F-35 fighter jets provides relatively little "bang for the buck" in terms of tax dollars compared to other investment areas. more>>
|
(Dec. 31) Some may recoil at the thought of Williams as 2010's top newsmaker, but it's an "act of news judgment," not an award, explains April Lindgren, a veteran reporter who now teaches journalism at Toronto's Ryerson University. "He was selected Newsmaker of the Year because of the magnitude of his evil, and because of the news his deeds generated." more>>
|
(Dec. 30) Postmedia News reporter Doug Schmidt's photos from Afghanistan, where he is embedded with Canadian troops.
more>>
|
(Dec. 30) A confidant of President Hamid Karzai and other powerful provincial and national figures in Afghanistan, the recent return of Hajji Fazludin Agha after nearly a decade in exile is being heralded by government and coalition forces as a strong signal to the insurgents and their local supporters that the balance of power has shifted in an area that was a former Taliban safe zone.
more>>
|
(Dec. 29) Afghan soldiers shot at a Canadian convoy outside Kandahar city last weekend. The resupply convoy was involved in a minor accident with an Afghan National Army (ANA) vehicle southwest of Kandahar city. Canadian soldiers stopped after the accident, filled out paperwork, and continued on their way. ANA troops did not want them to leave, so they shot at the convoy and into the air. No one was injured and no Canadians fired back, the Canadian Forces said in a statement.
more>>
|
(Dec. 29) Cpl. Steve Martin of the Royal 22e Regiment was laid to rest Wednesday at a funeral service in his hometown just outside Drummondville, Quebec. He was killed on Dec. 18, two days short of his 25th birthday, by an improvised bomb. Local residents and fellow veterans came to the service to show their support. One of the civilians in attendance was Nicole Beauchamp, who son also died in Afghanistan three years ago. "I wanted to show my support for the family," she said. "Every time we have a military person who's died, there's a little bit of us going with him," said veteran Gerard Savoie. "Veterans are a big family." more>>
|
(Dec. 29) In the part of Afghanistan where Osama bin Laden and members of his al-Qaeda terror network escaped into Pakistan nine years ago, fighting between NATO troops and insurgents has broken out. A NATO airstrike killed at least five militants, officials say. more>>
|
(Dec. 28) In the annual message for the New Year, Gov. Gen. David Johnston highlighted Canada's accomplishments in war-torn Afghanistan. Johnston said in his address Tuesday that "we should be inspired by the courage, determination and conviction of our men and women in the Canadian Forces." He said that Canadians are helping to rebuild 50 schools in Kandahar province and training teachers to staff the facilities. "Rebuilding schools and ensuring the peace that will permit boys and girls to have an education are key to reconstructing family life in Afghanistan," the Governor General said. more>>
|
(Dec. 28) According to documents obtained by the Globe and Mail, the DND has 3,500 (14%) too many civilian employees. The overstaffing reportedly needs to be fixed through "zero growth" and attrition. As well, the number of Reservists needs to be reduced as well, according to an Oct. 13/10 memo circulated by Adm. Donaldson. His memo says "The current civilian FTE [full-time-equivalent] count and level of Reserve full-time service is unsustainable over the long term and so needs to be rationalized." more>>
|
(Dec. 28) According to new intelligence assessments, formerly rival insurgent groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan have been teaming up to attack NATO and Afghan security forces. The factions have set aside their historic rivalries and been acting like "a syndicate." The assessments point to a troubling new trend and reflect the resilience and flexibility of insurgent groups in the Afghan-Pakistani tribal lands along the border. more>>
|
(Dec. 27) Curious children in the streets watching Canadian soldiers and farmers working their fields are two of a number of signs that CF troops use to assess the local strength - or lack thereof - of the Taliban. Taliban strength in an area has included beatings of locals - or worse - suspected of cooperating with Canadian and Afghan soldiers. In Khenjakak, a small village, in Kandahar province, and other Afghan communities Canadian and Afghan troops works to dismantle the fear instilled by the Taliban. more>>
|
(Dec. 27) Missiles presumably from U.S. drones destroyed three trucks and 25 suspected militants on Monday in the Afghan-Pakistan border region. Pakistani intelligence officials said the trucks were also ferrying weapons and four insurgents were injured. There has been a significant increase in attacks by American unmanned aircraft this year in the tribal area of Afghanistan and Pakistan. more>>
|
(Dec 27) In the changing face of modern warfare, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become a fixture in the skies over Iraq and Afghanistan and a symbol for the robotic future of battle. Author Matt Martin details a UAV pilot's viewpoint on the Iraq and Afghan wars in a new book entitled Predator. Martin, who has flown the Predator more than 1,600 hours in combat, has not only provided firepower and surveillance data for U.S. troops in Iraq, but also for Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(Dec. 26) The Canadian Forces carried out large deployments in 2010 involving 2,000 troops to Haiti, nearly 3,000 to Afghanistan and internally to the Lower Mainland in B.C. for the Olympics. The Toronto Sun reviews the most significant military stories of the year... more>>
|
(Dec. 26) While, the holidays have always been difficult for the spouses and children of military personnel deployed overseas, today's networked world has made staying in touch much easier. The Victoria Colonist reports that military families are looking forward to the end of Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan and more time with loved ones. more>>
|
(Dec. 26) Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan said on Saturday that NATO, Afghan and Pakistani forces will conduct more coordinated operations against Taliban insurgents on both sides of the Afghan-Pakistani border. In an interview, Petraeus said forces in Afghanistan and Pakistan have operated in "very close coordination in the past two months." He said the security forces of both countries will have more opportunities to coordinate with NATO troops "as earlier gains are solidified." more>>
|
(Dec. 25) Canada's minister of defence, Peter MacKay, travelled to Afghanistan with government colleagues to spend the holidays with Canadian troops in Afghanistan. Speaking to the troops, MacKay said "The Canadian Forces serve and sacrifice to defend our country and assist the people of Afghanistan rebuild their country. Together with their partners from other government departments, as well as our allies, they are making tangible progress in a very challenging environment. It was an honour for me to spend this special time of year in Afghanistan with the men and women who represent our great country with such eminence." more>>
|
(Dec. 25) Tim Hortons gift cards and Christmas trees, presents, cards and letters from thousands of Canadians have all made their way to Afghanistan, keeping the holiday spirit "alive and well" among Canadian Forces troops deployed in the war-torn country. "The efforts by both the CF and especially the extension of good will of so many Canadians through packages and Christmas wishes sent is really quite something," Cpt. Jamie Donovan said from Kandahar this week. "In all honesty, with the flood of support and good will in appreciation for those in uniform, if I have to be away from home this Christmas there's likely no other place I'd rather be." more>>
|
(Dec. 25) Since 2002, few Canadians have been more supportive of Canadian Forces members deployed to Afghanistan than Hockey Night in Canada's Don Cherry. The Coach, who is 76, travelled to the central Asian nation to be with Canadian troops this Christmas, where he served them Christmas dinner, signed an artillery shell and fired it. Wearing a tailored desert camouflage jacket and his famous collar and tie, Cherry said, "Taliban, here I come!" as he triggered an M777 round before posing for pictures with the gun crew.
more>>
|
(Dec. 24) Every year since 1955, North American Aerospace Defense has 'tracked' Santa Claus as he circumnavigates the globe, delivering gifts for good little girls and boys. Christmas 2010 was no exception. NORAD has confirmed that Santa, guided by Rudolph's bright red nose, soared into the Arctic sky at 6 a.m. ET, where weather was balmier than usual at –17 C with wind chill. "Santa's going to find it a little warm up there, maybe too warm, but the winds are favourable, 16 kilometres per hour from the north," said David Phillips, a senior Environment Canada climatologist. Satellite images on NORAD's website show Santa's minute-by-minute progress. more>>
|
(Dec. 23) An operation to secure an area used by the Taliban for staging attacks has so far been met with little resistance. Hundreds of Canadian, American and Afghan troops took part in Operation Khenkakak this week. The operation was primarily planned and carried out by Afghan commanders and involved two Afghan battalions or kandaks. more>>
|
(Dec. 22) The body of Cpl. Steve Martin, the Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan on Saturday by an improvised explosive device, has returned to Canada after severe weather in Europe earlier this week delayed his repatriation. Gov. Gen. David Johnston and other dignitaries and Martin's family, friends and comrades were at CFB Trenton for the soldier's repatriation ceremony on Wednesday. Martin served with the 1st Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment from CFB Valcartier. He was stationed in Haiti earlier this year as part of Canada's humanitarian efforts following the earthquake last January and would have turned 25 on Monday. more>>
|
(Dec. 22) In a year-end interview with CBC News, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said that there has been "incremental progress" in war-torn Afghanistan in 2010. He also said that NATO allies expect the Afghan government to "pick up the slack." Widespread corruption in Afghanistan is regarded by many governments of NATO nations, including Canada, as a significant threat to the country's future. "There are definitely improvements, tangible improvements that we can see, that we can point to," MacKay told the CBC's James Cudmore. "And yet, all of it is tenuous as far as, will it last?"
more>>
|
(Dec. 22) As the political battle in Washington over defense budget cuts and Pentagon "adjustments" heats up, the latest development is a Senate bill that would reduce funding for the F-35 by $1 billion. That sum means seven fewer Joint Strike Fighters for the U.S. Air Force on an order for 42 of the stealthy warplanes with Lockheed Martin. The Senate bill also provides money for the backup F136 jet engine developed by GE and Rolls Royce for the F-35 that U.S. SecDef Robert Gates and the Pentagon have wanted eliminated for years in order to save defense dollars. more>>
|
(Dec. 21) More than 5,000 Canadians have contributed $10 for a Tim Hortons gift card and written a letter of appreciation to a Canadian Forces member serving in Afghanistan this holiday season. The Share a Cup With a Brave Canuck program was started three years ago by Ric Rangel-Bron, a Toronto Emergency Medical Services commander. It has since spread to paramedic groups across the country. Some 23,000 cards and messages have been sent. more>>
|
(Dec. 21) Transitioning from its combat mission in the dangerous border province of Kandahar to Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, next year will mark the biggest wind-down since the Korean War for Canada's military. The chair of the Senate defence committee that urged the government to maintain a role in Afghanistan post-2011, Senator Pamela Wallin, said the impact of a complete withdrawal of Canadians from war-torn Afghanistan next year would have been "quite profound." more>>
|
(Dec. 21) The repatriation ceremony for Canada's latest fallen soldier, Cpl. Steve Martin, is delayed "at least 24 hours" due to poor weather and equipment issues, according to a Canadian Forces spokesperson. Capt. Jennifer Jones said the military aircraft carrying the body of Cpl. Martin remains in Germany. Snowstorms have hampered air travel in many parts of Europe. The ceremony has been tentatively postponed until 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday at CFB Trenton. Martin was killed Saturday by an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol west of Kandahar. more>>
|
(Dec. 21) In Part 3 of his series on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which reportedly could cost taxpayers in Canada as much as $21 billion, defence journalist David Pugliese provides more details about the Harper government's controversial decision to sole-source 65 F-35s from Lockheed Martin (LM). He explains that while the Conservatives have been touting $12 billion in industrial benefits for Canada, a 2003 Pentagon report "estimated Canadian firms would receive $3.9 billion in work. DND briefing notes from 2007 put the estimate at $5 billion. Both figures were based on Canada's purchase of 80 aircraft, as well as the U.S. and allied acquisitions." DND officials and aerospace industry representatives have acknowledged there are no guarantees that Canadian companies will receive F-35 work from LM.
more>>
|
(Dec. 20) A repatriation ceremony will take place Tuesday for Cpl. Steve Martin who was killed Saturday by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. His body is expected to arrive at Canadian Forces Base Trenton at 2 p.m. Martin, who served with 3rd battalion, Royal 22e Regiment, was killed while on foot patrol in the Panjwaii district west of Kandahar. Gov. Gen. David Johnston, Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Habibullah Qaderi, the Consul General of Afghanistan, are among the dignitaries expected to attend Tuesday's ceremony.
more>>
|
(Dec. 20) U.S. Vice President Joe Biden has promised that all American troops will be withdrawn from Afghanistan within four years. In a pre-taped interview for NBC's Meet the Press, Biden said, "We're going to be totally out of there, come hell or high water, by 2014." Public support for the nine-year-old war in Afghanistan has deteriorated during the past few years and is seen by many as a millstone around the government's neck. more>>
|
(Dec. 20) While the Pentagon tries, for the fifth year, to kill the F-35's alternative engine made by General Electric and Britain's Rolls Royce Group, the U.S. House of Representatives is trying to keep the second engine program alive. President Obama has threatened to veto any spending bill that includes funding for the GE/RR powerplant, a move supported by SecDef Robert Gates. At US$382 billion - so far - the F-35 is 95 per cent over-budget and the costliest weapons systems program in U.S. history. more>>
|
(Dec. 19) Another Canadian soldier was killed in Afghanistan on Saturday, the 154th since the start of the war nine years ago. Cpl. Steve Martin from 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment, was killed around 12:30 p.m. local time by a bomb detonated while he was on patrol in the Panjwaii district of Kandahar Province. He was serving with 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group, based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec. "Corporal Martin was a brave Canadian who made the ultimate sacrifice while proudly serving his country," Prime Minister Stephen Harper said in a statement. "We will never forget Corporal Martin's bravery and his sacrifice to make life better for others." Martin's death raised the death toll of NATO soldiers for 2010 to 700, the highest level yet. more>>
|
(Dec. 19) Suicide attacks targeted Afghan military bases in two cities Saturday, leaving 13 members of the security forces dead as well as at least five insurgents. In the northern city of Kunduz, suicide bombers stormed an army recruitment centre. A lengthy firefight with Afghan security forces ensued. On the outskirts of the capital, Kabul, insurgents ambushed an army bus outside the country's main recruitment centre. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the attacks. "The enemy came prepared," said the police chief of Kunduz province, Mawlana Sayed Khel. more>>
|
(Dec. 18) President Obama's decision to send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan has bought time to tackle the core issues behind the conflict - ineffectual government, corruption and insurgent sanctuaries in Pakistan - but has achieved no breakthrough in the nine-year-old war. The Taliban have been pushed back, but are by no means defeated. Attacks in the capital of Kabul have become rare, but insurgents operate in nearby provinces. The Obama Administration's review of Afghanistan issued this week said "gains remain fragile and reversible." Three times as many U.S. troops have been killed in Afghanistan this year - 480 soldiers - compared to just two years ago. New U.S. intelligence reports paint a bleak picture of Afghanistan, saying while there are enough NATO troops to maintain security for now, much of the country remains under Taliban control or is vulnerable to Taliban infiltration. more>>
|
(Dec. 18) At least four people were killed and 11 wounded, including children, in insurgent attacks Saturday in various parts of Afghanistan. In Kandahar province, a suicide bomber blew up the car he was driving. In northern Afghanistan, gunmen killed an engineer and kidnapped two workers. In eastern and southern Afghanistan, two NATO soldiers were killed. The latest violence came as German Chancellor Angela Merkel made an unannounced trip to the country, visiting German troops in northern Kunduz province. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) U.S. Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Friday he thinks it's possible that the Pakistani military can shut down Taliban hideouts in the tribal lands bordering Pakistan to prevent insurgents from entering Afghanistan. In Kabul, Mullen told reporters that stemming the flow of insurgents is vital to making progress in the war. He also said he's encouraged by what Pakistan has already done to pursue insurgents on its side of the border. "I certainly think it is very possible that the Pakistani military will achieve the goal," he said. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) In the past 24 hours, missiles from American drones have killed nearly 60 people in a series of attacks in Pakistan's Khyber tribal area. Security officials say that all the dead are militants, a claim that cannot be independently confirmed. Prior to Thursday, attacks by U.S. unmanned aircraft in the district were rare. There have been more than 100 drone attacks in Pakistan in 2010, some killing civilians, which has fueled public outrage in the Muslim country against the United States. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) New cost data released by the Pentagon Friday shows that the next batch of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for the U.S. Air Force will cost $111.6 million each. The price does not include an engine, which will be millions of dollars more. The first batch of F-35s ordered in July 2007 cost $220 million apiece. While Pratt & Whitney and General Electric have each designed and produced an engine for the JSF, P&W will reportedly be the primary provider. The Pentagon is still negotiating the price of F-35 engines with P&W and an agreement is expected by year's end. more>>
|
(Dec. 17) A Senate spending bill this week included $450 million to continue work on a second engine for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, a powerplant program the Pentagon has tried to cancel for years. The U.S. military wants to save money by canceling the F136 engine designed and built by General Electric and Britain's Rolls Royce Group as an alternate to the engine created by Pratt & Whitney. U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has repeatedly told lawmakers that he will recommend that President Obama veto any bill that funds the second engine program. more>>
|
It has only been five years and he has governed with just a minority, but Stephen Harper can already be considered a transformative leader, one of the country’s more powerful prime ministers. In the all-important domain of communications, Harper has succeeded in imposing a system of information control in Ottawa that is without precedent. The goal of Harper’s strategy has been to assert control over the infrastructure of power. Critics says it is his bending of the system to his will which has prevented him from reaching the promised land of majority government. more>>
|
(Dec. 16) Germany will start withdrawing its 4,800 troops from Afghanistan as early as next year and end its mission by 2014, the foreign minister said Thursday. Speaking to the Bundestag, Germany's lower house of Parliament, Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle said the first group of soldiers will be withdrawn from the north of the country, which is expected to be one of the first regions to be handed over to Afghan security forces. As in other NATO nations, public support in Germany for the war in Afghanistan has decreased considerably during the past few years. more>>
|
(Dec. 16) A debate continues in Washington involving senior leaders about whether the counter-insurgency strategy advocated by General David Petraeus, head of U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan, is the best option for the future. Some leaders in the Pentagon and White House, Vice President Joe Biden among them, seek a shift away from counter-insurgency and toward a strategy of counter-terrorism, "the Pentagon’s shorthand for the more conventional approach of aggressively pursuing and killing insurgents, generally with small teams of special operations forces." The latter is reportedly cheaper than the former. The U.S. govt has spent about $250 billion on the war in Afghanistan in the past nine years. more>>
|
(Dec. 15) Lt. Col. Terry Lakin, a doctor in the U.S. Army, is facing a court martial and up to 18 months in a military prison for refusing in April to deploy to Afghanistan. Lakin's reason for not deploying - and effectively destroying his military career - is that in 2008, Barack Obama allegedly did not provide an original, signed copy of his birth certificate during the presidential campaign. Obama did provide of copy of his U.S. birth certificate, however. The U.S. Constitution says the president must be born in the United States. more>>
|
(Dec. 15) The Senate passed a motion Tuesday to officially change the the name of Canada's naval force from Maritime Command to something containing the word "navy." The force already refers to itself as "Canadian Navy" but some senators and MPs want a return to its pre-1968 name of "Royal Canadian Navy." more>>
|
(Dec. 15) Two new intelligence reports leaked to The New York Times newspaper are raising questions about the United States' Afghan war policy. The reports say the U.S. military has made gains against the Taliban but remains hindered by the apparent unwillingness of the Pakistani government to take action against Taliban bases in its tribal regions along the Afghan border.
more>>
|
(Dec. 15) Canadian Forces soldiers in all-terrain carriers and Rangers on snowmobiles have been helping the Ontario Provincial Police search for drivers who might have become stranded in recent blizzards. The OPP have been searching Lambton and Middlesex Counties in southwestern Ontario. CF members are also delivering medicine and other supplies to small communities in the region.
more>>
|
(14 Dec. 2010) The Canadian Forces will review the files of up to 50 soldiers wounded during the Afghan war to determine whether they should be allowed to continue to serve or be released from the military. more>>
|
(14 Dec. 2010) As skilled craftsmen spread wet plaster over walls of fresh bricks and lay baked stone tiles on new bedroom floors, a Canadianfunded women's dormitory at the Kandahar Teachers Training Centre is getting closer to being opened by March, in time for the start of the next Afghan school year. more>>
|
(14 Dec. 2010) About 100 Afghan members of parliament demanded on Monday that President Hamid Karzai inaugurate the assembly by Dec. 19, almost three weeks after final results of a fraud-marred election were declared. more>>
|
(14 Dec. 2010) Richard Holbrooke, who was President Barack Obama's special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, died on Monday, an administration official confirmed. He was 69. more>>
|
(14 Dec. 2010) OTTAWA - A master corporal and reservist with the Canadian Forces ceremonial guard who drank too much before kissing and intrusively sexually touching a woman under his command was found guilty on Monday of sexual assault. more>>
|
(Dec. 14) A bill put forward by Liberal MP Rob Oliphant (Don Valley West in metro Toronto) would give the military ombudsman greater investigative powers and have the office report to Parliament, rather than to the Veteran’s Affairs minister, as is currently the case. The new Liberal bill could become law next year. more>>
|
(Dec. 13) The U.S. Navy broke world records three days ago when projectiles left its experimental electromagnetic railgun at seven times the speed of sound or approximately 8,560 km/h at sea level. Up to 33 megajoules of energy were transferred to the projectiles and no explosive were used. (Click on "more" to read the report and see video of the railgun system.)
more>>
|
(13 Dec. 2010)
By early September, it had become clear to the Conservatives that their proposed F-35 fighter aircraft purchase had become a political millstone.
Polling numbers showed that more than 50 per cent of Canadians were against the project that was estimated to cost between $14 billion and $21 billion. It was debated in the Commons almost every day.
more>>
|
(13 Dec. 2010) The Conservatives head into Christmas break higher in the polls, writes Mark Kennedy, but battles over border security, Afghan detainees and human smuggling await in the new year more>>
|
(13 Dec. 2010) A soldier who stole the gun and credit card details of Israel's military chief was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment on Sunday, Israeli media reported. more>>
|
(Dec. 13) According to this Toronto Star report, there are 27 peacekeepers left in the Canadian Forces. One of them is Lt.-Col. Dalton Cote, who "left his guns at home, donned a blue beret, climbed into a UN truck and negotiated his way through checkpoints in an effort to observe troop movements, monitor weapon stashes and investigate violent attacks on both sides of the makeshift border that could next month become the official partition between north and south Sudan." more>>
|
(Dec. 13) Canadian veteran Wayne Finn recently received not only his medical file from the Department of National Defence, but also sensitive health and personal information about other military personnel. Social insurance numbers, dates of birth, blood test results, and X-ray reports of 20 CF members were in his file. The DND has launched an investigation. more>>
|
(Dec. 13) Six U.S. troops were killed Sunday when a man rammed a minivan filled with 4,400 pounds of explosives into a military installation in Kandahar province that was recently built. At least 670 NATO troops have been killed in Afghanistan so far this year. Last year was the deadliest for NATO troops in the nine-year war; 502 were killed. The Taliban claimed responsibility for yesterday's attack in a statement posted online. more>>
|
Re: Afghan Police Arrest Mutilation Case Suspect, Dec. 8.
Isn't Bibi Aisha, the Afghan woman who had her nose and ears cut off by her husband and her in-laws, the reason why we're in Afghanistan? This war is really about the dignity of women. Many Westerners seem to be indifferent to the war, but anyone who has a daughter or who admires women should take a second look at what this war is really all about. Don't women in Afghanistan deserve respect and assistance? Pull out of Afghanistan, and we are leaving women to be treated as chattel and as pieces of dirt. Pet dogs in the West are better treated that Afghan women. Let's pay more attention to the desperate plight of these fellow human beings.
– Douglas Cornish, Ottawa. more>>
|
(Dec. 11) In the first report of a three-part series, long-time defence journalist David Pugliese reports on the troubled F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program and the Harper government's controversial decision to sole-source 65 of the stealthy warplanes from U.S. aerospace giant Lockheed Martin. Part 1 reviews the JSF's history and the competition that was supposed to occur in 2010 to replace the CF-18 Hornet fleet, but was shot down by the government earlier this year. Pugliese's report also reveals that the cost of the F-35 fleet, according to the DND, could be as high as $21 billion, $5 billion more than the figure the Conservatives have been telling Canadians since mid-July. While being the single largest military procurement project in Canadian history, "the JSF deal contains no guarantees" that companies in Canada will be awarded F-35 work.
more>>
|
(Dec. 11) The Canadian Air Force and University of Manitoba have teamed up to offer a degree program unique in the country, a Masters in Public Administration with a Defence Administration specialty. The program, which began in September, meets the needs of Air Force officers wanting to advance up the ranks. Five students are currently enrolled. more>>
|
(10 Dec. 2010) MOSCOW - North Korea vowed Friday to push ahead with its "army first" policy and rely on nuclear weapons to defend itself from the joint forces of South Korea and the United States. more>>
|
(10 Dec. 2010) OTTAWA — Convicted sex killer Russell Williams is officially out of the Armed Forces.
According to the military, the "final steps" to process his release are now complete, including the retrieval of his South-West Asia Service Medal with Afghanistan bar, Canadian Forces Decoration with clasp and his Commission Scroll more>>
|
(Dec. 10) Peace talks with the Taliban will lead to disaster unless the insurgent group is disarmed first, Afghanistan's former intelligence chief, Amrullah Saleh, said Thursday. According to Saleh, who headed Afghanistan's spy agency from 2004 until earlier this year, achieving peace with the Taliban requires cutting off their support from Pakistan and disarming and dismantling the group before allowing them to operate as a political party. "Demobilize them, disarm them, take their headquarters out of the Pakistani intelligence's basements," Saleh said. He warned an audience at the National Press Club that failure to cut off Pakistani support would allow the Taliban to only pretend to make peace, then sweep back to power after NATO troops leave. more>>
|
It is with great sadness that I must report the passing of retired Colonel Gary Harold Rice SMSt.J, C.D., SSM, PCSC, 1936 - 2010
A life long professional soldier died unexpectedly on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at his 'country' home in Mississippi Mills. Gary will be fondly remembered as a proud Canadian Soldier whose military career spanned 37 years. Taking him through the ranks of an army cadet to full Colonel in the Medical Corps. Soldiering on after his retirement through many venues as a proud dual citizen of Canada and the USA, he continued to pursue his many endeavors. Contributions in memory of Colonel Rice may be made to the CFCF - Military Families Fund c/o Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency, 4210 Labelle Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K2. "Old Soldiers Never Die"
|
(9 Dec. 2010)
SEOUL/BEIJING — China and North Korea reached consensus on the Korean peninsula crisis after “candid” talks, Chinese state media reported, which analysts said suggested Pyongyang likely agreed not to inflame the situation. more>>
|
You can help share the spirit of the season with Canadian Troops in Afghanistan. Toronto Paramedics hope to collect a $10 Tim Hortons card for every member of the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan.
The Share a Cup with a Brave Canuck project runs until Dec. 16 when the cards will be shipped to the war-torn country. Troops can use the cards at the Tim Hortons at the Kandahar Airfield.
EMS Commander Ric Rangel-Bron, an air reservist, started the program three years ago.
People can drop off Tim cards at the security desk of EMS headquarters, 4330 Dufferin St., 24 hours a day.
People are encouraged to write a personal message on the flap of the Tim card envelope. "That's what stays with them and that really is what warms their heart," Rangel-Bron said. "What's most important is that our troops understand that we are there for them just as they are there for us."
|
(Dec. 9) During the past nine years, much of the reporting on Afghanistan has been focused on the volatile south, where the Taliban have been historically strong. However, even as the U.S. troop "surge" in the south during the past year and a half has reportedly improved security in Afghan provinces such as Kanadahar, northern parts of Afghanistan have become more dangerous due to the presence of insurgents and rising organized crime, as this ABC News report explains. more>>
|
(Dec. 9) The U.S. military is ending its relationship with an Afghan security firm run by relatives of President Hamid Karzai that has been accused of bribing government officials and Taliban commanders, according to documents obtained Thursday. A Congressional report in June said the Watan Group bribed Afghan officials to get exclusive control over a key NATO supply route in southern Afghanistan and paid Taliban commanders to not carry out attacks. Watan's subsidiary Watan Risk Management is headed by two of Karzai's cousins, Ahmed Rateb Popal and Rashid Popal. According to U.S military documents, the two men acknowledged the bribes mentioned in the Congressional report and also told Congressional staffers that company guards regularly use illegal weapons. more>>
|
(Dec. 8) Private Barrett Hiebert, who is posted to CFB Shilo, was charged with one count of drug trafficking Wednesday. The charge was for alleged cocaine trafficking. After Hiebert's arrest, Lt.-Col. Gilles Sansterre, Commanding Officer of the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service said, "The Military Police take allegations involving the use and trafficking of drugs very seriously. The CFNIS will continue to take a proactive approach to drug investigations in an effort to combat drug use within the CF." more>>
|
(Dec. 8) U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday that progress in the war in Afghanistan has "exceeded my expectations." He has been in Afghanistan this week to visit U.S. military bases and personnel and gather information about the progress - and lack thereof in some Afghan districts, reportedly - of the war. As part of the troop "surge" strategy in Afghanistan since last year, President Obama ordered a major assessment of the war due later this month. Gates also met with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who was described by U.S. officials as an erratic and unreliable in secret diplomatic cables recently made public by WikiLeaks. more>>
|
(Dec. 8) The Canadian Forces have issued a new policy detailing how transsexual and transvestite troops should be accommodated. CF personnel who change their sex or sexual identity have a right to privacy and respect around that decision, but must conform to the dress code of the gender they are changing to, says the supplementary chapter of a military administration manual. The DND funds medical operations of members who want to change their sex, which on average, is one to two people annually. The new policy does not, however, allow medals to be re-issued in the new name of a CF member who has changed their sex and name. more>>
|
(7 Dec. 2010) The Harper Conservatives will not bring their chequebook nor roll out new legislation Tuesday when they announce an "Air India Action Plan" that the government says is designed to ensure that such a "terrible and senseless act does not happen again." more>>
|
(7 Dec. 2010) OTTAWA — Wafa Dabbagh is many things. She is a tiny, bubbly bundle of energy who loves Zumba fitness. LCdr Wafa Dabbagh was the first member of Canada's military to wear a hijab. Her latest challenge is battling cancer, something the busy, energetic woman treats like a bothersome cold. more>>
|
(7 Dec. 2010) The United States, Japan and South Korea pressed China and Russia Monday to help defuse tensions on the Korean peninsula as Hu Jintao, the Chinese President, warned Barack Obama, the U.S. President, the situation could "spin out of control." more>>
|
The WikiLeaks debacle will force the Department of Defense to rethink computer security procedures and change their policies in a revolutionary way. more>>
|
(Dec. 7) The Globe and Mail's Colin Freeze reports on the history of Joint Task Force 2, Canada's elite special forces group, and its future in an environment of lacklustre economic performance, less-than-expected federal revenues, and tightened defence budgets. more>>
|
(Dec. 6) General David Petraeus, head of U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan, expressed doubts Monday about the prospect of a victory in the country by 2014. In an interview with the ABC network in the U.S., Petraeus would not say he was confident that an Afghan government and its security forces would be stable and competent enough to take over from the U.S.-led coalition four years from now, as envisaged by Washington. He said it was "hard to say" how much of the country the insurgents control, but acknowledged that "the Taliban is resilient," and the war against them has been unconventional. "This is not a case where you see the hill that you have to take, you take it, you plant the flag and you go home to a victory parade," he said. "This is a much more complex endeavor than that." more>>
|
The head of U.S. defense acquisitions, Ashton Carter, recently said that the Pentagon will not pay more than $92 million for each F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 program has nearly doubled in cost to US$382 billion since 2002 and is four years behind schedule. The F-35 "is at that stage that is always difficult, the transition from development to production," Carter said. "The inevitable consequence is that we discover things in test that have to be fixed," he added. Vice Admiral David Venlet was tasked earlier this year by U.S. SecDef Robert Gates to do an extensive review of the JSF program. In February, Gates fired Marine Maj. Gen. David Heinz, the executive officer in charge of the F-35's development and ordered US$614 million in payments to Lockheed Martin to be withheld for failing to meet project milestones. more>>
|
(Dec. 5) Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan are part of a new battle offensive in a tactically important region in Kandahar province. Operation Baawar, which is Pashto for assurance, is underway in the Horn of Panjwaii. It's an area where the Taliban lost control during Operation Medusa in 2006 but have regained influence since. U.S. and Afghan troops have secured the perimeter around the Horn of Panjwaii during the past couple of months. The overall plan calls for the entire Horn of Panjwaii to be secured by U.S., Canadian and Afghan forces, village by village. more>>
|
(Dec. 5) More leaked documents written by Western diplomats are casting a pall over the NATO mission in Afghanistan. Diplomatic memos posted on the WikiLeaks site reveal that European Union President Herman Van Rompuy told U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Howard Gutman in December 2009 that the EU no longer believes in success in Afghanistan. Van Rompuy said troops from EU nations are still in Afghanistan "out of deference to the United States." He also said Europeans will wait until the end of 2010 to see if there has been progress made in Afghanistan. The former Belgian prime minister reportedly said that "if it doesn't work, that will be it, because it is the last chance." more>>
|
(Dec. 4) The Women's Executive Network recognized two senior Canadian Forces officers among the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada this past week. Brigadier General Hilary Jaeger, Director General Reserves and Cadets from Ottawa, Ont., received a Cisco Public Sector Leader award, and Commander Josée Kurtz, Commanding Officer, HMCS Halifax received the Xstrata Nickel Trailblazers & Trendsetters Award. "I am so proud of the accomplishments of these two outstanding officers," said Chief of the Defence Staff General Walt Natynczyk. "This award is a real testament to their leadership and commitment to the Canadian Forces." more>>
|
(3 Dec. 2010) The federal government is mistreating families who have lost a relative during military service, leaving these grieving family members with little support and information about what happened to their loved ones, the Canadian Forces ombudsman said Thursday. more>>
|
(3 Dec. 2010) Defence giant Lockheed Martin made its sales pitch for the F-35 aircraft to MPs Thursday, warning if Canada withdrew from its current agreement to buy 65 of the planes, the aerospace industry could lose out on billions of dollars worth of contracts. more>>
|
(3 Dec. 2010) SEOUL - South Korea on Friday threatened to bomb North Korea if it tries a repeat of last week's attack, raising its rhetoric after the United States warned of an "immediate threat" from Pyongyang. more>>
|
(Dec. 3) Brig.-Gen. Andre Corbould, the new Canadian deputy commander of NATO's war in southern Afghanistan, is cautiously hopeful about gains made against the Taliban this past summer. IEDs remain one of the largest threats to Afghan security. Corbould, a combat engineer, learned firsthand about IEDs six months ago in Kabul while preparing for his current assignment. He was in a convoy in which Col. Geoff Parker of the Royal Canadian Regiment, five U.S. soldiers and 12 Afghan civilians were killed by a suicide bomber. more>>
|
Since November 28, WikiLeaks has released mere hundreds of some 250,000 secret U.S. government files. So far, leaked American diplomatic cables reveal corruption in Afghanistan at every level of government and society. Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who trained as a political scientist, is portrayed in communications from Washington's ambassador in Kabul as paranoid and unable "to grasp the most rudimentary principles of state-building." more>>
|
(2 Dec 2010) Canadian Ambassador William Crosbie's leaked diplomatic cable highlights the extremely fragile relationship that exists between the government of Afghanistan and the NATO alliance. more>>
|
(2 Dec 2010) Sri Lanka faces new allegations of war crimes after the release of a video that purports to show a Tamil Tiger leader under interrogation by army officers, despite government claims that he was killed in combat. more>>
|
(2 Dec 2010) The Harper government has considered listing Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps as a banned terrorist entity, a move that would permit Canada to target the elite military unit's financial dealings and to make it a crime to assist the group. more>>
|
(Dec. 2) Six families of deceased members of the Canadian Forces came forward Thursday to denounce Canada's military for stonewalling them in their search for answers about what happened to their loved ones. According to Pierre Daigle, the CF's ombudsman, they represent several others who have decided to not publicize their ordeal via the media. Daigle's decision to go public follows a lengthy battle to secure better treatment for the families of dead soldiers. It's been a process spanning years and involving repeated promises from the government and military and many disappointments, he said. more>>
|
(Dec. 1) A Bloc Québécois motion against the Harper government's extension of the Afghanistan mission without a parliamentary vote was defeated last night in the House of Commons. The motion, which was non-binding, was an attempt by the Bloc to expose what they believed were strong divisions on the Afghanistan mission among the Liberals. It was defeated 209 to 81. All Liberal MPs present voted with the Conservatives to ensure the motion's defeat. The New Democrats, who supported the motion, released a statement after the vote accusing the Conservatives and Liberals of breaking a promise to Canadians to end the mission in 2011. more>>
|
(Dec. 1) The 1st Battalion of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry were awarded a rare honour from Gov. Gen. David Johnston at the Edmonton Garrison Monday, the Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation. The award is for service in 2006, the deadliest year for Canadian troops in Afghanistan. "This commendation is presented to a unit of the Canadian Forces that has performed an extraordinary deed or activity of a rare high standard in extremely hazardous circumstances," Johnston told the assembled soldiers. "The insurgent forces you were up against were organized and well-equipped, but I dare say that no force can ever be properly prepared when facing the men and woman of the Canadian Forces." more>>
|
(30 Nov. 2010) The drumbeat of an approaching war with Iran reverberates through U.S. diplomatic documents leaked by the whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks. more>>
|
(Nov. 30) A seven-member Canadian Forces team was in Afghanistan last week on a fact-finding mission related to the training of Afghan security forces after the combat mission ends next year. Lieutenant-General Marc Lessard, head of CEFCOM, said the team is expected to propose various options before Christmas, and details probably won't be fully worked out until next year. more>>
|
(Nov. 30) A secret U.S. diplomatic cable released Tuesday by WikiLeaks said Afghan President Hamid Karzai pardoned five Afghan policemen caught with 124 kilograms of heroin and sentenced to 16 to 18 years in prison because they were distantly related to two "heroic martyrs" of the Afghan civil war of the 1990s. The author of the cable dated Aug. 6, 2009 was Frank Ricciardone, deputy U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan. According to the cable, Karzai also interfered with the narcotics case of Haji Amanullah, the son of a wealthy businessman and one of the president's supporters. Also revealed was information about U.S. intelligence reports indicating that Karzai was planning to release Ismail Safad, a drug trafficker sentenced to 19 years in jail. Safad, who was arrested in 2005 with large quantities of heroin and weapons, was a priority target for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. more>>
|
(Nov 29) Critics of the Conservative government's proposal to buy the high-tech Joint Strike Fighters have been warning that the purchase will come with hidden costs that could drive up the price tag far beyond the current estimate of $16 billion. "Stealth aircraft are highly classified fighters, therefore they would require special security measures at their bases of operations," the DND report noted. "These changes of infrastructure are not currently known, but will likely be very expensive. A stealth aircraft will be much more demanding on Canadian infrastructure."
more>>
|
(Nov. 29) According to a secret government memo obtained by CBC News under access-to-information laws, for at least four years Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan transferred children accused of co-operating with the Taliban to an Afghan security unit suspected of torture. Defence Minister Peter MacKay was alerted to the issue by a secret briefing note dated March 30, 2010. The number of juveniles detained, transferred and eventually released were blacked out in the copy given to CBC News. "This may draw attention to the role of juveniles in the Afghan conflict," the briefing note warns. Since late 2009, Parliament has been following up on allegations that Canadian troops handed over suspected Afghan militants to Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security, a unit accused of torturing prisoners. more>>
|
(Nov. 29) The process of discharging convicted sexual predator and killer Russell Williams from the Canadian Forces is almost complete, according to CF spokesperson Cmdr. Hubert Genest Monday. As per CF policy for retirements and discharges, a medical examination by a military doctor was done on Williams at Kingston Penitentiary on Thursday. The DND is tracing all of Williams' medals and decorations received over his career in order to destroy them. Filling out a de-commissioning scroll will complete his discharge. Williams was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and dozens of break-ins and acts of petty theft. He is serving a life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years. more>>
|
Guest columnist Conrad Black shares his view about Canada's military after nine years in Afghanistan. He writes: ''Whatever one thinks of this plan [the plan for the CF to provide up to 750 trainers plus 200 support personnel after the combat mission ends in July 2011 to train Afghan security forces], now is a good time to revisit the question of Canada’s defence policy, and finally to provide the Canadian Forces with the resources necessary to operate effectively in Afghanistan and other theatres.'' more>>
|
Five papers on shipbuilding and procurement comprise the 11th book of Claxton Papers. The Defence Management Studies program, supported by the Department of National Defence, Defence Forum, and the Breakout Educational Network, publishes the Claxton Papers, a compendium of new and forward thinking on related issues. more>>
|
(Nov. 26) Capt Francis (Frank) Cecil Paul, who died of natural causes while on leave from duty in Kandahar, has been added to the official casualty list of military personnel who passed away while supporting the Afghan mission. Capt Paul, a member of 28 Field Ambulance in Ottawa, died on Feb. 10 in Canada. "Although his death came suddenly while on leave from his deployment in Afghanistan, he was still on duty and considered part of the mission, and therefore his death is no less important than any other (Canadian Forces) member who served and died while in Afghanistan," said Chief of Defence Staff General Walt Natynczyk. more>>
|
(Nov. 26) North Korea has warned that upcoming joint military exercises by South Korea and the United States are pushing the region to "the brink of war." The reclusive communist state shelled a South Korean island Tuesday, killing two Marines and two civilians and wounding at least 15 other people. A naval task force led by the U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington is heading to the Yellow Sea to take part in the drills, due to begin on Sunday. North Korea has often used inflammatory language in the past in an attempt to cajole South Korea and the U.S. to meet its demands. In March, it torpedoed a South Korean warship, killing 46 sailors and sinking the vessel. more>>
|
(Nov. 26) Earlier this year, five Canadian Forces pilots had their long-held dream come true by being selected for the CF's Snowbird aerial demonstration team. Since the spring, they have completed more than 100 hours of training and are excited about performing at 60 airshows across North America next year. more>>
|
The Dept. of National Defence has launched a public relations blitz across Canada to sell the Harper government’s contentious decision to spend $16B on 65 F-35 stealth fighters without a competitive bidding process. Retired Major-General Lewis MacKenzie said the PR blitz is an indication of how much grief Ottawa is getting over the F-35 deal, adding he can’t recall the DND previously launching such a campaign in support of a military purchase. “They are clearly feeling the heat,” he said. more>>
|
Senior Pentagon officials met again this week to review why the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter has fallen behind schedule for the seventh time this year and is once again over budget. The most expensive weapons systems program in history is already four years late and costing American taxpayers US$185 billion more than originally estimated. U.S. Vice Admiral David Venlet has been tasked by SecDef Robert Gates to get to the bottom of the F-35 program's woes. As he probed, Venlet found "discovered additional issues that are of concern", including the fact there is more software code "left to be written than what we thought," according to Pentagon spokesman Geoff Morrell. more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) The U.S. Ambassador spoke with Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon this week regarding an impending release of classified diplomatic messages by WikiLeaks that could “create tensions” among American allies. more>>
|
(Nov. 25) Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, the former top Canadian soldier in Afghanistan who faces a court martial on charges of breaching personal relationships and fraternization rules, has resigned from the military. Menard has 26 years of service in the Canadian Forces and has been relieved of his duties as project leader for the Military Personnel Management Capability Transformation Project. CF spokesperson Cmdr. Hubert Genest said Menard's resignation does not affect his court martial on two counts of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline and four counts of obstructing justice. more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) OTTAWA — Liberal foreign affairs critic Bob Rae voiced strong support for the government's about-face to extend Canada's military presence in Afghanistan on Thursday, saying Prime Minister Stephen Harper's previous declaration that not one Canadian soldier would remain in Afghanistan after 2011 was "a ridiculous proposition." more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — Cpl. James McKenzie got the surprise of his life and his best birthday present this week.
James' father, Warrant Officer Alistair McKenzie, flew out to a forward operating base to congratulate him on the safe conclusion of his seven-month combat tour in the Taliban heartland. more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) YEONPYEONG, South Korea - South Korea's defence minister resigned on Thursday, two days after an attack by North Korea and amid criticism that the South's response was too slow.
Kim Tae-young became the first political victim of the attack as China expressed muted criticism of forthcoming joint U.S-south Korean military exercises in the Yellow Sea. more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) YEONPYEONG ISLAND, South Korea - South Korea said Thursday it would send more troops and guns to frontline islands, as North Korea warned it could follow up this week's deadly shelling with more attacks.
Pyongyang's fresh warning came as a U.S. aircraft carrier headed for the tense peninsula to join war games to be staged as a show of force to the nuclear-armed communist state. more>>
|
(25 Nov 2010) OTTAWA – It has been more than a month since former military commander and sex killer Russell Williams was sentenced to life in prison, but investigators say the case is far from closed.
OPP Det.-Insp. Chris Nicholas said police are analyzing Williams’ belongings and continue to search for links between him and unsolved crimes across the country and beyond. They won’t stop until they run out of leads to chase, Nicholas said. more>>
|
(Nov. 24) Journalist Peter Worthington weighs in on why Canada does not need the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. The Harper government has selected the F-35 to replace the CF-18 Hornet after shutting down the Next Generation Fighter bidding competition. more>>
|
(Nov. 24) Canadian military police are investigating "despicable" fake calls to families of soldiers deployed in Afghanistan to say their sons or husbands had died in combat. At least three such calls have reportedly been made. One wife was told her husband was killed by a roadside bomb. The soldiers are from CFB Valcartier. Canadian Forces' policy is to deliver news of a soldier's death in person and never over the telephone. more>>
|
A semi-annual Pentagon report covering Apr. 1-Sept. 30/10 says violence in Afghanistan has reached an all-time high, with clashes up four-fold since 2007. The report to the US Congress says progress in the war-torn country has been "uneven", with only modest gains against the Taliban insurgency, overall. While the report noted improvements in security, governance, and development in key areas, it warned the Taliban was exploiting perceptions NATO countries such as Canada would soon withdraw combat forces. more>>
|
(Nov 24) The Harper Conservatives joined forces with the Bloc Quebecois (looking to protect the Quebec-based aerospace industry) to soundly defeat a Liberal call for competitive bids on $16-billion worth of new fighter jets. New Democrats voted with the Liberals in the House of Commons, but it wasn't nearly enough to pass a motion calling on the government to drop plans for an untendered contract with Lockheed Martin to supply and maintain 65 stealth fighter jets. more>>
|
(23 Nov 2010) Military successes in southern Afghanistan are "not just fleeting," but have set the stage for more dramatic gains in the near future, says the Canadian commander of a 200-strong group of army trainers.
"Some people say it is only because the Taliban have gone back to Pakistan because it is the winter," said Col. Ian Creighton, in charge of the operational mentor liaison team (OMLT) that has gone to war alongside the Afghan army as advisers. "And, you know, it is the truth. Some have. But others have died or given up. A lot of Taliban fled because a lot of key players were being killed," added Creighton, whose Afghan travels include Kandahar City, Arghandab, Zhari, Panjwaii and Dand. more>>
|
(Nov. 23) The Dept. of National Defence said Tuesday that Brig.-Gen. Daniel Ménard, who commanded Canadian troops in Afghanistan until earlier this year, will face a court martial. In May, Ménard was suddenly relieved of duty following allegations he was involved in an inappropriate personal relationship while in-theatre. He faces two charges of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline, as well as four counts of obstructing justice. A date and location for the court martial have not yet been set.
more>>
|
(Nov. 23) Starting at 2:34 p.m. local time, North Korea's military opened fire with about 200 artillery shells on a small South Korean island, Yeonpyeong, in the Yellow Sea. One South Korean marine was killed and 17 were wounded, three seriously, according to defence officials. South Korea's military responded with 80 rounds of artillery and fighter jets. 1,300 civilians on the island are mostly fishermen and their families. The South Korean government immediately called an emergency meeting. President Lee Myung-bak has ordered his ministers to take measures against an escalation of the situation. The United States quickly offered support to South Korea. "We are in close and continuing contact with our Korean allies," the White House said in a news release. "The United States strongly condemns this attack and calls on North Korea to halt its belligerent action and to fully abide by the terms of the Armistice Agreement." In March, North Korea attacked a South Korean warship with a torpedo that killed 46 sailors. more>>
|
Following North Korea's deadly artillery attacks on a South Korean island in the Yellow sea that killed two soldiers and wounded military personnel and civilians, South Korea's president said "enormous retaliation" is needed. Exactly what the "retaliation" will be was not specified, but something "more than words" has been discussed by government ministers in Seoul. South Korea's President Lee Myung-bak said "indiscriminate attacks on civilians are a grave matter", adding that South Korea's military forces - the army, air force and navy - "should unite and retaliate against [the North's] provocation with multiple-fold firepower." The U.S., weary from lengthy and very costly wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, wants a non-military response involving Russia and North Korean "friend", China. more>>
|
(Nov. 22) Major-Gen. Dave Fraser, who commanded Canadian and coalition forces in Regional Command South during 2006, recently returned to southern Afghanistan to provide an independent assessment of the state of the war for NATO's new commander in the region. While the Taliban have been put on their back foot, they are still a deadly force - a "cancer" - that must be put into permanent "remission", says Fraser. more>>
|
Prime Minister Stephen Harper told Afghan President Hamid Karzai that he must reduce corruption or Canada will "not dispense a dime" directly to his government. Harper said Karzai expressed an expectation at the NATO summit in Lisbon that 50% of the multibillion-dollar aid coming from donor countries go directly to his government instead of through the UN and other multilateral programs or NGOs. "In that case, our answer is very clear," Harper said at a news conference. "We will not dispense a dime to the government of Afghanistan unless we are convinced that that money will be spent in the way that it's intended to be spent."
Harper said he was not alone in telling Karzai corruption is an issue for foreign governments. "What I and others told President Karzai was the support of our governments and indeed our populations depend on the government of Afghanistan's respect for and its acting upon basic principles – respect for democracy, for the rule of law and fair elections, for human rights, for good governance and for cleaning up corruption," he said.
more>>
|
(Nov. 21) The Canadian Forces' Chief of the Defence Staff and Surgeon General both praise the focus a new health research forum is bringing to health care for veterans and serving members. The two-day Canadian Military and Veteran Health Research Forum, which concluded its final sessions Saturday, brought together leading health researchers from across the country for open discussions on key issues surrounding health care for veterans, military personnel, and their families. more>>
|
(Nov. 20) NATO nations formally agreed Saturday to start turning over Afghanistan's security to its military next year and give local forces full control by 2014. President Obama said for the first time that his goal is to end U.S. combat missions in Afghanistan by that year. But Obama cautioned it's "hard to anticipate" the exact U.S. role four years from now. "There may still be extensive cooperation with the Afghan armed services to consolidate the security environment," Obama told journalists. more>>
|
BBC guest columnist Ahmed Rashid recently met with Afghan president Hamid Karzai and interviewed him, as he's done in the past. He words in this piece about why the Afghan leader has become frustrated with his Western backers include: "Mr Karzai believes that the West and the United States in particular have been unable to bring peace to Afghanistan or secure compliance from Pakistan, which gives sanctuary to the Taliban. He says the US wrongly blames Afghans for Washington's own past and present failures and he rejects the barrage of US criticism aimed at his government." more>>
|
(Nov. 19) It's believed to be a first in the generations-long history of Canada's military: the uniform of convicted serial murderer, rapist, and break-in thief Russell Williams, who was a former Air Force pilot and colonel in charge of CFB Trenton when he was arrested in February, was burned Wednesday. Williams is serving a life sentence at Kingston Penitentiary with no possibility of parole for 25 years.
more>>
|
Capt. Darren Blakie ejected from his CF-18 Hornet moments before the fighter jet he was flying crashed in a field in northern Alberta on Wednesday night. He describes how his training saved his life.
more>>
|
(19 Nov 2010) ZHUHAI, China—China is ramping up production of unmanned aerial vehicles in an apparent bid to catch up with the U.S. and Israel in developing technology that is considered the future of military aviation. more>>
|
(19 Nov 2010) For nine months Constable Mel Birmingham dodged bullets, grenades and rioting mobs in Kosovo. Then he came home to face another kind of battle -- a decade-long fight for the veterans benefits he says he's been denied by the federal government.
Birmingham is a retired Nova Scotia municipal police officer, one of thousands of non-RCMP officers from across the country who have served on NATO and United Nations missions for Canada. more>>
|
(19 Nov 2010) Prime Minister Stephen Harper joins U.S. President Barack Obama and other NATO leaders as they set the stage for a post-combat partnership with Afghanistan at a summit today and Saturday in Lisbon, Portugal.
Leaders of NATO's 28 member countries are poised to endorse a European missile defence system, embark on debt reductions reforms and, along with non-NATO countries who've been pouring troops and money into Afghanistan for a decade, outline a transition plan from foreign troops to Afghan control over security by the end of 2014. more>>
|
Recent polling in Helmand and Kandahar has revealed that 61% of Afghans believe NATO-trained security forces won’t be able to provide adequate security when foreign troops leave and 56% in the two provinces think Afghan police are helping the Taliban. More than 9 out of 10 Afghans interviewed - 92% - don't know about the 9/11 attacks, the reason why the U.S. invaded their country in order to defeat the Taliban. more>>
|
The Dept. of National Defence has issued an RFP for hundreds of video games, to be shipped to the Longue-Pointe Garrison in Montreal's east end, a supply depot for Eastern Canada. Videos named in the request for bids include "Gears of War", "Call of Duty", "Mortal Kombat", and "Assassins Creed." "Guitar Hero 3", "The Beatles Rock Band", and "Tiger Woods 2011" are among the non-military titles in the DND's RFP. Bids must be submitted by December 2. The cost to taxpayers could exceed $20,000. more>>
|
(18 Nov. 2010) The federal government on Wednesday introduced a bill that would change the way injured veterans who return from Afghanistan receive their disability money -- a move that experts and opposition MPs say should've included a payment increase. more>>
|
(18 Nov. 2010) KABUL — Two retired Canadian generals with long experience in Afghanistan have praised the Harper government for the "leadership" it has shown by dispatching a super-sized battalion of 950 troops and support staff to train Afghan security forces until 2014. more>>
|
(Nov. 18) A Canadian Forces pilot ejected from his CF-18 Hornet fighter jet moments before it crashed near Cold Lake in northern Alberta shortly before midnight. Capt. Darren Blakie was recovered close to the crash site by a military helicopter crew about two hours later, said a CF spokesman.
more>>
|
(Nov. 17) The Obama Administration and NATO have praised Canada's plan for a military training mission in Afghanistan as Prime Minister Stephen Harper assured opposition parties that the armed forces will work safely "in classrooms behind the wire on bases." Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff asked for - and got - a guarantee from the PM that 950 Canadian Forces personnel would not be exposed "outside the wire" to potential Taliban attacks. They will work "in safe conditions" in Kabul. more>>
|
BBC guest columnist Ahmed Rashid says that while reports of possible talks with the Taliban have been exaggerated, there are kernels of truth within them - and important political shifts have raised hopes a peace process with the Taliban could be beginning. more>>
|
A Canadian Ranger patrol in Hay River, NWT could be set up by the new year, Canadian Forces officials recently said following the graduation of 15 local Rangers last week. With the addition of the latest graduates, there are currently 21 Canadian Rangers based in Hay River – more than enough to form a local patrol, according to Capt. Steve Watton. more>>
|
CFB Petawawa is getting a new centre to help treat soldiers suffering post-traumatic stress disorders and other mental health issues. The “operational trauma and stress support centre” is due to open in the coming months, said Commodore Hans Jung, commander of the Canadian Forces health services group and the military surgeon general. Many of the services are already being provided on the base. “We’re really ramping up,” Jung said of the 32-member clinic, which will offer services as varied as counselling in psychiatry, psychology and social work. The move comes as the hospital in nearby Pembroke reorganizes its mental health treatment programs, which were used by soldiers from CFB Petawawa. more>>
|
(Nov 16) Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon, Defence Minister Peter MacKay and International Co-operation Minister Bev Oda are scheduled for an early afternoon news conference to provide some details of plans for Canada's Afghanistan mission before Prime Minister Stephen Harper heads to a NATO military alliance summit in Lisbon, Portugal, Thursday.
Harper has already suggested up to nearly 1,000 military personnel and support staff would be deployed to train the Afghan National Army until 2014 – as part of a NATO training plan – after Canada's 2,800 combat troops are withdrawn from Kandahar between July and December 2011 as promised in a 2008 House of Commons motion. more>>
|
Kandahar is the Taliban's stronghold and according to U.S. Army BGen Frederick "Ben" Hodges, "the cultural, spiritual, historical, political, religious center of gravity for the Pashtun belt." The Taliban are nearly 100% Pashtun. Kandahar has been the region where NATO forces have been striking hard against the Taliban. Their response? A villager from the Horn of Panjwaii revealed: "The trick of the Taliban is they flee the fighting. Then slowly, slowly they return." The Taliban strategy has been to avoid military confrontation - they know they cannot win against NATO and NATO-trained Afghan Army forces - and creep back to terrorize civilians. Why? To show that NATO and the Afghan Army may prevail on the battlefield, but the Karzai government cannot provide the security, governance, and justice that would underpin its political legitimacy, observers say. Improving governance remains a NATO objective, but faced with little alternative to working with existing administration of the world's second most corrupt nation, officials are now downplaying this component of the campaign. more>>
|
(Nov. 15) A training mission for the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan following the end of their combat operations by July 2011 drew fire from the NDP in the House of Commons Monday. NDP defence critic Jack Harris said there is no such thing as a safe mission in Afghanistan, despite the implication that Canadian soldiers conducting training would be relatively safer than when doing security patrols. "It's a combat training mission. We're not talking about lecturers in a military academy or something," said Harris. "As far as being behind the wire, there's no such thing. Afghanistan is at war. If you're a foreign troop in Afghanistan, you are a target for that war." more>>
|
The Harper government needs to take action to prevent the shutdown of a hospital mental health counselling service used by hundreds of soldiers who have served in Afghanistan say opposition critics. “This is another example where our veterans are being overlooked,” said Liberal veterans affairs critic Kirsty Duncan. “If the hospital is unable to provide the services that they’ve come to depend on, the federal government must find a solution or ensure alternatives are in place.” Pembroke Regional Hospital says it can no longer afford the adult outpatient service that provided counselling for anger, stress, depression and relationship problems to more than 400 soldiers annually from CFB Petawawa. Bernadette Wren, the hospital’s director of mental health services, said the hospital would “happily continue to provide the service” if the federal government provided funding for the well-used program, which it reportedly never has. more>>
|
(Nov. 15) Senators are studying a motion to change the working name of Canada's marine military force from the functional-sounding “Maritime Command” to the “Canadian Navy” – a title that's been defunct for four decades. Some Conservative senators hope to go even further and add the word “Royal” to make it once again the “Royal Canadian Navy.” The Senate's national security and defence committee is deliberating the matter today, hearing from retired naval commanders, officers and a historian. “Everyone knows the navy. The time has come to institutionalize the name 'Canadian Navy/La Marine Canadienne'. Let us throw 'Maritime Command' overboard and signal that the Canadian Navy will be called officially the Canadian Navy/La Marine Canadienne,” said Liberal senator Bill Rompkey who is sponsoring the motion. more>>
|
(Nov. 15) Sources say that Defence Minister Peter MacKay, whose experience on the Afghanistan file is unmatched around the Tory cabinet table, was purposely cut out of talks on the new military role from the beginning by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. more>>
|
(Nov. 14) Col. Paul Scagnetti’s small unit at the Afghan Army Command and Staff College has already been doing for 18 months what the Harper government is about to order hundreds of soldiers to do after Canadian combat operations cease in Kandahar next summer: train Afghans to bring security to their country. "Every soldier wants to be on a combat mission, but if they have to do something else, training is actually more important," said Scagnetti, who was a high school teacher in Timmins, Ont. for 31 years and has been an army reservist for almost as long. "In the long-term, this (training) is an enabler for peace, because you end up with an Afghan teaching an Afghan, who brings security to other Afghans. And there is now a generation of Canadians with combat experience with lessons to pass on." more>>
|
It is highly unlikely the military trainers the Canadian government intends to send to Afghanistan next year will all be based in Kabul — as has been widely suggested in the Canadian media. “The need for training is national,” said Canadian Maj.-Gen. Stu Beare, one of two deputy commanders of NATO Training Mission Afghanistan, on Saturday, as he pointed at a brightly coloured map showing dozens of academies located across Afghanistan. The mission is responsible for training local security forces. “It doesn’t matter where they go. It’s the same mission with the same force protection. The training centres are all over the country because that is where the trainees are.” more>>
|
(Nov. 13) The Liberals appear prepared to support a three-year Canadian Forces training mission in Afghanistan without a vote in the House of Commons, sparking outrage yesterday from NDP leader Jack Layton. "I am truly saddened by this turn of events and I think many Canadians are going to be saddened and quite shocked by this disregard of promises that had been made to our military, who are tired, stretched to the limit after an engagement longer than after both world wars combined, and in need of a break," said Layton. Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said during a town hall meeting in Richmond, B.C. that Harper's plan has been "dribbling out" and he wants more details. However, he noted the Liberals have said for months that "we could conceive of a training mission" to fulfill the reason Canadian troops have already been in Afghanistan for nearly a decade. Ignatieff remarked: "We're not there to run the country. We're not there to take it over. We're there to enable them to defend themselves." more>>
|
A suicide bomber killed 10 people in the north while scattered violence hit other regions in advance of a NATO summit to plot the alliance's future in the country. Coalition troops repelled an assault by a squad of gunmen and suicide bombers on a base in the country's east region. more>>
|
(Nov. 13) The U.S. government has asked Canada to take on a more robust – and risky – role after the planned 2011 pullout of combat troops from Afghanistan, including risking enemy fire outside of bases to mentor Afghan security forces in the field. To date, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said that the training mission involving as many as 750 Canadian Forces soldiers plus 200 support personnel would be "inside the wire." However, the U.S. wants greater Canadian participation – a mentoring role "outside the wire" – which would significantly increase the potential danger to CF personnel from IEDs and Taliban attacks. Defence Minister Peter MacKay insisted six days ago that CF training would be on bases only. However, the Liberals say they are watching to see whether the plan slides toward involvement in combat operations. more>>
|
(Nov. 12) Aerial spying using drones has become "the centerpiece" of the United States' global war on terrorism, which means a growing and potentially huge business as the Pentagon looks at cutting back on big-ticket items such as the manned F-35 fighter. Jet-powered, pilot-less surveillance aircraft at 60,000 feet over Afghanistan transmit incredibly clear images of Taliban hide-outs, vehicles, and operatives. Infrared sensors on the flying robots help analysts determine how long vehicles have been parked. Aerial drones listen in on cellphone calls. Research in the U.S. is revolutionizing the way the military gathers intelligence. more>>
|
Retired Brig.-Gen. Owen Lockyer of Moncton, New Brunswick has immense praise for Canadian Forces personnel in Afghanistan, who are working in unfamiliar surroundings, traditions and beliefs. Lockyer says they have been fighting a difficult war, not knowing who the enemy is and at the same time trying to win over the support of the population. It was different in the First and Second World Wars when Canadians knew who the enemy was and often had the support of the population they were trying to free. There is, however, one major common factor between the current conflicts in the Middle East and the Second World War, during which Lockyer served. It's pride in country and regimental spirit, and knowing that Canadian soldiers are the best, he said. more>>
|
Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Friday he will allow Members of Parliament to debate the new role for Canadian troops in Afghanistan after July 2011 when their combat mission ends, but he and his cabinet will make the final call. "My position is, if you’re going to put troops into combat, into a war situation, I do think, for the sake of legitimacy, I do think the government does require the support of Parliament," explained Harper. "But when we’re talking simply talking about technical or training missions, I think that this is something the executive can do on its own." Harper previously said he wanted all troops home after mid-2011 except for the "odd guard guarding an embassy." Now, he is ready commit up to 1,000 troops for a less risky training mission that would go until 2014. more>>
|
Future Consequences for U.S. Security
At the end of the Cold War, the U.S. Navy’s fleet numbered nearly 600 ships. Today, the fleet is less than half that size and notably short of the level that naval leadership says is needed. Greatly increasing national deficits, rising ship costs, and a dwindling industrial base suggest that the Navy will only continue to shrink.
U.S. Admiral Gary Roughead, Chief of Naval Operations and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will give a major address at Hudson Institute focusing on the current state of the Navy, its future, the strategic consequences for the United States and its allies, and the nation’s position as a great power. A question and answer session will follow his address.
Select this link on Nov 16 (1:30-2:30 EST) more>>
|
The Pentagon should cut 15 percent of its arms purchases, 10 percent of its research spending and slash Lockheed Martin's F-35 fighter jet program to help balance the federal budget, the heads of a presidential panel said in a draft proposal. The deficit-reduction commission suggested cancelling the F-35's Marine Corps version and substituting Lockheed's older F-16 and the Boeing F/A-18E for half of the Air Force's and Navy's planned F-35 purchases. more>>
|
A new arsenal of drones and satellite-guided weapons is changing the nature of warfare. America and its NATO allies possess these high-tech weapons, but smaller countries want them, too. Here's an inside glimpse of how the process of technology transfer works: more>>
|
(Nov. 11) Canadians pay tribute to the men and women who have sacrificed everything to protect our values and peaceful life. more>>
|
(Nov. 11) A 30,000-strong crowd at the National War Memorial in Ottawa belied a sadly dwindling demographic. "I miss my chums coming out," said 92-year-old veteran Stanley Fields after another moving Remembrance Day ceremony under the shadow of Parliament Hill. Fields was an engineer who spent 90 harrowing minutes clearing obstacles on a Normandy beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. He was among a cluster of World War II veterans in wheelchairs basking in the country's gratitude and the rare November sunshine in the nation's capital. The national anthem, lonesome Last Post, two minutes of silence, applause for veterans, and other memorable aspects of Remembrance Day occurred in communities across the nation. more>>
|
(Nov. 11) An excerpt from a letter in today's Chronicle Herald (Nova Scotia) from Lt. (Ret’d) Tom Birchall, president of the Royal United Services Institute: "We created a covenant with our soldiers when we sent them on these dangerous missions and many of them responded by serving at the expense of their health, well-being, and even their lives. Let’s honour our side of the bargain."
more>>
|
(Nov. 11) British historian John Keegan recounts the Canadian contribution to Allied success on D-Day: "The opposition the Canadians faced was stronger than that of any other beach save Omaha. That was an accomplishment in which the whole nation could take considerable pride." The cost of that success was some 340 Canadians killed and 574 wounded. Undaunted, Canadian soldiers pressed on, capturing Caen in July and Falaise in August, 1944. The D-Day invasion lead to the defeat of Nazi Germany and the liberation of Europe - and changed the course of world history for the better. Nearly four years earlier, on June 18, 1940, Prime Minister Winston Churchill told the British Parliament: If we can stand up to him [Hitler], all of Europe may be free and the life of the world may move forward into broad, sunlit uplands. But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, and perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, "This was their finest hour." more>>
|
(Nov. 10) Federal agencies have identified the Arctic as a possible entry region for criminals and terrorists. A newly declassified intelligence report prepared by the Integrated Threat Assessment Centre was obtained by The Canadian Press. Representatives of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, RCMP and other agencies prepared the report. A January 2009 U.S. presidential directive on Arctic policy also identified the possibility of security threats. Increased surveillance in the Arctic could possibly involve Canadian military resources. more>>
|
One of the more controversial aspects of the "War on Terror" since 2004 has been the American use of armed aerial drones in Pakistan. Hundreds of Taliban leaders and fighters have been killed in the attacks - and more than 100 civilians, including women and children. The White House has yet to officially acknowledge the existence of the Pentagon's and CIA's killer drone program, which is highly unpopular among Pakistanis and decried - in public - by Pakistan's politicians. Reportedly, better intelligence and smaller missiles are being used on U.S. drones to reduce the possibility of "collateral damage." more>>
|
The Harper government is now considering keeping almost 1,000 Canadian troops in Afghanistan to continue training Afghan security forces after the Obama Administration campaigned strongly to convince U.S. allies to rethink their plans to leave. As currently envisioned, the large training mission would involve 700 to 750 troops plus about 200 Canadian Forces support staff and last until 2014. If approved, it would see Canada almost completely fill a NATO shortage of trainers in the country. The mission's cost has not been estimated. To date, the United States alone has invested $32B to train some 244,000 Afghan security forces. more>>
|
(8 Nov) Well-placed sources have told The Canadian Press they expect Prime Minister Stephen Harper to make a decision soon on a proposal that would send up to 600 troops to Kabul to continue NATO training efforts. The Canadian personnel would not be involved in combat operations. more>>
|
(8 Nov) Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff has been advocating since June that some soldiers stay in Afghanistan to help train the country's military after the current combat mission ends in July. But he's skeptical of Prime Minister Stephen Harper's sudden interest in the idea, under enormous international pressure and only two weeks before a NATO leaders' summit. Sources have told The Canadian Press that the government is considering sending up to 1,000 soldiers to Kabul until 2014 to bolster NATO training efforts. The proposal marks a stark reversal for Harper who only last January categorically rejected any military presence in Afghanistan after next July, "other than the odd guard guarding an embassy." more>>
|
(8 Nov) A Canadian soldier is somewhere in the world tonight missing their family while you are safe at home. In the minute it takes you to read this, military members all over the world are not only saving lives, but they are also sacrificing their own life for your freedom. It's Military Appreciation Week. Re-post if you are in the military, love a military member, or appreciate our troops.
|
(8 Nov) An internal military document obtained by Le Devoir suggests the Canadian Forces may be forced to intervene in global conflicts caused by climate change. The report warns of "frequent military interventions", directly and indirectly. Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said Saturday that tackling climate change should be considered a key element of Canada's national security strategy, adding there is "no question that climate change has huge security consequences." He also said the Harper government has "no plan" for climate change and continues to treat the issue in isolation. "You've got to put everything together - climate change, defence, diplomacy and development," Ignatieff said. more>>
|
(8 Nov) Canadian Forces members of the Fort Garry Horse in Winnipeg underwent their annual Battle Fitness Test on Sunday, carrying 25 kilograms of equipment and marching extensively. "It's a pretty strenuous pace," said Sgt. Cameron Menzies. "You only have two hours, if you actually look at 13 kilometres with all your gear on. It's pretty demanding, for some of the guys. Some guys are in really good shape, it's not a problem." more>>
|
(7 Nov) The Harper government is considering a proposal to keep hundreds of Canadian troops in Afghanistan until 2014 in a non-combat training role. According to Minister of Defence Peter MacKay, deployment of military troops as trainers "would be behind the wire, outside of Kandahar." NATO has said there is a shortfall of about 900 troops to conduct training. Despite seven years of ISAF training provided to Afghan security forces, results have reportedly been mixed. The United States has invested $32B so far in the project, and according to U.S. Brig.-Gen. Michael Boera last month, Afghanistan's military will be battle-ready by 2016, five years after Pres. Obama said he'd like to start bringing American troops home. Canada's combat role ends by July 2011. more>>
|
Prince Saud al-Faisal, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, said Saturday that his government has stopped mediation efforts between the Afghan government and the Taliban because the latter has refused to break ties with the terrorist group al-Qaida. While a key demand of the U.S. and Afghan governments is that the Taliban do so, they insist there will be no negotiations unless the U.S. agrees to a timetable to withdraw all foreign troops from Afghanistan. more>>
|
(6 Nov 2010) Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice expressed optimism Saturday that NATO’s impending new strategic concept will position the alliance for continued relevance. “I’ve seen an analysis of the new concept,” Rice said, adding that, among a number of other virtues, the concept will allow NATO to address deployment issues and to work in an integrated way with countries that aren’t a part of the alliance. “The real question is: Will it be properly resourced?” more>>
|
The most expensive weapons platform program in history, the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), will likely require even more money - and time - Lockheed Martin's CEO Robert Stevens said Friday. The Harper government announced in July that it plans to spend $9B to acquire 65 F-35s plus $7B for maintenance. The F-35 program has been plagued by design problems and cost overruns for years; what began as a US$197B program has soared to US$382B. The $50B development phase may cost as much as $5B more and Pentagon cost analysts now estimate the JSF may be as much as 150% more expensive to maintain than the warplanes it will replace. For the USAF, slippage in the JSF's timetable delays entry into service - at this point - by a year. In July, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said the F-35 would enter service in Canada's air force in 2016, but the JSF will reportedly not be operational by then, at least not fully. more>>
|
(6 Nov) Boeing and Dassault, makers of the Super Hornet and Rafale jet fighters, respectively, told a parliamentary committee Thursday that the Harper government never gave their planes a good look before selecting a competing fighter, the Lockheed Martin (LM) F-35, for a lucrative military contract. Senior Boeing and Dassault managers said their fighters were overlooked despite being capable of fulfilling Canada's Next Generation Fighter (NGF) requirements. "To our knowledge, Canadian officials have not received the full complement of Super Hornet performance data from the U.S. navy, including those about the new Super Hornet's stealth characteristics," Boeing vice-president Kory Mathews told the committee. Air Force officers working on the NGF project expected competing bids, but the Harper government decided to sole-source the F-35. more>>
|
(6 Nov 2010) In response to the Veterans's rally to demand an impartial ombudsman, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of
Veterans Affairs issued a statement declaring "We are
listening to [Veterans'] concerns [...] we have begun to implement a series of important new measures [for] our most severely injured and vulnerable Veterans and their families [...] We have corrected eligibility criteria that were too restrictive. Veterans with ALS [...] will no longer have to fight for what they are entitled to [...] Other improvements are in the works, notably concerning wait times and bureaucratic red tape.
|
(6 Nov 2010) Follow the proceedings virtually at this link.
Note: Times shown are Atlantic Time
17:30-18:30 The Strategic Concept: NATO Beyond Afghanistan
1. Gen. Stéphane Abrial, Supreme Allied Commander, Transformation, NATO
2. The Hon. Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, Canada
3. The Hon. Murat Mercan, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Grand National Assembly, Turkey
4. Dr. Condoleezza Rice, Professor of Political Economy and Political Science, Stanford University
Moderator: Mr. Roger Cohen, Columnist, International Herald Tribune
Join live-stream video via this link: more>>
|
(5 Nov 2010) Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay called for common cause among conference participants from 39 different countries in the battle against despotism and fanaticism. “Too often, it seems like we are all struggling separately to tackle the same challenges,” MacKay said, urging participants to seek new solutions and partnerships. more>>
|
Click to read online active pdf: more>>
|
(8-12 November) Ottawa area veterans and Canadian Forces personnel to visit with young people during Remembrance Week. Please contact The Historica-Dominion Institute for more details and how to arrange a visit to a classroom your area. more>>
|
(5 Nov) Canada's incoming veterans ombudsman, Guy Parent, said Friday that the government will continue to address their concerns. Parent, a retired search-and-rescue officer and chief warrant officer, begins a five-year term on Nov. 11. He replaces retired colonel Pat Stogran. "Many issues have surfaced in the last few months and veterans' concerns have been identified and floated to the surface," Parent said today. "My team's responsibility will be to keep these issues buoyant. By more in-depth research aimed at finding facts, we should be able to make more specific recommendations to the department and the minister." Parent served as director of investigations to Stogran, who was told in August that his appointment would not be renewed after he very publicly and sharply criticized Veterans Affairs on a number of occasions. more>>
|
A Toronto Star investigation reveals that soldiers seriously wounded in Afghanistan must continue to fight at home - with bureaucrats and the military, as well as their own injuries. Trying to keep jobs and an income as they return with missing limbs and wounded psyches, they are disappearing into rehab programs and face the real threat of being ushered out of the Canadian Forces. At least 1,500 Canadian men and women have been wounded in Afghanistan; the exact number is unknown because the Dept. of National Defence keeps it a secret. Wounded troops returning from Afghanistan have encountered a patchwork of federal programs struggling to handle the influx. While the Conservatives have boasted about their support for the military and veterans, the Star uncovered programs that shortchange veterans and throw up roadblocks hindering their return to work. more>>
|
(6 Nov 2010) Follow the proceedings virtually at this link.
11:45-12:45 Protecting the Public: Job #1
1: The Hon. Ehud Barak, Minister of Defense, Israel
2: The Hon. Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security, United States
3. Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones, Minister of State for Security, Home Office, United Kingdom
Moderator: Mr. Nick Childs, Defence and Security Correspondent, BBC World Service
Join live-stream video on now. more>>
|
Veterans prepare to rally at 10:45 on Parliament Hill on November 5th to protest their treatment by government. Organizers say there will be protests across the country.
The organization, VeteransofCanada.ca - also called on the government Thursday to implement changes. It recommends the following three solutions to fix Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC):
1. Government must order a Royal Commission of Inquiry on Veteran Affairs and follow up on the recommendations made through this investigation.
2. Government needs to legislate the Office of the Veteran Ombudsman to be a Parliamentary Officer and report to Parliament in order to restore confidence in this position.
3. Government and Veterans Affairs needs to treat all veterans the same and not in segregated groups. more>>
|
Watch the FrontLine Video of the Horizon Class Destroyer. more>>
|
The Friends of the City of Ottawa Archives and The Embassy of the Republic of Poland present "Mission to Warsaw - Planes, Penicillin and Politics," an illustrated talk by Hugh Halliday, former curator of the Canadian War Museum,
about the Canadian airlifts of 1945-46. Question period and refreshments follow.
Tuesday 9 November 2010, 7:00 pm
Embassy of the Republic of Poland
443 Daly Avenue, Ottawa
$10 admission in support of the City Archives
RSVP - Seating Limited (613) 224-6888
jjheney@netrover.com
|
(Nov. 4) A ceremony at Camp Mirage in the United Arab Emirates Wednesday officially marked the end of nine years of once-secret Canadian Forces operations at the base. A dispute between Ottawa and the UAE over airline landing rights in Canada resulted in the military being evicted from the base. General Walter Natynczyk, Canada's Chief of Defence Staff, described the past month of activities to vacate Camp Miragae as "a scramble." "We had to move a lot of equipment over a month's period of time," he said, adding that the CF is now using a base in Germany and working on a memorandum of understanding with another country, which he did not name. more>>
|
Matt Gurney of the National Post comments on the record of Liberal and Conservative governments relative to Canada's veterans, including this remark: "Veterans Affairs is, put bluntly, a disaster. And how has the government responded to this crisis? They’re blaming the Liberals, of course."
more>>
|
While search and rescue technicians may be trained in Arctic rescue, they aren't based anywhere near the Arctic. SAR Techs are almost all based in Southern Canada, even though most of Canada’s remote and hard-to-reach areas are in the North, according to the Conference Board of Canada’s Waiting to Be Rescued map, the latest in its "Here, the North" series. The distance that needs to be crossed has turned missions into a "search and recovery" due to prolonged exposure to the elements. more>>
|
(Nov. 3) During November, 1,900 soldiers from CFB Valcartier will be deployed to war-torn Afghanistan for a seven-month deployment, the last combat rotation before the Canadian mission ends next summer. Today, families and friends gathered at the base to bid farewell to 145 Van Doos. "It's so hard," said Krystal Siokalo, wife of one of the soldiers, wiping away tears. Her husband, Cpl. Adam Siokalo, is taking part in his first mission abroad. "I'm very proud of him and I know it's what he wants to do, but it's not easy, especially with the kids," she added. Cpl. Siokalo is second-in-command of the tank squadron with the Battle Group of the Royal 22nd Regiment and will be involved in security operations in the Panjway district. more>>
|
As the battle for control of Kandahar Province continues, efforts at reconciliation are also moving ahead. President Obama plans, by December, to reassess his strategy, based on progress made in breaking the back of the Taliban at least in Kandahar. While the U.S. military remains optimistic, some analysts say the optimism should be tempered based on what they saw on the ground. "I have to say it is still hard fighting, it is work in progress," said NATO Brig.-Gen. Josef Blotz. "It will take some more weeks and months to actually completely clear the entire area of Kandahar city and the contiguous districts." more>>
|
(2 Nov 2010) Yemen could become "the next significant terrorist staging ground," warns a newly released Canadian intelligence report that was distributed internally before last week's foiled parcel bombings. The report says al-Qaeda has been shifting its operations increasingly to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, particularly to Osama bin Laden's poor, lawless and strategically located ancestral homeland. more>>
|
But beyond banging the drum to assert Canada’s ownership of the Arctic, Mr. Harper will be under pressure to show there’s more to his promises than just political rhetoric. During past Arctic trips, Mr. Harper promised a new icebreaker, to be named after former prime minister John Diefenbaker, by 2017, and a deep-seat port by 2015 in Nanisivik, a former mining town. “He is gradually becoming open to the criticism that this is just political rhetoric and he doesn’t mean what he says,” says University of British Columbia Prof. Michael Byers. “And only time will tell on that front.” more>>
|
Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan is to begin winding down well before a July 1, 2011 deadline set by the House of Commons. Citing the Dutch army's pullout from Uruzgan province this year as a guide, U.S. Brig.-Gen. Fred Hodges, the outgoing director of operations for the war in Kandahar, said he expects Canada's battle group in Panjwaii to start handing over combat duties some time in April to a coalition brigade that has yet to be named. more>>
|
(1 Nov 2010) OTTAWA — Canada's military police received 163 reports of sexual assault and 505 reports of assault in 2009 — numbers one military expert says are unacceptable.
The figures, reported in the recently released Canadian Forces Provost Marshal 2009 report, show reports of sexual assaults have actually decreased slightly, from 166 in 2008, but the numbers are still very troubling, said Michel Drapeau, a retired colonel currently practising military law. more>>
|
(1 Nov 2010) When Maureen Eykelenboom's son was killed by a Taliban suicide bomber in the summer of 2006, her battle began.
It was a battle to ensure Cpl. Andrew James Eykelenboom, the first Canadian medic to die in action since the Korean War, and the 152 others who have died in Afghanistan at the time of writing, will always be remembered. more>>
|
(Nov. 1) Like the Canadian Forces (CF) Cyclone and Chinook helicopter programs, which have gone off the rails cost-wise - by $4.2B in total according to Auditor General Sheila Fraser last week - the U.S. Defense Dept.'s new presidential helicopter program got out of control in terms of costs. So, the Obama administration pulled the plug on the US101/VH-71 after the projected cost doubled from US$6.5B to US$13B. The Pentagon sank US$3B into the program, which was also years behind schedule. Canada's DND is thinking of buying as many as eight U.S. presidential helicopter cast-offs to secure badly-needed spare parts for Cormorant search-and-rescue choppers. A price "significantly lower than $3 billion" could seal the deal. more>>
|
Afghan National Army soldiers, Afghan National Police and Canadian soldiers of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group have been patrolling Panjwai'i District in Kandahar province with a U.S. Explosive Detector Dog (EDD) team. EDDs have become a critical part of daily operations in parts of Afghanistan and saved civilian and military lives. They patrol military installations, take part in dismounted patrols, work at vehicle checkpoints, assist cordon and search missions, and help find buried explosive devices. more>>
|
Canada has come closer to working out an effective relationship between soldiers and civilians in Afghanistan than any other country in the world, according to Bill Harris, the top U.S. diplomat in southern Afghanistan. Harris believes that "people will write dissertations" one day about a Canadian-led Provincial Reconstruction Team he describes as a "wildly successful ... irregular warfare unit." "We honestly could not have grown as fast or as easily and come up to the level of effectiveness we currently perform at with any other country than Canada," said Harris, who has three decades of experience and is a close associate of Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. "General Petraeus loves this PRT,” he added. “I can’t say it is his favourite, but I bet it is." more>>
|
(Oct. 31) More than 3,500 military personnel and their families took in the Ottawa Senators-Boston Bruins game on Saturday as part of Canadian Forces Appreciation Night. It was the largest assembly of troops yet in the seven years the Senators have held the event, pushing the overall total to over 16,000 since team owner Eugene Melynk launched the inaugural CF night in 2003. "We do this to recognize and honour (the Canadian forces) for their dedication, their courage and professionalism in representing all Canadians as they work to bring peace and democracy across the globe," Senators president Cyril Leeder said during a pre-game reception. "This is a testament to the great things our Canadian forces have been doing to represent all of us." more>>
|
Despite a "surge" of 30,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan since early last year and an increase in drone and Special Forces attacks on the Taliban - with a focus on its leadership - the Defense Intelligence Agency and CIA have both concluded that the U.S. strategy since late 2001 of defeating the Taliban has not succeeded. U.S. officials say that escalated air strikes and special operations raids have disrupted Taliban movements and damaged local cells, but insurgents have been adept at absorbing the blows and they appear confident that they can outlast military efforts by ISAF nations, including the United States. more>>
|
There is a new song and video out honouring our Canadian Soldiers. Say a prayer every night for tomorrow. Visit this link: more>>
|
(Oct. 30) Canada's Air Force will honour the 50th anniversary of CC-130 Hercules operations at CFB Trenton on Nov. 15. The event is open to current and former CC-130 Hercules air and ground crew who have served with Canadian CC-130 fleets over the years. For registration details, visit www.airforce-museum.ca or phone 613-392-2811, ext. 2962. more>>
|
Veterans Affairs is being too stingy when it comes to funeral benefits, says the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL), with local funeral homes left to cover the extra costs. Canadian Forces members killed in active duty receive about $12,500 from the DND to cover funeral costs. But veterans of the Korean or Second World War receive a maximum amount of only $3,600 from Veterans Affairs. Most, however, won't receive this much because the payout is based on need. "We're basically saying the life of a veteran should not be worth less than the life of a still-serving member. It's pretty basic fairness," said RCL director Pierre Allard. more>>
|
(Oct. 29) An Emirates airliner carrying cargo from Yemen has landed safely in New York City after being escorted from the Canadian border to the United States by military fighter jets, U.S. officials said. The officials said there is no known threat associated with the plane, but it was escorted to John F. Kennedy International Airport as a precautionary move. The flight was first intercepted by two Canadian CF-18s as it entered Canada's airspace and was then handed off to the two U.S. fighters a short time ago as it entered U.S. airspace. more>>
|
(29 Oct. 2010) The crew of Cormorant search and rescue helicopter 902 from 442 Squadron in Comox, British Columbia were overseas to receive the Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue Award from the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators (GAPAN) at the Guild Hall in London, on Thursday October 22. This is a very prestigious international rescue award and the crew were the only ones to receive a standing ovations from all 700 people in attendance. The award terms of reference and citation from the Guild is also attached. more>>
|
A loaded rocket-propelled grenade launcher was found yesterday by a BC Hydro crew working close to the Malahat highway about 25 kilometres north of Victoria. Police were contacted and a Canadian Forces ordnance disposal unit was called in to deal with the M72 device. "Obviously we don't want a weapon like this in the wrong hands. It belongs in the hands of the military under strict controls, said RCMP Inspector Tim Shields. "And it doesn't belong in the hands of anyone else, other than that. So we want to get to the bottom of this and find out where this thing came from, how it came to be there, and who had it." more>>
|
(29 Oct. 2010) SEOUL — North and South Korea exchanged gunfire across their heavily armed land border on Friday, the South’s military said, despite an apparent thaw in tensions on the divided peninsula in the past few months.
The North Korean frontline guard post fired two shots towards a South Korean guardpost across the demilitarised zone and the South returned fire with three shots, a joint chiefs of staff official said. more>>
|
(29 Oct. 2010) For their own sakes, the Conservatives need to press pause on the largest military purchase in Canadian history.
There is no doubt that Canada needs a new jet to replace the aging CF-18 fleet, which will be obsolete within 10 years. Not even the Liberals are suggesting we close down the Canadian air force and ask the Americans to patrol our airspace. more>>
|
(29 Oct. 2010) In an abrupt about-face, Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Walter Natynczyk issued a partial apology last night to the family of a soldier who was abandoned by the military and later killed himself while suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Natynczyk apologized for a legal letter sent to the family of Cpl. Stuart Langridge forbidding them to contact Canadian Forces and Defence Department officials as they tried to sort out his estate. more>>
|
(Oct. 28) The Canadian Forces (CF) have stopped flying troops to and from Afghanistan via Camp Mirage in Dubai. By next week, the CF must cease all activities at the base and vacate the facility, as per the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government's order. Ejecting Canada's military from the base was an attempt by the UAE government to pressure Ottawa to allow UAE airlines Emirates and Etihad to fly to Canada up to 50 times weekly, a move that would have hurt Air Canada's international business considerably. According to an officer at DND headquarters, a deal with the government of Cyprus is close to being signed that will allow Canadian military aircraft transporting soldiers to land and depart a Cypriot airport. more>>
|
Canadian Army Capt Pete Reintjes and the rest of his Operational Mentor and Liaison Team (OMLT) went from instructing and mentoring the Afghan National Army (ANA) to doing office work to their original mission. The see-saw changes they have experienced are reflective of CF and NATO command changes in Afghanistan. Gone are Canadian Brig.-Gen. Daniel Ménard, who was relieved of command in May for having an in-theatre intimate relationship, and American four-star general Stanley McChrystal for making derogatory remarks about Obama Administration officials that were published in Rolling Stone Magazine a few months ago. With the return of Canadian Brig.-Gen. Jon Vance to Afghanistan and command of U.S. and NATO forces taken over by the protean Gen. David Petraeus, the OMLT returned to its old job and is embedded with ANA units. more>>
|
(Oct. 27) While Canada's Auditor General Sheila Fraser gave the Harper government good marks yesterday for the way it managed stimulus spending, she described the DND's spending behaviour for the Cyclone and Chinook helicopter programs as "troubling." According to figures she released Tuesday, the cost of the new helicopters programs has increased 66% - $4.2 billion - in five years. Yesterday was the first time that Canadian taxpayers learned of the massive cost overruns. Fraser also expressed her concern that the Harper government's plan to sole-source 65 F-35 jet fighters from Lockheed Martin (LM) is risky in terms of controlling program spending. In the U.S., the F-35 program has - so far - gone up by nearly US$185 billion (94%) and still LM is unable to say if the stealthy warplane will be fully operational in 2016 when Minister of Defence Peter MacKay said it will enter service in the Canadian air force. more>>
|
Two teenagers kayaking near the shoreline of the Rat River in Manitoba Saturday discovered what they believed were rockets on the river bank. They called police and bomb disposal units from the RCMP and Canadian Forces 17 Wing in Winnipeg responded. The items turned out to be mortar shells. According to the RCMP, it's a mystery how they got there. more>>
|
Reduce the number of bases operated by the Canadian Forces and get all the new fighter aircraft, ships, and other pieces of high-tech equipment promised by the Harper government, or cut personnel, training, maintenance and other operating costs and make do with older gear for longer, but Canada's military cannot have it all. The unpleasant reality is that given the tepid economic recovery and lacklustre tax revenue growth, there will be a longer-term shortfall of $44B for the military than in 2008, when the Harper government promised $35B for new military equipment and the prime minister told Canadians, "We're not going into deficit." By the end of Fiscal Year 2014/15, the Conservatives will have added nearly $156B to Canada's national debt, increasing it to an unprecedented $612B. With greater debt servicing costs, spending has to be cut or taxes increased, which the Tories are loathe to do - at least for now. more>>
|
Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, a Canadian former senior commander in Kandahar, told the Senate defence committee Monday that he is confident Canada and the rest of the international community will not allow Afghanistan to suffer from "withdrawal shock" after 2011. Canadian combat troops are scheduled to be out of Afghanistan by July of next year. Vance told the committee that the U.S. "surge" of soldiers has made a significant difference in the war-torn country and said that prior to the increase, there were "just enough [ISAF troops] not to lose." more>>
|
(26 Oct. 2010) Veteran Sean Bruyea accepted a rare government apology Monday for the abuse of his personal medical and financial files by Veterans Affairs Department officials.
"It's a sincere apology, not just for me, but I see it for all Canadians," Bruyea said in an interview. "Canadians have been wonderfully supportive, not only in condemning these actions but supportive of me and I'm hoping that Canadians will see this as an apology to them, too." more>>
|
(26 Oct. 2010) U.S. NAVAL BASE GUANTANAMO, Cuba — Omar Khadr has pleaded guilty to five war-crimes charges, including murder, in a deal with the Pentagon that limits his sentence and could see him return to Canada within a year to serve his remaining time.
In a hearing here Monday before a U.S. military tribunal, Khadr pleaded guilty to the five charges against him: murder and attempted murder in violation of the law of war, providing material support to terrorism, conspiracy and spying. more>>
|
(26 Oct. 2010) As defence analyst Martin Shadwick once said, successive Canadian governments have "battled, bungled or procrastinated their way through the treacherous shoals of defence procurement" since Confederation.
Now, it's the Harper government's turn.
Auditor General Sheila Fraser puts the multibillion-dollar purchase of two sets of helicopters – 28 CH-148 Cyclones and 15 CH-147F Chinooks – under the microscope in her annual report scheduled for release today. more>>
|
(26 Oct. 2010) Stephen Harper may get an uncomfortable reception from other world leaders at the NATO summit in Lisbon next month, unless he arrives armed with the news that the alliance wants to hear – namely that Canada will commit to supplying 450 military trainers to school Afghan forces in Kabul after our combat mission ends next year.
more>>
|
(Oct. 25) The Canadian Forces has launched an investigation into claims by an Afghan farmer that soldiers "totally destroyed" up to 10 homes three years ago in order to protect a military outpost known as a fire base. The investigation was triggered by a recent report in the New York Times that said when Canadian troops "immediately came under fire from insurgents" after establishing the base "they bulldozed much of the hamlet, flattening houses, water pumps and surrounding orchards." According to the report, Canadian personnel demolished at least one Afghan farm, including 600 vines. Referring to the Afghan farmer, CEFCOM responded to the alleged destruction: "His claim was turned down because we could not confirm that the damages he claimed were caused by CF operations." more>>
|
In May, the U.S. government designated cyberspace as the fifth sphere of war - after land, sea, air, and space - and established a new U.S. Cyber Command in Fort Meade, Maryland. The new military command, which becomes fully operational this month, is preparing to quadruple the number of "cyber warriors" it employs to thwart computer attacks and conduct "full spectrum military cyberspace operations". China, Russia, North Korea, Israel and France also have military cyber commands. An FBI report leaked earlier this year estimated that China has developed an army of 180,000 cyber spies. While the U.S. Cyber Command budget tops $2 billion annually, the Harper government recently announced it would spend $90 million over five years to protect government computer systems and cyberspace for Canadians. more>>
|
Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s office was informed four years ago about “security breaches” of confidential information as well as harassment directed toward an Ottawa man critical of Veterans Affairs, government documents suggest. After looking into the matter, the PMO referred retired Capt Sean Bruyea back to Veterans Affairs, the same department that the Gulf War veteran alleged was misusing his personal information and harassing his family. more>>
|
(25 Oct 2010) An up-to-date collection of major news and reports from the trial of Russell Williams. more>>
|
General David Petraeus, the head of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, "has long been a proponent of the idea that wars in tribal societies are inevitably a mix of talk and shoot," writes David Ignatius of the Washington Post. With 30,000 American "surge" troops in Afghanistan to bolster his multi-pronged strategy, Petraeus has been applying unprecedented military force on the Taliban, particularly on its leadership, while leaving doors open to the insurgency, endorsing President Hamid Karzai's reconciliation talks with Taliban leaders, and guaranteeing their safety to and from Kabul as a confidence-building measure. more>>
|
"Frago 242", a U.S. "fragmentary order" issued in Iraq, ordered troops not to investigate any breach of the laws of armed conflict, such as the abuse of detainees, unless it directly involved coalition members. The result was hundreds of cases of torture and other forms of abuse committed by Iraqi security forces that the U.S. military was aware of, but refused to investigate or intervene to stop. Nearly 400,000 classified military documents detailing the war in Iraq were leaked to whistle-blower organization WikiLeaks, which has published them on its website after allowing news organizations in Britain, France and other countries to review the material. Human Rights Watch urged the Iraqi and U.S. governments Saturday to launch investigations into reports of torture and detainee abuse, the killing of civilians and surrendering insurgents, and more. more>>
|
(23 Oct) Confessed killer Russell Williams has been stripped of his military rank and will be tossed from the Canadian Forces.
"All Canadians have been stunned by the tragic events that led to the sentencing of Mr. Williams," Chief of Defence Staff General Walter Natynczyk said in a release Friday. "His actions have constituted a fundamental breach of trust, duty and valour, upon which the commission is based." Governor General David Johnston, commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces, also approved Williams' release from the military. Williams' will no longer retain a military rank. his medals will be revoked, he will have no right to severance pay, and the Canadian Forces will recover his salary from the date of his arrest. more>>
|
Brigadier-General Dean Milner, commander of Canada's Task Force Kandahar, said at a news conference on Friday that he supports talks between President Hamid Karzai and the Taliban. He added that the Canadian Forces would be willing to help. "We believe it’s an excellent initiative, said Milner. "[Afghan National Army commander Ahmed] Habibi and I talk about it all the time as well. So this is something we’re waiting to see how it evolves." more>>
|
(Oct. 23) Brig.-Gen. Dean Milner, head of Canadian troops in Afghanistan, said on Friday that coalition forces have the upper hand and have taken away the Taliban's ability to move around Kandahar at will. A surge in American troops and an additional 1,400 Afghan soldiers has proven to be crucial. "That's enabling us to operate against the insurgents on the ground," said Milner. "We are now enabled to start providing a lot more security and subsequent development ... we have momentum." more>>
|
(22 Oct 2010) PANJWAII, Afghanistan – Canadian troops will soon swap one barren desert for another, as many deploy to Canada’s Far North late this winter for the first major Arctic exercise after almost 10 years of fighting insurgents in South Asia, according to the new commander of the Canadian army. more>>
|
(22 Oct) Afghanistan’s ambassador to Canada said it is up to Canadians to decide a future role in Afghanistan, but the war-torn country is concerned about "premature withdrawal" of ISAF troops and needs training for Afghan police and security forces. Ambassador Jawed Ludin testified today at the House of Commons special committee on the Canadian mission in Afghanistan. Ludin said that security is the country’s top priority now as discussions involving various individuals with links to the Taliban, including a senior Taliban commander who was given safe passage to Kabul last week by NATO forces. more>>
|
(22 Oct 2010) LONDON – A new British Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarine ran aground off the coast of north-west Scotland on Friday, the Ministry of Defence said.
“This is not a nuclear incident,” a spokesman said. “There are no injuries to personnel and the submarine is watertight.”
The MoD identified the boat as an Astute-class submarine, adding that it was not armed with nuclear warheads. It said it was “assessing the situation”. more>>
|
(19 Oct 2010) A prominent U.S. historian is urging a radical rethink of the War of 1812, casting the conflict as less of a battle between nations and more of a civil war that tore families apart along the U.S.-Canada border, exploited the divided loyalties of First Nations and threatened to split the young U.S. republic just decades after it gained independence from Britain. more>>
|
(Oct. 21) Search and rescue services are threatened because the Canadian Forces is unable to recruit and retain sufficient staff, according to an internal report. During a rescue, flight engineers are crucial because one of their jobs is to lower the helicopter hoist to people requiring rescue below. The report says that the number of military flight engineers will decline to a critical level by 2011. more>>
|
(10 Oct 2010) A potentially costly wrinkle has emerged in the Conservative government's plan to spend up to $16 billion on new stealth fighters. Less than half of the eye-popping price tag — $7 billion — is set aside for support and maintenance of the highly complex F-35 Lightning II. And senior defence officials intend to roll that cost into the eventual purchase agreement instead of negotiating two separate contracts. Defence experts warn it is a huge financial gamble, one that could lead to soaring costs — or force Ottawa to accept lesser service down the road. more>>
|
(20 Oct) There is no evidence Omar Khadr ever independently sought to promote peace with the West and renounce Muslim jihad, says an internationally acclaimed psychiatrist who examined the Canadian-born terror suspect. "When one leaps to the conclusion about Omar Khadr's future because he is friendly, one might recall that Osama bin Laden has always been described as gentle, likable and charming," said Dr. Michael Welner in an exclusive interview. more>>
|
(Oct. 20) The new Chief of Land Staff, LGen Peter Devlin, has given the commander of the Combat Training Centre (CTC) at CFB Gagetown, Col. Jim Simms, a directive to "train to excite" for the post-Afghanistan period. The Army's top brass is concerned that after the challenging conditions of Afghanistan, including adrenaline-pumping firefights with Taliban insurgents, soldiering might become lacklustre when the combat mission ends in July 2011. Col Simms talks about CTC training and the options he and his staff are exploring to keep soldiering stimulating. more>>
|
Cpl. Matthew Wilcox has won his appeal of his criminal negligence causing death and negligent performance convictions in connection with the death of Cpl. Kevin Megeney. He was tried in 2009, found guilty and sentenced to four years in a military prison. The Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada has set aside the guilty verdicts and ordered a new trial with a new judge. more>>
|
(Oct. 20) According to a parliamentarian in Afghanistan, the Karzai government has been in reconciliation talks for months with members of a Taliban faction closely tied to al Qaeda and responsible for lethal attacks on coalition forces and bombings inside Kabul, the capital. The Afghan government has also been in contact with Jalaludin Haqqani, the leader of the Pakistan-based Haqqani network, which is believed to have close ties to Pakistan’s intelligence service. The New York Times reported Wednesday that three members of Quetta Shura, the Taliban’s leadership council, have also participated in discussions with the Karzai government. more>>
|
With a national debt of nearly £1 trillion and the largest deficits since the Second World War in the past two fiscal years, Britain's coalition government of Conservatives and Labour Democrats is cutting spending in virtually all areas, including defence. Cuts will include 17,000 members of the U.K.'s military and 25,000 civilian support positions over the next five years. A variety of equipment programs are either being scrapped or delayed, and tanks, fighter aircraft, ships, and other pieces of military hardware will be taken out of service to save money. more>>
|
(Oct. 19) The U.S. government and NATO have opened the door to Afghanistan's neighbour, Iran, to join a coordinating group on Afghanistan in Rome. Iran is one of a dozen Muslim countries that are part of the group. The Organization of the Islamic Conference is also attending. The Iranian delegates were among the attendees of a briefing given by U.S. general David Petraeus, head of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. more>>
|
At Col. Russell Williams' trial today, the Crown presented details about how one of his victims, Jessica Lloyd, died at his hands. Williams strangled the 27-year-old woman with a rope after repeatedly sexually assaulting her. The evidence presented was starkly in contrast to the professionalism and dedication to duty of Williams, the former commander of CFB Trenton, air force pilot and rising star in the military.
more>>
|
A German air base in Uzbekistan or a U.S. air base in Kyrgyzstan are possible short-term fixes for the Canadian Forces after the United Arab Emirates informed the government that Canada's military must leave Camp Mirage in Dubai within three weeks. The eviction notice came after the Harper government refused to allow UAE airlines Emirates and Etihad to increase their weekly flights to Canada, citing a significant decrease in Air Canada's international business as the reason. more>>
|
Second World War veterans gather in Vancouver to preserve unique stories of wartime service and sacrifice. The Memory Project: Stories of the Second World War is creating an unprecedented record of Canada’s participation in that war, as seen through the eyes of thousands of men and women who were there. It provides every living Second World War veteran with the opportunity to preserve their memories through recorded interviews and digitized memorabilia. Their stories are available, in both official languages, at: more>>
|
(18 Oct) Col Russell Williams, the former commander of CFB Trenton, Canadian Forces pilot, and rising star in the military, pleaded guilty in court today to all 88 charges against him: two counts of first-degree murder, two counts each of sexual assault and forcible confinement, and 82 break-ins and attempted break-ins. At a news conference Monday afternoon, the Dept. of National Defence said it would work as quickly as possible to strip Williams of his rank, military decorations and honours. more>>
|
(17 Oct) The Canadian subsidiary of U.S.-based Harris Corporation has been awarded a $273.8-million contract to provide CF-18 avionics maintenance until 2020, when the Hornet fleet will be fully replaced by 65 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. While the government has shut out jet fighter makers such as Boeing and BAE from a competition for Canada's next fighter, it did allow a competition for the CF-18 avionics maintenance work. more>>
|
(16 Oct) The General Campaign Star (GCS) Medal was awarded earlier this month to Canadian soldiers of the 1st and 2nd Battalions, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group during a ceremony in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The medal is awarded to members of allied forces working together in the presence of an armed enemy. "It's been a pleasure," said GCS Medal recipient Army Private Mathew Campbell, 2RCR BG. "Canada is well-liked around the world, and I think that we are pretty much well-liked in Afghanistan too." more>>
|
The Canadian government wants to establish an airbase in Cyprus to move Canadian soldiers and equipment out of Afghanistan next year. A diplomatic spat involving Canada and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) erupted after Ottawa refused to allow dozens of Emirates and Etihad airline flights to land each week at Canadian airports. Authorization would have cut into Air Canada's international business considerably. The UAE government retaliated by telling the Canadian Forces to leave Camp Mirage in Dubai. Canadian officials have reportedly contacted the Cypriot government about establishing an airbase on the eastern Mediterranean island. more>>
|
Canada's former top soldier is warning that "field marshal wannabes" are angling to take a bigger role in directing the day-to-day operations of military forces in the field. Retired general Rick Hillier says a policy paper is circulating around senior levels of the Harper government that suggests the Clerk of the Privy Council and the deputy minister of defence take a greater role to "guide" the military. more>>
|
The United Arab Emirates lobbied against Canada's bid for a UN Security Council seat in the latest blow to relations that soured after disputes over airline routes, a UAE official said Thursday. The Gulf country's opposition followed harsh complaints about Canada's refusal to open more flights for the fast-growing carriers Emirates and Etihad. The government in Abu Dhabi is also forcing Canada to leave a military base that is used to supply Canadian forces in Afghanistan. more>>
|
Ottawa’s eviction from Camp Mirage has exposed a rift within the Harper cabinet over how far Canada should go to satisfy its Arab hosts: an internal debate in which Stephen Harper cut Defence Minister Peter MacKay out of negotiations. Camp Mirage, a once-secret military installation, is to be vacated by Nov. 5 after failing to reach an agreement with the United Arab Emirates over compensation for nine years of accommodation near Dubai. The UAE has been seeking landing rights for two state-backed air carriers at Canadian airports, and Mr. MacKay was one of several ministers, including Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and International Trade Minister Peter Van Loan, who had favoured doing more to help the Arab ally, a senior Conservative MP said. more>>
|
(Oct. 15) Col. Jim Simms, commander of the Combat Training Centre at CFB Gagetown, believes it will likely take a couple of years for soldiers and their leaders to catch up after the Afghanistan mission concludes next year. "We have shifted our focus preparing for what we need for Afghanistan and, therefore, we have some make up training to do in order to get all the skill sets that we need to have at the right levels for our soldiers and leaders," Simms said in an interview. more>>
|
Three months ago, a Canadian Forces team started planning the exodus of combat troops and their equipment from Afghanistan. Their work will continue over the next nine months as the July 2011 deadline approaches. Equipment not used by soldiers or requiring extensive repairs will be sent back to Canada early. The closure of Camp Mirage in Dubai to CF use due to a spat between the Canadian and UAE governments over UAE airline access to Canada has made the team's job more problematic, at least for now. more>>
|
(Oct. 15) Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, said today he has arranged for the safe passage of a senior Taliban commander to Kabul for peace talks. Petraeus' announcement follows recent news that the Taliban are open to peace talks led by an Afghan group and monitored by the United States. The U.S. special envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke, also said Friday that Taliban associates have been reaching out for talks about ending the war but that formal negotiations are not taking place. more>>
|
(Oct. 14) A report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives released today says the Harper government's decision to sole-source 65 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets for $9 billion plus at least $7 billion for long-term maintenance is "fundamentally flawed." The report argues that Canada does not need a stealthy, super-advanced warplane for the types of missions that the upgraded CF-18 will be flying and still be required after the Hornet's retirement. The likelihood of Canadian Forces being sent into a high-tech battle alone, thus requiring the F-35's capabilities, is so remote, says the report, that buying the Lightning II makes no sense when suitable and much less expensive aircraft are available. Four months ago, Le Devoir revealed that the Harper government turned down Boeing's offer of 65 new Super Hornet jet fighters for $4 billion. Last month, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said, "The United States does not believe that NATO and Russia are adversaries." Cold-War-era Russian Tu-95 Bear bombers have flown toward Canadian airspace and been met by CF-18s. The report also said Canada could acquire and use unmanned surveillance aircraft for long-range patrols. more>>
|
Seven NATO service members were killed in attacks in Afghanistan today, including four in roadside bombings. During the past two days, 13 NATO troops have killed. This year has been the deadliest for international forces since the Afghan war began in late 2001. Public support in NATO countries for the mission has declined significantly during the nine-year conflict.
more>>
|
As of November 5th, Camp Mirage will be shutdown. Please refrain from sending letters and packages to:
JTFA, TSE Orderly Room
Box 5113 STN FORCES
Belleville ON K8N 5W6
The organizers of the Chosen Soldier Project wish to thank sponsors for their past support on behalf of our troops. If you wish to sponsor another soldier, please contact the organizers: more>>
|
The Harper government's decision to forgo a typical competitive process to select Canada's replacement for its aging CF-18s has drawn considerable fire in the editorial pages of this country. Discussion has centred on the issues of competition and the examination of alternative aircraft that might meet Canada's fighter aircraft needs. What are those needs? There are real concerns about the F-35 program; we are not getting a lot of capability for the money we will spend and that will be all the offensive air capability we will get for the next 30 to 40 years. Our 79 CF-18s already have difficulty meeting our Norad commitments as well as international operations. Further, there will be no room for losses - a sobering thought considering we have lost 17 CF-18s since 1982 in peacetime operations. more>>
|
(Oct. 13) According to a source in Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, Canada's government has requested that the Canadian Forces be allowed to use Pakistani military bases for next year's scheduled withdrawal from Afghanistan. A dispute with the United Arab Emirates over landing rights for UAE airlines in Canada resulted in the Canadian military being given short notice to leave its logistical base in Dubai. On Monday, the UAE refused to allow a Canadian military jet carrying Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk to enter UAE airspace.
more>>
|
Brian Dyck, a police officer and former Canadian Forces veteran who fought to get benefits for veterans with ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease, is being honoured in a funeral today in Ottawa. The 42-year-old died Friday after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Dyck was a veteran of the first Gulf War and gained national prominence for pushing the federal government to offer health and disability benefits to veterans with the degenerative disease, which afflicted an abnormally high percentage of veterans of the Gulf War. Depleted uranium particulate and other toxic munitions materials were exposed to the environment in the 1991 conflict. About 250,000 of the 697,000 Gulf War veterans suffer from acute and chronic symptoms including fatigue, loss of muscle control, headaches, dizziness and loss of balance, memory problems, muscle and joint pain, indigestion, skin problems, and immune system and neurological problems. more>>
|
(12 Oct) Souring diplomatic relations between Canada and the United Arab Emirates forced a military flight carrying Canada's top defence brass on a six-hour detour to Rome. A quarrel over landing rights in Canada for the UAE's two national carriers and the use of a logistics base in Dubai that supports Canadian combat operations in Afghanistan escalated sharply when a C-17 jumbo transport carrying Defence Minister Peter MacKay, General Walter Natynczyk and Veterans Affairs Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn was denied the right to land and ordered to stay clear of UAE airspace. more>>
|
The war that Canadian soldiers are helping wage in Afghanistan is not being lost. Having spent nearly six months in the country since 2006, most of that time embedded with our troops, I'm convinced of it. But the war isn't being won, either; the conflict, with sporadic fighting and death by remote control, just continues. The Taliban, for their part, have the resolve and resources to see that their fight lasts. If anything is being lost, it's the counterinsurgency, the crucial allied attempt to win local confidence and co-operation. Without those, this long war cannot be won.
more>>
|
(12 Oct) After helping to serve Thanksgiving dinner to the troops alongside Veterans Affairs minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn, October 11, 2010, in Kandahar, Defence Minster Peter MacKay confirmed Monday that the United Arab Emirates has ordered Canada to abandon the not-so-secret Camp Mirage, used as a staging ground for the Canadian Forces mission in Afghanistan. Nevertheless, he appeared to extend an olive branch to the U.A.E. before boarding his aircraft. "We are very grateful for what the United Arab Emirates has allowed us to do in their country," MacKay said. "They have been very supportive of the Canadian mission writ large and for that we thank them."
|
In this Ottawa Citizen opinion column, Paul T. Mitchell, professor of Defence Studies at Canadian Forces College, points out that no comprehensive assessment has been done to determine Canada's needs in terms of a warplane to replace the aging CF-18 Hornet, and discusses possible alternatives.
more>>
|
(11 Oct 2010) To many combat soldiers, the sentence to Capt Rob Semrau for “disgraceful conduct” by shooting a wounded Taliban ambusher in Afghanistan in 2008, is wrong, unnecessary and unrealistic. By saying Semrau ignored the laws that govern warfare, and that his “behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” judge LCol Perron showed he does not understand the realities of the battlefield. Rather than strengthen military morale, the verdict is likely to undermine it. If the Semrau case proves anything, it’s Canada’s need for an inspector general (IG) for the army – something the British, Americans, Australians, Germans, Japanese and a host of countries already have. more>>
|
(11 Oct) The United Arab Emirates closed its airspace to Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of the Defence Staff, General Walt Natynczyk, in an escalating diplomatic row over aviation rights. MacKay and Natynczyk were on their way back from a three-day visit to Afghanistan. Just hours earlier in Kandahar, MacKay had confirmed that Canada is being forced to vacate its military base in the UAE following the failure of negotiations to expand aviation links between the two countries. He said the UAE has followed through on its threat to deny the Canadian military access to a base known as Camp Mirage near Dubai. more>>
|
(10 Oct 2010) 1st Canadian Division Headquarters was stood-up at CFB Kingston, Ontario, today in a ceremony attended by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin, Chief of the Land Staff, and Lieutenant-General Marc Lessard, Commander Canadian Expeditionary Force Command. The 130-member unit provides the Canadian Forces with a headquarters that can rapidly deploy at home or around the globe in response to a variety of crises including humanitarian operations. "The re-establishment of the Division Headquarters builds upon lessons learned throughout numerous national and international missions," said LGen Lessard. "It represents the Canadian Forces' commitment to continuously adapt our culture, doctrine, training and structure to new world realities and ensure that Canada has a first-class, modern military." Members of the 1st Canadian Division will wear a distinctive red square shoulder patch which has been worn since the inception of the Division during the First World War.
|
Afghan President Hamid Karzai revealed today that "unofficial contacts" with the Taliban aimed at ending nine years of war in Afghanistan has been going on for "quite some time." When asked about media reports of "secret high level talks" between the two sides, Karzai told CNN's Larry King, "We have been talking to the Taliban as countryman to countryman, talk in that manner." Karzai's comments came shortly after it was announced that Burhanuddin Rabbani, the former Afghan president, had been selected as chairman of the council tasked with brokering an end to the war with the Taliban. more>>
|
(Oct. 9) Lt.-Cmdr. Ken Cooper spoke at a workshop in Halifax this week about the military's revamped suicide prevention program. The Canadian Forces (CF) Expert Panel on Suicide Prevention met last year and made 59 recommendations to the military’s top brass. Cooper said a key point involves identifying members who could be at risk of suicide. Sixteen CF personnel killed themselves last year, the highest recorded number since 1995, when keeping CF suicide statistics began. more>>
|
Linda Norgrove, a British aid worker kidnapped by the Taliban last month, died during a rescue attempt by NATO forces in northeastern Afghanistan, Britain's foreign secretary said Saturday. She was killed Friday night by her captors during an operation to free her. British and NATO officials refused to provide details about the failed military operation, each side referring to the other. Gen. David Petraeus, the top commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, referred to Norgrove as "a courageous person with a passion to improve the lives of Afghan people." more>>
|
(Oct. 9) Muhammad Omar, the governor of the northern Afghan province of Kunduz, was killed along with at least 14 others in a bomb blast at a mosque yesterday. Provincial security chief Shah Jahan Noori said at least 20 people were also been wounded. more>>
|
Four Italian NATO soldiers were killed Saturday in an insurgent attack in the Gulistan Valley in western Afghanistan. Another Italian soldier was wounded in the ambush. The deaths brought the number of Italian soldiers killed in Afghanistan in the last six years to 34, of whom 21 have died in the past two years. more>>
|
(8 Oct) The debate over the Joint Strike Fighter purchase is one of several contrasts that both parties appear eager to embrace. Who ultimately triumphs in an election that is expected in months will say a lot about what Canadians want from government in the difficult decade ahead. Mr. Ignatieff wants a review of the decision, with an eye to sending it to an open competition. That position, when asked about it at a press conference in a Winnipeg aerospace facility, disturbed the Prime Minister's typically calm public demeanour. “When the government made the decision to sole source for the [F-35] as our next jet aircraft, I was disappointed,” Alan Williams, a former assistant deputy minister for military procurement, told the Commons defence committee. “I could not understand why they took this decision.” He argued for an open competition to select the new fighter.
more>>
|
A dispute between Canada and the United Arab Emirates over access to Canadian airspace by UAE airlines has resulted in the Canadian Forces being told to leave a secret UAE airbase within 27 days. The base has been used for seven years to support military operations in Afghanistan. Dubai-based Emirates Airlines and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways wanted to fly up to 50 flights weekly to Canada. The change would have cut into Air Canada's business significantly. CF airlift operations to Afghanistan will have to occur from Europe or Turkey, according to a DND spokesperson. more>>
|
(Oct. 8) The Canadian Forces (CF) has been testing unmanned planes and balloons this week in the skies near Kanata, Ont., 20km southwest of Ottawa. The Disaster Interoperability Response Experiment or DIRE 10 tests should improve the integration of communication systems between CF units and emergency response organizations, resulting in better coordination.
more>>
|
The most expensive weapons systems program in history - the US$382-billion Lockheed Martin (LM) F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) - has run into more problems. Software glitches, postponed purchases, and a scolding this week from the Pentagon are the latest issues. Design and flight-testing troubles and systems data stolen by hackers are also on the list of concerns from parliamentarians in Canada and other countries who say the Lightning II is not good value for taxpayers. The Harper government announced in July it would sole-source 65 F-35's from LM for $9 billion. Boeing offered 65 new Super Hornets to the Conservative government for $4 billion. Air Force officers working on the Next Generation Fighter Capability project had called for a "competitive process" for the new warplane and the long-term maintenance contract. more>>
|
What exactly does Prime Minister Stephen Harper have in mind by way of a role for Canada in Afghanistan after our combat mission ends next year? And when does he plan to let Parliament in on the plan? Afghanistan is a long way from stability, and Harper faces pressure from allies to leave some troops and police behind to train Afghan counterparts. Harper also reportedly spent the summer mulling proposals to boost our aid by $550 million over three years. more>>
|
Taliban representatives and the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai have begun secret, high-level talks over a negotiated end to the war, according to Afghan and Arab sources. more>>
|
The sentencing of a Canadian Forces captain guilty of shooting a wounded enemy fighter is expected to forever alter the way soldiers think and act in a war zone, serving notice to Canada's men and women in uniform that there is no legal grey zone on the battlefield. Warfare expert John Thompson said the sentence sends a chilling, if not paralyzing, message that will deeply affect the psyche of Canada's men and women in uniform. "It tells them, 'No matter what you do, your judgment is going to be questioned by people who are total strangers to your situation.' It tells them to be boy scouts in uniforms," he said. "'Don't do anything. Don't fight. Don't stick your neck out. Stay behind the barbed wire and do nothing.'" more>>
|
Michaelle Jean was the people's governor-general, never more so than when she wore her heart on her sleeve, shedding tears for her native Haiti, or hugging a veteran at a ceremony on her last days in office. David Johnston was installed as her successor on Friday. He is unassuming, but highly accomplished, with impressive credentials.
more>>
|
Senator Roméo A. Dallaire (Gulf – Quebec) was elected the new Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, effective immediately. Senator Manning (Newfoundland and Labrador) remains deputy chair. The Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence created this subcommittee to examine issues of concern to veterans, members of the Canadian Forces, the RCMP and their families. The subcommittee is currently undertaking an extensive review of the New Veterans Charter. more>>
|
(7 Oct.) The lawyer for Col. Russell Williams said Thursday that his client will plead guilty to murder, sexual assaults and dozens of breaking and entering charges. Williams was charged eight months ago with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of forcible confinement, and two counts of breaking and entering and sexual assault. Eighty additional breaking and entering charges were later added. A former CF pilot who flew VIPs around,Williams was commander of Canadian Forces (CF) Base Trenton when he was arrested. more>>
|
The U.S. has not captured the elusive terrorist Osama bin Laden during the past nine years, which has provided al-Qaeda with continued propaganda value as it recruits worldwide. According to CIA experts, the Bush Administration diverted resources needed for the war in Afghanistan to the Iraqi conflict, which allowed the Taliban to regroup in Afghanistan and strike back. Now, U.S. intelligence officials say that what was once a battle targeted primarily in one region after 9/11 has spread to a global fight with no end in sight. more>>
|
(7 Oct) In response to the tabling of the Privacy Commissioner’s critical report concerning Veterans Affairs Canada, Minister Blackburn says he will follow up immediately on all recommendations. "I want to reassure our Veterans that we are taking appropriate action to ensure the respect of their privacy and dignity," he said. A senior government expert has been brought in to help Veterans Affairs Canada implement the recommendations. "We will enhance our protection measures and [...] all of our staff will receive
comprehensive training on the new practices. In fact, we [...] have already taken measures to correct the situation. Looking to make them stricter, VAC is reviewing sanctions imposed on employees who violate the rules. "Improvements to how employees share information internally will be implemented immediately where the principles of 'need to know' will be strictly observed."
|
(6 Oct) The Canadian military has investigated five reports of sexual assault in Afghanistan since 2004, with only one investigation leading to a guilty verdict. That number contrasts sharply with the picture described in a new book about Capt. Nichola Goddard, who in 2006 became the first Canadian female combat death. Letters sent to her husband illustrate an environment in which women working on the base were frequent targets of sexual harassment. more>>
|
The Canadian Forces (CF) completed Operation Lama today - assistance to the people and communities of Newfoundland and Labrador worst affected by Hurricane Igor, which struck on 22 September. Soldiers from CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick were part of the relief efforts and brought much-needed heavy equipment with them. Defence Minister Peter MacKay and provincial Minister of Transportation and Works and Acting Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Emergency Preparedness (Acting) Tom Hedderson praised CF personnel for their hard work. more>>
|
Nineteen tons of explosive devices transferred from Iran into Afghanistan have been seized, Afghan police said Wednesday. The devices were in hundreds of boxes inside a large shipping container. Earlier this year, a Pentagon official said new intelligence suggested that Iran planned to smuggle shipments of weapons into Afghanistan as part of an increased effort to interfere with coalition operations. more>>
|
(5 Oct. 2010) Robert Semrau, the Army captain who shot and killed a fatally wounded Taliban insurgent in Afghanistan in October 2008, has been demoted and dismissed from the Canadian Forces. Defence testimony at Semrau's military trial in July described what Semrau did as a "mercy killing." The judge described the case as "unique" and said today that Semrau would be dismissed from the military without disgrace. This means that he can work for the government in future. He did not order Semrau to serve any jail time. more>>
|
Retired Canadian lieutenant-general Michel Gauthier told the Military Police Complaints Commission today that reports of torture in Afghanistan were compelling, but not necessarily fact. Gauthier commanded Canada's mission in the central Asian country from 2006 to earlier this year. He said he saw every report about possible torture that came in from detainees captured by Canadian soldiers and transferred to Afghan authorities. more>>
|
(4 Oct. 2010) Family members of some Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan want the Harper government to change its policy about ending the combat mission next year and extend it instead. They are in Kandahar as part of the Canadian Forces next-of-kin program, which flies family members to Afghanistan where they can lay a wreath and leave personal mementos at a memorial. more>>
|
(4 Oct 2010) The mother of a soldier who died in Afghanistan made a poignant personal appeal to Prime Minister Stephen Harper to keep Canadian troops here beyond next summer.
"I came to see the area where he was killed," said Ann Bason whose son, Master Cpl. Colin Bason of the New Westminster Regiment, was fatally wounded on her 37th wedding anniversary in 2007. "I want to see what he had to endure, just the whole scene to get a better understanding what the people here are doing. And to tell Mr. Harper that I think the military is doing a fine job and he should reconsider pulling out next year." more>>
|
Tensions between the governments of the United States and Pakistan have been rising, particularly after a NATO helicopter strike on Thursday killed three Pakistani soldiers. NATO claimed the helicopter crew was pursuing Taliban insurgents and attacked inside the Afghan side of the border. The Pakistani government said the attack occurred in the Kurram tribal agency. A newspaper in Pakistan reported that a second NATO helicopter attack took place in the same area just hours later. more>>
|
Afghan authorities said on Monday that 14 insurgents were killed in a NATO air strike targeting a senior Taliban commander in southern Helmand province. However, at least three civilians were also killed. Civilians killed in NATO attacks has increased tensions between Afghan President Hamid Karzai and his Western backers, who are under increasing pressure at home to withdraw troops. more>>
|
Three people were killed Monday and eight others wounded when about 20 NATO oil tankers were attacked and set ablaze in the Pakistani capital, a police emergency official told AFP. Television pictures showed a towering inferno of fire coming from the trucks that were filling up just outside Islamabad en route to Afghanistan when unknown assailants attacked the convoy with guns and molotov cocktails.
more>>
|
(4 Oct) NATO's chief expressed regret on Monday for the deaths of Pakistani soldiers last week and said he hoped Pakistan's border would reopen for NATO supplies to Afghanistan as soon as possible. Angered by repeated attacks by NATO helicopters on militant targets within its borders, Pakistan blocked one of the supply routes for NATO troops in Afghanistan after a strike killed three Pakistani soldiers in the western Kurram region. more>>
|
(3 Oct. 2010) The first of 17 Lockheed C-130J Hercules aircraft ordered in early 2008 at a cost of $1.4 billion will be flying combat support missions in Afghanistan by the end of the year. The C-130J is considerably more powerful than earlier models of the Hercules transport and requires two less crew members. The Canadian Forces has operated older C-130E and H models for decades, the former dating back to the 1960s. The new J model flies faster, has greater "legs" (range) and carries about 25% more cargo than the older airlifters. more>>
|
The CIA is using an arsenal of armed drones and other equipment provided by the U.S. military to secretly escalate its operations in Pakistan by striking targets beyond the reach of American forces based in Afghanistan. The merging of covert CIA operations and military firepower is part of a high-stakes attempt by the Obama administration to deal decisive blows to Taliban insurgents who have regained control of swaths of territory in Afghanistan but stage most of their operations from sanctuaries across that country's eastern border. more>>
|
(2 Oct. 2010) Nearly two months have passed since the Taliban forced a CH-47D Chinook transport helicopter, operated by the Canadian Forces, to make a hard landing in Afghanistan in early August, but investigators still do not know what caused the crash. The Taliban immediately claimed responsibility, however, determining the cause would provide intelligence on Taliban capabilities. The Chinook burned up as five crew members and 15 passengers egressed the aircraft. Eight people sustained minor injuries. more>>
|
(2 Oct. 2010) Defense Minister Peter MacKay has cancelled a planned speech by the head of the Canadian Islamic Congress (CIC) during Islamic Heritage Month celebrations. The source of the controversy appears to be comments made by the CIC's former chief, Mohamed Elmasry, who said Israelis over 18 years of age were legitimate targets for suicide bombings because they had served in the Israeli army. But new CIC head Imam Zijad Delic, a Bosnian-Canadian Muslim who had been scheduled to make a speech Monday at National Defence Headquarters (the event is expected to focus on Islam's evolving role in the CF and the contributions of Canada's Muslim community to society), insists that Elmasry's views are not those of his organization. The Muslim Canadian Congress (MCC), another Muslim group, welcomed MacKay's decision. "In the past few years we have seen the so-called Islamic History Month turned into a propaganda machine for the Islamists in Canada who wanted to introduce sharia law and who wish to hide behind the cover of teaching history to infiltrate the highest levels of government in Ottawa," MCC vice president Salma Siddiqui said. more>>
|
(1 Oct. 2010) For the past six days, soldiers from CFB Gagetown have been providing vital assistance to the people and communities of eastern Newfoundland and Labrador after Hurricane Igor struck on September 22. The estimated cost of the damage is $100 million. Personnel from 4 Engineer Support Regiment (4ESR) have been busy repairing highways and installing temporary bridges so residents can travel to buy gas, food, and other supplies. Maj. Jeffrey Mahoney, commander of 42 Field Squadron with 4ESR, explained that the contingent brought more than 40 vehicles with them, including heavy equipment. The locals have been very appreciative. "They have been feeding us baked goods and cooking us meals. Their appreciation is overwhelming," said Mahoney. more>>
|
(29 Sept. 2010) 
Michaelle Jean spoke to Canadian Forces (CF) members and veterans young and old in her capacity as Governor General (GG) for the last time today in Ottawa. Her term as Canada's 27th GG ends on Friday when Univ. of Waterloo president David Johnston becomes her replacement. Jean was given a 21-gun salute as she inspected the rows of army, air force and navy soldiers on the grounds of the Canadian War Museum. She described the work of CF personnel as selfless and praised the valour, courage and generosity of Canadian troops. "You fill me with pride, each and every one of you," she said. "I want you to know, and I am touched to tell you all today that you have been a constant source of inspiration and pride to the woman who stands before you and salutes you for the last time as commander-in-chief of Canada." more>>
|
(29 Sept. 2010) Army mental health experts in Afghanistan estimate they spend as much as 25% of their time dealing with relationship crises, including soldiers suddenly being advised by their spouse back in Canada that their marriage is finished. Some are totally predictable and "reactions are as diverse as people themselves," said Col Randy Boddam, the military's senior psychiatrist and director of Mental Health Services, currently on his second tour in Kandahar. Over the past decade, the CF has doubled the number of professionals in uniform who deal exclusively with mental health problems because "as an organization, we have become increasingly aware of this issue," Boddam said. more>>
|
(28 Sept. 2010) After very public criticism from Canadian veterans of the Afghanistan War as well as veterans groups, the Harper government has decided to allocate $52.5 million over five years for the rehabilitation of soldiers seriously wounded in Afghanistan. The "legacy of care" initiatives include transitional housing, transportation and family support for injured soldiers using Canadian Forces rehabilitation centres; a taxable expense claim of up to $100 daily for caregivers; and an extension of tuition fees for spouses of personnel killed or permanently incapacitated after Oct. 7, 2001. Veterans Affairs (VA) Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Defence Minister Peter MacKay and General Walt Natynczyk, Chief of Defence Staff, all said that a modernization in the mindset, culture, and attitude among VA public servants is overdue. Concurrent with today's announcement, the privacy commissioner initiated an "audit of privacy practices" at Veterans Affairs after a serious breach of privacy involving air force veteran and VA critic Sean Bruyea's personal medical and financial files. more>>
|
(28 Sept. 2010) An error in shipping resulted in 55 soldiers from CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick not being able to vote in Monday's provincial election. The soldiers had requested ballots, but they never arrived. Canadian Forces public affairs officer Stephanie Duchesne said the military will look at measures to ensure the mistake is not repeated. more>>
|
(27 Sept. 2010) Many English-speaking Afghans who have worked closely with Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan, providing vital language interpretation services and risking their lives in the process, will not be welcome in Canada after combat troops leave next year due to immigration application restrictions. A spokesperson for Canada's Task Force Kandahar said about 6,000 interpreters have worked for the Canadian Forces throughout Afghanistan since 2006. Capt. Annie Djiotsa explained the job is dangerous and has a high turnover rate. One interpreter who was badly injured by shrapnel four years ago in a Taliban attack while working with Canadian soldiers said, "They (Taliban) know us." He has been turned down twice in his efforts to immigrate to Canada. more>>
|
(27 Sept. 2010) Yesterday, a truck-bomb 'attack' occurred at CFB Wainwright, where Royal 22nd Regiment - the Van Doos - from Quebec are preparing for the final rotation of Canadian soldiers into Kandahar Province. Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan ends in July 2011. Complete with explosions, clouds of smoke, screaming and wounded civilians, and journalists following soldiers around, the training at CFB Wainwright is as close to reality in Afghanistan as is possible to re-create out-of-theatre. more>>
|
(27 Sept. 2010) The Department of National Defence (DND) has a "Don't ask, won't tell" policy on Canadian soldiers wounded in Kandahar. DND releases statistics on how many troops have been injured only if the department is specifically asked. The department's view is that reporting battlefield injuries provides the Taliban with feedback on its attacks. Prior to late 2009, the army reported to journalists information about insurgency attacks, including injuries sustained by Canadian soldiers. The federal government says it has responded to the "public's right to know" while maintaining operational security by releasing the figures annually. Canadians did not hear about the injuries suffered by two soldiers until after they had died in hospital from their wounds earlier this year. more>>
|
(26 Sept. 2010) Two parks in Calgary honoring heroes from the Second World War were officially opened on Saturday by Alberta’s Lt.-Gov. Donald Ethell, who served in the Canadian Forces during the Cold War. Veterans and family members joined with Ethell at the opening of the parks, Valour and Victoria Cross. "The strong examples of the Canadian heroes celebrated through Valour Park and Victoria Cross Park will serve to inspire us and remind us that all Canadians, all citizens hold a responsibility as guardians of the principles our fellow Canadians fought to protect," said the Lieutenant-Governor. more>>
|
(25 Sept. 2010) Four days after Hurricane Igor struck Newfoundland, relief has arrived courtesy of the Canadian Forces. HMCS Fredericton arrived in St. John's harbour early Saturday morning loaded with helicopters, which are needed to accelerate repair work in badly-damaged areas. "These assets will support the ability to fly at night and heavy lifting capacity," said Tom Hedderson, the provincial minister of transportation and works. Two more navy ships with Sea King helicopters and carrying generators, fuel, food and water, have been sent to the island. Troops from CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick were at the ferry terminal in North Sydney, Nova Scotia late yesterday to travel to Newfoundland. more>>
|
(24 Sept) French industry has locked down the missile specifications of an air defense model of the FREMM multimission ship in talks with Greece and is embarking on negotiations on industrial cooperation, industry executives said. Despite the budgetary crisis assailing Athens, industry executives expect the Greek Navy will sign for the FREMM warship in 2012. Talks have centered on an order for four ships and options for two more. more>>
|
(24 Sept. 2010) Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Friday afternoon that military resources will be deployed within hours to Newfoundland communities devastated by Hurricane Igor. Canadian Forces spokesperson Lt.-Cmdr. Pierre Babinsky said the military anticipated being deployed after Igor hit eastern Newfoundland with winds reaching 140 km/h and 200mm of rain swelling rivers and washing away bridges and sections of road. About 50,000 customers lost power due to the high winds knocking down trees and power lines. "There's some ground troops that are making their way towards Newfoundland from Gagetown," said Babinsky. "As well, we have ships that are equipped with Sea King helicopters [that] are proceeding in that general direction." more>>
|
(24 Sept. 2010) Lt.-Col. Doug Claggett, the chief of staff for Canada's Task Force Afghanistan, said that security is improving in the Panjwaii district near Kandahar city. "It's been a challenging summer, we know that," explained Claggett. "But the way we look at things right now and the situation on the ground is that we've got a lot of positive indicators." The Sept. 18 election in Afghanistan is reportedly one of those indicators. While the International Security Assistance Force reported more attacks by Taliban insurgents that day than on any other, the Panjwaii district where Canadian soldiers are most heavily concentrated saw no significant attacks on polling stations. The U.S. "surge" of troops this year has allowed Canadian forces to focus the geographical scope of their operations. Claggett explained that more Canadian soldiers deployed in a much smaller area than in the past has resulted in improved security, in the military's estimation. more>>
|
(23 Sept) DCNS expects to sign an agreement allowing the French Navy to crew its Gowind ocean patrol vessel (OPV), which the naval company is building with its own funds for the export market. Under the planned deal, the French Navy would crew the Hermes, the first of class in the Gowind OPV range, for 18 months to three years, Gilles Langlois, DCNS development director for surface ships and naval systems, told journalists in advance of the Euronaval trade show. That crewing would allow DCNS to market the vessel as "sea proven." more>>
|
(23 Sept. 2010) For months, the Harper government claimed that releasing information to Members of Parliament or the Military Police Complaints Commission about Afghan detainees could endanger the lives of Canadian military, civilian and allied personnel. Today, the government released Afghan detainee information, which shows that the Canadian Forces transferred 283 of 439 captives to Afghan authorities from 2001 to 2008. Just a few hours before the numbers were released, a Justice Department lawyer told a public hearing that detainee figures, blacked out in numerous government documents, remain secret. more>>
|
(23 Sept. 2010) According to a Canadian Press (CP) report, confidential medical and financial information belonging to a critic of Veterans Affairs (VA) made its way in 2006 into the briefing notes of the minister responsible for the department. Retired Army colonel Ryan Jestin, a past commander at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown, said such information could keep former soldiers from getting the help they need and discourages people from divulging personal information. CP reported on Tuesday that confidential medical and pension information of former Canadian soldier and VA critic Sean Bruyea was viewed by bureaucrats and ended up in briefing notes of former veterans affairs minister Greg Thompson. "This is a prime example," said Jestin in an interview from Calgary. "This just plays exactly into a lot of people who are already suspicious of the motives for why (they) have to have that information in the first place." more>>
|
(22 Sept. 2010) In southern Afghanistan, the Pashtun people have a saying: "He is not a Pathan who does not give a blow for a pinch." Even religious teachings of the Qur'an, the main book of scripture for nearly 1.6 billion Muslims, are subordinate to Pashtun concepts of "nang" and "badal" — honour and revenge. Afghan religious and cultural complexities are realities that Canadian soldiers have been trained to be mindful of as they interact with Afghans daily as part of NATO's widening counter-insurgency strategy in Kandahar province. Dene Moore of the Canadian Press reports about the training and how it has benefited Canadian troops serving in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(22 Sept. 2010) According to a new book by veteran American reporter Bob Woodward, Richard Holbrooke, President Obama's main advisor on Afghanistan and special envoy to the war-afflicted country, says the U.S. "surge" strategy "can't work." Woodward's latest literary project, "Obama's War", includes information about a detailed White House review of Afghanistan and proposed "surge" strategy that would last until mid-2011 that, in Holbrooke's view, "didn't add up." Woodward's book also reveals that the CIA has had a secret army of 3,000 personnel in Afghanistan and intelligence reports suggesting that President Hamid Karzai is manic-depressive. "Obama's War" also points to possible military-political conflicts over the timetable for a U.S. troop withdrawal. It quotes General David Petraeus, the top U.S. soldier in Afghanistan, as believing American forces could "get more time on the clock" - staying in Afghanistan past mid-2011 - and then being told by a senior advisor: "That's a dramatic misreading of this president." more>>
|
(21 Sept. 2010) When the Canadian Forces lost six soldiers in a single attack in July 2007, the military's top leaders were having trouble holding back tears, said General (Ret.) Rick Hillier, the former Chief of Defence Staff to a gathering of firefighters at the Trade & Convention Centre in Saint John, New Brunswick on Monday. "I thought to myself, if we go out of this room looking like this, in 24 hours, the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence will be looking like that," Hillier explained. He told his staff, "When we walk out of this room, we're going to walk out looking like we have not lost confidence in our mission, that we do have confidence in what we're doing," he recalled. "You have to be optimistic." According to Hillier, perpetual optimism is one of the cheapest tools of a leader. His talk was entitled "Leadership in Tough Times." more>>
|
(21 Sept. 2010) Two Canadian soldiers who were seriously wounded in Afghanistan beat all expectations, including their own, in the five-day, 2,000-kilometre Targa Newfoundland international car rally. Master Cpl. Jody Mitic and Cpl. Andrew Knisley drove to first place in their class and seventh place in their division. Their victory included a Targa Plate for completing more than 40 stages within tough target times. They drove a silver 2010 Acura TL equipped with gear-shifters on the steering wheel instead of a clutch. Mitic used his prosthetic feet to work the gas and brake pedals while Knisley used his left foot crossed over his right during the challenging week-long race. "They were long, hard days," Knisley said. "But that's where our military training was invaluable: teamwork, communication and situational awareness. It was a big accomplishment." The soldiers were competing to raise money for the Soldier On Fund, which helps improve the quality of life of ill and injured soldiers. Mitic and Knisley have been encouraging Canadians to contribute to Soldier On through tax-deductible donations made to the organization's website, SoldierOn.ca. more>>
|
(20 Sept. 2010) According to DND documents obtained by the Ottawa Citizen, air force officers working on the purchase of Canada's new jet fighters expected there would a multi-billion-dollar competition this year. Instead, Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced on July 16 that the federal government would spend $9 billion to buy 65 Lockheed Martin single-engine F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters and an extra $7-9 billion on maintenance. The F-35 program has nearly doubled in cost by US$185 billion in the past eight years and experienced several design problems and flight testing delays. The government's sole-sourcing of the F-35 shut out Boeing and BAE, makers of the twin-engine Super Hornet and Eurofighter, respectively, and Saab, the Swedish maker of the single-engine Gripen jet fighter. Opposition MP's have criticized the Harper government for sole-sourcing the F-35, saying that a competition would ensure that Canadians receive the best value for their tax dollars. The air force's Next Generation Fighter Capability project called for a "competitive process" for both the aircraft and the long-term maintenance contract. more>>
|
(19 Sept. 2010) As Parliament resumes this week, a crucial issue facing all political parties is the post-July-2011 Canadian Forces mission in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister's spokesman, Andrew MacDougall, said the Harper government has not "categorically" closed the door on Canadian troops training Afghan soldiers after the combat mission ends. In June, retired Major-General Lewis MacKenzie told a House of Commons defence committee that Canadians troops should stay in Afghanistan after July 2011 to help train the Afghan army. There is significant concern that Canadians helping with humanitarian or governance assistance work in Afghanistan might not be adequately protected after Canadian combat soldiers leave next year. Reportedly, the U.S. and other western governments believe that elements of the Afghan National Army have been infiltrated by the Taliban and the Afghan police are notoriously corrupt. more>>
|
(18 Sept. 2010) The commander of the navy's Maritime Forces Pacific told a Chamber of Commerce audience in Delta, British Columbia this week that Canada's military has an annual economic impact exceeding $1 billion in B.C. "That certainly is very big business," Rear Admiral Nigel Greenwood said. Most of the $1-plus billion in business - about $700 million - comes from the Canadian Forces Base in Esquimalt on Vancouver Island. It's the "centre of gravity of the military now that we don't have any regular force army here" in the province, said Greenwood. Some 4,000 military personnel are based at Esquimalt, where 2,000 civilians are employed. more>>
|
(18 Sept. 2010) After intense criticism from Pat Stogran, Canada's outgoing ombudsman for veterans, and veterans groups, the federal government has announced it will provide greater financial support for some of Canada's wounded soldiers. The funding increase will help the most seriously injured soldiers as well as those at the junior rank of private whose injuries may prevent them gaining promotions and therefore better pay. Last month, Stogran publically took aim at the government's treatment of Canadian veterans, complaining that his work been impeded by a bureaucracy "that was deliberately obstructive and deceptive." Stogran, a colonel with 34 years in the Forces and battalion command experience in Afghanistan, has also blasted the Veterans Affairs department in public for its "penny-pinching, insurance-company mentality." The Harper government is not renewing Stogran's ombudsman contract. more>>
|
(17 Sept. 2010) An analysis of military statistics shows that there were 17 trafficking convictions between April 2007 and March 2009. Retred Colonel Michel Drapeau suggested that "instead of flatly denying a story that contained sensational allegations [that Canadian soldiers were involved in smuggling heroin, as per British news reports], the military should have also admitted that it is concerned about drug use in its ranks." Drapeau believes this "would have allowed the military brass to come clean about a very real problem, and in the process help those individuals struggling with drug habits." more>>
|
(17 Sept. 2010) As Afghans voted for a new parliament on Saturday, the Taliban fired rockets that struck near NATO headquarters in central Kabul headquarters and on the outskirts of the eastern city of Jalalabad near the Pakistan border. There were no reported injuries. The Islamist militants called for a voting boycott and threatened to attack polling centres, election workers, and security forces. They recently kidnapped an Afghan parliamentary candidate and were blamed for grabbing 18 election workers. Tens of thousands of Afghan and ISAF forces are conducting security operations to guard against Taliban attacks during the election, which many fear will again be tainted by fraud and vote-rigging. more>>
|
(16 Sept. 2010) U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said the troop "surge" strategy in Afghanistan appeared to be working, but cautioned it would take months of sustained progress before it could be declared a success. "Is the campaign plan working? Is the principle proven that this is the right approach?" Gates asked aloud. "The evidence that General Petraeus is seeing so far suggests to him that it is, and both on the civilian side and the military side." At his side was French Defense Minister Herve Morin, who added, "I can see actually very, very visible improvements. At the beginning, I saw an army that was not an army...Now they are military troops and they're perfectly able to conduct operations, sometimes with the support of ISAF, but they're able to conduct operations." more>>
|
(15 Sept 2010) Canadian special forces have faced an average of 10 military police investigations a year since 2006 into allegations over Afghan detainee injuries or mishandling, but the Ottawa-area soldiers have been cleared in each case. Increasingly frustrated with what they see as a lack of trust in their efforts and professionalism, the special forces operators have instituted what one soldier described as a "cover-your-ass" attitude in reporting such allegations. Any time a detainee alleges mistreatment, or if there are any type of injuries on a prisoner, the special forces themselves request military police to launch an investigation. more>>
|
(15 Sept 2010) An astonishing 2,500 candidates will compete Saturday in Afghanistan's parliamentary elections, but, for the 50 brave souls vying for seats in Kandahar, security threats – especially for women – are making the campaign trail a dangerous choice. more>>
|
(15 Sept 2010) Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin, Commander of the Army, and Mayor Larry O’Brien will host a special Red Rally Friday, Sept 17, at the Festival Plaza at Ottawa City Hall to officially launch 2010 Canada Army Run Weekend.
When: Friday, September 17, at noon
Where: Festival Plaza, Ottawa City Hall
As part of the Rally, deserving members of the Army team from across the country will be recognized for their many contributions to the military and Canada. Immediately following the Rally, LGen Devlin and Mayor O’Brien will officially open the Army Equipment Display and Army Run Sports Expo and will be invited to pick up their race kits and Canada Army Run t-shirts.
|
(14 Sept. 2010) Canada's Chief of the Air Staff, LGen Andre Deschamps, told the Military Police Complaints Commission that the military learned how disorganized it was on the Afghan detainee file when complaints of abuse first surfaced a few years ago. "The primary responsibility of Canadian Forces for the detainees' handling started at the point of capture and was ending, as far as the military police was concerned, when the detainees were transferred to the Afghan authorities." According to Deschamps, the Foreign Affairs Department, not military police, were responsible for following up on suspected Taliban captured by Canadian soldiers after they were transferred to Afghan prisons. more>>
|
(14 Sept. 2010) Canadian military police have conducted two criminal investigations into the actions of Canadian special forces soldiers in Afghanistan. The first investigation, called Sand Trap 1, resulted in no charges being laid. Canadian Forces Rear-Admiral Robert Davidson acknowledged in a statement that Sand Trap 1 "identified other matters that warranted a second investigation [Sand Trap 2]." more>>
|
(13 Sept. 2010) Canada's military issued a written statement Monday refuting British media reports that UK military police were investigating claims of British and Canadian service personnel bringing drugs out on flights from Afghanistan. "Media reports this past weekend suggesting that Canadian Forces personnel have been implicated in a British-led investigation into heroin smuggling by military personnel in Afghanistan are unfounded," said a Department of National Defence statement. "The Canadian Forces Military Police have confirmed with Britain's Royal Military Police that no such investigation is under way and that no such allegations have been made against either British or Canadian personnel." more>>
|
(13 Sept. 2010) Capt. Robert Semrau will find out on October 5 whether jail time is in his future or not. In July, the CF captain was found guilty of "disgraceful conduct" for shooting and killing a severely wounded Afghan insurgent in a "mercy killing." The 36-year-old captain was cleared of second-degree murder, attempted murder and negligence to perform his military duty after a four-month trial. Military brass said Semrau should be kicked out of the CF and the prosecution suggested a jail sentence of just under two years. His lawyer urged the judge to take into account Semrau's past acts of heroism on the battlefield and his "substantial good character." more>>
|
(12 Sept. 2010) Military police are investigating claims that British soldiers may have trafficked heroin from Afghanistan. The inquiry is focusing on British and Canadian service personnel at airports in Camp Bastion and Kandahar. The U.K. Ministry of Defence said they were aware of "unsubstantiated" claims that troops were using military aircraft to ship heroin out of the country. In 2007, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimated the export value of Afghan opium to be US$4 billion. The street value of heroin made from Afghan opium has been put as high as US$64 billion. more>>
|
(11 Sept. 2010) General Walt Natynczyk, Chief of Defence Staff, said at a luncheon in Winnipeg on Friday that the events of 9/11 forced Canada’s military to grow up in a hurry. He says the Canadian Forces has matured from being an ill-equipped and obscure force to an elite military machine that is the envy of the world and capable of tackling any assignment — in peace or on the battlefield. "We all realize how much more turbulent, how much more chaotic, how much more unpredictable the world has become [since 9/11]," Natynczyk told reporters following his speech. "I’m very proud of the training, the discipline, of our men and women, in how we can adapt to various environments ... the kind of ambiguity we face every day — that’s the norm." more>>
|
(11 Sept. 2010) Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced earlier this week that the health centre at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown in New Brunswick will be extensively renovated over the next few years. Approximately 10,000 people are treated each year at the centre. MacKay said the current facilities are distributed throughout CFB Gagetown and don't offer adequate space. He explained that renovations will ensure that all health services - medical, dental, physiotherapy, and mental health - will be integrated into one location, which is expected to be operational by 2015. more>>
|
(10 Sept. 2010) While parliamentarians investigate who knew what and when in relation to alleged abuse of detainees handed over to Afghan authorities by Canadian troops, U.S. officials have arrested a group of their own soldiers for allegedly killing Afghan civilians for sport and cutting off their fingers as trophies. Five U.S. soldiers have been charged with murder, and seven others are accused of conspiring to cover up the murders. The soldiers allegedly threw grenades and fired at Afghan civilians on three separate occasions, killing them for sport and then mutilating their corpses. They cut off their victims' fingers and keeping other body parts, including a skull, leg bones and a human tooth, as trophies, according to U.S. military records released this week. more>>
|
(10 Sept. 2010) Zhari district, the birthplace of the Taliban and a major nest of the insurgency in southern Afghanistan, is the next focus for NATO and Afghan forces. Major-General Nick Carter, the British head of ISAF’s Regional Command South, said, "We will have rid those areas [Kandahar city and the surrounding villages] of the Taliban" by mid- to late November. Earlier this week, Carter explained that there are 10,000 to 12,000 Afghan army troops, 5,000 Afghan police, and about 15,000 international troops in the region. Combined, they are the largest ISAF-Afghan Army force assembled since in the nine-year war. The Taliban have about 1,000 guerrillas, Gen. Carter said. Securing Zhari is a key part of Operation Hamkari, a belated effort to defeat the insurgency in the Taliban's spiritual home and top target, according to NATO. more>>
|
(9 Sept. 2010) In a rare and unusually detailed statement published in four languages, Taliban leader Mullah Omar says his fighters are winning the war in Afghanistan and that the NATO-led campaign has been "a complete failure." The elusive leader of the Afghan insurgency said, "The victory of our Islamic nation over the invading infidels is now imminent and the driving force behind this is the belief in the help of Allah and unity among ourselves." NATO has boosted its presence in Afghanistan this year to 150,000 soldiers, hoping to defeat the resilient Taliban. The Obama Administration wants to start withdrawing U.S. troops from the central Asian nation in July 2011, the month when Canadian combat soldiers will depart. Eight months ago, Afghan president Hamid Karzai said that his country could need foreign support for its security forces for up to 15 years. more>>
|
(9 Sept. 2010) In a handover ceremony at the main NATO base in southern Afghanistan, Brigadier General Dean Milner took over command of Canada's Task Force Kandahar from BGen Jonathan Vance. With Canadian combat troops scheduled to be withdrawn from Afghanistan in July 2011, Milner will be the final commander of the Task Force. Milner says the next 10 months will be a defining time for the mission and explained that Canadian soldiers will expand their presence in the Taliban stronghold of the Panjwaii district in the coming months. He said he doesn't know what role Canadian soldiers will have in Afghanistan beyond July 2011 – that's a political decision – but there is much work to be done until then. more>>
|
(9 Sept. 2010) The Harper government intends to base the new F-35 Lightning II jet fighter at Canadian Forces bases in Bagotville, Quebec, and Cold Lake, Alberta. The bases have been home to CF-18 Hornets since Canada acquired them in the 1980s. Twenty-four F-35's would be at each base as operational fighters, with 17 additional aircraft used for training, according to Defence Minister Peter MacKay. In July, he announced that the government would spend $9 billion to acquire 65 Lightning II's and another $7-9 billion on maintenance over 20 years. Criticisms of the warplane program include the lack of bidding opportunity for other fighter manufacturers, lack of potential tax dollar savings, the F-35 being more 'high-tech' than Canada needs, design and flight test program woes, its partial stealth capability, and its sole engine. A generation ago, the F/A-18 Hornet was chosen in part because of its two powerplants. Canadian fighter pilots do interceptions and other missions over vast, uninhabited parts of the country where an engine failure due to a mechanical problem or a birdstrike would be disastrous for the $138.5-million F-35. more>>
|
(9 Sept. 2010) A Canadian Forces medic who was performing physical examinations of recruits at a military recruitment centre in London, Ontario is facing sexual assault charges. Petty Officer 2nd Class James Wilks faces two counts of sexual assault, along with three counts of behaving in a disgraceful manner and four counts of negligent performance of duty under the National Defence Act. Maj. Paule Poulin of the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service said Thursday that the charges relate to complaints by "more than one female." The alleged assaults occurred during physicals conducted between September 2008 and December 2009. more>>
|
(9 Sept. 2010) A senior Canadian commander told an inquiry Thursday that Afghan prisons are not "torture chambers" and the subject of detainee abuse is a water cooler "conversation killer" in the military. In his testimony at the Military Police Complaints Commission, Maj.-Gen. Mike Ward also praised the Afghan National Directorate of Security, the intelligence agency which operates many of the detention facilities, as far superior to Afghan police or army forces. Lawyers for the commission, Amnesty International, and the B.C. Civil Liberties Association probed Ward on his knowledge of and concern about the risk of torture to Afghans who were captured by Canadians and turned over to Afghan authorities when he served at headquarters of CEFCOM, the military command that oversees Canada's international missions, in 2006 and in other roles in subsequent years. more>>
|
(8 Sept. 2010) A clinic dedicated to Operational Stress Injuries (OSI's) experienced by soldiers, veterans and police officers opened in the Northgate Centre, Edmonton. The clinic is funded by Veterans Affairs Canada and operated by Alberta Health Services. Diagnosis, assessment and treatment services for veterans, current CF members, and certain RCMP officers are offered. OSI's can include post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and addiction issues. This 10th clinic of its kind, in Canada, has a team of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, mental health nurses, and other specialized clinicians. more>>
|
(8 Sept. 2010) Two wounded Canadian veterans will soon be competing in a five-day race in Newfoundland against dozens of other drivers. The hope of Master Corporal Jody Mitic and Corporal Andrew Knisley, both of whom served in Afghanistan and were wounded there, is to raise $150,000 for the Soldier On Fund. The Canadian Forces trust assists injured soldiers in returning to full and active lives. Mitic and Knisley will be sharing driving chores in a rally-prepped Acura TL entered in the Targa division by the Acura Dealers of Canada and supported by Honda Canada. The race is around The Rock; info. is online at www.targanewfoundland.com. more>>
|
(8 Sept. 2010) Governor General Michaelle Jean announced a new Canadian service medal on Wednesday after receiving approval from the Queen. The Operational Service medal will be given to Canadians who have participated in overseas missions as part of the military, civilians under guidance of the Canadian Forces, and police officers and allied forces working together with the Canadian Forces. "Our dedicated soldiers and police personnel deserve our recognition and gratitude," Jean said in a news release. "This medal recognizes the valued contributions of those women and men who, while serving Canada, work tirelessly — often under difficult conditions — to help those in need overseas." more>>
|
(8 Sept. 2010) The British Army plans to discharge hundreds of wounded veterans under a controversial 'cull' to improve efficiency. The U.K. Ministry of Defence intends to oust some 5,000 troops deemed to be medically unfit for combat duties, including soldiers injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. The policy was revealed in a leaked briefing document which admits the step will be seen as a betrayal of those who have put their lives on the line for the nation. Many British soldiers have been given desk jobs, but the ever-increasing toll of fighting in Afghanistan has forced the top brass to act. However, doing so will be seen as reneging on promises that the wounded could stay in the Forces if they wished. more>>
|
(7 Sept. 2010) Non-belligerent Afghans injured or killed due to Canadian military operations were paid just over $650,000 during two years by the Department of National Defence (DND). In the previous fiscal year (FY 2008/9), DND made 102 ex-gratia payments - from $104 to $14,424 - for damages and losses suffered by Afghan civilians, according to reports by the Receiver General of Canada. Such payments are made when there is no legal liability but compensation is made "in the interest of peace, security and public policy," said Capt. Yves Desbiens, spokesman for Canada's Task Force Kandahar. "We strive to follow cultural customs and traditions in the manner in which we express our condolences," Desbiens added. more>>
|
(7 Sept. 2010) A navy officer involved with planning says the Canadian Forces must be ready to be called to the front lines in the battle against the effects of climate change. LCmdr Ray Snook of the Directorate of Maritime Strategy says the military may have to step in if conflicts flare over dwindling supplies of food and water. "There is growing recognition that the threat is real and more needs to be done," wrote Snook. "Climate change has the potential to be a global threat of unparalleled magnitude and requires early, aggressive action in order to overcome its effects." more>>
|
(7 Sept 2010) After four years of effort and heavy sacrifices, Canada's military is still confounded by this place, the seat of Taliban power and home to a tiny, unhappy populace. Panjwaii is not secure. Insurgents continue to assemble here, kill troops and plan attacks on Kandahar City and places beyond. Major Eleanor Taylor is blunt: "We cannot protect the population the way we're currently configured." more>>
|
(7 Sept. 2010) A part of Afghanistan where the Canadian Forces experienced victories in past years is increasingly becoming enemy territory. The best Canadian soldiers can do now, according to Maj. Eleanor Taylor, is temporarily "disrupt" Taliban forces. After four years of effort and killed and injured troops, Canada's military is still confounded by the seat of Taliban power in the Panjwaii district. Insurgents continue to assemble in the area, kill troops, and plan attacks on Kandahar City and places beyond. Maj. Taylor is candid: "We cannot protect the population the way we're currently configured." more>>
|
The U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan has requested another 2,000 troops for the foreign force fighting the Taliban insurgency, despite waning support for the war in troop-contributing nations. “It has been determined that around 2,000 forces will be required [...] There is an ongoing discussion on this issue.” A NATO official said it was assumed the United States would offer more troops to the 150,000-strong foreign force in Afghanistan, but the alliance was looking for contributions from non-U.S. members and partner countries too. more>>
|
(6 Sept. 2010) "Perhaps the silliest justification for the proposed spending of 16 billion defence dollars for 65 yet-unbuilt F-35 stealth fighter jets is that they’ll deter Russian bombers from approaching our air space in the Arctic.
Yet that’s a reason issued by Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s office.
Think about it for a moment. We all know that Russian aircraft routinely come close to our air space in the North — and equally routinely our present CF-18s fly close, to let the Ruskies know that we know they’re there.
What will the costly F-35s do that the CF-18s don’t do?
Shoot at the bombers? Blast them down? Of course not. They won’t do anything."
(Click on "more" to read the rest of Worthington's column) more>>
|
(6 Sept. 2010) General David Petraeus, the U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan, has requested another 2,000 troops for the war in the central Asian country. Public support for the war in the United States and other NATO countries has decidedly waned in the past few years. General Petraeus seeks to bolster the International Security Assistance Force with the extra troops in the fight against the resilient Taliban insurgency. The 2,000-personnel request includes 750 additional soldiers to train Afghan security forces. President Obama has said he would like to start pulling U.S. soldiers out of Afghanistan by mid-2011. more>>
|
(5 Sept. 2010) The solution to Afghanistan's troubles is not military, the commander of Canada's Task Force Kandahar explained in a recent interview with the Canadian Press. The military can set the right conditions, but ultimately it will be the Afghan people who decide the fate of their country, according to Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance. The commander periodically meets with Afghan local officials, and explains how Canada's military can and cannot help. "I want Canadians to realize that what we're trying to deliver is not kinetic effect, not gunshots, not dead Taliban; what we're trying to deliver is a population that is experiencing the satisfaction of political assembly and political voice and responsive government," Vance said in the interview. more>>
|
(5 Sept. 2010) An effort to have a monument built in the National Capital Region honouring animals used in war presses forward. Canada's Animals in War monument is envisioned as a grand statue that will focus the viewer’s attention on the invaluable contribution and ultimate sacrifice paid by animals employed in armed conflicts. In the First World War, millions of horses were used to pull field guns, carts laden with supplies, and other items through vast seas of mud. Eight million were killed. Tens of thousands of carrier pigeons, each with a tiny message attached to their leg, flew over battlefields. Remarkably, 95% of the messages were delivered. more>>
|
(4 Sept. 2010) Family members of eight Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan gathered at the main NATO base in Kandahar Saturday for a special ceremony in remembrance of their loved ones. Wreaths with the names of the soldiers - Cpl. Jamie Murphy, M-Cpl. Allan Stewart, Trooper Michael Hayakaze, Capt. Richard Steven Leary, Pte. Michael Freeman, Pte. Garrett William Chidley, Sgt. Kirk Taylor and Cpl. Joshua Baker - were laid during a next-of-kin memorial service at the Kandahar Airfield. Afghan National Army Col. Fazel Habibi personally thanked the family members and presented a plaque and a special flag to commemorate Canada's role in Afghanistan. The memorials are held almost monthly at the headquarters of Canada's Task Force Kandahar, offering family members a chance to visit the base and see a marble memorial to Canadian troops. more>>
|
(4 Sept. 2010) The new U.S. military strategy in southern Afghanistan involves tolerating some corruption among local leaders who help in the fight against the Taliban. Reportedly, the view of U.S. commanders is that "a sweeping effort to drive out corruption could create chaos and a governance vacuum that the Taliban could exploit." A senior aide to President Hamid Karzai - with alleged ties to the CIA - was recently arrested for corruption. Obama administration officials have emphasized the need to eliminate graft in Afghanistan, and FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration teams have been sent to the corruption-plagued nation. The extent to which their efforts are at odds with the new U.S. military strategy is unclear. more>>
|
(3 Sept. 2010) The secretive war fought in Afghanistan by Canada’s special forces will also end next year when the army ceases combat operations in Kandahar, says Lt.-Gen. Marc Lessard, the head of the Canadian Expeditionary Force Command. Lessard said that most Canadians are not aware that the parliamentary motion to halt combat operations by July 2011 also applies to the special forces - believed to be hundreds in number - that arrived in Afghanistan shortly after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. more>>
|
(3 Sept. 2010) A new documentary film that premiered Thursday at Montreal's World Film Festival reveals the toll on the children of some military families with members serving in Afghanistan. Stress, worry their parent will be killed by the Taliban, long absences, more responsibilities, and coping with their father's post-traumatic stress disorder are among the difficult realities faced by kids who opened up for "Children of Soldiers." The National Film Board documentary is director Claire Corriveau's follow-up to her 2007 film on military wives, "Nomad's Land." more>>
|
(3 Sept. 2010) Defence Minister Peter MacKay praised Canadian Forces members and their families as the "best Canadians" during a presentation of scholarships on Thursday to eight sons and daughters of those killed in service. The third annual Canada Company awards ceremony was held aboard HMCS Fredericton in Toronto. Each recipient receives up to $16,000 each — up to $4,000 per year for up to four years — toward the costs of their post-secondary education. The minister thanked the Canada Company, Project Hero, and other organizations for their work to build the scholarships and "reach out and touch" military families. more>>
|
(2 Sep 2010) The Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture), would like to remind Canadians who may be eligible to receive Agent Orange ex gratia payments that they must submit their applications before 17 September 2010.
In 2007, the Government of Canada offered a one-time, tax-free, ex gratia payment of $20,000 related to the testing of unregistered U.S. military herbicides, including Agent Orange, at CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick during the summers of 1966 and 1967. The deadline for applications was April 1, 2009. An 18-month period beyond this application deadline was provided where
circumstances beyond the control of the applicant resulted in missing the deadline. more>>
|
(2 Sept. 2010) A military pickup truck stolen from Canadian Forces Base 17 Wing in Winnipeg was driven onto the runway at the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport on Wednesday. Airport security patrols and city police officers responded and were able to stop the driver, who was taken into custody. Authorities are not sure how the man was able to enter the restricted area of the airport, which is surrounded by security fencing. Their investigation continues.
more>>
|
(2 Sept. 2010) The body of a Canadian soldier who died Monday in a German military hospital after being wounded during an Afghanistan foot patrol arrived back in Canada today. The casket of Cpl. Brian Pinksen, of Corner Brook, N.L., arrived at Canadian Forces Base Trenton at around 2 p.m. local time. Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean, Defence Minister Peter MacKay, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk, and other dignitaries were present.
more>>
|
(2 Sept. 2010) A 'need-for-speed' charity event at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake in Alberta last weekend showcased a variety of super-cars racing along one of the longest paved straightways in Canada. A drag race between a modified 860-hp Ferrari Enzo and a CF-18 Hornet jet fighter was the highlight of the day. The event was organized by Lt.-Col. Rob Carter and ZR Auto, a Calgary exotic car dealer and tuning shop. more>>
|
(1 Sept. 2010) The federal government has contracted Quebec-based L-3 Communications Mass to maintain its fleet of CF-18 fighter jets until the end of this decade when their life cycle ends. The $467-million contract begins this year and runs until 2017, with a three-year extension option. The work will be completed at L-3's facilities in Quebec and Alberta.
more>>
|
(1 Sept. 2010) The head of Canada's air force is defending the federal government's planned $9-plus-billion purchase of 65 new stealth jet fighters. Lt.-Gen. Andre Deschamps admitted that the F-35 Lightning II's are giving Canadians "sticker shock." He did not explain why the Department of Defence selected the $100-million single-engine fighter when a generation ago the single-engine General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon was rejected over the twin-engine McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. Critics have said that Canada's fighter pilots need a warplane with a second engine due to the vast and inhospitable areas over which interceptions, low-level training, and other missions are flown. more>>
|
(1 Sept. 2010) Two soldiers were sent to hospital Monday morning after being injured during a training exercise at CFB Wainwright. They were hurt during an exercise with real bullets and evacuated by air ambulance to the University of Alberta Hospital. more>>
|
(30 Aug. 2010) A Canadian soldier wounded eight days ago while conducting a foot patrol in dangerous Panjwaii district died Monday in a German hospital. Cpl. Brian Pinksen, 21, was walking a short distance between two Canadian combat outposts on August 22 in the village of Nakhonay, 18 kilometres south west of Kandahar City, when an improvised explosive device planted by insurgents was detonated, wounding the soldier and one of his fellow servicemen.
more>>
|
(30 Aug. 2010) Dozens of people showed up to Bayfront Park in Hamilton, Ontario to sign their names and write messages on the flag or on a large scroll. A military band played bagpipes and drums, and yellow ribbons were tied to poles and trees around the park. The event also featured a barbecue and vendors selling Canadian Forces souvenirs. All the money raised goes to Allan's Angels Camp, which is for children of fallen soldiers. more>>
|
(31 Aug. 2010) Multiple members of the Afghan government are on the payroll of the Central Intelligence Agency, according to US media reports citing unnamed officials. One of them told the Associated Press on Friday that the intelligence agency has used payments to cultivate sources in the Afghan government. The admission comes after reports emerged last week that an aide to Hamid Karzai,the Afghan president, who is at the center of a corruption probe, was paid by the CIA. more>>
|
(30 Aug 2010) Michael Byers, a University of British Columbia political science professor and Arctic expert, questioned what would have happened if the cruise ship recently stranded in Arctic waters had been sinking. With the closest Canadian Forces search-and-rescue helicopter currently stationed in Comox, B.C., he suggested Canada should consider having one permanently based in the North during the summer. more>>
|
(29 Aug. 2010) Some families of Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan have been trying to send food packages to their loved ones after receiving complaints the troops have been living mainly on rations during their time overseas. The Canadian Forces acknowledged there have been problems getting fresh food to several units but a military spokesman says the situation is being dealt with. The standard for providing fresh food to troops located at forward operating bases and combat outposts is two such meals per day, operations permitting. “This summer, two Canadian teams deployed outside the wire have been living mostly on individual meal packs,” said Maj. Andre Salloum, a spokesman for the Canadian Expeditionary Force Command in Ottawa. more>>
|
(29 Aug. 2010) Seven U.S. troops have died in weekend attacks in Afghanistan's embattled southern and eastern regions, while officials found the bodies Sunday of five kidnapped campaign aides working for a female candidate in the western province of Herat. Two servicemen died in bombings Sunday in southern Afghanistan, while two others were killed in a bomb attack in the south on Saturday, and three in fighting in the east the same day, NATO said. The latest deaths bring to 42 the number of American forces who have died this month in Afghanistan after July's high of 66. A total of 62 international forces have died in the country this month. more>>
|
(29 Aug. 2010) Insurgents wearing U.S. army uniforms launched pre-dawn attacks Saturday on a major NATO base in eastern Afghanistan and a nearby camp. NATO said there were no coalition casualties and the attacks were repelled. The assaults on the Forward Operating Base Salerno and nearby Camp Chapman began around 3 a.m. local time. Afghan and coalition soldiers joined forces to repel about 50 insurgents. Afghanistan's Defence Ministry said two Afghan soldiers were killed and three wounded. The insurgents used small-arms fire, rifles, heavy machine-guns and rocket-propelled grenades. Among the dead insurgents were four were wearing explosive vests. more>>
|
(28 Aug. 2010) Hiva Mohammad Alizadeh, a Canadian citizen, is the suspected ringleader of an Ottawa terrorist cell, according to the RCMP. The federal police force said this week that Alizadeh was financing insurgent attacks on Canadian Forces and planning a bombing in Canada. Police said searches had turned up a “vast quantity” of terrorist literature, videos and more than 50 electronic circuit boards designed specifically for remotely detonating explosive devices. "The group posed a real and serious threat to the citizens of the National Capital Region and Canada’s national security," RCMP Chief Superintendent Serge Therriault told reporters at an Ottawa news conference. more>>
|
(28 Aug. 2010) Stephen Harper's Conservatives are not just changing the country's direction (which is their right), they appear intent on reshaping reality. This week, for instance, we learned that the Cold War is not, in fact, over and that Russia remains an active threat in the north. When two Russian fighter jets strayed within 30 kilometres of Canadian airspace, they were turned back by two CF-18s, dispatched from Cold Lake, Alta. The prime minister, on his annual tour of the Arctic, reassured a northern crowd: "Thanks to the rapid response of the Canadian forces, at no time did Russian aircraft enter Canadian sovereign air space." To do what? Drop pamphlets advertising real estate deals in Siberia? more>>
|
(27 Aug. 2010) The former airbase commander accused of murdering two women, sexually assaulting two others and committing dozens of bizarre break-ins has waived his right to a preliminary hearing and has been committed to trial. Colonel Russell Williams, who until his arrest was in charge of the sprawling 8 Wing CFB Trenton base west of Belleville, will make his next court appearance Oct. 7 in Ontario Superior Court. Whether a trial will get under way then is unclear. The date was fixed following a pre-trial conference earlier in the day between prosecution, defence and the presiding judge. more>>
|
(27 Aug. 2010) Sean Wilson of London, Ont. is a veterans’ rights advocate who wants Londoners to stand up and be counted at a rally this weekend in support of Canadian troops and veterans. “I talk to veterans and they’re saying ‘We need Canada to stand up for us right now’, said Wilson. The rally — under the banner “Stand Up For Our Troops” — is set for noon Sunday at Victoria Park. Wilson’s group has done other work to heighten awareness of veterans’ concerns, including educational outreach for young people. The decision of the federal government to not re-appoint retired colonel Pat Stogran as veterans’ ombudsman has rankled many in the military community, said Wilson. more>>
|
(26 Aug. 2010) The computer used to alter information on a Wikipedia entry critical of the Conservative government’s decision to spend billions of dollars on a new stealth fighters has been traced to the air force’s headquarters in Winnipeg, the Defence Department said Tuesday. Defence Department information specialists traced the computer to 1 Canadian Air Division headquarters in Winnipeg, Canadian Forces spokesman Navy Capt. David Scanlon said. The computer was used last month to alter the online encyclopedia’s entry on the Joint Strike Fighter. The alterations included the removal of any information critical of the Harper government’s plan to spend at least $16 billion on the new fighter aircraft. more>>
|
(26 Aug. 2010) Pakistan will make a formal request as early as Thursday for Canada’s crack Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) to be deployed to the flood-stricken country. DART includes at least 30 doctors, nurses and medical technicians, complemented by engineers who can provide access to clean drinking water with reverse osmosis water purification facilities that can produce up to 200,000 litres of clean water a day. According to the Department of National Defence, DART is comprised of about 200 Canadian Forces personnel and ready to deploy quickly for emergency relief operations for up to 40 days. more>>
|
(25 Aug. 2010) A 2008 cyber attack launched from an infected flash drive in the Middle East penetrated secret US military computers, a Pentagon official says. The attack by a foreign spy service was the "most significant breach" ever of US military networks, Deputy Defence Secretary William Lynn said. Writing in Foreign Affairs magazine, Mr Lynn described it as a "digital beachhead" to steal military secrets.
more>>
|
(25 Aug. 2010) Two CF-18 fighter jets were scrambled on Tuesday to intercept Russian bombers that came within 55 km of Canada's Arctic airspace. Two TU-95 Bear bombers were detected approaching from the north and CF-18 fighters were scrambled from their base in Cold Lake, AB. The pilots visually identified the Russian aircraft about 222 km north of Inuvik, NWT and the TU-95's turned around before entering Canadian airspace. more>>
|
(25 Aug. 2010) Prime Minister Stephen Harper is in one of Canada's most northerly communities, Resolute, Nunavut, rallying troops taking part in Operation Nanook. The annual sovereignty exercise in the Eastern and High Arctic has become a showpiece of Canada's northern prowess. "As the strategic importance of Canada's Arctic grows, the work undertaken by Operation Nanook is more valuable now than ever before," Harper said. "With other countries becoming more interested in the Arctic and its rich resource potential, and with new trade routes opening up, we must continue to exercise our sovereignty while strengthening the safety and security of Canadians living in our High Arctic." more>>
|
(25 Aug. 2010) A senior US general has warned President Barack Obama's deadline to begin pulling troops out of Afghanistan is encouraging the Taliban. Gen. James Conway of the US Marine Corps warned that American forces in southern Afghanistan will likely have to stay in place for several years. His comments are likely to fuel debate over US strategy in Afghanistan and Mr Obama's July 2011 withdrawal date. US administration officials say privately they are not surprised to hear the comments from the general, who, correspondents say, has typical US Marine Corps bluntness - and is also about to retire. more>>
|
(24 Aug. 2010) A 25-year-old corporal in the Canadian Forces was charged with a sexual assault in Kingston, three months after he was charged with sex attacks on four women on or near Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. Christopher Raymond Chaulk was charged Monday with sexual assault, bringing to 16 the number of charges he faces, including five counts of sexual assault. A joint investigation between the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service, provincial police and Kingston Police is reviewing other incidents. more>>
|
(24 Aug. 2010) According to Alice Aiken, assistant professor in the School of Rehabilitation Therapy at Queen’s University, and Amy Buitenhuis, research student with the Canadian Disability Policy Alliance at Queen’s, "The decision not to reappoint the Veterans Ombudsman to a second term has put the spotlight on the New Veterans Charter, federal legislation that determines the programs and services available to veterans injured in the service of their country. Our financial analysis shows that the charter does not adequately meet the needs of veterans who are severely disabled." more>>
|
(23 Aug. 2010) Oct. 31/11 is the date when the U.N. says there should be 305,000 members of Afghanistan's national security forces trained and assigned. Officially, there are currently about 249,000 Afghan forces, but getting to 305,000 isn't as simple as recruiting and training one Afghan to fill each empty slot. Because of resignations, desertions, and deaths resulting from Taliban attacks and even faulty NATO air strikes that have killed Afghan soldiers and police, "Just to grow that 56,000, we're going to have to recruit and train and assign 141,000 police and soldiers," said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. William Caldwell on Monday. more>>
|
(23 Aug. 2010) Canada's police chiefs are defending the federal long-gun registry as an efficient and effective tool and planning a large public relations campaign in support of the registry that the Harper government is trying to scrap. CBC News has obtained a draft report on the federal long-gun registry to be unveiled later Monday before the annual meeting of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police in Edmonton. Toronto police chief and president of the Canadian Association of Police Chiefs Bill Blair said that the registry costs about $4 million annually to operate. more>>
|
(21 Aug. 2010) Three Afghan police officers were accidentally killed in an airstrike and a bomb killed five Afghan civilians in separate incidents in northern Afghanistan, NATO's International Security Assistance Force said on Saturday. The airstrike incident, which occurred on Friday in Jowzjan province, began when insurgents shot at Afghan security forces, and the troops asked for air support. The service members later found the three dead police and other wounded officers. ISAF dispatched a team to the region to investigate. more>>
|
(21 Aug. 2010) Engineers at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown say they suspect blue-green algae is to blame for a decline in water production capacity. Over the past few days, base engineers have noticed a reduction in the quantity — but not the quality — of water being produced at the New Brunswick base’s water treatment plant. They believe blue-green algae in the Saint John River are obstructing sand filters at the treatment facility. The situation is also having an impact on the water supply in the nearby town of Oromocto. more>>
|
(21 Aug. 2010) A half dozen Afghan war veterans who wanted to talk about how their injuries affected their lives were told by senior military staff they were not to attend a press conference held earlier this week by Veterans Ombudsman Pat Stogran. Injured war veterans are also saying they were told by the military leadership they cannot discuss with journalists their personal views about the controversial "lump-sum" payment system that provides a certain amount of money after soldiers are wounded. A number of injured veterans, no longer in uniform, have warned that the lump-sum system short-changes those wounded overseas. more>>
|
(20 Aug. 2010) Canada's top soldier says the concerns that the veterans ombudsman has raised about the treatment of veterans are "absolutely correct issues" and the controversial New Veterans Charter "doesn't work for everyone." Gen. Walter Natynczyk was asked if veterans ombudsman Pat Strogan, whose term is not being renewed, has been doing a good job. "He has certainly voiced with clarity what the issues are," said the Chief of Defence Staff.
more>>
|
(20 Aug. 2010) More than 1,000 Aboriginal Canadians have graduated from the Bold Eagle training program, with many choosing careers in Canadian Forces. The program combines six weeks of cultural teachings and CF basic training, which could qualify Aboriginal participants to enter the Reserves. The training focuses on self-discipline, teamwork, self-confidence and physical fitness. Former graduates are chiefs, band councilors, RCMP officers and respected members of their communities across Canada.
more>>
|
(19 Aug. 2010) Defence Minister Peter MacKay is observing troops on northern Baffin Island as part of Operation Nanook, the Canadian Forces' annual Arctic sovereignty operation. He is scheduled to travel to Pond Inlet, Nunavut, on Thursday (Aug. 19) to watch Canadian infantry troops and Inuit members of the Canadian Rangers prepare to head out on three days of ground manoeuvres in a nearby area. Operation Nanook, which began Aug. 6 and runs through Aug. 26, involves Arctic sovereignty patrols, military exercises and emergency preparedness training in the eastern Arctic.
more>>
|
(18 Aug. 2010) The Canadian Forces will review several contracts it has with private security companies in Kandahar following an order from President Hamid Karzai that the firms cease operations in Afghanistan. Canada has nine contracts worth $9 million this fiscal year with four companies to provide security at its forward operating bases.
more>>
|
The multibillion-dollar plan to buy new Close Combat Vehicles for the military, launched with much fanfare last year by the government, has run into a roadblock, with every vehicle offered now being rejected by Public Works and the Defence Department. Defence sources say the problem was caused by poorly written requirements produced by inexperienced procurement officials. The vehicles rejected include some of those being used in combat by Canada’s allies in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(18 Aug 2010) There’s no excuse, justification or half-decent rationalization for Mr. Elliott’s actions on Wednesday. Bring on the laughable lie, a wallop of obvious nose-stretching that’s all the more alarming emanating from a national police force which seems to be axing senior staff in anticipation of the government’s wishes. more>>
|
(18 Aug 2010) Charles Momy, the president of one of Canada's largest national police associations, wants the federal government to remove RCMP commissioner William Elliott after the head of the Canadian Firearms Program, Chief Supt. Marty Cheliak, a strong supporter of the long-gun registry, was ordered to attend French-language training after nine months on the job. Cheliak's supporters have suggested that political influence led to his removal. more>>
|
Less than 2 years and nine months into his mandate, the Harper government has axed the Ombudsman for Veterans, after it became apparent that he truly spoke for Veterans. The outgoing veterans ombudsman, retired colonel Pat Stogran, is going out firing his guns at the Conservative government and federal bureaucrats, expressing his anger at how Ottawa treats its veterans. View Video: more>>
|
(13 Aug 2010) Liberal MP Jim Karygiannis and Pakistan consul general for Toronto Sahebzada Khan on Wednesday asked for the 200-member Canadian Forces Disaster Assistance Response Team to be dispatched to help flood victims. The flood has left about 14 million people homeless and 1,600 people dead. “We have already made the request from Canada,” Khan said. “The DART has done tremendous work in other countries in the past.” more>>
|
(12 Aug 2010) The Government of Canada announced six new defence infrastructure projects that will help to modernize facilities at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden. Improvements to this key base, which acts as a training centre for Canadian Forces members from all across the country, will include the completion of housing units, upgrading the base's intrusion detection system, and a military police academy. The projects are part of the Canada First Defence Strategy, aimed at updating and replacing dated defence infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st Century. While announcing the six projects, Minister MacKay pointed to two recently completed projects also funded through the Canada First Defence Strategy, which have already delivered a boost to the local economy. Combined with today's announcements, the Government's total investment in infrastructure at CFB Borden is almost $210 million.
|
(12 Aug 2010) Ten vessels, including RCMP craft and a navy ship, have left the B.C. coast headed for a Thai cargo ship believed to be carrying several hundred Tamil migrants. It is not clear when the ship might arrive inside Canadian territorial waters — which extend about 12 nautical miles (22 km) off the coast — but officials had said the vessel would arrive by early Friday at the latest. more>>
|
(11 Aug 2010) A Sea King helicopter made a precautionary landing in a grassy field off a Nova Scotia highway Tuesday because of a hydraulic problem, a military official said. The aircraft set down off Highway 101 in Lower Sackville, north of Halifax, at about 8 p.m. The three crew members were not hurt.
more>>
|
(7 Aug 2010) Taliban insurgents were responsible for the downing of a Canadian Chinook helicopter in southern Afghanistan on Thursday, the Canadian military confirmed Saturday. The helicopter was brought down by small arms fire from insurgents, the military said at a briefing at the Kandahar base.
more>>
|
(5 Aug 2010) A Canadian Chinook helicopter was forced to make what military officials called a "hard landing" in southern Afghanistan on Thursday, but none of the 20 onboard was seriously injured. A Taliban spokesman responsible for the south, Qari Yousef Ahmadi, told The Associated Press by telephone the helicopter was shot down with a rocket.
more>>
|
(3 Aug 2010) When it comes to military missions, the tough guys' mantra is that we Canadians don't "cut and run." When the going gets difficult, Canadians keep fighting against the odds in order to create a better world wherever our troops are representing us. And if our military is completely burned out ... we at least leave enough people in the field to train local fighters to take our place. Oh, and one more thing: We'll keep shunting big aid dollars to Afghanistan, to help ordinary Afghans whose lives have been made hell by the war that we have been fighting on their behalf. more>>
|
(3 Aug 2010) "Yes, our Afghan village boys join the Taliban," says an Afghan villager. "But only because they are scared by Taliban threats to their families. It is Pakistan that trains, funds and leads them. When we capture their fighters they confess that they are trained in Pakistan. The Pakistanis find religious boys, give them weapons, and send them across the border into Afghanistan to kill us, and to kill your British soldiers." more>>
|
(3 Aug 2010) At least 10 insurgents are dead after launching a failed attack on Kandahar Airfield in southern Afghanistan, NATO officials say. The insurgents launched a ground attack on the busy base just before midday on Tuesday with two rockets fired into the base, followed by a handful of would-be suicide bombers assaulting the outer gates.
more>>
|
A Canadian soldier described both as top-notch and a disgrace to his uniform will discover his fate Sept. 9 for shooting a severely wounded, unarmed insurgent in Afghanistan. Military Judge Jean-Guy Perron has said it will take him that long to sort through the arguments and evidence offered by defence and prosecution on appropriate sentencing for Capt. Robert Semrau, convicted of disgraceful conduct. more>>
|
(1 Aug 2010) Anything that throws doubt on the reliability of the Afghan National Army always represents a big problem for Nato. The deaths of three British soldiers at the hands of a renegade Afghan soldier in Nahr-e Saraj, Helmand province, on July 13, though clearly a rare event, does not help the army's reputation for reliability. more>>
|
(1 Aug 2010) The Netherlands has ended its military mission in Afghanistan, after four years in which its 1,950 troops have won praise for their effectiveness. Dutch military chief Gen Peter van Uhm said security had improved in Uruzgan province during the Dutch deployment. more>>
|
(30 July 2010) WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said Friday that he was disappointed by criticism from Secretary of Defense Robert Gates over the release of about 76,000 pages of U.S. documents related to the war in Afghanistan. Gates said Thursday that the massive leak will have significant impact on troops and allies, revealing techniques and procedures
more>>
|
(30 July 2010) Canadian fighter jets were launched this week when Russian bombers came close to probing Canadian airspace. Defence Minister Peter MacKay said the Russian planes - Tu-95 or “Bear” bombers - do fly near Canadian space on occasion. But it is the “unidentified appearance” of the planes that caused concern, prompting the dispatch of Canadian CF-18 fighter jets from CFB Bagotville in Quebec. more>>
|
(29 July 2010) A Defence Department spokesperson confirms computers at the department's research agency were used to alter a Wikipedia page entry about the Joint Strike Fighter jet and the Conservative government's decision to spend as much as $18 billion on the aircraft. more>>
|
(27 July 2010) The Canadian military is rejecting a report released by WikiLeaks that suggests four Canadian soldiers were killed by friendly fire from U.S. forces in 2006. The military maintains the four soldiers died in combat with the Taliban. "The loss of four Canadian soldiers on September 3rd, 2006, was the result of insurgent activity in the Panjwaii district of Afghanistan," the defence minister's spokesman Jay Paxton said. "The only friendly fire incident from the time period in question occurred on September 4th, 2006, when Private Mark Anthony Graham was killed in the same district."
more>>
|
The federal government is dropping key performance standards for navy helicopters due this fall in exchange for the manufacturer's promise to guarantee another $80 million in work to Canadian aerospace companies. A spokesman for the federal Department of Public Works says the first Cyclone choppers that fly from the navy's frigates won't have a system allowing some secret tactical information to be exchanged between ships and helicopters. That was one of the original requirements in the $5.1-billion contract to build and service the 28 helicopters, which are currently over three years behind the original schedule. more>>
|
(27 July 2010) [His conduct is] "such a blow to the credibility of the institution that I don't think we have any other option but to relieve him from service," BGen Thompson told the sentencing hearing for Capt Semrau, adding he was speaking for the Canadian Forces chain of command in making his recommendation.
more>>
|
(27 July 2010) Captain Robert Semrau was an “amazing” leader who repeatedly risked his life for his soldiers while mortars rained down in Afghanistan, a Canadian army private told a military court martial. “Capt. Semrau was up to his elbows in blood just helping out. After everything was said and done he kept checking the wounded to make sure they were okay,” said Private Joseph Villeneuve. more>>
|
(27 July 2010) It is being described as the biggest leak of military secrets in history – a treasure trove of more than 92,000 highly classified field reports, intelligence assessments and after-action battle reports released on the Internet that paint a damning portrait of the war in Afghanistan. Yesterday Julian Assange, the Australian founder of the WikiLeaks website, compared his group's release of the AfghanistanWar Logs to the Vietnam War's Pentagon Papers. more>>
|
(27 July 2010) When, at the height of the Vietnam War, a Pentagon analyst published explosive details about how the White House was running the campaign, U.S. military commanders soon found themselves forced into ordering a humiliating retreat.
Now, anti-war campaigners opposed to the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan are desperately hoping that history is about to repeat itself following publication of tens of thousands of secret Pentagon documents relating to the Afghan war.
The extracts provide disturbing reading. more>>
|
(26 July 2010) Canada won't be required to sign a contract committing it to purchasing new multi-billion-dollar stealth fighters until 2013, opening the door for any future government to back away from the proposed deal if needed. The Conservative government's decision in mid-July to spend an estimated $16 billion on the Joint Strike Fighter has sparked controversy, with opposition parties questioning whether the purchase is needed at a time when the country's deficit has ballooned to $50 billion. Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff, concerned that no competition was held to select the fighter plane, known as the JSF, has vowed to review the deal if his party forms the next government. more>>
|
(26 July 2010) The judge who must decide on a punishment for Capt. Robert Semrau will have few precedents to guide his deliberations, which begin today.
Semrau, 36, has been convicted of disgraceful conduct for shooting an unarmed, wounded Taliban insurgent in Helmand province. Evidence at his three-month trial suggested the Oct. 19, 2008, shooting was a mercy killing.
University of Ottawa law professor Michel Drapeau said Semrau's is the only case he knows of in which an officer has been found guilty of disgraceful conduct on a battlefield. "It's very, very rare," said Drapeau, a retired colonel in the Canadian Forces and an expert in military law.
more>>
|
(26 July 2010) One of the thousands of classified Afghanistan war documents controversially released Sunday by the anti-secrecy organization WikiLeaks shows that a Canadian military photographer who died in a 2007 helicopter crash that also killed six other NATO troops was the victim of a heat-seeking missile fired by Taliban forces, shedding new light on a previously downplayed threat in the Afghan war zone.
more>>
|
(25 July 2010) A six-year archive of classified military documents made public on Sunday offers an unvarnished, ground-level picture of the war in Afghanistan that is in many respects more grim than the official portrayal. more>>
|
(25 July 2010) WikiLeaks documents saying that the US military believes Pakistan's spy agency supports the Taliban jibes with what Afghanistan's leaders have complained about for a long time. more>>
|
(26 July 2010) The release of some 91,000 secret U.S. military documents on the Afghanistan war is just the beginning, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange promised Monday, adding that he still has thousands more Afghan files to post online. more>>
|
(26 July 2010) The mother lode of ground-level raw intelligence from the Afghan war disseminated by WikiLeaks may ultimately bring about some good. In the short term, however, it will almost surely further undermine the U.S.-led search for stability. more>>
|
(24 July 2010) Bombings killed five U.S. troops in southern Afghanistan in two separate"improvised explosive device attacks."
June was the deadliest month for international troops since the war began: 60 Americans were among 102 international troops slain, according to a CNN count of military figures. more>>
|
(23 July 2010) Investigators are trying to figure out what caused a CF18 jet to crash during a practice run ahead of the Alberta International Air Show.
"This is an isolated incident with one aircraft," said LCol Midas Vogan, commanding officer of the 419 Moose Squadron based in Cold Lake. The jet crashed around noon as pilot Captain Brian Bews practised a stunt about 10 metres above the runway, according to some witnesses. He was able to eject from the twin-engined aircraft and dodge a massive fireball. more>>
|
(23 July 2010) Two American soldiers were abducted in Afghanistan, an Afghan intelligence source told CNN Saturday. NATO and military officials confirmed that the two missing service members are American. A search has been l;aunched for the service members and the military vehicle they were in, ISAF said.
They were abducted in Logar province, south of Kabul -- Afghanistan's capital. more>>
|
Viewpoint: by Ahmed Rashid, Pakistani journalist based in Lahore and author of the best-selling book “Taliban” and “Descent into Chaos: How the war against Islamic extremism is being lost in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia” more>>
|
(24 June 2010) When Capt. Robert Semrau is sentenced Monday for disgraceful conduct, having been acquitted of second-degree murder of a severely-wounded Taliban fighter, it will be a miscarriage of justice as well as denunciation of moral standards. Capt. Semrau did the right thing. But what would the court martial panel know about combat, since it was made up of administrative and logistics officers, none with battlefield experience? It was hardly a jury of peers. more>>
|
Richard N. Haass, a former Director of Policy Planning for the United States Department of State, under the Bush Administration, and a close advisor to then-Secretary of State Colin Powell, comments on the current war in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(July 2010) The chairwoman of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission has asked the Harper government to leave some military trainers and mentors in the country after the scheduled withdrawal of the Canadian Armed Forces next year. Dr. Sima Samar also wants women at the negotiating table when the Afghanistan government embarks on reconciliation and reintegration efforts with the Taliban. more>>
|
(19 July 2010) A new written tactical directive from BGen Jon Vance that clarifies when soldiers in Task Force Kandahar can shoot at the Taliban, is receiving widespread approval from the troops. "It's crystal clear what the general's directive is. It has made it easier for us," said Cpl. Luke Carlson of Emo, Ont., who mans a Dillon Gatling gun on a Griffon helicopter. more>>
|
(19 July 2010) According to Britain's Defence Secretary Liam Fox, British front line combat troops are scheduled to withdraw from Afghanistan by 2014. He said that within four years, the Afghan National Army and police should take responsibility for security, leaving British troops to work only as military trainers. Earlier this month, Prime Minister David Cameron had said he wanted most troops back by 2015. more>>
|
(19 July 2010) Joint Strike Fighter: It makes no sense for the Canadian Forces and less sense for the tax payers. Spend those extra billions on adding forces to the Army and capability to the AF and Navy to work the Arctic and maintain the current capability they have worked hard to achieve. more>>
|
(19 July 2010) Capt. Robert Semrau is the first soldier in Canadian history to be found guilty of shooting a wounded, unarmed combatant on a battlefield. While a four-person military judicial panel found the 36-year army captain guilty of disgraceful conduct resulting from the Afghan shooting, he was found not guilty of second-degree murder, attempted murder and negligent performance of duty. He faces up to fives years in prison for the lesser charge, and most likely a discharge from the armed forces. more>>
|
(18 July 2010) The murder case against Capt. Robert Semrau made national headlines because it involved sensational allegations of a battlefield mercy killing. But Semrau’s trial unfolded an even more compelling story: that of four soldiers faced with a searing moral crisis. Each man must now live with the decisions he made. Andrew Duffy reports. more>>
|
(18 July 2010) A suicide bomber targeting anti-Qaeda militiamen being paid their wages killed at least 45 people west of Baghdad on Sunday, in Iraq's deadliest single attack in more than two months. Forty-five people were killed and 46 wounded in the 8:30 am (0530 GMT) bombing in the mainly Sunni Arab district of Radwaniyah, a former insurgent hotspot 25 kilometres from the capital, a defence ministry official said. more>>
|
(17 July 2010) Canada's special forces command is creating a new quick-reaction task force to be led by a Petawawa-based officer and capable of responding to an international crisis. Task Force Arrowhead will be set up next year and able to quickly put the first special forces troops on the ground in the case of another Afghanistan-like mission, or to conduct smaller, more limited operations. more>>
|
(17 July 2010) An upcoming review of the military's structure is expected to examine the size and structure of the special forces. Some believe it would save money and improve oversight if the conventional army were to absorb CANSOFCOM, the special operational forces command that was created in 2006. Others suggest they have proven their worth time and time again.
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Getting+drop+Special/3290284/story.html more>>
|
(17 July 2010) NATO's eight-year campaign to win hearts and minds in the embattled region is in serious trouble, according to a survey that interviewed 532 men in mostly rural parts of Kandahar and Helmand provinces. The survey found that a 70 percent of southern Afghans felt military operations were bad for the Afghan people and that NATO forces did not protect the local population. Many (75 percent) said foreigners did not respect their religion and traditions; and 74 percent believed it was "wrong" to work with international forces. Most (59 percent) opposed a new military offensive against the Taliban in Kandahar. more>>
|
(17 July 2010) Canada is expecting the Afghan government to produce a practical, measurable anti-corruption action plan at an international conference in Kabul on Tuesday, a senior Foreign Affairs official said Friday. "Clean public money and clean government is important, very important to the international community," said Kerry Buck, assistant deputy minister, Afghanistan task force, at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. more>>
|
(17 July 2010) Military Judge Lt.-Col. Jean-Guy Perron took more than four hours to deliver his final instructions to the jury. Perron read 84 pages of legal instructions to guide deliberations. No one knows for certain when the panel will reach a verdict. Under law, their deliberations will remain forever secret. The panel deliberated for about three hours today and will resume on Sunday morning. more>>
|
(16 July 2010) The Canadian government announced plans to spend $9 billion to purchase a new generation of fighter jets, the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.
Defence Minister Peter MacKay told a news conference in Ottawa that the 65 new jets would be purchased from Lockheed Martin, with the first delivery expected by 2016.
more>>
|
(14 July 2010) A 70-page report from an international rights group warns that President Hamid Karzai's government may be willing to compromise on women's rights as part of any deal with the insurgents. "Afghan women want an end to the conflict. But as the prospect of negotiations with the Taliban draws closer, many women fear that they may also pay a heavy price for peace," the report says.
more>>
|
(14 June 2010) Defence Minister Peter MacKay announced the go ahead for the navy's $2.6 billion Joint Supply Ships (JSS) program today in Halifax Nova Scotia.
|
(13 July 2010) Three British soldiers were murdered and four others were injured in what NATO calls "a premeditated attack" by a rogue Afghan National Army soldier. An Afghan soldier fired a rifle and a rocket-propelled grenade within confines of the base before escaping, according to reports in the British media.
The latest incident set off alarm bells in Kabul and London, where, as in Ottawa and Washington, there have been qualms about the progress that NATO has said it has been making to train tens of thousands of Afghan soldiers and police. more>>
|
(12 July 2010) Brig.-Gen. Daniel Ménard, the former commander of Canada's war effort in Afghanistan, and his subordinate, Master Cpl. Bianka Langlois, have been charged by military police after admitting to a sexual affair while on duty. more>>
|
(12 July 2010) The Harper government is gearing up for more multibillion-dollar announcements on military equipment spending: one for the purchase of 65 new fighter aircraft, the other a re-announcement of the JSS project that was derailed two years ago. more>>
|
(10 July 2010) NATO announced that six American service members have been killed in separate attacks in Afghanistan. Four of the Americans died in separate incidents in the east involving small arms fire and an insurgent attack. The other two died in separate roadside bombings in the south. NATO also says a suicide car bomber also struck one of its convoys in the eastern province of Khost, but no casualties were immediately reported. more>>
|
(9 July 2010) Canada doesn't send monsters into combat. Our soldiers are not bloodthirsty killers eager to "off" as many enemy as possible. They are as intelligent, thoroughly trained and compassionate as any soldiers in the world. more>>
|
(9 July 2010) The most senior ranking Canadian military officer in Haiti has been relieved of command and is the subject of an internal investigation. Colonel Bernard Ouellette, who doubles as the chief of staff to the United Nations mission in the earthquake-battered country, is facing several allegations — including that he was involved in an inappropriate relationship.
more>>
|
(9 July 2010) With insurgent attacks increasing across Afghanistan, frustration about rules of engagement is growing among NATO troops, and among some members of the U.S. Congress. Addressing those concerns will be one of the most complicated initial tasks facing Gen. David H. Petraeus, the new commander of U.S. and NATO forces in the country. more>>
|
(8 July 2010) Final Remarks have been delivered in the court-martial case of Captain Semrau. Currently over 8,000 people have signed up to question how a man who left his country and family to fight for the freedom of all people could be facing 10 years in jail for allegedly putting a dying enemy out of his misery.
Click here to join the site: more>>
|
(8 July 2010) Britain says it will withdraw its troops from the Afghan district of Sangin, where it has suffered some of its heaviest casualties in the nine-year war. About 1,000 Royal Marines in the Sangin area of Helmand Province will be gone within months and will be replaced by US forces. more>>
|
(7 July 2010) NATO mistakenly killed five of its Afghan army allies in an air strike Wednesday while the Afghans were attacking insurgents in the country's east, officials said. An Afghan defence official condemned the latest “friendly fire” deaths, which came at a time when international troops are trying to improve co-ordination with Afghan security forces in hopes of handing over more security to them. The Afghan soldiers were launching a pre-dawn ambush against insurgents reportedly on the move in Ghazni province when NATO aircraft began firing on them without warning, Afghan Defence Ministry spokesman Gen. Mohammad Zahir Azimi said. more>>
|
(7 July 2010) The prosecution and defence presented final arguments Wednesday in the court martial of Canadian Forces Capt. Robert Semrau, accused of murdering a wounded Taliban insurgent on the battlefield in Afghanistan in 2008. Semrau, 36, of CFB Petawawa, is charged with second-degree murder, behaving in a disgraceful manner and negligent performance of duty. The prosecution alleges he fired two tracer rounds into the body of a severely wounded Taliban fighter on Oct. 19, 2008 while on a mission with the Afghan National Army. Prosecutors have characterized his actions as a misguided mercy killing, an act that violated both the Criminal Code and the Canadian Forces Code of Conduct. more>>
|
(6 July 2010) Media claims of the capture of Taliban chief in Afghanistan, Mullah Omar, has spread confusion all around the world. Pakistani secret agencies, government officials and other sources refused to verify or deny the news. American authorities have also refused to comment.
The discussion started in the media after an American blogger claimed that the Taliban chief was captured from Pakistani coastal city Karachi on March 27, 2010. Omar is wanted by the U.S. for sheltering Osama bin-Laden and his Al-Qaeda network in the years prior to and after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center in America, ans is believed to be leading Taliban fighters in their war against the Afghan government and NATO troops in Afghanistan. Pakistan had arrested Mullah Brather, Taliban Chief No.2, earlier this year from the same city of Karachi.
|
(5 July 2010) Some 4,000 guests braved the heat yesterday to take in U.S. Ambassador David Jacobson's first Independence Day party in Ottawa. Diplomats and journalists were out in force, although there were fewer politicians than usual. House of Commons Speaker Peter Milliken made an appearance as did Liberal MPs Mauril Bélanger and Byron Wilfert and Conservative Rob Merrifield, minister of state for transport. At the end of the official program, the popular Chicago dance band, Lynne Jordan and the Shivers, took the stage. more>>
|
(29 June 2010) Afghan Ambassador Jawed Ludin says the warning issued by G8 leaders last week that Afghan President Hamid Karzai must provide detailed plans on how – within a five-year period – Afghans will take responsibility for their own security while also eliminating corruption will not be a problem for his president. The idea that foreign troops want to withdraw by then is understood, Ludin said. "This is completely consistent with Mr. Karzai's own promise in his inauguration speech after his election last fall, and also with the expectations of the Afghan people who want to take responsibility sooner rather than later," Ludin said. more>>
|
(29 June 2010) More than US$3-billion in cash has been openly flown out of Kabul airport since 2007, raising fears yesterday that large sums of international aid are being stolen by corrupt Afghan officials. Customs records for legally declared money leaving the airport showed that US$3-billion was flown out between January 2007 and February 2010. more>>
|
(28 June 2010) President Barack Obama sacked his loose-lipped Afghanistan commander Wednesday, a seismic shift for the military order in wartime, and chose the familiar, admired — and tightly disciplined — Gen. David Petraeus to replace him. Petraeus, architect of the Iraq war turnaround, was once again to take hands-on leadership of a troubled war effort.
Obama said bluntly that Gen. Stanley McChrystal's scornful remarks about administration officials in interviews for a magazine article represent conduct that "undermines the civilian control of the military that is at the core of our democratic system." more>>
|
(26 June 2010) Two Canadian soldiers from 1RCR were killed in Afghanistan when their armoured vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Master Cpl. Kristal Giesebrecht and Pte. Andrew Miller, both medics from CFB Petawawa, had been responding to a report of a mine found in the doorway of a home when their vehicle detonated an IED. The blast occurred about 20 kilometres southwest of the city of Kandahar. more>>
|
(26 June 2010) Six NATO-led service members were killed Saturday in bombing attacks in Afghanistan, NATO's International Security Assistance Force said.
|
(24 June 2010) The recommendation, in an interim report introduced in the Senate Tuesday, is certain to fan an emerging debate in which the Opposition Liberals are nudging the government to keep some training forces in Afghanistan while the government insists it is obeying a 2008 parliamentary motion that orders withdrawal of Canada's 2,800 troops over six months starting July 2011. more>>
|
(24 June 2010) Nine NATO soldiers were killed in Afghanistan on Monday, the latest in a series of grim days that has made June one of the deadliest months for the alliance. more>>
|
(23 June 2010) The Canadian government has put the world on notice that, beginning 1 July 2010, ships entering the country's Arctic waters will be subject to new mandatory vessel-tracking rules aimed at preventing terrorist activity and pollution while improving search-and-rescue capabilities in the Far North. The strict new measures have raised concerns from the U.S. government. more>>
|
(22 June 2010) The top US commander in Afghanistan has been summoned to Washington in the wake of a Rolling Stone magazine article that quotes him and aides criticizing senior government officials and diplomats. more>>
|
(15 June 2010) A Commons committee will investigate the Conservative government's planned purchase of a new fighter aircraft fleet amid questions about the project's $16-billion price tag and whether Canada needs the stealth planes. But the hearings into what is considered the largest single defence procurement in Canadian history won't happen until the fall. more>>
|
(14 June 2010) The Canadian Forces has too much overhead in some of its headquarters and is looking to re-assign military personnel to field units as it prepares for future operations, says Chief of the Defence Staff, General Walter Natynczyk. more>>
|
Global military expenditure stands at over $1.46 trillion in annual expenditure at current prices for 2008, and has been rising in recent years. more>>
|
(13 June 2010) Brigadier-General Jon Vance had just set out from Ottawa heading to Kingston, to speak with some soldiers who will be heading to Afghanistan this fall, when his cellphone rang. Now back in command eight days, Vance said it had helped a lot that he had worked for a short spell last fall with British Maj.-Gen. Nick Carter, who still runs the war in the south and was aware back then that the U.S. was about to flood Kandahar with thousands of extra troops. more>>
|
Quarterly Report to Parliament for the Period of January 1 to March 31, 2010. Click here for full report: more>>
|
(14 June 2010) Recent resignations of Afghanistan’s interior minister and intelligence chief have been covered extensively in the Afghan papers. What keeps the media so closely interested are the factors behind those resignations – their timing, and their impact on the NATO and coalition campaigns. Publicly, the officials’ failure to prevent an attack on President Hamid Karzai’s peace council, or jirga, on June 2 has been presented as the reason for the resignations. more>>
|
(12 June 2010) Afghan President Hamid Karzai visited the Taliban's spiritual home yesterday, launching a campaign that promises better governance and development alongside a security push by foreign forces. more>>
|
(11 June 2010) The Harper government is refusing to open up the $16-billion purchase of 65 new fighter jets to a competition because of the potential negative reaction in the United States and other allied countries, internal documents show. “Canada must commit to the JSF program to realize benefits,” the government says, pointing to a potential for $12-billion in future work. more>>
|
The military and other organizations have developed a variety of programs to help family members cope with deployment, unfortunately, relatively few of them work with families as a whole. Read full report by University of Georgia. more>>
|
(June 2010) The Burke Chair has developed two reports that address these issues. The first summarizes the campaign plan and the key issues involved. The second addresses the need for far better focused and more transparent reporting on the war – both within ISAF and at the public level. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) Afghan observers and Western officials are interpreting the forced resignations of Afghanistan’s two top security officials as another worrying sign of President Hamid Karzai’s increasingly impulsive decision making and deepening isolation from his backers, both within Afghanistan and abroad. Some believe that Mr Karzai, who like most of the Taliban (and many Pakistanis) is a Pushtun, a member of Afghanistan’s largest ethnic group, has softened towards Pakistan because he no longer thinks NATO can win in Afghanistan. Hence, Karzai’s reluctance publicly to endorse the counterinsurgency strategy of General Stanley McChrystal, the American NATO commander. more>>
|
(10 June 2010) The hope Hamid Karzai, Afghanistan’s president, nurtured for the huge gathering held in Kabul this month was that it would give him the national support needed to start a peace process with the Taliban. Instead, it prompted the resignations of the country’s hugely respected interior minister and spy chief and exposed serious disagreements about efforts at reconciliation with the insurgents. more>>
|
(June 2010) The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture) will decorate 11 citizens of Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories and the Yukon with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation during a ceremony that will be held June 12th in Winnipeg at The Fairmont Winnipeg, Ballroom East, 2 Lombard Place.
Recipients of the Commendation are:
• Janet Bennett, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
• Gilles Grossinger, Whitehorse, Yukon
• Fiona Jasper, Cochrane, Alberta
• Bertrand Lafond, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
• Philip McKerry, Evansburg, Alberta
• Robert McPherson, Calgary Alberta
• Arnold Mottershead, Edmonton, Alberta
• Ernest Mulcahy, Winnipeg, Manitoba
• George Pambrun, Okotoks, Alberta
• Clifford Tessier, Winnipeg, Manitoba
• Loralea Wark, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
|
(10 June 2010) A bomb ripped through a wedding party for a family with ties to Afghan police, killing at least 40 people and wounding dozens more, officials said Thursday. The Taliban denied carrying out the attack, but strong suspicion fell on the insurgent group because it has previously attacked allies of the government or Afghan security forces.
The area is largely considered a Taliban haven, and village residents said they believed they were attacked in an air bombardment. Mohammad Rassool, a cousin of the groom, said helicopters were circling above the compound before the explosion. more>>
|
(9 June 2010) The Obama Administration has secured a UN Security Council resolution for a new round of sanctions targeting the Iranian regime’s nuclear program. The measure, which passed by a vote of 12 to 2 with 1 abstention, opens the door for the United States, its European allies, Canada and other countries to enact more stringent sanctions against the regime.
“Unfortunately, time is not on our side," said FDD Executive Director Mark Dubowitz. "This sanctions vote will only be a victory if it enables the U.S., Europe, Canada and other nations to exert crippling pressure on Iran's nuclear program, human rights abuses, and support for terrorism. These sanctions should be put in place on behalf of the Iranian people, who only a year ago endured brutal reprisals for peacefully demonstrating their democratic aspirations. To be effective, these sanctions must target Iran’s energy sector – the lifeblood of the men who rule Iran,” continued Dubowitz. “Congress is poised to enact tough new legislation exploiting Iran’s dependence on imported gasoline and restricting foreign support for the Iranian energy industry. View video:
 more>>
|
The federal cabinet is expected to debate the multibillion-dollar purchase of new jetfighters Wednesday, but the long-term cost of the Joint Strike Fighter will be a moving target. Traditionally, when the federal government buys a big-ticket piece of equipment for the military, it nails down costs of the long-term support package up front. However, Defence bureaucrats are only able to ballpark the overall project costs for the JSF, with estimates varying between $9 billion and $10 billion. When the Conservatives announce the deal for the F-35 Lightning II, they'll only be able to guess at what the maintenance portion of the bill will be. more>>
|
(9 June 2010) Attempts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban in Afghanistan have been branded "a disgrace" by the former head of the country's spy service. Amrullah Saleh, the former chief of Afghanistan's National Directorate for Security (NDS), said he tried to undermine Western-backed efforts to negotiate with militants. "Negotiating with suicide bombers will disgrace this country," he said.
more>>
|
(8 June 2010) Gen. Walter Natynczyk says that time is running out for the international community in Afghanistan and that there must be a "game changer" that will allow the Afghan people to get on with their own reconciliation. "At the end of the day, the solution to this counter insurgency has to be an Afghan solution and I think all of us on the bleachers watching this, I think we have to be very patient to see how all of this unfolds," he told a Senate committee on Monday. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) At least three suicide bombers attacked a police training centre Monday in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar, killing one American — a civilian contractor. One of the attackers drove an explosives-laden car up to the gate of the centre and detonated the bomb, blowing a hole in the compound wall, the Interior Ministry said. Two other bombers tried to storm through the hole, engaging in a gunfight with police before blowing themselves up outside.
General Gul Nabi Ahmadzai, head of police training programs for Afghanistan, gave a slightly different account, saying the two gunmen were killed in firing by police. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousef Ahmadi claimed responsibility for the attack. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) Five American soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in eastern Afghanistan. Another U.S. soldier died in a bombing in the southern part of the country and a seventh U.S. soldier was killed by small arms fire. Three other NATO soldiers — including Canadian Sgt. Martin Goudreault — were killed Monday in separate attacks.
|
(7 June 2010) Gen. Walt Natynczyk says the military is obeying "very clear instructions" from the government to withdraw from Afghanistan next year and he won't speculate on whether some troops could or should stay behind. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) Sgt. Martin Goudreault, of 1 Combat Engineer Regiment in Edmonton, became the 147th Canadian to die in Afghanistan when he was killed by a homemade landmine just before dawn on Sunday while on a foot patrol about 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) Afghan President Hamid Karzai has agreed to open negotiations with Taliban insurgents. This also includes the possible release of hundreds of detained Taliban militant suspects. more>>
|
(7 June 2010) Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards are ready to provide a military escort to cargo ships trying to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, a representative of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday. more>>
|
(4 June 2010) Liberal foreign affairs critic Bob Rae has provided the strongest indication yet that a deal may be possible between his party and the Harper government to keep some Canadian troops in Afghanistan after the combat mission in Kandahar ends next summer. more>>
|
(4 June 2010) The first of 17 new CC-130J Hercules tactical airlift aircraft left Lockheed Martin and landed today at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario. The Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Peter MacKay, and the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, were present to mark this important milestone.
 more>>
|
(4 June 2010) Canada's new military commander in Afghanistan arrived in Kandahar to lead Canada's 2,800 military personnel in the country until September. more>>
|
(3 June 2010) Canadian troops may stay in Afghanistan beyond the 2011 withdrawal date, members of an all-party Commons committee said yesterday after touring the war-ravaged nation. Committee members recently spent five days touring reconstruction projects, and talking with soldiers and civilians. New Democrat committee member Jack Harris said it was important to honour the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers killed or injured in Afghanistan "by doing something that has a lasting effect on Kandahar." more>>
|
(3 June 2010) Insurgents fired rockets, detonated explosives and engaged in an intense gun battle with security forces [June 2] near the site of a jirga, or peace meeting, where Afghan President Hamid Karzai spoke. Police later said they had surrounded a home in Kabul where suspected insurgents, believed to be responsible for the attack, were holed up. Video report: more>>
|
(3 June 2010) Defence Minister Peter MacKay laid out Ottawa's $35-billion plan to reinvigorate Canada's moribund shipbuilding industry, saying the government will establish a long-term relationship with two Canadian shipyards for the procurement of the large ships — one to build combat vessels, the other to build non-combat vessels. "The plan is to select two Canadian shipyards in a fair and transparent process," he said at the CANSEC trade show in Ottawa. "We expect to have these contracts signed within two years." The plan will result in the creation of two "national" shipyards — one for combat ships and one for non-combat ships. more>>
|
(1 June 2010) Mr. Yazid, also known as Sheikh Said al-Masri, according to reports died along with his wife and three children.
U.S. officials say he was killed recently in the tribal areas of Pakistan in an American drone attack. Previous reports of his death have been wrong, this is the first time al-Qaeda has acknowledged such claims. more>>
|
(1 June 2010) When Afghan elders gather under a giant tent in Kabul for a peace jirga this week, they will have to be protected not just from militants trying to bomb the meeting from the hills above, but also insulated from a half dozen neighbours all battling for influence more>>
|
(30 May 2010) Brig.-Gen. Daniel Ménard has been relieved of command of Canadian troops in Afghanistan following allegations he was involved in an inappropriate personal relationship while in theatre.
more>>
|
(29 May 2010) As thousands of Canadian, U.S., British and Afghan troops prepare for a summer offensive in Kandahar - expected to be the most decisive battle in the Afghan war - the Taliban are already preparing their battleground, planting mines, hiding weapons and terrifying the local population.
more>>
|
(27 May 2010) Tensions rise as mounting evidence from a torpedoed South Korean ship points to the North Korean Army.
 more>>
|
(26 May 2010) A car bomb blew up outside Canada's Provincial Reconstruction Team base in Kandahar City on Wednesday morning. The attack occurred in front of Camp Nathan Smith where Afghan workers on the base sometimes gather or pick up lifts.
more>>
|
(26 May 2010) Sixty special reconnaissance vehicles will be bought and housed at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa to support special forces units there, in Ottawa and in Trenton, Ont. The new vehicles are being located with the Canadian Special Operations Regiment in Petawawa, which would also provide maintenance support as well as drivers. The high-mobility trucks will be available to various units such as the Ottawa-based Joint Task Force 2 or to special forces task groups.
 more>>
|
(26 May 2010) The federal government has ordered that Conservative political aides refuse to testify at House of Commons committees, a decree that sets Stephen Harper's Tories on another collision course with Parliament.
more>>
|
(25 May 2010) Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, the commander of Canadian Forces in Afghanistan, was fined $3,500 after pleading guilty at a court martial Tuesday to neglect in handling his C8 rifle. more>>
|
(25 May 2010) Attacks over the past 10 days on the Kandahar and Bagram airfields and on a NATO convoy in Kabul, in which a Canadian colonel was killed, were militarily insignificant but spectacularly successful publicity coups for the Taliban. more>>
|
(24 May 2010) Trooper Larry Rudd is the latest Canadian soldier to be killed in Afghanistan. Rudd, 26, died Monday while on a resupply patrol to deliver supplies and equipment to Canadian soldiers near the village of Salavat, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. He was killed by an improvised explosive device. more>>
|
(23 May 2010) The Taliban have claimed responsibility for a night time assault on NATO's largest base in southern Afghanistan. At least five rockets struck Kandahar Airfield base Saturday in the initial attack, wounding several coalition soldiers and civilian employees. The assault on the base, where several hundred Canadian troops are stationed, lasted nearly four hours. more>>
|
(22 May 2010) The defence minister in Britain's new coalition government visited Afghanistan on Saturday with other senior officials after saying he hopes to speed the withdrawal of British troops from the country.
more>>
|
The U.S. military's workhorse rifle — used in battle for the last 40 years — is proving less effective in Afghanistan against the Taliban's more primitive but longer range weapons.
As a result, the U.S. is reevaluating the performance of its standard M-4 rifle (an updated version of the M-16) and considering a switch to weapons that fire a larger round. more>>
|
(22 May 2010) Breaking news - Insurgents have launched an attack on NATO's main military base in southern Afghanistan, home to the largest contingent of Canadian Forces personnel in the country.
more>>
|
(21 May 2010) Col. Geoff Parker was bid a poignant farewell Thursday by scores of infantrymen from his Royal Canadian Regiment and 2,000 other NATO troops in a solemn ceremony beside the camouflaged transport plane that was to take the colonel on the first leg of his last journey home. more>>
|
(20 May 2010) Col. Geoff Parker was bid an poignant farewell Thursday by scores of infantrymen from his Royal Canadian Regiment and 2,000 other NATO troops in a solemn ceremony beside the camouflaged transport plane that was to take the colonel on the first leg of his last journey home.
more>>
|
(18 May 2010) A Canadian soldier was killed in a suicide attack in Kabul on Tuesday, a Canadian Forces spokesman has confirmed.
more>>
|
(18 May 2010) More than 100 Afghan policemen who are to be in the lead when Afghan and NATO forces move against the Taliban in Kandahar's Dand and Zhari districts this summer in Operation Hamkari are receiving lessons on why prisoners should not be beaten.
more>>
|
(14 May 2010) The order to cut Canada's 12 coastal defence vessels by half has been rescinded — just one day after it was announced, according to the country's chief of defence staff.
more>>
|
(13 May 2010) “There’s no question there’s still a lot of work to be done," said Lt. Col. Jerry Walsh. "But what we’ve set in motion, and when I say 'we' I mean the Afghans themselves, NATO, military, civilians, all the NGOs, everyone coming together now with a real focus and things are really coming together like they haven’t been in previous years.” more>>
|
(13 May 2010) A shortage of money and sailors is forcing Canada's navy to mothball half its fleet of 12 vessels used to patrol the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The navy made the tough choice to strip several coastal patrol vessels of their crews because it doesn't have the resources to operate them all. more>>
|
(13 May 2010) The top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan says the war is a draw. Gen. Stanley McChrystal says the momentum of the resurgent Taliban militants has been stopped. But for now, the general says, nobody is winning. more>>
|
(13 May 2010) Pte. Kevin McKay of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (Edmonton) is the 144th Canadian Forces member to be killed in Afghanistan since 2002. He was scheduled to return to Canada in two days. An improvised explosive device caused his death.
more>>
|
(13 May 2010) Canada's navy is mothballing half of its fleet of 12 coastal patrol vessels due to a shortage of government funding and crews.
more>>
|
(11 May 2010) Three car bombs at a factory, followed by a fourth targeting emergency workers, and co-ordinated blasts against security forces killed 102 people yesterday in Iraq's bloodiest day this year. more>>
|
(11 May 2010) Three car bombs at a factory, followed by a fourth targeting emergency workers, and co-ordinated blasts against security forces killed 102 people on Monday in Iraq's bloodiest day this year. more>>
|
(10 May 2010) Petraeus thinks he knows that President Hamid Karzai is widely viewed as “the father of the new Afghanistan.” Although there was widespread fraud in the election last August that extended Karzai’s presidency by five years, Petraeus says “ordinary people are not seized with anxiety about electoral corruption.” Besides, “there is a democratic culture in these tribal councils,” which are “like caucuses, if you will. more>>
|
(10 May 2010) Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American terrorism suspect behind the failed truck bombing of New York's Times Square, was trained, funded and guided by the Pakistani Taliban, senior U.S. officials said yesterday. more>>
|
(10 May 2010) Canadian and U.S. troops will probably be drawn into fighting the Taliban inside Kandahar -- a task that can quickly turn nasty -- during the unfolding offensive that is expected to begin soon, a NATO official says for the first time.
more>>
|
(10 May 2010) The Obama administration said Friday that Iran missed another opportunity to break the deadlock with the world community over its nuclear program during a surprise, high-profile UN dinner Thursday. more>>
|
(6 May 2010) A Pakistani-American man was arrested for driving a failed car bomb into New York's Times Square last Saturday as investigators continued to pursue leads.
more>>
|
(6 May 2010) The Pakistani terrorist group that has been linked to Faisal Shahzad, the man behind last weekend's attempted bombing in Times Square, was formed a decade ago to "liberate" Kashmir from India. But Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has always had broader aspirations. According to its manifesto, its motto is "jihad against the infidels" and its targets are "the enemies of Islam." It has also declared war against the United States.
more>>
|
(6 May 2010) The first person charged under Canada's anti-terrorism financing law is expected to plead guilty next week. Prapaharan Thambithurai's trial was supposed to begin in B.C. Supreme Court on Wednesday, but Crown prosecutor Martha Devlin said a plea bargain had been struck.
more>>
|
(6 May 2010) The federal Cabinet has approved sanctions against Eritrea in response to the African nation's support for a Somali militant group that has been recruiting Canadian youths. more>>
|
(6 May 2010) Islamist militants armed with guns, grenades and suicide car bombs targeted the U.S. consulate in Pakistan's northwestern capital and a political rally, killing 46 people on Monday.
The attacks in quick succession were among the deadliest so far this year in nuclear-armed Pakistan, where insecurity has raised concerns in the United States as Washington steps up the fight in Afghanistan and against al-Qaida. more>>
|
(May 2010) Afghan President Hamid Karzai twice threatened to quit politics and join the Taliban if the West continued to pressure him to enact reforms, legislators said on 3 May 2010.
more>>
|
(5 May 2010) A former top defence procurement official is calling on the Harper government to start moving on a project to buy new search-and-rescue planes before the lack of modern aircraft contributes to injuries or death in an emergency situation. more>>
|
(4 May 2010) A Canadian soldier has been killed by an improvised explosive device as he returned to camp from a routine road-clearing operation in Panjway District southwest of Kandahar City. more>>
|
(4 May 2010) 2010 marks the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. Nazi Germany’s invasion of the Netherlands in May 1940 marked the beginning of five years of terror for the Dutch. In this milestone year, Ambassador Geerts of the Netherlands laid a wreath at Beechwood National Cemetery on May 4, Dutch Remembrance Day. Together with the Dutch community of Ottawa he paid homage to Canadian veterans who fought for the freedom of his country. The people of the Netherlands remain grateful to Canada and to the Canadian veterans who fought so valiantly to free their country.
|
(29 Apr 2010) Buried 2,000 words deep in a U.N. press release on the filling of "vacancies in subsidiary bodies," was the stark announcement that Iran, along with representatives from 10 other nations, was "elected by acclamation," meaning that no open vote was requested or required by any member states. Iran's "election" comes just a week after one of its senior clerics declared that women who wear revealing clothing are to blame for earthquakes. more>>
|
(19 Apr 2010) After nine months in Afghanistan, police officers from Ottawa say they have a new appreciation for the concept of teamwork. Coakeley says police are not trusted in Kandahar, and that “to serve and protect” has a much different meaning. “I could write a doctoral thesis on what it’s like over there,” he said. “But you would have to put boots to the ground to understand. Afghanistan is a seriously broken country.” more>>
|
(19 Apr 2010) A 1926 shipwreck is seen as the birth of the country's maritime fighting force is edging closer to formal recognition and protection as a national historic site – in the United States. CGS Canada, the armed vessel on which the nation's first naval recruits trained ahead of the official creation of Canada's navy in 1910, was later sold and renamed Queen of Nassau before sinking off the Florida Keys in 1926. more>>
|
(16 Apr 2010) As it nears its goal of expanding the Forces, the Canadian military says it will cut back on its recruiting staff. Defence sources say the Canadian Forces recruiting group has been told to cut a total of $6 million by next year. That will result in the elimination of 60 to 70 recruiting staff across the country. more>>
|
(14 Apr 2010) Chief of staff Guy Giorno, the top sidekick to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, delivered a charming imitation of an ostrich with head buried in sand, refusing to acknowledge he was even in a hot seat and declaring with repetitive gusto that an effective information-release process was in place.
more>>
|
(13 Apr 2010) Anti-western outbursts by Afghan President Hamid Karzai have sent ripples of concern through the nations contributing thousands of troops and billions of dollars to the mission in this war-torn country. more>>
|
(11 April 2010) Private Tyler William Todd, 26, was killed today in a powerful roadside bomb blast while on foot patrol in a volatile community southwest of Kandahar City. The attack happened early Sunday near the community of Belanday, about eight kilometres outside of the provincial capital. more>>
|
(April 2010) As the shocking news of the deaths of Polish president Lech Kaczynski and at least 96 senior Polish government officials in a plane crash near Smolensk, Russia, on Saturday, spread through Ottawa's Polish community, talk eventually turned to the country's political future. more>>
|
(10 APR 2010) Despite U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's urging for Canada to keep soldiers in Afghanistan past 2011, the military mission will end. "We will work within the parameters of the parliamentary motion, which states very clearly that the military mission will come to an end in 2011," says Peter MacKay. "We will then transition into some of the other important work that we're doing. That includes a focus on police training."
more>>
|
(April 2010) Colonel Russell Williams, a high-ranking Canadian Air Force commander is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of two women from eastern Ontario. Williams, commander of Canadian Forces Base Trenton, was arrested in Ottawa. Read an updated selection of related articles: more>>
|
(April 2010) Canadian Navy takes the new Cyclone out for a spin in the Halifax area at the end of March.
|
Here are a few events scheduled to commemorate the 100 year Anniversary of the Canadian Navy. more>>
|
(4 Apr 2010) After an emotional Easter-weekend ceremony to honour nine Canadian soldiers who have died in recent years, parents of the fallen called for Canada's troops to remain in Afghanistan after 2011. more>>
|
(30 March 2010) Ending a long day of speculations over the future of Canada’s involvement in Afghanistan, Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon said the decision to end the military mission next year has been made "perfectly clear" to the United States. more>>
|
(30 Mar 2010) "Colleagues, I rise to express the profound hope that the Parliament of Canada, most notably the House of Commons, will see its way clear to modify its resolution of March 13, 2008 and agree to the continued deployment of Canadian humanitarian and military forces in the ongoing engagement in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister is to be commended for staying fast and true to the resolution on end of Kandahar province combat of 2011. But that faithfulness does not negate the need for vision and renewed commitment now. Afghanistan is a critical theatre in an important war against terrorism which is and remains a scourge on humanity. Canadian troops have spent too much blood and grief and shown too much courage and progress to end the engagement before realistic stability goals are attained. A minority parliament does not justify a failure of will or avoidance of international responsibility. The nature and mix of our deployment there may change, that is for elected parliamentarians to decide – but Canada's commitment to fight the pathologies of terrorism in a part of the world where they are most intense must not."
|
(30 Mar 2010) U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said the U.S. would like Canadian troops to remain in Afghanistan past 2011 and suggested they could switch from a combat to a training role. more>>
|
(29 March 2010) The United States has scrapped pretence and is publicly calling for Canadian troops to stay in Afghanistan past next year, sparking questions over what Canada’s role will be after the 2011 deadline for military withdrawal. Though it is no secret that the U.S. would like to see Canadian troops stay, Washington had previously papered over the differences by not specifically asking. Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton changed course, saying the U.S. believes it has made progress with a new strategy and hopes Canada will provide “visible” support. She said that Canadian troops might take on a non-combat role. more>>
|
(25 March 2010) According to TIME Magazine, the F-35 Lightning II program "is in big trouble." Last week, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told Congress that the F-35's "cost and schedule snafus were unacceptable." While the Pentagon is "not about to kill the program, the rush to push the plane down the assembly line and into the skies highlights the nation's continuing inability to pit its limited resources against real threats." Since 2001, the F-35's per-airplane cost has doubled "from $69 million to as much as $135 million — even as none of the 2,443 on-order planes have been delivered." more>>
|
(19 March 2010) Eighty of the Canadian Forces' original fleet of 138 CF-18 Hornet jet fighter-bombers acquired in the 1980s remain flyable, and Canada and Japan "are the only G7 countries not to have designated successors to their primary fighters of the 1970s/1980s generation. The Harper government, Industry Canada and the Department of National Defence have maintained a stealthy uncommunicativeness about the selection process, let alone the choice of aircraft. Meanwhile, a long tarry by Ottawa could mean the last, tired Hornet will not be able to fly off into the sunset around 2020 as planned." more>>
|
(Mar 2010) A National Maritime Information Centre is being established to counter the threat of a terrorist attack from the sea by better monitoring of the hundreds of thousands of small boats that sail off Britain’s coastline. more>>
|
A major study by two of Canada's leading defence,
foreign affairs and security institutes (CDFAI & CDA) sets out 10 hard-hitting recommendations for significant reform of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). more>>
|
The revival of the Canadian military as a fighting force (when required) has lifted Canada’s prestige on the world stage as nothing else could. As Canadians, it would be a pity if the government let this slip or erode on the excuse that whenever budget cuts have to be made, defence is the first victim. more>>
|
Deadly bomb attacks in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar were a warning to NATO's top general that the Taliban are ready for a coming offensive in their heartland, the insurgents said Sunday [14 March 2010].
more>>
|
One minister, not three, should oversee the billions of dollars worth of future equipment purchases for the Canadian Forces, a new report to the Harper government recommends. more>>
|
The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI), released its Report on Military Procurement which provides recommendations on potential improvements to Canada's military procurement process, based on industry consultations. more>>
|
Washington – The US Army released an RFP for the Ground Combat Vehicle on Feb 25th, marking an official start for defense contractors to begin competing for the right to build the service's next combat vehicle. Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli said the new vehicle will not be simply a rehash of the cancelled Future Combat Systems, but a relevant combat vehicle based on Army experiences in combat. Chiarelli said the Army is hoping for "three solid proposals" on the RFP – those proposals must be in by April 26. The Army will then award technology development contracts to bidders in September. more>>
|
Conflicting reports emerged Sunday about whether Adam Gadahn, a U.S.-born spokesman for al-Qaeda, has been arrested in Pakistan. A senior Pakistani government official told CNN that Gadahn was arrested Sunday in Karachi, but a U.S. intelligence official said there appears to be no validity to reports of Gadahn's arrest. Other U.S. officials also said they have no indication that Gadahn has been captured. more>>
|
The arrest of American-born muslim extremist, Adam Gadahn, represents a major victory in the U.S.-led battle against al-Qaida and will be taken as a sign that Pakistan, criticized in the past for being an untrustworthy ally, is cooperating more fully with Washington. It follows the recent detentions of several Afghan Taliban commanders in Karachi, including the movement's No. 2 commander. more>>
|
The Canadian military dodged a bullet in Thursday's federal budget, but will still see a total of $2.5 billion carved out of future defence spending after troops withdraw from Afghanistan next year. Funding will remain largely stable in the current year, but the Conservative government plans to take away $525 million in planned increases in 2012-13, $1 billion in 2013-14 and another $1 billion the following year. more>>
|
Al-Qaida's American-born spokesman on Sunday called on Muslims serving in the U.S. armed forces to emulate the Army major charged with killing 13 people in Fort Hood. "You shouldn't make the mistake of thinking that military bases are the only high-value targets in America and the West. On the contrary, there are countless other strategic places, institutions and installations which, by striking, the Muslim can do major damage," he said. more>>
|
General Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command, addressed a packed house of members of the Conference of Defence Associations during its AGM in Ottawa. more>>
|
U.S. Navy relieves Captain Holly Graf of her command of a $1-billion warship for "cruelty and maltreatment" of her 400-member crew. Capt. Graf "was the closest thing the U.S. Navy had to a female Captain Bligh."
more>>
|
(25 Jan 2010) Faced with delays and restrictions about what it can and cannot do with U.S. technology, Canada's navy has opted to modernize its frigates using as much non-American equipment as possible for key systems on the ships. more>>
|
It’s time for Defence to more fully incorporate domestic disaster assistance tasks as part of its core business says a Special Report published by the Australia Policy Research Institute. more>>
|
The Canadian army has produced an ethics guide to help equip soldiers to be "ethical warriors" who will instinctively do the right thing. more>>
|
(March 2, 2010) "Eight years after he led the 101st Airborne into Afghanistan, Gen. David H. Petraeus sat down to discuss what has become the longest war in U.S. history — what went wrong, what's going right and when, if ever, the fighting might end."
more>>
|
(February 27, 2010) "A coordinated attack early Friday, which killed at least 16 people and targeted a hotel and guesthouse in central Kabul, underscored the shifting tactics of Taliban insurgents and their keen understanding of geopolitical implications." more>>
|
(26 February 2010) US Army Brigadier General Ben Hodges, who is currently serving in Kandahar, was interviewed on PBS NewsHour . BGen Hodges discusses the latest suicide attack in Kabul, the taking of the Taliban stronghold of Marjah, and the impact it will have on the overall war on terrorism in Afghanistan. more>>
|
(24 Feb 2010) Unless Congress objects, the policy could go into effect by April. Submarines are the only class of ship that still bars female service members. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates notified Congress on Monday that the Navy intends to change its policy. Congress has 30 working days to object. more>>
|
View video newscast more>>
|
A NATO airstrike killed up to 27 Afghan civilians, including women and a child, sparking fresh anger from Kabul against U.S.-led forces pressing a major offensive to defeat the Taliban. Top U.S. commander Stanley McChrystal, who has made winning Afghan hearts and minds the focus of plans to end the increasingly costly war, was forced into another apology over civilian deaths after the third incident in a week. more>>
|
The United States is looking for ways to sustain troop levels in Afghanistan if Dutch soldiers withdraw, including reaching out to non-NATO partners, a top U.S. defence official said Monday. more>>
|
Canadians and Americans will always be allies. Tom Brokaw shows a brief video history leading up to the Olympics. more>>
|
(21 FEB 2010) The likely exit of Dutch troops from Afghanistan leaves a key province in the heart of the nation vulnerable to Taliban infiltration - especially if militants are pushed out of their sanctuaries in the south. more>>
|
(19 Feb 2010) Fifty-two days after his legs were blown off by a roadside bomb, Master Cpl. Mike Trauner was wheeled into rehab. The physiotherapist who assessed his condition advised the soldier that his ultimate goal might be to walk with two canes for 500 metres. But Trauner had something else in mind. more>>
|
(19 Feb 2010) But a military that enjoyed a 57% surge in funding over five years is suddenly preparing to fight against restraint as the government's $56-billion deficit elimination project moves onto the Conservative agenda. more>>
|
(18 Feb 2010) Royal Navy warships on standby to protect commercial shipping to the Falkland Islands. PM Gordon Brown said Britain would take a robust stand against Argentine encroachment on the resource rich South Atlantic territory. more>>
|
(18 Feb 2010) Pakistani authorities, aided by U.S. intelligence, have apprehended more Afghan Taliban chiefs following the capture of the movement's No.2 figure — arrests that together represent the biggest blow to the insurgents since the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. more>>
|
(18 Feb 2010) The last known First World War veteran who served Canada, John Babcock, has died at the age of 109, ending a link to the era when Canada came of age as a nation. more>>
|
Military doctors say they will be able to treat Canadian soldiers who have been traumatized or wounded in the line of duty with a high-tech simulator that can recreate the experience that injured them. more>>
|
(Feb 2010) The captains of the Sledge Hockey, Men's Hockey and Women's Hockey teams have sent a letter to the Canadian troops. Read it here: more>>
|
(13 Feb 2010) A Canadian soldier has been killed in a training accident northeast of Kandahar city, Afghanistan. The death of Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker of Edmonton brings to 140 the number of Canadian soldiers, along with two civilians, who have been killed in Canada's eight-year mission in Afghanistan. more>>
|
The Dutch government will look at options to extend its military presence in Afghanistan beyond 2010, the Defence Ministry said as NATO increases efforts to contain the Taliban insurgency. The Netherlands had initially decided to withdraw its 2,000 troops from Afghanistan before the end of 2010, but had left the door open in recent months to the possibility of a smaller-scale mission despite political division over the prospect. more>>
|
(Feb 2010) I am loath to make comparisons between the Vietnam war and Afghanistan, yet, after some eight years, the similarities are more and more striking. It seems America has forgotten both the lessons of Vietnam and the Soviet experience in Afghanistan, and has fallen back on stupid and arrogant ideas that are simply a rehash of failed tactics and strategies of yesteryear.
more>>
|
(Feb 2010) Canada's envoy to Afghanistan says Ottawa won't decide on security arrangements for Canadian diplomats, police mentors and aid workers in Kandahar until assessing the security situation after troops leave the war-torn province in 2011. Auditor General Sheila Fraser has serious concerns for the well-being of Canadians whose work was to continue after the troops departed. more>>
|
(JAN 2010) 
A Canadian patrol is attacked using an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while passing through the mock village of Ertebat Shar during Exercise MAPLE GUARDIAN (Ex MG), at the Fort Irwin National Training Center (NTC), California, USA. Approximately 3,700 soldiers are participating in the exercise, which includes supporting elements from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (2 CMBG), and other units across Canada. Ex MG is a major military training event designed to confirm the readiness of TF 1-10, which will be deploying to Afghanistan in the spring of 2010. Task Force 1-10 is comprised of the 1st Battalion, the Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group (1 RCR BG), the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), the Operational Mentor and Liaison Team (OMLT), and the National Support Element (NSE).
Photo: Sgt Lance Wade, 36 CBG Public Affairs
|
(25 January 2010) Crewmembers from Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Athabaskan, arrive on the beach in Léogâne from aboard the USS Fort MacHenry, in support of OP HESTIA.
The Canadian Navy component of Operation HESTIA, Canadian Task Group 301.1, includes the destroyer HMCS Athabaskan, the frigate HMCS Halifax and a Sea King helicopter air detachment under the leadership of Task Group Commander, Captain (Navy) Art McDonald.
Operation HESTIA is the Canadian Forces participation in humanitarian operations conducted in response to the catastrophic earthquake that struck Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on 12 January 2010. Op HESTIA is part of a whole-of-government effort that also involves Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency. Canada has consistently demonstrated strong support for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations throughout the world and in this difficult time, the Government of Canada is committed to helping the people of Haiti.
Photo: Corporal Johanie Maheu, Formation Imaging Services
|
(25 JAN 2010) Faced with delays and restrictions about what it can and cannot do with U.S. technology, Canada’s navy has opted to modernize its frigates using as much non-American equipment as possible for key systems on the ships. more>>
|
Master Corporal Mike Racine, a medical technician from the Disaster Assistance Relief Team (DART) treats a Haitian man who was injured in the earthquake that hit Haiti. Image by Cpl Julie Bélisle, Canadian Forces, Combat Camera
Operation HESTIA is the Canadian Forces participation in humanitarian operations conducted in response to the catastrophic earthquake that struck Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on 12 January 2010. The Government of Canada is committed to helping the people of Haiti. Op HESTIA is part of a whole-of-government effort that also involves Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency.
more>>
|
Your donation will be doubled – Every dollar donated by individual Canadians to UNICEF Canada for relief efforts in Haiti will be matched by CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency). more>>
|
Canada will send another 1,000 troops to Haiti this week, bringing this country's military commitment in the shattered nation to about 2000, nearly the same number deployed to Afghanistan. The Canadian mission in Haiti is being led by Brigadier-General Guy Laroche, a former commander in Afghanistan, who arrived in Haiti on Saturday to begin a reconnaissance mission. more>>
|
Canada plans to deploy 1,000 soldiers to Haiti to help in relief efforts, and two Canadian Forces ships are already rushing towards the quake-stricken country to deliver vital aid. Includes video interview with Minister MacKay. more>>
|
Canadian Forces personnel load up HMCS Athabaskan with supplies prior to leaving for the country of Haiti that was devastated by an earthquake.
The 200-member Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) is deployed as part of Operation HESTIA, the Canadian Forces contribution to earthquake relief efforts in the Port-au-Prince region, where a 7.0 magnitude quake that struck Haiti on January 12th, 2010 did the most damage. more>>
|
The U.N. says rescue workers and relief goods are pouring into Haiti from around the world, but aid workers are running into huge problems reaching people trapped under buildings or feeding hungry survivors. more>>
|
(JAN 2010) UK Defence chiefs are preparing drastic cuts to the number of American stealth JSF aircraft planned for the RAF and the Royal Navy's proposed new carriers. The JSF, or F35 as it is now called, has been subject to costly delays and the estimated price has soared from £37m each four years ago to more than £62m today. more>>
|
Martin Shadwick provides an overview of key priorities for upcoming military equipment procurements. more>>
|
(Jan 2010) Britain's defense journalist Rupert Hamer has been killed in a roadside explosion. The 39-year-old is the first British journalist to die in the Afghanistan conflict. He was accompanying U.S. Marines patrolling near Nawa, southern Afghanistan. One of the Marines was also killed in the blast. more>>
|
(Jan 2010) Major Elizabeth Erickson and Staff Sgt. Sarah Saelens rode for hours in heavily armored vehicles, driven slowly with frequent stops to inspect the road for buried bombs, to speak with a small group of Afghan women who want a school for their daughters and vocational training for themselves. more>>
|
(Jan 2010) Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper reiterated on Thursday the official Ottawa line that the country's 2,500 military troops in Afghanistan will return home at the end of 2011.
more>>
|
(31 Dec 2009) "Today I stand with all Canadians as we mourn the loss of four brave and selfless Canadian soldiers, and one Canadian journalist, who died after the vehicle they were riding struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while on patrol in an area south of Kandahar," Defence Minister MacKay said. Five others were wounded (four soldiers and another civilian). more>>
|
(Dec 2009) Canada should launch a "peace mission" to Afghanistan aimed at ending the war there through diplomatic and political means, says a report issued by the Canadian Council of Churches, the country's largest ecumenical Christian association. more>>
|
(Dec 2009) U.S. and Russian negotiators, meeting in Geneva, have been struggling to solve some remaining impediments to a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START). The big questions are, what type of a bridging arrangement will they agree on, and how long will it last. more>>
|
It is with great sadness that I must advise our readers that Mr Ken Krukewich, FrontLine's Advisor for Space (and previously Modeling and Simulation Advisor), passed away suddenly in his home last week. Ken was a dear friend and great supporter of FrontLine. He will be greatly missed by his many friends in DND and the international space sector. The beautiful service ended with the musical theme of 2001: A Space Odyssey (which would have delighted him). Those wishing, may make a memorial donation to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. Donations, tributes and condolences may be made at http://www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com more>>
|
(Dec 2009) Kandahar residents say the Taliban "own the night." Kandahar will be the center of the new U.S. strategy announced by President Obama, according to military and civilian officials interviewed in Kandahar and Kabul. The goal: protect the population better than they have been protected so far. At least 10,000 of the additional 30,000 troops Obama announced will be deployed in and around the city. Most will go to the city's outskirts to try to create what the new Canadian general in charge of Kandahar calls a "ring of stability" and a "true buffer zone" to keep militants out. more>>
|
(Nov 2009) Canadian soldiers bound for Afghanistan next year will be the first to receive "psychological resilience" training in an effort to reduce the incidence of post-traumatic stress among combat troops. more>>
|
(Nov 2009) In what appears to be his first step toward combating corruption since he was inaugurated as Afghan president for the second time, Hamid Karzai has asked two senior officials to be investigated for embezzlement and kickbacks. However, it's not clear whether corruption or politics was the reason why Karzai has singled them out. more>>
|
American military officials reported that Iraqi security forces, working with U.S. advisors, arrested 21 terrorism suspects in various operations in recent days. The security team uncovered advanced bomb-making components such as mechanisms that affix magnetic bombs to vehicles, making them unable to be removed unless the bombs are detonated. more>>
|
The Conference of Defence Associations Institute has released of its fourth annual Vimy Paper, "The Strategic Impact of Energy Dependency," edited by our Senior Defence Analyst Colonel (Ret'd) Brian MacDonald. more>>
|
November 5–11 is Veterans’ Week. It is a time to recognize and remember the contribution of ordinary men and women who performed extraordinary deeds on behalf of their country and fellow Canadians. more>>
|
(Nov 2009) Five British soldiers from Task Force Helmand have been shot dead by an Afghan police officer. more>>
|
(4 Nov 2009) The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff expressed concern about governance in Afghanistan. "We are extremely concerned about the level of corruption and the legitimacy of this government," USN Adm Mullen said at the National Press Club today. more>>
|
(October 2009) 
After defying the PMO and bureaucrats alike, Hillier’s autobiography, A Soldier First, "spits out the sock they tried to stuff into his mouth, rages against an unwieldy federal bureaucracy, reveals private showdowns with former defence minister Gordon O’Connor and twice dismisses Liberal MP Denis Coderre’s politics as 'dumber than dirt.' Ouch."
more>>
|
(November) Teacher helps kids understand. more>>
|
(October 2009) In the first study to look at sex-specific pain prevalence in Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans, researchers from the VA Connecticut Healthcare System and the Yale University School of Medicine found women Veterans had a lower prevalence of pain than male counterparts returning from the conflicts. more>>
|
(13 Oct) Since 1775, the U.S. Navy has played a major role in every conflict that has defined the United States as a nation. more>>
|
(6 Oct 2009) by David Pugliese – One issue related to the Afghan war and Canada’s allies that had disappeared from view was the alleged rape of young kids at the hands of the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police (aka “Man-Love Thursdays”). DND will soon launch a Board of Inquiry into aspects of this issue (what Canadian troops and leaders knew and what they did about it). The National Investigation Service is also on the case. more>>
|
(October 2009) In celebrating the Canadian Centennial of Flight, CBC Television and Radio-Canada have produced an aviation documentary, Canada Above And Beyond: 100 Years of Aviation. The production is a four-part documentary series that explores the revolutionary impact of aviation on this country and our great passion for flight. more>>
|
(10 Oct 2009) Under a revised command structure that will go into effect next week, General Stanley McChrystal's top deputy, Lt.Gen David Rodriguez, will assume control of day-to-day tactical operations of ISAF. more>>
|
(10 Oct 2009) As they review U.S. policy in Afghanistan for the second time this year, U.S. leaders face one nagging suspicion - it may not be possible to crush al-Qaeda, defeat the Taliban and stabilize Afghanistan at a reasonable cost in blood, treasure or time.
more>>
|
(10 Oct 2009) The genius of democracy is the rotation of power, which forces the opposition to be serious - particularly about things like war, about which until Jan. 20 of this year Democrats were decidedly unserious. more>>
|
(1 Oct 2009) 
Lieutenant-General André Deschamps succeeded LGen Angus Watt as the new Chief of the Air Staff. more>>
|
(28 Sept 2009) Shortly after a Canadian military vehicle had been blasted by a bomb planted in the road, BGen Vance, Commander of Task Force Kandahar demanded a shura (meeting) with village elders. He wanted an explanation as to why villagers, who have benefited from Canadian aid and protection, didn't bother to warn them about the bomb. more>>
|
The U.S. Pacific Fleet is deploying personnel and units to provide humanitarian aid in the wake of natural disasters that have stricken the Philippines, American Samoa and Indonesia.
|
more>>
|
(Sept 2009) Numerous newspaper reports have surfaced over the last few years about the supposed "cultural" issue of Afghan Army and Afghan police officers raping young boys, while Canadian soldiers are allegedly instructed to turn a blind eye. more>>
|
(Sept 2009) The Obama administration cancels the plan to station land-based anti-ballistic missile defense systems in Eastern Europe. Shock waves reverberate around the world. more>>
|
(Sept 19, 2009) Secretary of Defense Robert Gates' OpEd to the New York Times explains his position on anti-missile defense in Eastern Europe. more>>
|
(24 Sept 2009) The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, announced a series of improvements to Canada’s IRB Policy. Read more on IRBs, including objectives, requirements, improvements, and impacts. more>>
|
(24 Sept 2009) The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, today announced that The Boeing Company has signed an agreement with L-3 Wescam Inc. to manufacture mechanical parts in support of Boeing CH-147 Chinook cargo helicopters, including 15 purchased by the Government of Canada for the Canadian Forces. more>>
|
(Sept 2009) Under perfect running conditions, 11,000 civilians and military personnel from across the country ran, walked or wheeled side by side in the 2009 Canada Army Run. Check link for results: more>>
|
(16 Sept 2009) The highest ranking woman in the Canadian military, BGen Hillary Jaeger will assume command of all of NATO's medical personnel in Afghanistan next month. Her focus will be on acute care of those injured in combat, as well as the public health aspect of the mission by dealing with infectious diseases.
more>>
|
Departing from downtown Ottawa on September 20, the Canada Army Run is open to all and no qualifying time is required. Be part of one of the most exciting running events in Canada and take the opportunity to say “thanks” to the Canadian men and women who serve us in so many ways at home and abroad. more>>
|
(Sept 2009)  Richard Fitoussi looks at the Afghanistan conflict since Canada joined the war in 2001. With no affiliation to the military or a journalistic outlet, Fitoussi examines the war from many aspects. He talks to the troops on the ground, officers in the military, scholars from different institutions, embedded journalists and the Afghan people. more>>
|
(Sept 2009) Following the recent appointment of John Pranzatelli as Strategy and Business Operations Vice President, the Chairman of the Board, CEO and President of MBDA Incorporated, Jerry Agee, approved the appointment of Earle Rudolph as Vice President of Business Development. Previous positions include: QinetiQ Inc. VPBD; Alliant Tech Systems Group, VP; Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Corp BD Manager; and Senior Manager at Raytheon.
|
(July 2009) ASD Report: Strategic evaluation of industry and key players’ is a business report that provides a comprehensive view of the aerospace & defense industry and its top 10 companies. more>>
|
The CDA Institute is pleased to announce that Warrant Officer William Kenneth MacDonald has been chosen as the recipient of the 2009 Vimy Award. more>>
|
(30 September 20) Canada's Army Run is setting its sights on becoming a key North American destination Run. Military and civilians run together in half-marathon and 5K events to celebrate and recognize contributions of Canadian Forces at home and abroad. more>>
|
(28 July 2009) Ottawa - The Conference of Defence Associations (CDA) welcomes the fresh federal approach to rationalizing ship procurement brought forward at a recently concluded Shipbuilding Forum. more>>
|
(27 July 2009) A meeting between the government and Canadian marine industries began in Gatineau with the attendance of four of the key Ministers responsible for federal ship procurement. more>>
|
(25 July 2009) Public Works and Government Services Canada is at the centre of yet another defence procurement scandal by ruling that Quebec-based Rheinmetall Canada's financial paperwork was not completed properly. Rather than requesting the additional information, Public Works chose to go back to the drawing board with a new RFP and a new deadline of August 27, 2009. Rheinmetall, the only company to bid on the program to boost army firepower, currently markets a high-speed grenade launcher that complies to all of the technical requirements from the Canadian Forces. Another firm, that originally did not have a product to meet Canadian specification, has suddenly shown interest in bidding. Could this be the reason Public Works has chosen to waste taxpayers money by not only starting the process all over again, but subsequently extending the deadline to allow another firm to hastily get a product ready? more>>
|
(25 July 2009) To complement the existing 60mm mortars, CASW must be capable of both direct fire and high-angle indirect fire. The latter skews the project towards systems with more complex sights. more>>
|
(25 July 2009) The first attempt at an NPP (Notice of Proposed Procurement) was cancelled on 07 Nov 2008. The NPP has since been reissued. Click here for commentary by the Canadian American Strategic Review. more>>
|
(23 July 2009) LGen Andrew Leslie, Chief of the Land Staff, said a recently announced $5.2-billion government investment in armoured vehicles and a heavy push in officer training means "there is no need for an operational pause if things unfold the way I certainly hope they do." more>>
|
On June 4, 2009 SSG 1st Class John C. Beale was KIA in Afghanistan. His death didn't make headlines and outside of his hometown, wasn't much noted. His body was escorted home on June 11, 2009 to Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia, just south of Atlanta. The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough, Georgia. A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time. This was filmed by a State Trooper during the procession. That simple notice in local papers was the extent of the announcement. This video is about 12 minutes long, and while it is not professionally done, if you look closely you can see the faces of the American People. more>>
|
(9 July 2009) The federal government announced plans to procure the next generation of land combat vehicles, renewing a core capability of the Canadian Forces and providing our uniformed men and women with the equipment required to do their jobs safely and effectively. more>>
|
(6 July 2009) The United States and Russia today agreed to resume bilateral military cooperation, which has been on hold since the conflict between Russia and Georgia erupted in August 2008. more>>
|
(Tuesday, July 2) TONIGHT - British Foreign Secretary David Miliband discusses the war in Afghanistan in an interview with Gwen Ifill on The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer
more>>
|
(29 June 2009) A crisis in Honduras threatened to spill across the region hours after President Manuel Zelaya was thrown out by the army and exiled to Costa Rica. His leftist ally in Venezuela, President Hugo Chavez, threatens military intervention. more>>
|
(28 June 2009) NATO and Russia on Saturday agreed to resume military cooperation nearly a year after a crisis in their relations following the Georgia war. more>>
|
(24 June 2009) Decorated Vietnam War Veteran Garry Lee Price died of the cancer he had been battling for more than a year. VA doctors confirmed the connection between his illness and his exposure to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam. Last week, after a year of stalling, the VA denied his disability benefits claim. more>>
|
(23 June 2009) Riders from Sacramento area Veterans motorcycle clubs will visit dying Army Veteran Garry Lee Price tomorrow in a spontaneous outpouring of support and brotherhood. more>>
|
(22 June 2009) Vice-Admiral Dean McFadden assumed command of the Canadian Navy this morning at a formal ceremony held in Ottawa at the Cartier Square Drill Hall more>>
|
(12 June 2009) Ottawa – A ceremony was held to mark the end of 48 years of patient care at the National Defence Medical Centre. Military patients in the area will now receive medical and dental care at the Monfort Hospital. more>>
|
(June 2009) New Bill enables Veterans Affairs Canada to extend benefits to low-income Allied Veterans of the Second World War and the Korean War. Family members may also receive benefits. more>>
|
(June 2009) Garry Lee Price is dying of cancer in a hospice in Sacramento while the Veterans Administration stalls on his service-related disability claim. Instead of expediting his claim, his terminal status has given them extra reason to stall. more>>
|
(June 2009) FrontLine previously ran a story on an American soldier on exchange in Canada. Now deployed in Afganistan, LTC Eric Robinson sends us a few pictures. more>>
|
In a U.S. Navy-led humanitarian and civil assistance mission, CFHS members gain valuable experience in dealing with medical realities in under-served areas of the world and responding to a wide range of medical needs. more>>
|
(June 2009) President and Executive Director of Frontline Defense Systems and the Armed Forces Foundation, Patricia Driscoll recently announced that proceeds of a new book “Hidden Battles on Unseen Fronts: Stories of American Service Members with Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD" would be donated to the AFF. more>>
|
(June 2009) On June 6, The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, will attend a parade, commemorative ceremony, and community picnic on the grounds of the Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building to mark this significant anniversary.
more>>
|
(April 2009) Canadian Forces soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen, and members of the Canadian Rangers successfully completed their missions last week and returned to the Command Post at Eureka, Ellesmere Island, signalling the end of Operation Nunalivut 2009 more>>
|
(April 2009) On April 23, 2009, Major Michelle Mendes, based in Ottawa, Ontario was found dead in an accommodation room, at the Kandahar Airfield. An investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances of this incident. more>>
|
(April 2009) Defence Minister Peter MacKay says Ottawa will not accept a helicopter contracted for the military unless it meets specifications set out by the Defence Department. more>>
|
(APRIL 2009) There are good reasons why the phrase 'naval insurgency' sounds like 'fried ice cream'. Oceans don't have civilian populations and terrain cover, the two key enablers of insurgency on land. In addition, sailors do everything inside their protective platforms, which in turn are always moving, so the soft or fixed targets just don't exist. Perhaps, however, this is thinking too literally. more>>
|
(APRIL 2009) Rheinmetall Defence was chosen to equip the Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigates with the MASS (Multi Ammunition Softkill System) naval countermeasures system, under Canada’s FELEX frigate modernization programme more>>
|
The Highway of Heroes. All of Canada mourns the loss of each life given in service to this country. Ordinary citizens show this by going to the highway or lining a bridge, waving a flag, and saluting our fallen soldiers as they pass in solemn procession towards their final resting place. Click here for a tribute video: more>>
|
(March 2009) Margaret Warner interviews President Karzai (transcript) for the Newshour. more>>
|
(18 MAR 2009) Defence Minister Peter MacKay was at 12 Wing Shearwater on Tuesday to announce some old spending and new spending, and to hint at more spending to come. more>>
|
(18 MAR 2009) Managing Canada's relationship with the United States is the most important aspect of Canadian foreign policy. Derek Burney argues that now is the time for the Canadian government to boldly pursue a strategy firmly based in Canadian interests. more>>
|
(18 MAR 2009) Canadians like to believe that our troops are doing a first-rate job in “Canadahar.” Do the Americans agree with our rosy assessment? (by Jack Granatstein) more>>
|
(13 MAR 2009) The Pentagon intends to spend $400 million to develop a giant dirigible that will float 65,000 feet above the Earth for 10 years, providing unblinking and intricate radar surveillance of vehicles, planes and people below. A contractor has not yet been chosen to build the prototype – earlier work was done by Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin more>>
|
(26 FEB 2009) If the assertion that the incoming Obama administration will prioritise people over technology is correct, the US Navy will take second billing to the starring army role. Obama's campaign website explicitly mentions the navy as culpable for a broad failure in the acquisition process after several new ship designs suffered serious cost and schedule over-runs. more>>
|
(10 FEB 2009) “Canada has lost one of its truest friends in Remembrance, with the passing of Mr. Georges Devloo, a resident of Vimy, France," said The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs. "He will be greatly missed." more>>
|
(OCT 2008) FrontLine magazines will again be attending the Homeland Defense Symposium in Colorado Springs. Video of the 2008 event can be seen at this link: more>>
|
(31 JAN 2009) It has begun. Canada, Denmark, Norway and Russia are among the countries competing for a piece of the Arctic. Watch entire documentary video on-line. more>>
|
(31 JAN 2009) The growing worldwide interest in exploring the Arctic will lessen Canada's influence over what happens there, says a northern historian and sovereignty expert. more>>
|
(18 FEB 2009) Register today for a 90 minute, timely & interactive webinar on February 18, 2009. Defense spending priorities and the outlook for procurement programs and research & development in the next budget year.
Speakers include: Trent Franks, Member House Arms Services Committee; Mackenzie Eaglen, Sr. Policy Analyst with Douglas & Sarah Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies; Dr. Daniel Goure, Vice President, The Lexington Institute.
more>>
|
(12 DEC 2008) The federal cabinet will be asked early in the new year to give its blessing to spend $3 billion to replace Canada's geriatric fleet of search-and-rescue planes more>>
|
(5 DEC 2008) Warrant Officer Robert John Wilson, Private Demetrios Diplaros, and Corporal Mark Robert McLaren were killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on their armoured vehicle during a joint patrol with Afghan National Army soldiers in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometres west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m. Kandahar time on December 5, 2008. more>>
|
(24 NOV 2008) by Dave Pugliese
The Defence Department’s procurement system is operating just fine and it’s the news media who are to blame for the perception there are problems, says Dan Ross, the department’s assistant deputy minister of materiel. This claim met with skepticism by some who attended the conference. “They used to blame industry and consultants for the problems,” said one aerospace executive. “Now he’s blaming journalists. Next it will be the politicians. They’re looking to blame everyone but themselves.” more>>
|
(2008) by Louise Mercier
The government must consider the fine line between operational requirements and the need to re-invest in the economic future of Canada. more>>
|
(2008) by Senator Colin Kenny
Some think accrual accounting will make it easier to buy badly needed military equipment and amortize it over time. I will applaud if it does. more>>
|
(2008) by LGen (ret) Ken Pennie
The key question is how much will DND be able to truly align itself to the Canada First strategy? more>>
|
(2008) by Robert Day
Too many interlopers have inserted themselves into the defence procurement process. Decision-making protocols must be streamlined. more>>
|
(2008) by Claude Bachand
The lines of responsibility are not clear and there is a lack of stakeholder involvement in defence procurement. more>>
|
(2008) by Bernie Grover
The bad news is that the procurements are being conducted within a defence industry policy vacuum. more>>
|
(2008) by Alan Williams
A number of myths continue to pervade defence procurement today. more>>
|
(2008) Reduce the Impediments
One’s responsibility on the job should be reflected by one’s “authority” to make the corresponding decision. more>>
|
(2008) by Chris MacLean
Nine stages to achieve final Treasury Board approval to proceed? Give me a break. more>>
|
(2008) Six Sigma methodology can provide tools to establish real change and efficiencies. more>>
|
(2008) by Louise Mercier
A whole of government approach is a critical step in ensuring the transparency of large capital procurements. more>>
|
(2008) The view that the current system of defence procurement is broken and beyond repair is held by many in DND and industry. more>>
|
(2008) by Janet Thorsteinson
Defence and security industries have serious concerns with regard to the government’s current approach to risk management. more>>
|
(2008) by Vince DeRose, John M. Green
The obligation to treat bidders fairly and equally includes the duty to avoid conflicts of interest. more>>
|
more>>
|
(2007) by John Read
Banking IRBs (Industrial and Regional Benefits). more>>
|
