Reported about 1 year ago
Amid increasing drone threats in recent wars, the military forces of Germany, Hungary, and Denmark signed a cooperation agreement at the European Defense Exhibition on June 17, to jointly purchase Rheinmetall's 'Skyranger 30' air defense system as part of the 'European Air Shield' initiative, providing an air defense umbrella for ground forces. The 'Skyranger' series exhibited includes the 'Skyranger 30' mounted on the 'Boxer' 8-wheeled armored vehicle and KF41 'Lynx' infantry fighting vehicle chassis, as well as the latest 'Skyranger 35' equipped with a 35mm cannon mounted on the 'Leopard 2' main battle tank chassis, highlighting its flexibility and integration capabilities. These systems integrate S-band Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, sensors, a 30mm cannon, guided ammunition, and short-range air defense (SHORAD) missiles to counter low-altitude threats such as drones and cruise missiles.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
After receiving support from Hungarian Prime Minister Orban, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, 57, is expected to take over as Secretary General of NATO following the departure of Stoltenberg in October. Rutte, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has emphasized defeating Russia to ensure peace in Europe. With consensus needed from all 32 member countries for the next Secretary General, Rutte's candidacy is largely secured after Orban's endorsement. Despite remaining opposition from Romania's President Johannis, sources suggest he may soon announce his withdrawal from the race. Rutte, the longest-serving Dutch Prime Minister, boosted defense budget to 2% of GDP in line with NATO requirements and provided military aid to Ukraine during his tenure.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The Hyundai Heavy Industries held a launching ceremony for the Philippines' first 3200-ton coast guard patrol vessel, BRP Miguel Malvar, showcasing the modernization of the Philippine Navy and strengthening its maritime defense capabilities. The vessel, derived from South Korea's Daegu-class frigate, is equipped with advanced weaponry and radar systems, marking a significant milestone in the country's naval modernization efforts. The Philippines aims to enhance its defense capabilities by acquiring 10 new surface vessels from Hyundai Heavy Industries to address regional threats and tensions in the South China Sea.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
In response to the controversial proposal to adjust the retirement income replacement rates for police, firefighters, and coast guard personnel to match those of military personnel, causing potential financial strains on the retirement fund, debates arose between the KMT and DPP legislators in Taiwan. The proposal, set to be discussed before the end of the session on July 16th, aims to address the high-risk and long working hours of police and firefighting personnel, but is met with opposition due to concerns about potential bankruptcy of the retirement fund.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
As the chairman of 'Lu Li Fen Holdings' and founder of 'Lu Li Fen Beauty and Body Care Chain', Ms. Lu Li Fen is a legendary figure in Taiwan's beauty and body care industry. With a history dating back to 1986, her chain of beauty spas and skincare products has attracted many high-class women and helped maintain their best conditions. Known for personalized skin analysis before treatment, precise matching of courses and products, along with skilled therapists, Lu Li Fen's chain ensures rapid and satisfying results for customers, leading to exceptionally high customer retention rates. Each course comes with special vacuum-sealed products for oxidation prevention, maintaining product effectiveness and ensuring personal hygiene and safety. The chain offers a selection of popular courses tailored for various needs, such as 'Golden Luxury Youthful Beauty Course', 'Collagen Miracle V-Face Sculpting Course', 'Titanium Relaxing Body Stress Relief Course', and 'Summer Snow Skin Goddess Curves Course', each showcasing unique techniques to satisfy spa enthusiasts.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
On June 19, 2024, at 12:00 PM, police and firefighters demanded their retirement income replacement rate to be aligned with that of the military in Taiwan. The Legislative Yuan, driven by KMT lawmakers, forcefully completed the initial review of the Police Personnel Employment Regulations draft law, proposing to raise the retirement income replacement rates for police, firefighters, and coast guards to up to 90% or 95%, sparking debates about whether this amendment is fair or biased towards a specific group. The government departments such as the Examination Yuan, the Personnel Office of the Executive Yuan, and the Ministry of the Interior opposed the idea, citing concerns about financial sustainability and fairness across different professions under the same pension fund. While the proposal has both supporters and critics, it highlights the complex issues surrounding pension reform in Taiwan and the need for a balanced approach to address the concerns of various public service sectors.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The lack of Russian and Chinese participation in the Ukraine peace summit last weekend resulted in only about 80 countries, including the US and Europe, signing a joint communique supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and peace plan. As the likelihood of former US President Trump winning the year-end election grows, the prospect of US aid to Ukraine becomes increasingly uncertain, raising concerns about whether NATO can shoulder more aid responsibilities. With the rise of far-right forces in countries like France and the UK, there are worries that support for NATO reforms and aid to Ukraine from moderate and liberal factions may weaken in future elections.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Dark fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy literature that combines elements of horror and fantasy, emerging in the 19th century with gothic literature gaining popularity. Authors like H. P. Lovecraft and Gertrude Barrows Bennett popularized dark fantasy in the 20th century. Marianne Gordon discusses why she enjoys writing dark fantasy, highlighting how it delves into honest conclusions about human nature and serves as both escapism and a tool for exploring real-world challenges. She also mentions various sub-subgenres within dark fantasy, such as grimdark, dark academia, gothic, dystopian, historical setting, and more.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
AnnaLynne McCord has made her debut on the TV show Days of Our Lives, but her character's identity remains a mystery. Speculations arise as to whether she could be the presumed-dead Abigail Devereux or someone entirely different, sparking curiosity and intrigue among viewers.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
FTNN News, June 19, 2024 - According to a recent survey by 'Mirror News,' the newly appointed Economic Minister Guo Zhihui has the highest satisfaction rating of 6.3%. Hailing from the industrial sector, Guo has unique perspectives on issues like nuclear power and energy, earning praise from opposition legislators and garnering high attention as a cabinet member. Guo expressed surprise at his high satisfaction rating, stating he was unaware of it. The survey also revealed satisfaction ratings for other cabinet members, with defense minister Gu Li Xiong at 5.9% and interior minister Liu Shifang at 1.4%.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Following the outbreak of the war between Ukraine and Russia, European countries expelled Russian diplomats, leading Moscow to lose crucial sources of intelligence. However, the German security agency, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), warned on June 18th that Russia is expanding its recruitment of spies in Germany to compensate for the lack of intelligence sources. Through tactics like offering high rewards and extortion, Moscow is intensifying its espionage activities to gather information. Russian citizens are even targeting German citizens, including diplomats, for recruitment through blackmail or bribery, urging NATO members to be cautious regarding Russian cyberattacks. The report also highlights the rise in extremist groups in Germany and reveals a case in Estonia where a Russian citizen was sentenced to 6 years and 3 months in prison for espionage activities.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
On June 19, 2024, after a 24-year gap, Russian President Putin visited Pyongyang and signed a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement' with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, strengthening bilateral economic and military cooperation while displaying a united stance against the US-led Western countries. Thousands of North Korean citizens welcomed Putin, including children waving flowers and flags. The agreement includes mutual defense clauses and expands military, economic, and other cooperation, raising concerns about deepening relations between Russia and North Korea and potentially complicating the global situation. Putin's next stop is Hanoi, Vietnam, highlighting Russia's active efforts to seek support and cooperation from socialist countries like North Korea and Vietnam amidst Western sanctions. The global community closely watches Putin's visit, speculating on its potential impact on the conflict in Ukraine and Russia's influence.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The Tourism Bureau's Shei-Pa National Scenic Area Management Office will host the 'Charm of Tea Aroma: Six Senses Feast' event at Taipei Main Station on July 20, inviting friends and visitors from over a hundred different countries to experience the six senses of tea aroma. The event will feature local specialty industries, tourism industry exhibitors showcasing and selling products and foods, as well as music performances. The goal is to attract both domestic and international tourists to the tea-growing region in Nantou, showcasing Taiwan's unique charm and revitalizing domestic tourism. Various activities and promotions will be available on the day of the event, including limited free tea tasting, music performances, and exclusive market discounts, aiming to provide a memorable experience for participants.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Reported by Journalist Lai Ming-Lun from the Youth Daily on June 19, 2024, the 'Defence Blog' website mentioned that Milrem Robotics showcased various Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) at the Eurosatory defense exhibition, demonstrating their capability to perform tasks such as patrol, reconnaissance, fire support, and transportation amidst high-intensity battlefield threats. The showcased UGVs include the Type-X medium-sized Remote Combat Vehicle (RCV) equipped with advanced sensors, a 30mm cannon, and mine-clearing equipment for tasks such as fire support and obstacle clearance, operated remotely to reduce exposure to enemy fire risk. The THeMIS Combat series, based on the THeMIS UGV, displayed variations with remote weapon stations equipped with a 30mm cannon and a rocket launcher, serving infantry operations and providing fire support. Additionally, a variant was showcased with Leonardo's HITROLE lightweight remote weapon station, offering options of a 12.7mm machine gun or a 40mm grenade launcher for long-duration patrol, reconnaissance, and monitoring missions. These UGVs aim to enhance situational awareness and real-time information sharing to meet various mission requirements on the battlefield.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The upcoming school reunion, initially planned for a two-day retreat but later shortened to one day, evokes memories of the past. Organizing such an event is described as laborious, requiring dedication from the organizers. The tale reflects on the difficulties of aging and the bittersweet nature of reunions, where joy of gathering contrasts with the awareness of fleeting time. The story of reconnecting with a talented female alumna who initially seemed out of reach highlights the significance of cherishing relationships and being grateful for the moments of togetherness amidst the constant cycle of meeting and parting in life.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The South Korean Navy announced on June 19, 2024, that the first batch of 3 P-8A 'Poseidon' maritime patrol aircraft purchased from American Boeing Company has arrived at the Navy Aviation Command in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do. A 1-year evaluation test will follow, with plans for them to officially enter service by mid next year. These aircraft will enhance South Korea's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and surveillance capabilities concerning North Korea. The P-8A is one of the most widely used advanced maritime patrol aircraft globally, with a top speed of 907 km/h, far surpassing South Korea's current P-3 patrol aircraft.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
A look into the restoration of retired military aircraft across Taiwan, such as the F-86, F-104, and F-5, that once served as the mainstay of the Air Force's fighter fleet. Through meticulous restoration processes by civilian teams, these 'old comrades' are brought back to their former glory, standing as a symbol of past heroic moments. From analyzing the aircraft structure to historical paint selection and detailed markings, the restoration work is a tribute to the national defense heritage and the dedication of those who once defended the country.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
The Tri-Service General Hospital's Transplantation Department organized a lecture on organ transplantation and advocacy to promote the culture of organ donation. The successful heart transplant recipient, Huang Jianyu, shared his journey from heart attack to successful transplant, emphasizing the importance of organ donation and spreading love endlessly. The event aimed to inspire the public to support organ donation and highlight the impact of donors and their families in transforming lives and creating hope. Huang Jianyu's personal experience of resilience and rehabilitation post-transplant served as a testament to the power of love and perseverance in overcoming challenges and embracing a new chapter in life.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Established in 1048, the Maltese Order is a religious entity without territory. Its passport, now only around 500 in circulation, is considered one of the rarest globally. Originally known as the Hospitaller Order, it provided aid to pilgrims and the sick during the Crusades and once held lands in Rhodes and Malta before Napoleon expelled them from Malta. Today, the Order operates as a sovereign religious and charitable organization with observer status at the UN, issuing stamps and currency. Their passports, distinct in crimson honoring the 'precious blood,' bear a gold Order emblem and French name, with a 4-year validity extended to 20 years for the Grand Master, making them rarer than Vatican passports.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Youth Daily reported on June 19, 2024 at 12:00 PM that various regions in mainland China have established 'Police-Tax Joint Operation Centers', leading to online mockery of 'financial reliance on the police'. Recent reports of small and medium-sized business owners being arrested or officials assisting investigations due to corruption cases have caused widespread fear among entrepreneurs in China. The establishment of these centers in Yunnan, Fujian, Shanxi, Fuzhou, and Jilin shows an increasing trend in police-tax collaboration models across the country. The recent intensification of tax collection and fines has raised suspicions that local governments, facing economic downturns, are targeting businesses for increased revenue, with tax inspections going back up to 30 years.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Leonardo's latest development, the AW249 attack helicopter, made its debut at the European Defense Exhibition, showcasing advanced combat management systems and sensors. With an open architecture design and upgrade potential, the helicopter is set to excel in multi-domain operations, serving as a crucial command and control platform. Incorporating digital avionics and sensors, the AW249 supports data sharing and collaborative warfare across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, with plans to integrate command, control, communications, computers, and unmanned aircraft systems capabilities for enhanced combat power by 2027.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
A recent study revealed that during the creation of the iconic artwork 'Mona Lisa' by Italian Renaissance master, Leonardo da Vinci, a rare and unique chemical compound called 'hydrocerussite' was believed to have been used, advancing historical records by at least a century. Researchers from the UK and France utilized X-ray diffraction analysis and infrared spectroscopy imaging to detect this compound in tiny samples taken from the painting's base layer. The discovery showcases da Vinci's innovation and expertise in combining artistry with chemistry, even predating the earliest recorded use of 'hydrocerussite' in paintings by a century.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
In a recent interview by the Youth Daily on June 19, 2024, President Lai Ching-te announced the establishment of three committees including the 'National Defense Resilience Committee,' where he serves as the convener, to develop strategies for national development and engage in dialogue with civilian forces. This move aims to meet the dual objectives of national survival and prosperity, especially focusing on the concept of 'National Defense Resilience,' integrating defense sectors like defense, civil defense, psychological defense, and cyber defense. This initiative under President Lai's leadership showcases a strong commitment to safeguarding national security.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
A man in Midwood, Brooklyn found an 18-inch corn snake in his bathtub and was bitten on the finger when he tried to remove it, according to the NYPD. The snake was later taken to an Animal Care Centers of NYC facility in Queens. This incident marks the fourth snake sighting in New York City in the month, with previous incidents involving a boa constrictor, a snake caught in a bucket, and a snake found in a rented U-Haul truck.
Source: YAHOO
Reported about 1 year ago
Northvolt正在審核在瑞典中部Borlange建新工廠的計畫，但尚未做出任何決定。該公司表示正在進行對場地的戰略審查，與包括市政府在內的幾方進行對話。公司表示將於進行任何決定後再做進一步評論。Northvolt在2022年已同意收購Borlange的一座舊造紙廠，將其改建為新的超級電池工廠，預計年產能超過100吉瓦時的正極材料，並可能僱用多達1,000人。
Source: YAHOO