Secretary Austin to unveil drone strategy amid rising threats
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During a recent government meeting, key discussions focused on Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's upcoming engagements and the U.S. military's response to threats abroad. Secretary Austin is set to attend the 2024 Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California, marking his fourth consecutive year at the event. He will deliver the keynote address on December 7, which will be live-streamed. Additionally, he will receive the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Award alongside Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell.
Following the forum, Secretary Austin will travel to Tokyo, Japan, for a multi-day visit. This trip will be his 13th to the Indo-Pacific region as Secretary of Defense. The visit aims to strengthen partnerships and alliances in the area, promoting peace, security, and prosperity.
In another significant update, the meeting addressed recent U.S. self-defense strikes in Syria. These strikes were a response to imminent threats, including rockets and mortars fired at U.S. forces. Three service members are currently being evaluated for potential traumatic brain injuries, although no additional injuries have been reported.
Secretary Austin also highlighted a new classified strategy aimed at countering unmanned systems, commonly known as drones. This strategy is part of a broader effort to address the growing threats posed by these systems, which can impact U.S. personnel and facilities both overseas and domestically. The Department of Defense is focusing on a comprehensive approach to countering these threats, which includes preparing for operations and responding to incidents effectively.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure a smooth transition for incoming officials, as the Pentagon awaits further instructions from the federal transition coordinator and the Trump transition team. The Department of Defense is prepared to support this transition to maintain continuity and security.
Following the forum, Secretary Austin will travel to Tokyo, Japan, for a multi-day visit. This trip will be his 13th to the Indo-Pacific region as Secretary of Defense. The visit aims to strengthen partnerships and alliances in the area, promoting peace, security, and prosperity.
In another significant update, the meeting addressed recent U.S. self-defense strikes in Syria. These strikes were a response to imminent threats, including rockets and mortars fired at U.S. forces. Three service members are currently being evaluated for potential traumatic brain injuries, although no additional injuries have been reported.
Secretary Austin also highlighted a new classified strategy aimed at countering unmanned systems, commonly known as drones. This strategy is part of a broader effort to address the growing threats posed by these systems, which can impact U.S. personnel and facilities both overseas and domestically. The Department of Defense is focusing on a comprehensive approach to countering these threats, which includes preparing for operations and responding to incidents effectively.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure a smooth transition for incoming officials, as the Pentagon awaits further instructions from the federal transition coordinator and the Trump transition team. The Department of Defense is prepared to support this transition to maintain continuity and security.
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