The F-111 Aardvark was retired at different times by the USAF and RAAF due to differing strategic needs. While the U.S. replaced it with newer bombers in the 1990s, Australia maintained it until 2010 for its extended-range operational requirements.

China's "artificial sun," the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), broke its own record by sustaining plasma for 1,066 seconds. This achievement advances nuclear fusion research, a step toward limitless, clean energy.

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 The service is facing budget constraints and outdated infrastructure.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.