Missile Defense Mondays   MISSILE DEFENSE MONDAYS August 20th - August 26th, 2024 THE WEEK IN BRIEF On August 26, North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, has reportedly witnessed the testing of suicide drones capable of long-range strikes, which the state claims can be deployed against various targets. This development raises concerns about the escalating military capabilities of North Korea, particularly in terms of its drone technology. The test follows a series of military exercises by the North Korean army, showcasing the country's focus on enhancing its offensive capabilities amidst ongoing tensions with the United States and South Korea. On August 22, Ukraine's air defense successfully intercepted and destroyed 50 Shahed drones and a missile during a large-scale Russian strike. This operation highlights Ukraine's ongoing efforts to counter Russian aerial attacks as the conflict continues. The incident underscores the intensity of the military exchanges between the two nations and the crucial role of air defense systems in protecting key infrastructure and civilian areas. On August 21, The U.S. Army is establishing an Arctic Command to enhance its operational capabilities in the region as global interest in the Arctic increases. This new command will focus on improving readiness in extreme cold-weather environments and will play a crucial role in deterring potential adversaries in the Arctic. The move reflects the strategic importance of the Arctic as climate change opens new maritime routes and resources, making the region a focal point for military and geopolitical competition. Click here to read all of this week's headlines. MDAA ALERTS 2023 - 2024 WINS We brought our 2023-24 Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance Season to a close with our... Read more MISSILE DEFENDER OF THE WEEK SSG Brayden Beam  SSG Brayden Beam is currently assigned as the NCOIC of NASAMs Team 12, 3rd Squad, Shooter Battery, 2nd Platoon, 1-174 Air Defense Artillery Regiment. His team was nominated for the MDAA award by his Platoon Leader and Platoon Sergeant. SSG Beam has been an integral piece to the success of the unit’s current mission. His attention to detail, leadership attributes, and technical competence enhanced the mission readiness for his team during Exercise America Shield, the unit’s pre-deployment Culminating Training Event, and throughout the NCR mission. SSG Beam, a 91B (mechanic), has crewmembers that are 68W (medic) and 14S (avenger crewmember), respectively. He was able to gel the conglomerate of duty assignments into a well-functioning NASAMs team without having any prior air defense experience. SSG Beam enlisted in August 2017 with the Ohio Army National Guard and has been assigned to HHC 155 Chemical Battalion, 73rd Troop Command, E Company 2/37th BSB, 212th Maintenance Company, and Delta Battery 1-174 ADA BN. Upon completion of this mission, he will be assigned to the 1482nd Transportation Company as their Senior Mechanic and Motor Sergeant. He has graduated the Army’s Basic Leader Course and has completed Distributed Leader Course II. His deployment includes his current mission, in support of Operation Noble Eagle (2023-24). His military medals and awards include: 1- Army Achievement Medal; 2- Army Reserve Components Achievement Medals; 1- National Defense Service Medal; 1- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; 1- Armed Forces Service Medal; 1- Army Service Ribbon; 1- Ohio Faithful Service Ribbon; 1- Ohio Special Service Ribbon; 1- Ohio Award of Merit; and 1- DC Presidential Inauguration Support Ribbon.  His favorite part of being in the military, is all the good times he’s had with friends along the way. SSG Beam’s civilian occupation is a dual-status federal employee, maintenance inspector at FMS 12 in Kettering, Ohio. He also possesses a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and enjoys golfing in his spare time. SSG Beam resides with his wife Katie, and daughter, Addie (2) in Springfield, Ohio. Click here to view all the awardees from the 2024 NCR Missile Defender of the Year NEWS HEADLINES MISSILE DEFENSE NEWS The Pentagon is shipping new pieces to Guam’s air-defense puzzle - Defense News - 08/20/2024 U.S., Allies Partner for BMD Exercise, Russian and Chinese Ships Sail Near Japan - USNI News - 08/19/2024 Croatia plans to order HIMARS this year - Defense News - 08/23/2024 AIR DEFENSE NEWS Ukraine strikes airfield near Volgograd as Russia presses forward in Donetsk - The Guardian - 08/22/2024 Hezbollah Says Fired ‘Intense Rocket Barrages’ at Israeli Positions - The Defense Post - 08/20/2024 THREAT NEWS Chinese Military Drones Double Up Against Taiwan - Newsweek - 08/26/2024 SPACE NEWS LeoLabs sees defense business grow as space-tracking needs multiply - Defense News - 08/26/2024 OTHER NEWS Taiwan boosts defense spending in face of Chinese military prodding - Defense News - 08/23/2024  Stay Connected: MDAA | 515 King Street Suite 330 | Alexandria, VA 22314 US Unsubscribe | Constant Contact Data Notice