Chief of the US Air Force has called for increased investment in the service due to the rapidly evolving threat landscape, and an aging aircraft fleet. The service is facing budget constraints and outdated infrastructure.

China uses video games as a soft power tool, with Tencent at the forefront. This gaming strategy supports China's Digital Silk Road initiative and its aim to be a digital and cultural leader.

NASA's X-59, a part of the Quesst mission, aims to develop an aerodynamic design to mute sonic booms to barely perceptible thumps. If successful, it could revolutionize commercial aviation, enabling faster-than-sound flight over land.

China, as Iran's biggest oil customer, enables Iran to fund the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its proxies, including the Houthis. China's involvement exacerbates the threat to Red Sea shipping and increases regional tensions.

Hackers have used AI for disinformation and influence campaigns, impacting the 2024 US presidential election, Taiwanese and Romanian elections, and the Paris Olympics; while North Korea uses cyber espionage for financial gain.

The claim that allies don't contribute enough to global security, as measured by the 2% GDP defence spending target, is misleading. A more nuanced approach is needed, taking into account factors beyond just defence spending.

The US findings suggest the trend is driven by social influences and the perception of nicotine pouches as a safer alternative. However, the pouches may still pose health risks and contribute to nicotine addiction.

A global tech war is also about shared facts. Meta's policy changes signal escalating tension between global governments and tech companies—impacting democracy, disinformation, and online safety while raising concerns about sovereignty and political influence.

Checking your phone first thing in the morning isn't harmful by itself—prioritising daylight exposure and healthy habits including walking, gym, etc. may better support wellbeing and sleep. However, using technology at night displaces sleep-promoting habits.

Indonesia, the first Southeast Asian nation in BRICS, faces potential strains with ASEAN, the US, and EU, while internal divisions within BRICS may challenge its cohesion and effectiveness.