Missile Defense Mondays   MISSILE DEFENSE MONDAYS July 2nd - July 8th, 2024 THE WEEK IN BRIEF On July 2nd, North Korea claimed it successfully test-fired a new tactical ballistic missile, the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, capable of carrying a "super-large warhead," a claim met with skepticism by South Korean officials and experts who suspect it was an attempt to conceal a failed launch. This announcement follows recent doubts by South Korea about North Korea's weapon development claims amid ongoing tensions. North Korea's state media reported the missile test verified its flight stability and accuracy, although details on the launch site and photos were conspicuously absent. South Korean military officials noted abnormal flight behavior and possible deception. Experts suggest North Korea's efforts might aim to test warhead potency against underground targets. This development is part of North Korea's intensified weapons testing since 2022, intended to enhance its negotiating leverage with the U.S. Concurrently, South Korea resumed live-fire drills near the border, responding to North Korea's recent actions and signaling heightened military readiness. On July 3rd, it was announced that the United States is set to provide over $2.3 billion in military aid to Ukraine, as announced by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This package includes missile systems, anti-tank weapons, and additional munitions. The announcement was made during a meeting at the Pentagon with Ukraine's defense minister. Austin emphasized the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia and mentioned steps to facilitate Ukraine's future NATO membership. The aid aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities significantly Today, July 8th, A Russian missile strike hit the Ohmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv, causing major damage and resulting in the deaths of two adults, including a doctor. The attack was part of a broader wave of missile strikes across Ukraine that killed 31 people. Hospital staff described the impact as catastrophic, with extensive damage and a fire affecting up to 70% of the facility. Russia denied targeting the hospital, claiming it was struck by a Ukrainian missile, while Ukraine presented evidence of a Russian cruise missile. Ukrainian officials have called for stronger Western support and enhanced air defenses in response to the attacks. The international community, including the EU and the UK, has condemned the strikes, calling for accountability for those responsible for the ongoing aggression against civilians​. Click here to read all of this week's headlines. MDAA ALERTS The Sound and the Fury “The past is never dead. It’s not even past” – William Faulkner President Putin’s leadership of Russia has proven that military force and violence achieves political objectives, and it will not stop at Ukraine. Read more   The Atrocities Must Be Stopped This morning, Ukraine’s acoustic and radar sensors gave early warning time to clear as many as possible from the Ohmatdyt Children’s Hospital and the Isida Maternity Ward in Kyiv... Read more MISSILE DEFENDER OF THE WEEK SGT Angel Rojas SGT Angel Rojas is currently serving as a Senior Operator in the Minimal Deployment Package (MDP) platoon within Headquarters, 1-174 Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Regiment. SGT Rojas consistently demonstrates exceptional skill and has consistently proven to be one of the top Air Defense Battle Management Systems Operators (14G) in the battalion, surpassing standard expectations with his leadership, adaptability, and technical expertise. SGT Rojas took the initiative to create a comprehensive three-week training plan for MDP soldiers, focusing on identifying and addressing individual improvement areas. He personally re-trained each soldier on specific equipment. He also assigned proficient soldiers as training assistants to aid in tracking and training efforts. This proactive approach not only prepared the platoon for an upcoming Deployment Readiness Exercise (DRE) with the 263d AAMDC, but also significantly elevated overall deployment readiness. In addition to his training efforts, SGT Rojas has taken it upon himself to write multiple awards for fellow soldiers who have demonstrated potential and leadership qualities. Continuously striving for personal growth, he plans to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) upon return from the current rotation. Despite being promoted to E5 before the mission, SGT Rojas consistently performs above his rank, excelling within a collaborative team environment. Actively participating in missions, SGT Rojas has been requested for assistance, including the links-only mission in San Fransisco with the 263rd 140 Warrant Officer. His dedication and exemplary performance have set him apart from his fellow E5’s, making him one of the most trusted in the platoon to carry out and complete tasks. Having been nominated for multiple awards prior to and during this mission, SGT Rojas is well deserving of the recognition bestowed upon him, and he remains committed to continuous improvement in the future. Click here to view all the awardees from the 2024 NCR Missile Defender of the Year NEWS HEADLINES MISSILE DEFENSE NEWS Inside the Dangerous Work of Defending Ukraine’s Skies - The Wall Street Journal - 07/06/2024 AIR DEFENSE NEWS Blinken announces news on air defense for Ukraine before NATO summit - RBC Ukraine - 07/02/2024 Zelenskiy: Ukraine wants to double air defence capabilities through the summer - Reuters - 07/05/2024 Israel's Iron Beam Defense Can't be Rushed Despite 'Obliterating' War Fears - Newsweek - 07/05/2024 THREAT NEWS North Korea’s Latest Missile Test Suggests Arms Race With South - New York Times - 07/02/2024 Ukrainian air base under fire as Russia aims at F-16 arrivals - The Economic Times - 07/02/2024 SPACE NEWS Northrop Grumman moves forward with designing ballistic missile tracking satellites with infrared sensors - Military + Aerospace Electronics - 07/03/2024 OTHER NEWS Philippines Says US Mid-Range Missile System to Be Pulled Out - The Defense Post - 07/04/2024 Ukraine says it fooled Russia into striking fake planes and air defense systems with Iskander-M ballistic missiles - Insider - 07/07/2024 Stay Connected: MDAA | 515 King Street Suite 330 | Alexandria, VA 22314 US Unsubscribe | Constant Contact Data Notice