September 2021 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News

Snubbed by AUKUS, Canada, New Zealand Are Moving On VOA 30 Sep 2021 -- As experts digest the implications of the unexpected AUKUS agreement, initial fears that the deal could undermine one of the world's premier intelligence-sharing arrangements appear to be easing.
UK's military deployment in Asia-Pacific inconducive to regional stability: Defense Spokesperson PLA Daily 30 Sep 2021 -- "The British side has significantly increased its military deployment in the Asia-Pacific region since this year, which is not conducive to regional peace and stability." said a defense ministry spokesperson on Thursday.
France threatens retaliation against UK as fishing spat flares again Press TV 30 Sep 2021 -- France has accused Britain of playing politics with post-Brexit fishing rights after London and the Channel Island of Jersey refused dozens of French fishing boats a licence to operate in their territorial waters.
All parties to Israeli-Palestinian conflict must be open to further dialogue UK FCDO 29 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council Briefing on the Middle East.
Chinese FM stresses three dangers of U.S.-Britain-Australia nuclear-sub cooperation People's Daily 29 Sep 2021 -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has highlighted three hidden dangers posed by the proposed cooperation by the United States, Britain and Australia on nuclear submarine technology.
AUKUS threatens regional peace, stability, international order: FM Global Times 30 Sep 2021 -- Many countries have expressed concerns and doubts over AUKUS and the plan for nuclear submarine cooperation between the US, the UK and Australia as the move will pose potential danger for regional peace and stability and the international order, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
AUKUS, trilateral security partnership: joint op-ed by UK, US and Australia UK FCDO 29 Sep 2021 -- This op-ed is jointly authored by H.E. Dr Justin Lee, High Commissioner of Australia to Malaysia, H.E. Brian D. McFeeters, Ambassador of the United States of America to Malaysia and H.E. Charles Hay MVO, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Malaysia.
British Government to Use Army to Help Ease Fuel Trucker Shortage VOA 29 Sep 2021 -- Britain's business minister said Wednesday the army would begin driving fuel tankers in response to shortages at gas stations around the nation brought on by a dearth of truck drivers.
Duterte 'concerned' over AUKUS nuclear submarine deal Philippine News Agency 28 Sep 2021 -- President Rodrigo Duterte has raised concern over the new trilateral security pact among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS), Malacañang said on Tuesday.
AUKUS nuclear submarine deal harms innocent people in South Pacific again: FM Global Times 28 Sep 2021 -- The US, the UK and Australia should discard their outdated Cold War mentality, and walk back their wrong decision in a responsible manner as the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal harms innocent people in the South Pacific region again, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said at routine press conference on Tuesday.
UK and Japan begin talks on deeper Defence relationship UK MOD 28 Sep 2021 -- The UK and Japan have agreed to commence formal negotiations on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) to deepen the defence relationship between the two countries.
Seizing the opportunity for political progress in Syria UK FCDO 28 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Permanent Representative Barbara Woodward at the Security Council on The situation in the Middle East
UK and Japan begin talks on deeper Defence relationship UK MOD 28 Sep 2021 -- The UK and Japan have agreed to commence formal negotiations on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) to deepen the defence relationship between the two countries.
Underlining our support for a world without nuclear weapons UK FCDO 27 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council briefing on the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
UNITAS LXII Opening Ceremony Takes Place in Lima US Navy 27 Sep 2021 -- Naval and Marine forces from Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Spain, South Korea, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States gathered for the opening ceremony for UNITAS LXII, the longest running multinational maritime exercise, in Lima, Peru, Sept. 27.
Johnson to consider using army as UK's petrol pumps run dry Press TV 27 Sep 2021 -- UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to consider using the army to supply the country's petrol stations running dry because of panic buying and a shortage of drivers.
New measures to further ease fuel supply chain pressures UK MOD 27 Sep 2021 -- The UK government has today announced further measures to help further ease supply chain pressures and spikes in localised demand for fuel.
British warship passing through Taiwan Strait CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- British Royal Navy warship HMS Richmond was passing through the Taiwan Strait on Monday morning, according to a tweet from the frigate.
British Warship Passes Through Taiwan Strait, Angering China Radio Free Asia 27 Sep 2021 -- China strongly condemned Monday the passage of a British frigate through the Taiwan Strait as the U.K. looks to bolster its presence in the Indo-Pacific.
UK warship's Taiwan Straits transit 'meaningless display of presence' Global Times 27 Sep 2021 -- Mirroring the US move in August, a UK warship from the HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group sailed through the Taiwan Straits on Monday, showing its presence in a provocative manner. Chinese experts said the symbolic move will not bring the UK back to its former imperial glory, but only destroy peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits.
Chinese military opposes British warship's sailing through Taiwan Strait PLA Daily 27 Sep 2021 -- The British Royal Navy frigate HMS Richmond sailed through the Taiwan Strait on September 27 and openly hyped it up. The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent naval and air forces to track and monitor the British warship in the whole course, said Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, in a written statement released on Monday.
'Evil intentions': China condemns UK after warship sails through Taiwan Strait Press TV 27 Sep 2021 -- China has accused Britain of an act of provocation in the Taiwan Strait after a British frigate sailed through the strategic waterway.
China Slams UK for Harbouring 'Evil Intentions' After British Warship Sails Through Taiwan Strait Sputnik 27 Sep 2021 -- Earlier on Monday, the official Twitter account of warship HMS Richmond posted a picture of the vessel navigating the contentious Taiwan Strait after "a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea."
British Warship Plows Through Taiwan Strait Amid Beijing-Taipei Tensions Sputnik 27 Sep 2021 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier called for more efforts to ensure peace and security in the Taiwan Strait, as a US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, the USS Barry, conducted what it stated was a "routine" transit through the sensitive waterway, in a mission implemented "in accordance with international law".
Bold new strategy to fuel UK's world-class space sector UK MOD 27 Sep 2021 -- Government unveils new plans to strengthen the UK as a world class space nation.
UNITAS LXII Kicks off in Lima US Navy 26 Sep 2021 -- Naval and Marine forces from Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Peru, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States kicked off UNITAS LXII, an annual multinational exercise, Sept. 24, in Lima, Peru.
UK looking at deal to remove China from nuclear project: Report Press TV 26 Sep 2021 -- The UK is closing in on a deal that would remove China from involvement in building a new nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast, eastern England, alongside France's EDF, according to the Guardian.
UK conducts UN sanctions enforcement to counter North Korea's weapons programmes UK FCDO 26 Sep 2021 -- HMS Richmond captured evidence of ships apparently breaching UN sanctions targeting North Korea's Weapons of Mass Destruction and ballistic missile programmes.
Royal Navy seizes £17m of cocaine in Caribbean drug bust UK MOD 24 Sep 2021 -- RFA Wave Knight intercepted the suspect craft as it transited international waters near South America, leading to the seizure of 216kg of cocaine.
South Africans Want Their Country Off Britain's COVID Travel 'Red List' VOA 24 Sep 2021 -- Britain is gradually easing COVID-19 travel restrictions among African countries on its so-called red list at highest risk of spreading coronavirus. However, South Africa remains on the list, despite a decline in infections. The status is taking a toll on South African tourism and people wanting to visit their families in Britain.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on Venezuela UK FCDO 24 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement encouraging Venezuela to give effect to the previous recommendations made by the Fact Finding Mission and to fully cooperate with the Mission.
Brazil's Bolsonaro: UK PM has asked for 'emergency' food deal Press TV 24 Sep 2021 -- Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro says British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has requested Brazil for an "emergency" trade deal to provide some food products lacking in the UK, amid concerns about further supply shortages in the market.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Sep 2021
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights in Belarus UK FCDO 24 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement thanking the High Commissioner for the update on the human rights situation in Belarus.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement urging the government to deliver further progress, over a sustained period of time.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement expressing the UK's deep concern at restrictions on freedom of expression in response to recent calls for peaceful protest.
UN Human Rights Council 48: Joint statement during the interactive dialogue with the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- UK Ambassador to the UN and WTO in Geneva Simon Manley gave this joint statement on behalf of the Troika - the UK, Norway and the United States.
Malaysia to seek China's views on AUKUS as ASEAN countries fear nuclear proliferation, arms race Global Times 23 Sep 2021 -- As Southeast Asian countries grow unnerved about AUKUS, a trilateral pact between the US, the UK and Australia that will provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, Malaysia announced it would seek China's views on AUKUS, as the key ASEAN member is concerned about regional peace and stability that could be ruined by a security pact-triggered arms race.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- UK Ambassador to the UN and WTO in Geneva Simon Manley gave this statement expressing the UK's deep concern about the situation in Dara'a.
UK responds at OSCE to Russian State Duma elections UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush tells OSCE that recent State Duma elections represented a serious decline in democratic freedoms and fundamental rights in Russia.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Elizabeth Truss Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Sep 2021
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with High Commissioner for Human Rights on her written update for Myanmar UK FCDO 23 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement reiterating the UK's call on the military to respect the human rights and democratic wishes of the people of Myanmar.
Tehran slams UK foreign secretary's 'harsh tweets', urges London to adopt long overdue change in approach Press TV 23 Sep 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman has reacted to "harsh tweets" by UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, saying such slogans may fetch headlines but they can never replace lawful verdicts issued by the courts, making a reference to the case of imprisoned British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari.
Russia intel chief slams Britain for baseless accusations in Skripal case Press TV 23 Sep 2021 -- Russia's intelligence chief says Britain's new accusations against Moscow in the so-called Skripal case are mere lies devised to cover up London's other lies or support previous ones.
Paris running out of patience with London on post-Brexit fishing rights, French minister says Press TV 23 Sep 2021 -- French Secretary of State for European Affairs Clement Beaune says his country has lost patience with the UK over resolving post-Brexit fishing rights, as diplomatic tensions between the two countries escalate.
First steel cut for Royal Navy Type 31 programme UK MOD 23 Sep 2021 -- Steel was today cut for HMS Venturer, the first vessel of the Royal Navy's Type 31 frigates that will be at the centre of its surface fleet.
Defence Secretary speech at the Type 31 steel cut ceremony UK MOD 23 Sep 2021 -- The Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's speech at the steel cut ceremony for HMS Venturer, the first vessel of the Royal Navy's Type 31 frigates.
'The adolescence of humanity is coming to an end', declares UK Prime Minister UN News 22 Sep 2021 -- In his speech to the high-level debate at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson declared that it is time for mankind to grow up and take responsibility for the damage we are inflicting on the planet.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Myanmar UK FCDO 22 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement reiterating our call on the military to respect the human rights and democratic wishes of the people of Myanmar.
Iran: Foreign Secretary meets Iranian Foreign Minister, 22 September 2021 UK FCDO 22 Sep 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Liz Truss met Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian today at the UN General Assembly.
U.K. To Call On China, Russia To Coordinate In International Engagement On Afghanistan RFE/RL Gandhara 22 Sep 2021 -- Britain's foreign secretary will call on China and Russia to agree on a coordinated international approach to prevent Afghanistan becoming a haven for militants during a meeting on September 22 of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
US, European Allies Navigate Australian Submarine Deal's Wake VOA 22 Sep 2021 -- The United States and its European allies are navigating the diplomatic disturbance following an enhanced trilateral security partnership known as AUKUS (Australia, the UK, and the U.S.) that triggered what French officials described as a "crisis of trust" between Paris and Washington.
EU leaders express dismay at AUKUS deal, demand clarifications People's Daily 22 Sep 2021 -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described as "unacceptable" the way France was treated by Australia, Britain and the United States in their newly established security partnership AUKUS.
Malaysia to Seek China's Views on AUKUS Pact in Minister's Beijing Visit Radio Free Asia 22 Sep 2021 -- Malaysia's defense chief will seek Beijing's views on a new U.S.-U.K.-Australia security pact and determine what action the Asian superpower plans in response, during an upcoming visit to China, he told parliament Wednesday.
Russia says NATO 'totally shocked' by Australia-UK-US alliance Press TV 22 Sep 2021 -- A top Russian diplomat says a newly formed military alliance among the United States, Britain and Australia has totally surprised NATO itself, rather than the opponents.
British PM Johnson Meets With US House Speaker Pelosi VOA 22 Sep 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson met with U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday at the U.S. Capitol as part of his brief stop in Washington. Johnson met earlier in the day with U.S. senators.
Remarks by Vice President Harris and Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom Before Bilateral Meeting The White House 21 Sep 2021
Readout of Vice President Kamala Harris's Meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland The White House 21 Sep 2021
Readout of President Joseph R. Biden Jr.'s Meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom The White House 21 Sep 2021
Remarks by President Biden and Prime Minister Johnson of the United Kingdom Before Bilateral Meeting The White House 21 Sep 2021
Deputy Defense Secretary, U.K. Counterpart Discuss Defense, Security Priorities DoD News 21 Sep 2021 -- Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen H. Hicks met with U.K. National Security Advisor Sir Stephen Lovegrove to reaffirm the U.S.-U.K. bilateral relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, a Defense Department spokesman said.
3rd Russian in Skripal Poisoning Could Be Charged VOA 21 Sep 2021 -- Police in Britain said Tuesday they have enough evidence to charge a third Russian in the 2018 nerve agent attack against a former Russian spy in the city of Salisbury, England.
Britain Authorizes Charges Against Third Russian In Connection With Skripal Poisoning RFE/RL 21 Sep 2021 -- British police have confirmed that charges have been authorized against a third person in relation to the ongoing investigation into the Novichok attack on Sergei Skripal, the former Russian double agent who was poisoned in 2018.
Foreign Secretary meeting with Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State, 20 September 2021 UK FCDO 21 Sep 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Liz Truss met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Secretary Antony J. Blinken and UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 20 Sep 2021
Secretary Blinken's Meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Truss US Dept. of State 20 Sep 2021
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 20 Sep 2021 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Readout of Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks' Meeting With U.K. National Security Advisor Sir Stephen Lovegrove DoD 20 Sep 2021
Foreign Secretary travels to the US on first official visit UK FCDO 19 Sep 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Liz Truss travels to the US ahead of United Nations General Assembly.
Paris cancels French, UK defense ministers' meeting amid submarine row Press TV 20 Sep 2021 -- France has canceled an official meeting scheduled for this week between its Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly and UK Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace amid simmering tensions over a submarine row, a source in the French foreign office has said.
France: Biden, Macron to Confer on End of Australian Submarine Pact VOA 19 Sep 2021 -- France says U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron are planning to talk in the next few days about the diplomatic standoff that was triggered between the two old allies when Australia cancelled a submarine contract with Paris in favor of a new security alliance with the United States and Britain.
Australia Says New Defense Accord with US and Britain Will Boost Regional Security VOA 19 Sep 2021 -- Australia is defending its decision to join a tripartite alliance with the United States and Britain despite an angry reaction from France.
Australia-U.S.-UK deal meets backlash from Europe amid nuclear proliferation worries People's Daily 19 Sep 2021 -- Australia's decision to break off a multi-billion U.S. dollar submarine contract with France inked in 2016 and turn to the United States and Britain for nuclear-powered alternatives has sparked an outcry from the European continent.
US, UK discussed nuclear sub pact with Australia behind Macron's back: Report Press TV 19 Sep 2021 -- French President Emmanuel Macron was reportedly kept in the dark as the United States and Britain discussed a major security partnership pact with Australia, known as AUKUS, during the G7 summit earlier this year, torpedoing Canberra's multi-billion-dollar submarine contract with Paris.
France-UK Defense Minister Meeting Canceled Over AUKUS Fracas - Report Sputnik 19 Sep 2021 -- Earlier this week, France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia, bringing modern-day relations between the two countries to an unprecedented low. While the French ambassador to the UK was not recalled, the French foreign minister noted it was only because Paris was aware of the "UK's constant opportunism".
France Decries UK's 'Opportunism' And Participation in AUKUS, Calling London 'Fifth Wheel' Sputnik 19 Sep 2021 -- The news of the new defense alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States has caused a stir in France, as the new pact forces Canberra to drop a $66 billion contract with Paris for submarines. On Friday, France recalled its ambassadors from the US and Australia for consultations.
US House Speaker Pelosi cautions UK over N Irish peace deal Press TV 19 Sep 2021 -- US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has cautioned the United Kingdom that there could be no post-Brexit trade deal with the United States unless the Northern Ireland peace agreement is saved.
UK statement on the political crisis in Somalia UK FCDO 18 Sep 2021 -- Vicky Ford, Minister for Africa, has issued a statement about the escalating political crisis in Somalia
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue on the human rights of women and girls in conflict and post-conflict situations UK FCDO 17 Sep 2021 -- UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement outlining the UK's continued efforts to champion and protect women and girls' rights.
US-UK-Australia pact angers France, EU more than China Press TV 17 Sep 2021 -- China and France have denounced the new Indio-Pacific security alliance between the US, Britain and Australia, with Beijing accusing the three powers of intensifying an arms race in the region and Paris calling it "a knife in the back".
£170m investment for the next generation of Royal Navy submarines UK MOD 17 Sep 2021 -- BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce will undertake concept and design work for the Royal Navy submarines.
Pelosi, in London, Cautions UK on Ending Northern Ireland Peace Deal VOA 17 Sep 2021 -- U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi cautioned Britain on Friday that nullifying the Northern Ireland peace agreement — known as the Good Friday accords — would likely undermine negotiations for a post-Brexit bilateral trade agreement with the United States.
UK-US Post-Brexit Trade Deal Unlikely If Northern Ireland Peace Accords Destroyed, Pelosi Says Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- US House of Representative Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, predicted on 17 September that if the Good Friday agreement that brought peace to Northern Ireland in 1998 is destroyed, a post-Brexit trade deal between the UK and the US is very "unlikely."
Secretary Blinken's Call with UK Foreign Secretary Truss US Dept. of State 17 Sep 2021
Report by the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo: UK response UK FCDO 16 Sep 2021 -- UK Ambassador Neil Bush commends the work of OSCE's Mission in Kosovo on democratisation, gender, law enforcement, and inter-ethnic relations.
Australia to pursue nuclear-powered submarines through new trilateral enhanced security partnership Australia PM 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have agreed to the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership – AUKUS.
Address: AUKUS - Canberra, ACT Australia PM 16 Sep 2021
Joint Leaders Statement on AUKUS Australia PM 16 Sep 2021 -- As leaders of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, guided by our enduring ideals and shared commitment to the international rules-based order, we resolve to deepen diplomatic, security, and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, including by working with partners, to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. As part of this effort, we are announcing the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS" -- Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Secretary Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, and Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton At a Joint Press Availability US Dept. of State 16 Sep 2021
Secretary Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, and Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton At a Joint Press Availability DoD 16 Sep 2021
Australia, U.S. Alliance Is Stronger, Deeper Than Ever, Officials Say DoD News 16 Sep 2021 -- The Australia-U.S. alliance is stronger today than it ever has been, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said today, and the steps taken during the Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations at the State Department are aimed at keeping it that way.
Australia Signs New Defense Accord with US and Britain VOA 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia has signed a new security partnership with the United States and Britain to share defense technologies in what analyst say is an effort to counter the potential threat from China.
Biden stabs France in the back on Australia nuclear deal: French foreign minister Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- France has accused US President Joe Biden of stabbing it in the back and acting like his predecessor Donald Trump after the Biden administration pushed Paris aside and signed a lucrative multi-billion nuclear deal with Australia for submarines.
Nuke sub deal could make Australia 'potential nuclear war target' Global Times 16 Sep 2021 -- The US, UK and Australia have announced a new alliance named "AUKUS" to target China, and they even made a deal to provide nuclear submarines to Australia. Chinese military experts warned that such a move will potentially make Australia a target of a nuclear strike if a nuclear war breaks out even when Washington said it won't arm Canberra with nuclear weapons, because it's easy for the US to equip Australia with nuclear weapons and submarine-launched ballistic missiles when Australia has the submarines.
AUKUS to bring 'nuclear-powered submarine fever' across globe: Global Times editorial Global Times 16 Sep 2021 -- US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison almost announced simultaneously on Wednesday that the three countries will form an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS." This has been regarded as an effort of the US to build a new alliance against China. The pact will support Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines and enabling patrol of nuclear-powered submarines in the Indo-Pacific region.
China Accuses US of Intensifying Arms Race by Creating AUKUS Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The newly-formed AUKUS (Australia-UK-US) defence alliance threatens stability in the region and provokes an arms race, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on 16 September.
French FM 'Angry' With Australia's Decision to Terminate Submarine Contract, Expects Explanations Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The French Foreign Ministry has described Australia's withdrawal from the agreement with the Naval Group as a deplorable move that is not in line with the spirit of Franco-Australian cooperation.
Morrison Touts Tomahawk Missile Procurement, Says Nuclear Subs Will Be 'in the Water' in 10 Years Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- As leaders from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States unveiled their new trilateral security partnership for advanced defense-tech sharing on Wednesday, it was also revealed that the first initiative of the endeavor would be the delivery of Australia's first nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
Australia Withdraws From Agreement on Submarines With French Naval Group – Ministers Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia has decided to leave the $90-billion agreement on submarines with the French company of Naval Group to prefer the cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines under the newly established AUKUS alliance with the United States and the United Kingdom.
EU Not Informed About New US, UK & Australia Alliance, Plans 'to Assess Implications' Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- On Thursday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson assured that the new alliance between Australia, the UK, and the US is not directed against other countries, insisting that AUKUS just reflects the high level of trust and cooperation among the nations.
France May Demand Compensation From Australia for Submarine Deal Breach, Defence Minister Says Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- Paris may demand compensation from Canberra for its withdrawal from the $66 billion submarines agreement with France's Naval Group shipbuilder, French Defence Minister Florence Parly said on 16 September.
AUKUS Not Intended to Be Adversarial to Other Countries, UK PM Johnson Says Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The new alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS) is not directed against other countries, it just reflects a high level of trust and cooperation, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson assured on Thursday.
'Cold War mentality' in US, British, Australia pact: China Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- China has reacted to a new trilateral security alliance announced by the United States, Britain and Australia aimed at addressing defense and security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region, calling on the three countries to shake off their 'Cold War' mentality.
China Slams 'Irresponsible' Three-Way Security Pact on Nuclear-Powered Submarines Radio Free Asia 16 Sep 2021 -- China hit out on Thursday at a trilateral security pact between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia that will help Canberra develop nuclear submarines, calling it "severely damaging" to regional peace and stability.
China Warns Against Exclusionary Blocs After AUKUS Launched Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- China opposes the creation of exclusionary blocs that may harm the interests of third parties, Embassy in Washington spokesperson Liu Pengyu said in a statement to Sputnik when asked to respond to the newly-launched Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) defense pact.
Russia decision to close OSCE Observer Mission at 2 Russian border checkpoints: UK statement UK FCDO 16 Sep 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush says that the UK deplores Russia's decision to unilaterally close the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk.
Human rights in illegally annexed Crimea: UK statement UK FCDO 16 Sep 2021 -- UK Deputy Ambassador Deirdre Brown condemns human rights violations by Russia in illegally annexed Crimea, including the recent detention of 5 Crimean Tatars.
China Envoy Banned from Visiting Britain's House of Commons VOA 16 Sep 2021 -- The speaker of the British House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, has banned China's ambassador to Britain, Zeguang Zheng, from entering Parliament until Beijing lifts sanctions it imposed six months ago on five Conservative lawmakers and two peers.
Recent developments in Belarus: UK statement, 16 September 2021 UK FCDO 16 Sep 2021 -- UK Deputy Ambassador Deirdre Brown reiterates demand for Belarus to stop the crackdown against civil society, human rights defenders and independent media.
£110m investment for frontline radio communications UK MOD 16 Sep 2021 -- A £110 million contract has been awarded to deliver the new Defence Strategic Radio Service (DSRS) to critical military operations.
UK set to launch post-Brexit review of EU laws Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- The UK government is set to carry out a far-reaching review of the EU-era legislation which it plans to abandon in the post-Brexit period.
UK PM reshuffles cabinet with Raab removed as foreign secretary People's Daily 16 Sep 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson carried out a reshuffle of his cabinet ministers on Wednesday, with Dominic Raab removed as foreign secretary among other changes.
UK prime minister demotes foreign secretary in cabinet revamp Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- Lizz Truss has replaced Dominic Raab as the new foreign secretary as part of a sweeping cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
British PM Continues Shake-up of Cabinet with Reassignment of Junior Ministers VOA 16 Sep 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson continued reshuffling his Cabinet Thursday with two junior ministers taking on new roles.
UK, US AND Australia launch new security partnership Gov.UK 15 Sep 2021 -- 'AUKUS' partnership will work to protect our people and support a peaceful and rules-based international order.
Concern for Syria's civilians amid escalation of violence UK FCDO 15 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council Briefing on the humanitarian situation in Syria.
Putting fundamental building blocks in place for South Sudan's future UK FCDO 15 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council briefing on South Sudan.
Remarks by President Biden, Prime Minister Morrison of Australia, and Prime Minister Johnson of the United Kingdom Announcing the Creation of AUKUS The White House 15 Sep 2021
North Korea ballistic missile tests: FCDO statement UK FCDO 15 Sep 2021 -- A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson responds to ballistic missile tests carried out by North Korea.
E3 Statement at the IAEA Board of Governors on verification and monitoring in Iran (JCPoA), September 2021 UK FCDO 15 Sep 2021 -- Delivered on behalf of France, Germany and the United Kingdom, 14 September 2021
China blasts 'despicable action' to ban its envoy from UK parliament Press TV 15 Sep 2021 -- The British parliament has banned Chinese Ambassador to London Zheng Zeguang from attending the country's legislature over Beijing's sanction against a number of UK MPs in March for spreading "lies" about China's internal affairs. Beijing has reacted to the move by calling it 'despicable.'
'Next-Generation Technology': UK Plans to Test Laser Weapons on Board a Warship for First Time Sputnik 15 Sep 2021 -- In July 2019, the UK Defence Ministry launched a novel weapons programme, saying that laser technology has "the potential to revolutionise the battlefield".
British Army outlines battlefield of tomorrow UK MOD 15 Sep 2021 -- The British Army will integrate Robotics and Autonomous Systems as well as electric vehicles on the battlefield as part of its future vision.
British PM Demotes Foreign Secretary in Cabinet Reshuffle VOA 15 Sep 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday demoted Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to justice secretary and deputy prime minister as part of a cabinet reshuffle seen by some as an attempt to refocus on rebuilding an economy still reeling from COVID-19 lockdowns.
£72.5m investment for laser and radio frequency weapons UK MOD 14 Sep 2021 -- Three contracts awarded to produce new Directed Energy Weapons advanced demonstrators for British Army vehicles and Royal Navy frigate
Greater cooperation for the success of Sudan's transition UK FCDO 14 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council briefing on Sudan.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen UK FCDO 14 Sep 2021 -- The UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French, delivered this statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen.
UK to delay post-Brexit border checks to ease supply chain crisis Press TV 14 Sep 2021 -- Britain is set to push back its implementation of full post-Brexit borders checks on imported goods from the European Union (EU), as the challenges for supply chains surge in the UK.
Defence Secretary announces National Ship Building Office UK MOD 14 Sep 2021 -- Defence Secretary Ben Wallace announces National Ship Building Office during DSEI 2021
Tabloids Raise Row Over Russian 'Spy Ship' With Undersea Cable-Cutting Capability Near UK Waters Sputnik 14 Sep 2021 -- At least one British warship is thought to have been assigned to escort the Russian vessels as it crossed the Channel, which serves as a major transit artery for the nations of northern and eastern Europe.
Britain to Offer COVID-19 Vaccines to 12-to-15-year-Olds VOA 13 Sep 2021 -- Britain's chief medical officer (CMO), Professor Chris Whitty, recommended Monday that children between the ages of 12 and 15 be offered the COVID-19 vaccine, saying they would benefit from reduced disruption to their education.
UN Human Rights Council 48: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner's Oral Update on Human Rights in Tigray UK FCDO 13 Sep 2021 -- The UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French, delivered this statement during the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner's Oral Update on Human Rights in Tigray.
UK to Resettle Afghan Former NATO Staff UK MOD 13 Sep 2021 -- UK Armed Forces have deployed to Kosovo to support the processing and relocation of NATO Afghan employees.
Defence Secretary announces launch of National Shipbuilding Office UK MOD 13 Sep 2021 -- A new National Shipbuilding Office has been created to galvanise and promote the UK's shipbuilding enterprise, Ben Wallace the Government's Shipbuilding Tsar has today announced.
£400m investment for the Royal Air Force UK MOD 12 Sep 2021 -- The UK's Chinook helicopters will be enhanced with state-of-the-art defensive systems, while the RAF's C-17 Globemaster fleet will receive a software and hardware upgrade.
Royal Navy outlines future vision UK MOD 12 Sep 2021 -- The future of the Royal Navy and how it could further embrace autonomous technology, including drones, will be unveiled at DSEI this year.
Britain Reverses Course on 'Vaccine Passports' for Nightclubs VOA 12 Sep 2021 -- Britain's Health Ministry announced Sunday that it would reverse its decision to require 'vaccine passports' for Britons entering nightclubs and bars.
Britain Expected to Announce Plans to Inoculate 12-to-15-Year-Olds VOA 12 Sep 2021 -- The Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center reported early Sunday that it has recorded 224.3 million global COVID-19 infections and 4.6 million global deaths. The center also said 5.7 billion vaccines have been administered.
Time is running out to agree a basis for elections in Libya UK FCDO 10 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council Briefing on Libya
China, UK to enhance military cooperation PLA Daily 10 Sep 2021 -- General Li Zuocheng, member of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) and chief of the Joint Staff Department under the CMC, took a video call from General Sir Nick Carter, UK's Chief of the Defence Staff, on September 10.
UK Defence Secretary Reveals When Britain May Use Its New Battle Drones in Afghanistan Sputnik 10 Sep 2021 -- On 28 August, Britain's last evacuation flight left Kabul, ending almost 20 years of UK military presence in the Central Asian nation.
MOD awards £3.8-million contract for advanced base protection system UK MOD 10 Sep 2021 -- Programme TALOS, overseen by Strategic Command's innovation hub (jHub), helps to rapidly bring new technology into defence.
RAF's next-generation Remotely Piloted Aircraft takes to UK skies UK MOD 09 Sep 2021 -- A pre-production example of the UK's new Protector aircraft has taken to the UK skies as part of preparations for the arrival of Protector to RAF Waddington.
Flight from Kabul carrying British nationals: Foreign Secretary's statement, 9 September 2021 UK FCDO 09 Sep 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab gave a statement on the departure of British nationals on a flight from Kabul.
Successful peacekeeping transitions rely on sustainable political solutions UK FCDO 08 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council briefing on peacekeeping
UK sends 'less-capable' warships to Asia-Pacific, 'no threat to PLA' Global Times 08 Sep 2021 -- With two offshore patrol vessels setting out from a UK naval base on Tuesday, the country reportedly started to permanently station its warships in the Asia-Pacific region, at a time when the US is rallying its allies to the region in an attempt to confront and contain China.
Foreign Secretary statement on Afghanistan response UK FCDO 06 Sep 2021 -- The Foreign Secretary has updated Parliament on the UK's international response to the situation in Afghanistan.
UK condemns the military seizure of power in Guinea: Minister Duddridge statement UK FCDO 06 Sep 2021 -- UK Minister for Africa, James Duddridge supports regional calls to engage in peaceful dialogue.
British Researchers Say Pro-Russian Influence Operation Targets Western News Websites RFE/RL 06 Sep 2021 -- The websites of several prominent Western news outlets have been targeted by a pro-Russian influence operation that uses the websites' comment sections to distort public opinion, research conducted in Britain shows.
UK and Australia agree to share vaccines to tackle global pandemic UK FCDO 03 Sep 2021 -- UK and Australia to share 4 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with each other to enhance roll-out of life-saving jabs.
UK to provide £30 million of life-saving supplies for Afghan refugees UK FCDO 03 Sep 2021 -- The UK announces up to £30 million of life-saving aid to Afghanistan's neighbouring countries to help those who choose to leave Afghanistan during the crisis.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in Pakistan: "Pakistan is a vital UK partner on Afghanistan" UK FCDO 03 Sep 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab visited Pakistan to discuss how the UK and Pakistan can work closely together on the situation in Afghanistan.
Syria's breach of international obligations by using chemical weapons UK FCDO 02 Sep 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council briefing on Syria Chemical Weapons
Foreign Secretary travels to Qatar for talks on security and safe passage for Afghans UK FCDO 02 Sep 2021 -- UK Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab, meets with the Amir of Qatar and the Qatari Foreign Minister in Doha today to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.
Britain's Raab To Discuss Kabul Airport In Qatar As Taliban Poised To Announce Government RFE/RL Gandhara 02 Sep 2021 -- British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will meet with the emir of Qatar and his foreign minister in Doha on September 2 to discuss the situation in Afghanistan amid international efforts to resume operations at the Kabul airport, which would facilitate humanitarian assistance and further evacuations of foreigners and others seeking to flee Taliban rule.
UK MoD Accused of Turning to Foreign Firms to Build Royal Navy's Fleet Solid Support Ships Sputnik 02 Sep 2021 -- The three new so-called Fleet Solid Support (FSS) vessels will carry munitions, food, stores, and provisions for the UK Royal Navy's aircraft strike groups while at sea. The Royal Fleet Auxiliary currently operates only one Fort Victoria-class FSS ship.
Intensifying repression in Russia ahead of elections: UK statement UK FCDO 02 Sep 2021 -- Ambassador Bush voices UK concern over the intensifying repression in Russia ahead of the September Duma elections.
UK announces £500,000 fund to support UNDP to respond to last year's Nagorno-Karabakh conflict UK FCDO 01 Sep 2021 -- The UK has provided half a million pounds to help clear landmines in and around Nagorno-Karabakh, to make the area safe, prevent injuries and save lives.
Britain In Direct Talks With Taliban To Ensure 'Safe Passage' For Nationals, Allies RFE/RL Gandhara 01 Sep 2021 -- Britain is in direct talks with the Taliban seeking to secure "safe passage" of its remaining nationals and allies out of Afghanistan after the group's takeover of the country.
After Afghan Events, Raab Says Britain Must 'Look At Our Own Capabilities' RFE/RL Gandhara 01 Sep 2021 -- British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has told a parliamentary committee that the country must assess and develop its own military capabilities to allow for specific missions without the United States.
UK enters next stage of Fleet Solid Support competition UK MOD 01 Sep 2021 -- Contracts have been awarded to four consortia, all of which include significant UK involvement, to develop their bids to build three new Fleet Solid Support ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and Royal Navy.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

September 2021 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News