Charley Diaz, MPA

Maritime Security Bulletin & Geopolitical Update Re: Yemen Houthis Have Shot Down (3) American MQ-9 Reaper Drones Since November (1 This Week) Issued by: Sanborn Analytics Date: April 26, 2024 Subject: Maritime Security Advisory - Recent MQ-9 Reaper Drone Incidents off Yemen Dear Maritime Shipping Community and Armed Naval Forces, Sanborn Analytics issues this maritime security bulletin to raise awareness and provide advisory information regarding recent incidents involving MQ-9 Reaper drones off the coast of Yemen. According to a report by CBS News on April 26th, 2024, it has been confirmed that three U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drones, each valued at approximately $30 million, have crashed off the coast of Yemen since November. The most recent incident, occurring this week, is suspected to have been caused by actions possibly undertaken by Houthi rebels. The precise cause of the incident is currently under investigation. These unfortunate occurrences mark a concerning trend, as two other MQ-9 Reaper drones have been brought down by Houthi forces since November, with the first incident reported in early November and the second in February. The MQ-9 Reaper drones deployed in this region are integral to the U.S. military's efforts aimed at safeguarding commercial and military vessels from ongoing threats posed by the Houthis. In light of these developments, Sanborn Analytics urges all vessels operating in the vicinity of Yemen to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere strictly to recommended security protocols. Additionally, armed naval forces are advised to remain on high alert and coordinate closely with relevant authorities to mitigate potential risks and enhance maritime security measures. For any inquiries or to report suspicious activities, please contact Sanborn Analytics at outreach@sanbornanalytics.us or call us at (+1)(617)539-6114. Media Credit: CBS News Thank you for your attention to this matter. Stay safe and secure on the seas. Sincerely, Sanborn Analytics #maritimesecurity #yemen #usnavy #israel #hamas #iran #russia #israelhamaswar #dronetechnology #ai #hezbollah #usnavy https://lnkd.in/e38wHfEt

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Pole Star Defense Joins Forces with U.S. Coast Guard in Strategic Partnership for Baltimore Bridge Collapse Response In the wake of the devastating collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, MD, Pole Star Defense is privileged to support the U.S. Coast Guard and the Unified Command through a strategic partnership. We are providing critical, live AIS data streaming to enhance operational clarity and safety for all emergency response activities at the scene. Our advanced capabilities and streaming technology services are being deployed to ensure that the area remains clear of unauthorized vessels, thereby safeguarding the rescue and recovery teams during their vital work. This partnership reflects Pole Star Defense’s commitment to delivering high-performance solutions under the most demanding circumstances. Pole Star Defense is dedicated to supporting the brave individuals at the forefront of this tragedy. We are here not only as a provider of technological solutions, but as a partner in the collective effort to manage this crisis with precision and dignity. We encourage other government entities facing similar critical challenges to reach out to see how our advanced maritime data solutions can support your missions. For ongoing updates and more information about our services, find us on www.polestardefense.com. Alex Field Managing Director, Pole Star Defense Read more: https://lnkd.in/g-vRhJnS #MaritimeSafety, #DefenseContracting, #PublicSafety, #GovernmentCollaboration #MaritimeData, #EmergencyResponse, #InfrastructureSafety, #TechInGov, #InnovationInDefense, #BridgeCollapse, #FrancisScottKeyBridge

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5/15/24 National Security News and Commentary https://conta.cc/4arndSW 1. US special ops teams must cut 5,000 troops over next 5 years amid push to recruit technical experts 2. Evaluating the Strategic Expansion of Pentagon Special Ops Training for Allies Amid Global Tensions 3. The power of relationships and partnerships forged by special ops by Michael K. Nagata 4. US Commander Suggests UK Special Forces Are Active in Ukraine 5. The US is still falling behind on electronic warfare, special operators warn 6. UN Admits Hamas Lied on Casualty Numbers; But the Damage Is Done 7. Army Officer Resigns in Protest of ‘Unqualified’ U.S. Support to Israel 8. The arsenal of democracy is running low on gunpowder 9. How Cobra Gold Helps the US Strengthen Its Indo-Pacific Partnerships 10. Must-Pass Defense Bill Includes 4.5% Military Pay Raise on Top of 15% Increase for Junior Enlisted Troops 11. Putin begins defense ministry purge amid nuclear secrets leak rumor 12. Biden's Latest Policy Failure: West Africa 13. An Army drone branch? Idea advances in House subcommittee 14. GA-ASI and USSOCOM collaborate on ABAD Pod for MQ-9A resilience 15. Putin to meet Xi in Beijing as world convulses from global conflicts 16. America needs to lead in drone warfare 17. Should Taiwan Attempt to Replicate the Zelensky Playbook? 18. Why Iran and Israel Stepped Back From the Brink 19. A UN Trusteeship for Palestine 20. Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, May 14, 2024 21. Israel–Hamas War (Iran) Update, May 14, 2024

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Appreciate the great collaboration between PEO IEW&S , Army Futures Command (ACM-IS), Mass Virtual and the ISR Task Force to discuss virtualized training options that will enhance human performance in an affordable and scalable way. The Intelligence enterprise is faced with a unique challenge in support of the US Army. We employ low density systems, we maintain them with low density military specialties, and we are expected to integrate cutting edge technology faster than our institutional training processes can keep pace. So how do we conduct relevant training quickly, effectively and affordably in the 21st century? We virtualize the training. Yesterday I asked the team to get a little uncomfortable and find a way to demonstrate this capability during our flagship intelligence experiment in September. I want our senior leaders to immerse themselves in a virtual world to see how a 35-series Soldier will interact with component-level parts without ever touching the system. Imagine the possibilities we create if we can certify our back-shop support without ever pulling capital assets out of the fight.

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RFIs due NLT 17-July. #Marine Corps Systems Command (#MARCORSYSCOM) is seeking solutions to operationalize Condition Based #Maintenance Plus (#CBM+) for the #USMC. This includes #data #analytics, #visualizations, #capture #hardware, and #transport methods for processing data from #CANbus systems, #fluid #analysis, #sensors, #meters, and historical maintenance #records on #military #vehicles. MARCORSYSCOM is particularly interested in #Machine #Learning (#ML) models that offer best-in-class accuracy and #predictive capabilities. Solutions should efficiently #collect, #transmit, #store, #analyze, and #visualize #data while protecting #government #information and must interface with existing #hardware using 9-pin or 6-pin deutsch connectors. CRG has a proven track record of facilitating client wins & helping manage $Billions in TCV on USMIL, NATO & federal agency contracts around the world. Leveraging our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of defense procurement, ensuring your innovative solutions meet stringent client requirements and maximize market opportunities. Visit crgroupinc.com or reach out at contact@crgroupinc.com. #IL - #VA - #DC - #Dubai, #UAE. #CRG #USMC #MarineCorps #CBMPlus #DataAnalytics #MachineLearning #PredictiveMaintenance #MilitaryTech #GovTech #DefenseInnovation #MaintenanceSupport #DataVisualization #IoT #CANbus #MilitaryVehicles #CyberSecurity #GovContracting #TechInnovation #DefenseIndustry #LogisticsTech #SmartMaintenance #PredictiveAnalytics #DataProtection #HardwareIntegration #TechSolutions #MARCORSYSCOM #DoDTech

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5/6/24 National Security News and Commentary https://conta.cc/4dGj1Sn 1. Too few planners understand what special operators can do today 2. US AC-130J Ghostrider Destroys Chinese ‘Fishing Boat’ In Rare Military Drills Targeting Notorious Vessels 3. USSOCOM to deploy next-generation communications for sUAS in contested scenarios 4. The V-22 Osprey Is the U.S. Military's Problem Child Helicopter 5. The Pentagon is investigating whether special operators have committed war crimes, and if their commanders have even been checking 6. The dizzying pace of Ukrainian drone innovation 7. US command rites take on sharp tone over China’s ‘troubling actions’ 8. China’s Chilling Cognitive Warfare Plans 9. Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, May 5, 2024 10. Israel–Hamas War (Iran) Update, May 5, 2024 11. How to Use and Misuse History in Cold War II With China 12. How TikTok Is Wiring Gen Z’s Money Brain 13. US about to build a whole lot more ATACMS 14. Foreign intelligence services are contracting out killings to gangs 15. In China, Ruled by Men, Women Quietly Find a Powerful Voice

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Maritime Security Bulletin and Advisory Re Yemen Houthis Have Shot Down An American MQ-9 Reaper Drone and Damaged A Cargo Vessel in the Red Sea. Issued by: Sanborn Analytics Date: May 18, 2024 Attention: Maritime Shipping Community and Armed Naval Forces Sanborn Analytics is issuing this bulletin and advisory to inform all maritime operators and naval forces of recent security incidents in the Red Sea that may impact maritime safety and operations. Recent Incidents: 1. Drone Shootdown: Date: Friday, May 17th, 2024 Incident: Yemen’s Houthi rebels shot down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone. Details: The drone was reportedly shot down with a surface-to-air missile in Yemen’s Marib province, a region controlled by allies of Yemen’s exiled, internationally recognized government. The Houthis released footage showing the launch and impact of the missile, accompanied by anti-American and anti-Israeli chants. 2. Vessel Attack: Date: Early Saturday, May 18, 2024 Incident: A commercial vessel came under attack 76 NM off the coast of Yemen’s port city of Hodeida. Details: The UK Maritime Trade Operations Center reported that the vessel sustained slight damage after being struck by an unknown object on its port quarter. The vessel and crew are confirmed safe and continuing their voyage. Context: These incidents are part of the ongoing campaign by Houthi forces, influenced by the broader conflict involving the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Maritime operations in the Red Sea region are at increased risk due to these heightened tensions and hostilities. Advisory: Increased Vigilance: All maritime operators should increase surveillance and maintain heightened vigilance when transiting through the Red Sea and surrounding areas. Communication: Maintain continuous communication with naval forces and report any suspicious activities immediately. Safety Measures: Ensure that all safety and security protocols are up to date and strictly followed by the crew. Alternative Routes: Consider alternative routing to avoid high-risk areas where feasible. Contact Information: Email: outreach@sanbornanalytics.us Phone: (+1)(617)539-6114 Sanborn Analytics remains committed to providing timely and accurate information to ensure the safety and security of maritime operations. For further information or assistance, please contact us via the provided email or phone number. Media Credit: AP News (No Media Collaboration)(see link) Stay safe and vigilant. Sanborn Analytics #maritimesecurity #nationalsecurity #yemen #israel #hamas #israelhamaswar #homelandsecurity #dronetechnology #ai #iran https://lnkd.in/eY__WQZn

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The U.S. special operations commander in South Korea highlighted the importance of joint drills between the U.S. and South Korea, specifically mentioning a recent combined air exercise involving the U.S. AC-130J gunship as a demonstration of their strong security commitment. This exercise was held following concerns over increased military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. The commander emphasized routine training to enhance readiness and stated that training opportunities on the Korean Peninsula are open to any ally, partner, or friend. Additionally, South Korea, the U.S., and Japan are planning to conduct their first-ever trilateral multido exercise called Freedom Edge to deter evolving North Korean threats. #AsiaRisk #GeopoliticalConflictandDisputes #SouthKorea Follow us for daily updates on risk and operations in Asia! https://lnkd.in/d2DVPChp

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The track forecast was mostly spot on for Hurricane Beryl, however the intensity forecast (Cat 5 while most had Cat 3 as the max) was off. A few reasons for this and they tie directly into some of the key advantages Tropical Weather Analytics, Inc.'s Hurricane Hunter Satellites provide: 1. Vertical Wind/High Res 3D Data +/- 1 meter per second at 100 m scale. 2. Reducing hPa error from 7-11 hPa down to just 3.5hPa by modeling hurricanes as a Carnot Engine. 3. Revisit rate every 2.5 hours (the planes can make only so many observations). 4. Steering wind environment in one observation swath. We collect about 4000km X 3000km in one observation. 5. 3D eye structure at 100m scale. #hurricaneberyl #hurricnaeseason #weatherforecast #ClimateChange

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Maritime Security Bulletin and Advisory Re Yemen Houthis and U.S. Naval Forces Exchange Missile Attacks. Yemen Houthis Fire Anti-Ship Missiles at a Cargo Vessel. Issued by: Sanborn Analytics Date: May 23rd, 2024 Sanborn Analytics is issuing this maritime security bulletin and advisory to inform the maritime shipping community and armed naval forces at sea about (2) recent security events in the Yemeni region and the Red Sea. Incident 1: Interception of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Date: May 22nd, 2024   Time: Approximately 3:16 p.m. local time   Location: Yemeni region controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi forces  On May 22, 2024, U.S. Central Command forces successfully intercepted and destroyed four unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in a Yemeni region under the control of Iranian-backed Houthi forces. The drones posed an immediate threat to U.S. and coalition forces, as well as commercial ships operating in the area. According to a statement issued by US Centcom, the interception was necessary to safeguard the freedom of navigation and ensure the safety and security of international waters. This quick and decisive response underscores the commitment of the U.S. and its allies to maintaining regional peace and security. Incident 2: Missile Attack on Commercial Vessel Date: May 23rd, 2024   Location: 132032N, 0424850E, approximately 98NM south of Al Hudaydah, Yemen   Incident Report: UKMTO-IO #690   UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 073 - UPDATE 001 On May 23, 2024, the Houthi group launched a missile targeting a commercial vessel navigating the Red Sea. The Master of the Merchant Vessel reported that the missile impacted the water in close proximity to the port side of the vessel. Fortunately, the vessel and all crew members are safe, and the vessel is proceeding to its next port of call. Authorities are currently investigating the incident. Advisory: Vessels transiting the area are advised to exercise heightened caution. All suspicious activities should be promptly reported to UKMTO. Mariners should maintain a vigilant watch and stay informed of the latest security updates. Contact Information: For further information or to report any incidents, please contact Sanborn Analytics:   Email: outreach@sanbornanalytics.us   Phone: (+1)(617)539-6114 Media Credit: Marine Insight News (see link) Sanborn Analytics #maritimesecurity #israel #hamas #yemen #houthis #usnavy #israelhamaswar #iran #hezbollah https://lnkd.in/gf2YHph4

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Interesting points and counterpoints in this article. I just posted yesterday about General McClellan, mentioned here, and his failures in command, despite his high class standing. I would imagine that we have little insight into the decade or more of training that these submarine commanders receive. The anti-DEI crowd is likely to pounce on the supporting opinions and assumptions in this article, rather than the "on the other hand" counterpoints. https://lnkd.in/eg2qCkye

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❗SWOBOSS Visits NHRC's STEEL in the Warfighter Performance Department❗ Vice Adm. Brendan McLane, commander of Naval Surface Forces, and Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visits the Naval Health Research Center’s (NHRC’s) Sleep, Tactical Efficiency, and Endurance Laboratory (STEEL) in the Warfighter Performance Department. While at the lab, Dr. Rachel Markwald, a senior research physiologist with NHRC, and Principal Investigator for the Command Readiness, Endurance, and Watchstanding (CREW) program, briefed VADM McLane on research progress and future plans for CREW program activities in support of Surface Force crew fatigue initiatives to include a CREW system shipboard demonstration for wearable sleep devices at RIMPAC Trident Warrior 2024 and crew sleep monitoring with wearables for multiple ships during an upcoming deployment. Additionally, improving shipboard mattresses is another priority that NHRC STEEL team has undertaken with a pilot study supported by the Office of Naval Research. “With the mattress pilot study kicking off this month (May 2024), we wanted to show VADM McLane our new NHRC sleep berthing laboratory. This immersive space is equipped with rack systems and is temperature controlled with specialized LED lighting and an audio system that plays actual shipboard noise files. Custom design work such as the addition of simulated pipes, electronics, and signage also increase the realism of the shipboard environment,” said Markwald. The mattress pilot study will provide objective and subjective data to characterize the current standard mattress in terms of support, pain relief, overall comfort, and sleep quality. The goal is to compare these outcomes with alternative mattresses to identify areas of improvement.

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The Space Force, already facing its first-ever budget cut in fiscal 2025, would face an additional 3 percent cut if House appropriators get their way. The combined cut would be 5 percent compared to 2024. In their version of the 2025 defense appropriations bill, House lawmakers moved to slash $900 million from the Space Force’s proposed $29.6 billion budget, primarily in procurement and research and development. The biggest single cut would hit GPS III, with lawmakers seeking to save $185.9 million by cutting the buy from two to one satellite in 2025, lawmakers project. The House Armed Services Committee proposed a similar cut in its draft of the 2025 National Defense Authorization bill. Reducing funding for the more robust GPS IIIF comes as the Space Force eyes alternate solutions for providing position, navigation, and timing from space. In February, Space Systems Command solicited industry for ideas on smaller, cheaper satellites that could rapidly go into orbit to test new technologies, and in April, the Department of the Air Force announced it was taking advantage of new “quick start” authorities from Congress to work on a jam-resistant PNT solution. The program, initially dubbed GPS Lite, is now called Resilient GPS. But while House Armed Services Committee members expressed enthusiasm for the idea, appropriators remain skeptical. “The Committee has several concerns about the R-GPS plan and the use of this authority for this project,” lawmakers wrote. Lawmakers rejected the Space Force’s request to reprogram $77 million for Resilient GPS in the 2025 budget. Lawmakers pushed back on other programs, as well. Missile warning/missile tracking satellites were among the major areas of investment in the Space Force budget request, to the tune of $4.7 billion. The House appropriations bill would trim more than $150 million from that. Among the cuts: $54.5 million for the Space Development Agency’s MW/MT efforts in low-Earth orbit, and $95.9 million for Space Systems Command’s MW/MT constellation in medium-Earth orbit, citing “vendor termination.” An SSC spokesman, asked if the command is cancelling an existing contract or reducing requirements for a future one, declined to comment on pending legislation. Evolved Strategic SATCOM, a new nuclear command, control, and communications satellite constellation, would be cut by $44 million, while Protected Tactical SATCOM, for jam-resistant communications, would be cut by $85 million, including some reprogramming of funds at the Space Force’s request. #SpaceForce #Budget #GPSIIIF In Sept. 2018, the U.S. Air Force selected Lockheed Martin to build up to 22 additional GPS III Follow On (GPS IIIF) satellites with new capabilities starting at Space Vehicle (SV) 11. This Lockheed Martin rendering portrays GPS III SVs 11+. (Lockheed Martin)

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https://lnkd.in/e_R62ax4 "A legislative proposal presented by the U.S. Navy could pave the way for the acquisition of foreign, used vessels to enhance sealift capabilities, offering a cost-effective solution to bolster readiness, according to the Inside Defense. The proposal, discussed by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti during a recent House Armed Services Committee Navy budget hearing, seeks to increase the Secretary of Defense’s authority to acquire such vessels to recapitalize the Ready Reserve Force. “The proposal increases the Secretary of Defense’s authority to acquire foreign-built, used vessels, to support effort to cost-effectively recapitalize the Ready Reserve Force,” a Navy spokesperson told Inside Defense. The potential acquisition of foreign, used cargo ships represents a pragmatic approach to swiftly augmenting the military’s sealift capacity at a fraction of the cost of constructing new vessels. With the current age of ships in the fleet averaging around 45 years, well beyond their expected lifespan, the need for modernization is evident. A key consideration in favor of purchasing used ships is their affordability compared to new builds. A Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) ship with 15 years of service, roughly halfway through its expected lifespan, can be acquired for approximately $60 million, significantly less than the $500 million cost per hull for a new vessel. While new ships offer longer service life, the budgetary constraints faced by the Navy necessitate exploring alternative options to maintain readiness. The Navy’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget underscores the prioritization of readiness over modernization, reflecting fiscal realities and the imperative to sustain operational capabilities amid constrained resources. This strategic shift emphasizes the importance of cost-effective solutions to meet operational requirements and ensure the Navy’s ability to fulfill its mission in an evolving security landscape."

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➡️ Update from the Office of Naval Research ONR has updated its Long Range Acquisition Estimate. This is a bi-annual update and includes anticipated acquisitions from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL). More information at https://lnkd.in/gjbfTy3q #ColoradoAPEXAccelerator #APEXAccelerator #OfficeOfNavalResearch

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Level up your army data knowledge! The new Data Stewardship Roles memo outlines the key players for efficient data use. Learn how these roles impact mission effectiveness. ➡️ FULL Army Data Stewardship Roles and Responsibilities MEMO: http://spr.ly/6045gc0zD

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Want to learn more about Data Governance? The Army is getting after it and we have a front row seat!

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OPINION: "The Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) program run by the US Department of Defense has become a symbol of China-US naval competition and of the West’s advocacy for a rules-based order. Operational assertions are thrust into the limelight whenever China responds to one. And barely any US statement goes by without reference to freedom of navigation and global norms. "That’s a problem. FONOPs were only ever meant to uphold narrow principles with select audiences in mind. Those principles uphold the right of all navies to operate in the world’s waters unimpeded. "A core audience since the program was established in 1979 has been foreign governments that may dispute the US stance on those rights but at least had context for the debate. To them, FONOPs are often an irritation, not a serious problem. "But that audience has expanded. Commentators, journalists, and officials have more reason to monitor maritime developments because they’re so central to Indo‑Pacific security. They might not have expertise in arcane aspects of international law, but their voices matter deeply in shaping their country’s attitude to the United States – especially in democracies. "Some of them will view FONOPs through an intuitive rather than legal lens. Warships can be imposing. Sailing close by uninvited can appear like attempted intimidation – especially if histories of colonialism and gunboat diplomacy are at play. "FONOPs are easily perceived as the antithesis of the rules-based order that America seeks to uphold, muddying the distinction between its behaviour and China’s." Full article link in comments.

OPINION: "The Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) program run by the US Department of Defense has become a symbol of China-US naval competition and of the West’s advocacy for a rules-based order. Operational assertions are thrust into the limelight whenever China responds to one. And barely any US statement goes by without reference to freedom of navigation and global norms. "That’s a problem. FONOPs were only ever meant to uphold narrow principles with select audiences in mind. Those principles uphold the right of all navies to operate in the world’s waters unimpeded. "A core audience since the program was established in 1979 has been foreign governments that may dispute the US stance on those rights but at least had context for the debate. To them, FONOPs are often an irritation, not a serious problem. "But that audience has expanded. Commentators, journalists, and officials have more reason to monitor maritime developments because they’re so central to Indo‑Pacific security. They might not have expertise in arcane aspects of international law, but their voices matter deeply in shaping their country’s attitude to the United States – especially in democracies. "Some of them will view FONOPs through an intuitive rather than legal lens. Warships can be imposing. Sailing close by uninvited can appear like attempted intimidation – especially if histories of colonialism and gunboat diplomacy are at play. "FONOPs are easily perceived as the antithesis of the rules-based order that America seeks to uphold, muddying the distinction between its behaviour and China’s." Full article link in comments.

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