MISSILE DEFENSE MONDAYS September 19th - September 25th, 2023 THE WEEK IN BRIEF On Thursday, September 21, the United States and Israel conducted joint training on advanced missile and air defense systems, involving the activation of Israel's Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow systems, alongside the deployment of the US Patriot, AEGIS, and THAAD systems. This exercise demonstrated the cutting-edge capabilities of these defense systems, which have been jointly developed by the two nations. The training's objectives included improving the skills of military personnel and enhancing coordination between their forces, particularly in responding to missile barrages targeting Israel. Taking place in a specialized combat laboratory developed by Elbit Systems, this training allowed for realistic simulations and real-time data analysis. It underscores the growing importance of these advanced defense systems, notably in the context of the Ukraine conflict, and reflects the increasing tempo of joint training efforts involving Israel and other nations, including the United States, Greece, and Cyprus. Also on Thursday, The United States announced the provision of an additional security assistance package for Ukraine, valued at up to $325 million, as part of ongoing support amid Russia's unprovoked invasion. This package includes air defense equipment, artillery rounds, antitank weapons, and other essential equipment to address Ukraine's immediate battlefield requirements against Russian aggression. President Joe Biden unveiled the aid package after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, emphasizing the commitment to help Ukraine build a formidable force to safeguard its long-term security and deter future threats. This marks the 47th equipment drawdown for Ukraine from the US Defense Department since August 2021, underlining the enduring commitment to Ukraine's defense. Zelenskyy's visit also included discussions with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and meetings with defense officials at the Pentagon, further reinforcing the strong alliance between the two nations and their shared commitment to freedom and democracy. It was also announced on the 21st that The U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) had achieved a significant milestone by delivering four advanced Directed Energy Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense (DE M-SHORAD) prototype systems to the 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Sill. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of RCCTO's DE M-SHORAD Project Management Office, led by Col. Steven D. Gutierrez, and marks a significant accomplishment for the entire team. This delivery coincides with the reactivation of the 4-60th ADAR and its Delta Battery, demonstrating the smooth transition within the military. The 4-60th ADAR underwent rigorous training to integrate the laser weapon systems, including simulator-based exercises. A successful live-fire demonstration in March 2023 highlighted the remarkable potential of these prototypes. Col. Gutierrez emphasized that these high-energy laser systems will be a game-changer on the modern battlefield, enhancing the Army's air missile defense capabilities. The 4-60th ADAR Delta Battery will conduct collective training with these systems, further evaluating their integration and deployment within the Army's defense architecture. The Army plans to employ these prototypes in a Soldier Touchpoint in FY24 to gain valuable insights into their capabilities and limitations. On Monday, September 25th, it was reported that the United States and Palau are engaged in discussions about the potential permanent deployment of advanced missile defense systems in Palau, a strategic Pacific island nation. This development is part of the United States' broader efforts to counter China's growing influence in the region. As President Joe Biden prepares to host a summit with Pacific island leaders, the focus will be on issues like climate change and economic development, but the U.S. views these high-level engagements as an opportunity to strengthen military cooperation to counter China's assertiveness. The competitive dynamics in the Pacific have intensified since China signed a security pact with Solomon Islands in April 2022. Palau, which has a longstanding agreement with the U.S. involving economic assistance in exchange for defense cooperation, is increasingly concerned about China's aggressive maritime activities near its territorial waters. This includes the unauthorized presence of a Chinese research vessel, which has raised concerns about undersea cable disruption during a crisis. Palau expects more frequent port visits by U.S. Navy ships to deter such activities and emphasize the importance of a strong defense for preserving peace. The U.S. has plans to install radar systems in Palau in 2026, and Palau has requested the permanent deployment of Patriot air defense systems to enhance its defense capabilities.  Click here to read all of this week's headlines. MDAA ALERTS SHIELD 24 " Dear Members and Friends, The Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance (MDAA), in collaboration with the University of Southern California (USC), is honored to announce the beginning of the 2023-2024 USC SHIELD Executive Program..." Click here to read more. London is Calling " We are honored to serve as the Chair of the 7th Air and Missile Defence Technology conference from the 15-16 of November in London, United Kingdom. This is a distinguished and influential gathering..." Click here to read more. Poland Leads "The Polish Embassy in Washington, D.C. recently celebrated their Armed Forces Day, with the honorable Dr. William A. LaPlante, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, presenting and recognizing Poland’s leadership in defense..." Click here to read more. MISSILE DEFENDER OF THE WEEK Captain Christian Weicker ​ For many years, Christian is well known and respected as an outstanding officer within the Air and Missile Defence community. His service is based on profound tactical experience, technical expertise, organizational capability and excellent leadership. He has recently proved the latter during operation BRAVE SHIELD in Slovakia. Always striving for excellence, Captain Weicker is key for mission success in day-to-day operations. Based upon an outstanding performance as a PATRIOT Tactical Director, he helps to build and maintain the highest standards of operational knowledge and training as an ICC/ESC instructor in the Luftwaffe’s Air and Missile Defence Training organization. In 2022, Captain Weicker made an outstanding contribution to German surface air defense. As Tactical Director (TD) at battalion level and Execution Officer (XO), he deployed SAM Group 26 to Slovakia within a few days after being alerted. Under adverse conditions and high time pressure, his technical expertise and dedication helped him to conduct the Multinational Air and Missile Defense Task Force on March 24 as part of the Enhanced Vigilance Activity Battlegroup Slovakia (eVA SVK) to ensure Engagement Capability until today. Excellent leadership and exemplary camaraderie brought him respect and recognition in the multinational environment of this mission. During AirCom Ramstein's Operational Readiness Review in April 2022, Captain Weicker's tactical and operational leadership received particular praise. Click here to view all the awardees from the 2023 European Missile Defenders of the Year NEWS HEADLINES MDAA IN THE NEWS DoD Boosting Advanced Satellite Tracking Initiatives, Driving Missile Defense Capabilities for Guam - ClearanceJobs - 09/20/2023 MISSILE DEFENSE NEWS Azerbaijani force destroys Armenian air defense system with precision strike - Defence Blog - 09/20/2023 Canadian frigate AEGIS capability to be tested at US site - Naval Technology - 09/20/2023 European Sky Shield Initiative: Can it protect Europe? - DW - 09/24/2023 THREAT NEWS North Korea confirms long-time weapons official leading top missile bureau - NK Pro - 09/19/2023 Bizarre Iranian ‘Loitering SAM’ Shown To Russian Defense Minister - The Drive - 09/20/2023 Taiwan says Chinese movements 'abnormal', flags amphibious drills - Reuters - 09/22/2023 OTHER NEWS Space Force looking to fill tech ‘gaps,’ and ‘evolve’ space domain awareness: Saltzman - Breaking Defense - 09/20/2023 Australia Approves Additional MQ-4C Triton Procurement, P-8A Upgrade - Naval News - 19/23/2023 Senior leadership among those killed in strike on Russia's Black Sea Fleet, Ukraine says - NBC News - 09/23/2023  Stay Connected: MDAA | 515 King Street, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA 22314 Unsubscribe [email protected] Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!