Latest news with #DeGrasse


Sustainability Times
2 hours ago
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'U.S. Caught Off Guard': France's New Nuclear Submarine With 620-Mile Missiles Triggers Panic Inside Pentagon War Rooms
IN A NUTSHELL 🔍 France's De Grasse is the latest nuclear submarine, enhancing naval capabilities with stealth and endurance. is the latest nuclear submarine, enhancing naval capabilities with stealth and endurance. 💡 Part of the €10 billion Barracuda program , it aims to replace aging Rubis-class submarines by 2030. , it aims to replace aging Rubis-class submarines by 2030. 🚀 Equipped with advanced weaponry, including cruise missiles and F21 torpedoes , it supports strategic operations and Special Forces deployment. , it supports strategic operations and Special Forces deployment. 🌊 Strengthens NATO's presence in key maritime regions, reinforcing global security and strategic deterrence. The unveiling of the De Grasse, France's newest addition to its fleet of nuclear submarines, marks a significant leap in naval technology and strategic military capability. As part of the ambitious Barracuda program, this cutting-edge vessel represents a pivotal step in replacing the aging Rubis-class submarines and ensuring the French Navy remains at the forefront of maritime defense. The De Grasse exemplifies the perfect blend of stealth, endurance, and multirole flexibility, embodying the future of underwater warfare. This momentous development not only fortifies France's naval prowess but also contributes to NATO's strategic deterrence in key maritime regions. France's Nuclear Attack Submarine: A Technological Marvel The De Grasse is a testament to the technological and strategic advancements of the Barracuda program, a €10 billion initiative spearheaded by the French defense procurement agency and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission. This program is a cornerstone of France's efforts to modernize its naval forces by introducing six state-of-the-art nuclear-powered attack submarines by 2030. With Naval Group as the prime contractor, the program encapsulates a national endeavor involving over 2,500 personnel, including 800 subcontractors. Naval Group's collaboration with TechnicAtome has been crucial in developing the nuclear steam supply system, a vital component of the submarine's propulsion. The rollout of the De Grasse marks a critical milestone, highlighting the excellence of France's naval industry and its contribution to national sovereignty. Each Barracuda-class submarine, including the De Grasse, displaces between 4,700 and 5,200 tons, spanning 324 feet in length with a beam of 28 feet. These dimensions underscore the vessel's balance of stealth, endurance, and multirole flexibility. 'China Moves Decades Ahead': World's First Fusion-Fission Hybrid Reactor Set to Eclipse U.S. Efforts by 2030 270-Day Endurance: A Game-Changer in Naval Operations The De Grasse boasts an impressive endurance capability, with a hybrid propulsion system centered on a pressurized water reactor. This reactor, derived from components used in other elite French naval assets, allows for extended patrol durations exceeding 270 days per year. Armed with a formidable array of weaponry, including MBDA's naval cruise missiles with a range of over 620 miles, the submarine is poised to deliver precise strikes on land targets. The inclusion of SM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles and advanced F21 heavyweight torpedoes further enhances its tactical versatility. With additional features like a diver's lockout chamber and an optional dry deck shelter, the De Grasse is equipped for the deployment of Special Forces and autonomous underwater systems, elevating France's capabilities in strategic reconnaissance and covert operations. As one of only a few nations capable of designing and building nuclear submarines, France solidifies its position as a leader in underwater warfare technology. 'I've Decided to Risk My Life': Scottish Brothers Launch 9,000-Mile Death-Defying Row to End the World's Water Crisis Strategic Impact on NATO and Global Maritime Security The addition of the Barracuda-class submarines to the French fleet is set to enhance NATO's submarine presence in both the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean. This development aligns with NATO's increasing emphasis on underwater awareness and strategic deterrence, providing the alliance with enhanced capabilities to counter potential threats. The technological advancements embodied in the De Grasse and its sister vessels are critical to maintaining a competitive edge in global maritime security. The Barracuda program, a product of over two decades of development, not only bolsters France's ability to deter threats but also ensures that its naval forces are equipped with the most advanced underwater warfare technology. By integrating these cutting-edge submarines into its fleet, France contributes significantly to collective defense efforts, reinforcing its commitment to global security and strategic stability. 'U.S. Delivers a Monster': 60-Foot Superconducting Magnet Sent to France to Power the Heart of the ITER Fusion Reactor Looking Ahead: The Future of Underwater Warfare The successful rollout of the De Grasse heralds a new era in naval capabilities, setting a benchmark for future submarine technology. As sea trials for the vessel commence in 2026, following rigorous shore-based systems testing, the anticipation surrounding its operational integration grows. This achievement is a testament to the enduring commitment and expertise of the French naval industry. As the Barracuda program continues to unfold, the strategic implications for France and its allies are profound. The deployment of such advanced submarines raises important questions about the future of naval warfare and the evolving dynamics of maritime power. How will these developments shape global security strategies in the coming decades, and what new challenges will arise as nations strive to maintain a balance of power in the world's oceans? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (26)


CBC
5 days ago
- Business
- CBC
Arop crowned men's short distance champion at Grand Slam Track stop in Philadelphia
Social Sharing Edmonton's Marco Arop won the short-distance title at a Grand Slam Track event in Philadelphia after finishing fourth in Sunday's men's 1,500-metre race. Arop finished in a personal-best time of three minutes 35.38 seconds to take five points from the race. Canada's Arop wins 800m for third straight time at Grand Slam Track event He had 17 points altogether in the short distances after winning Saturday's 800 metres. That was one point better than Britain's Josh Kerr, who won the 1,500 in 3:34.44 but was fifth in the 800. Arop, the Olympic silver medallist at the Paris Games, has won all three 800-metre Grand Slam races so far. He finished second overall in short distance at the first two stops on the circuit after finishing sixth and seventh in the 1,500. WATCH | Arop claims men's short distance Grand Slam Track Philadelphia crown: Edmonton's Marco Arop claims Grand Slam Track Philadelphia title with 4th place finish in 1,500m 48 minutes ago Duration 6:59 Andre De Grasse of Markham, Ont., was fifth and Aaron Brown of Toronto was seventh in Sunday's 100 metres to finish fourth and fifth respectively in the short sprint category. American Kenny Bednarek swept the races after winning Saturday's 200m. WATCH | Bednarek wins 200m; Canada's De Grasse, Brown miss podium: American Bednarek wins 100m, Canada's De Grasse 5th and Brown 7th at Grand Slam Track Philadelphia 18 minutes ago Duration 4:10 Grand Slam Track was started by American track and field legend Michael Johnson, and is in its inaugural season. The first event was in Kingston, Jamaica, the second in Miami, and the fourth and last one will be in Los Angeles June 27-29. All competitors have to compete in two events and are split into categories — short sprints (100, 200), long sprints (200, 400), short hurdles (100 hurdles for women, 110 hurdles for men, 100 for both), long hurdles (400 hurdles, 400), short distance (800, 1,500), long distance (3,000, 5,000) — with a points system in place. Winners get 12 points, second place gets eight points, third gets six points, fourth gets five points, fifth gets four points, sixth gets three points, seventh gets two points and eighth gets one point. The athlete with the most points after competing in both races from each category is named the "Slam Champion" for their race group. The overall season leader in points for each race group will be recognized as "Racer of the Year."
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
World Relays reveal Canada can lean on depth, continuity in buildup to 2025 world championships
If you're fixated on outcomes, maybe the bronze medal Canada's men's 4x100-metre team earned at World Relays last weekend in Guangzhou, China seems like a regression. Canada fielded the same lineup that won Olympic gold last summer in Paris, yet here was Andre De Grasse on the anchor leg, trying but not quite succeeding in keeping pace with South Africa's Akani Simbine in a sprint to the finish line. South Africa took gold in 37.61 seconds, .05 seconds ahead of the United States, with Canada back in third at 38.11. Last year at this same competition Canada took silver, behind a U.S. team anchored by all-world sprinter Noah Lyles. So right here, some perspective helps. No sprinter, after all, can control what happens in another lane, and Simbine is already midseason-sharp. Last month he ran 9.90 into a headwind, a time that still leads the world. He doesn't need permission from De Grasse or any other rival to run fast. The only person who could stop Akani Simbine from a blistering anchor leg was Akani Simbine, and Simbine chose to conduct a clinic. A bit more perspective. De Grasse left a group of anchor runners flailing in his wake, and gained ground on Brandon Hicklin, who ran last for the U.S. The post race stats analysis had De Grasse covering the final leg in 8.90 seconds, which means he did his job. A cleaner first exchange between Aaron Brown and Jerome Blake would likely have bumped Canada below the 38-second barrier, and put them within shouting distance of that way, Canada's foursome is actually well-positioned for the 2025 world championships in Tokyo. A podium performance with room to improve between now and September. That setup makes the World Relays unique, and useful to countries, like Canada, with ambitious relay programs. It's a global event with real medals at stake, but it's also a dress rehearsal for a blockbuster end-of-year competition. It's the preseason and the playoffs at the same time. The results matter, but so do the projections. As for concrete accomplishments, Team Canada left Guangzhou with a gold medal in the co-ed 4x100, a national record in the women's 4x100, and yet another men's 4x100 medal. But just as importantly, as Tokyo 2025 approaches, and De Grasse et al edge deeper into their 30s, Canada displayed the kind of relay depth that could help it earn medals in the long this were strictly a sprint depth contest, the U.S. would win in a landslide, almost every year. Canada has four legal sub-10-second sprinters in its history. The U.S. has six this year, including two high schoolers. Canada won bronze with its best men's relay team. The U.S. left two Olympic 100m medallists – Lyles and Fred Kerley – at home and took silver. On the women's side, you can attribute the U.S.'s fourth-place finish to the fact that two of the sport's fastest early-season performers – Melissa Jefferson and Gabby Thomas – stayed behind, while Sha'Carri Richardson won't open her season until this Sunday. But the problem, as U.S. men's teams keep demonstrating, is that cornering the market on the world's fastest individual sprinters doesn't guarantee success in a team event. It takes a baseline level of speed, if Team Canada has some hiccups early, they're in medal contention if De Grasse can lay down an 8.9-second final leg. But chemistry counts, too, so it helps that each member of the men's relay understands his role, and how to set his teammates up for success. And relay running is a craft unto itself, a skill you can sharpen with practice. If you don't believe me, you can go back to Kenny Bednarek's performance last weekend. In Paris, Bednarek torpedoed team USA's 4x100 medal hopes when he took off too early, and left leadoff runner Christian Coleman marooned at the first exchange. Nine months later, here was Bednarek, executing flawless changeovers while laying down the fastest splits of the weekend. In the prelims he covered the back stretch, typically the longest leg in a 4x100, in 8.91 seconds, then ran 8.79 in the final. If the U.S. men had won, you could have named Bednarek the meet's MVP. Or you can revisit that exchange between Brown and Blake in the men's final. Brown whiffed twice before finally slapping the baton into Blake's left hand. Then he gritted his teeth and slammed his fists against his thighs, visibly frustrated the handoff hadn't gone more smoothly. A pessimist could point out, correctly, that the glitch cost Canada precious time. Blake's back stretch split time, recorded at 9.32 seconds, likely comes down if he doesn't have to wait for the baton. An optimist will tell you that veteran relay runners also prove their value in those moments. Two rookies, with a lower level of mutual trust, might blow that exchange completely, and get the team disqualified. A veteran can adjust on the fly, complete the handoff, and keep the team in the race. By now, we're used to seeing the men's 4x100 perform when it counts. But the depth on display this past weekend? That's a new wrinkle. The women's 4x100 for example, showed the kind of round-to-round continuity that U.S. men's team dreams of but can never quite achieve. They showed us a new lineup in the semi – Marie-Éloïse Leclair replacing Jacqueline Madogo on the back stretch, and Catherine Léger filling in for Leclair on the third leg. Three seamless exchanges later and they had qualified for the final, where the normal lineup – Sade McCreath to Madogo to Leclair to Audrey Leduc – ran 42.46 to set a new national for the gold medal in the co-ed 4x100… It's an achievement on its own. McCreath, Leclair, Duan Asemota and Eliezer Adjibi delivered Canada's only outright win of the weekend. But it also provided crucial high-stakes live reps for sprinters just outside the men's and women's 4x100 starting lineups. Asemota's 9.31 third leg holds up against any third runner in the men's final, and signals that Canada might finally have a sorely-needed hedge against injuries or schedule conflicts at upcoming global competitions. In the past, it wasn't clear if Canada could swap runners in and out without risking performance. Last weekend's results suggest it's possible now. Add that to the advantages Team Canada has over the U.S. in the men's relay heading into Tokyo. The U.S can summon 9.9 sprinters off the bench, and that's huge strength. But Canada now looks to have depth and continuity. In the 4x100, those are superpowers.


National Post
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- National Post
Andre De Grasse finds motivation in future uncertainty, turns focus to biopic
Andre De Grasse says he's found new motivation — and a new creative outlet — as he heads into the 2025 season. Article content Article content The 30-year-old from Markham, Ont., has faced repeated questions about his future and whether he'll race at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. At the 2024 Games in Paris, De Grasse missed the 100- and 200-metre finals for the first time due to a hamstring injury, but anchored Canada's men's 4×100 relay team to a gold medal. Article content He said it's been 'crazy' the number of times he's been asked about his future despite having said he plans to go to L.A. Article content 'I want to show people,' De Grasse said. 'It's definitely a blessing, and I'm definitely grateful to be in the sport for that long and be doing it at a high level, and I just want to keep defying the odds, keep breaking limits. Article content '(It would) be a full-circle moment for me to get to the L.A. Olympics 2028, and then we can go from there. We can re-evaluate this,' the University of Southern California product added. 'Just go with the flow and just continue to remember to keep having fun and enjoying myself and embracing the moment.' Article content The seven-time Olympic medallist has kept himself busy off the track over the years, launching wines, writing books and making investments — including in AFC Toronto of Canada's new professional women's soccer league, the Northern Super League. Article content He's working on a new project: a biopic about his origin story from age 15 to 21 — a period he says makes him 'emotional' to reflect on and has helped him find motivation in his current life. Article content De Grasse found inspiration in the idea at the Toronto International Film Festival, watching the film 'Unstoppable' about one-legged wrestler Anthony Robles, who won an NCAA championship in 2011. Article content 'It was just an inspirational story,' De Grasse said. 'It got me thinking, I was just like, 'This is a cool story, great biopic on his story and, you know, people always have told me that, humbly speaking, of course, that I have a great story. Article content '(Then) I was like, 'OK, what's the next step, you know, like how do I bring this to life?' And of course, a lot of other people were interested in telling my story … I'm just grateful for the opportunity that people will want to tell my story.' Article content Funding is still being raised, with Endy founder Rajen Ruparell on board as an investor. Producing are Stuart Henderson and Javiera Quintana of 90th Parallel Productions, along with industry veteran Martin Katz (The Shrouds, Maps to the Stars, Hotel Rwanda). Caleigh Bacchus will write the film. Article content Katz said he was already intrigued by De Grasse's story, but meeting him sealed the deal.


Toronto Sun
02-05-2025
- Sport
- Toronto Sun
Andre De Grasse finds motivation in future uncertainty, turns focus to biopic
Published May 02, 2025 • 3 minute read Andre De Grasse, of Canada, looks up at the clock after competing in the men's 100-metre semi-finals at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. Photo by Nathan Denette / THE CANADIAN PRESS Andre De Grasse says he's found new motivation — and a new creative outlet — as he heads into the 2025 season. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account The 30-year-old from Markham, Ont., has faced repeated questions about his future and whether he'll race at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. At the 2024 Games in Paris, De Grasse missed the 100- and 200-metre finals for the first time due to a hamstring injury, but anchored Canada's men's 4×100 relay team to a gold medal. He said it's been 'crazy' the number of times he's been asked about his future despite having said he plans to go to L.A. 'I want to show people,' De Grasse said. 'It's definitely a blessing, and I'm definitely grateful to be in the sport for that long and be doing it at a high level, and I just want to keep defying the odds, keep breaking limits. '(It would) be a full-circle moment for me to get to the L.A. Olympics 2028, and then we can go from there. We can re-evaluate this,' the University of Southern California product added. 'Just go with the flow and just continue to remember to keep having fun and enjoying myself and embracing the moment.' Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The seven-time Olympic medallist has kept himself busy off the track over the years, launching wines, writing books and making investments — including in AFC Toronto of Canada's new professional women's soccer league, the Northern Super League. He's working on a new project: a biopic about his origin story from age 15 to 21 — a period he says makes him 'emotional' to reflect on and has helped him find motivation in his current life. De Grasse found inspiration in the idea at the Toronto International Film Festival, watching the film 'Unstoppable' about one-legged wrestler Anthony Robles, who won an NCAA championship in 2011. 'It was just an inspirational story,' De Grasse said. 'It got me thinking, I was just like, 'This is a cool story, great biopic on his story and, you know, people always have told me that, humbly speaking, of course, that I have a great story. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. '(Then) I was like, 'OK, what's the next step, you know, like how do I bring this to life?' And of course, a lot of other people were interested in telling my story … I'm just grateful for the opportunity that people will want to tell my story.' Funding is still being raised, with Endy founder Rajen Ruparell on board as an investor. Producing are Stuart Henderson and Javiera Quintana of 90th Parallel Productions, along with industry veteran Martin Katz (The Shrouds, Maps to the Stars, Hotel Rwanda). Caleigh Bacchus will write the film. Ruparell says Canadian stories such as De Grasse's need to be told, 'now more than ever.' Katz said he was already intrigued by De Grasse's story, but meeting him sealed the deal. 'I think the thing that stands out for me about this story is that there's a clear analog, you know, to one of the great sports movies of all time, the first Rocky, and (Andre's) story,' Katz said. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'You know, Rocky's story — about a completely unconventional person who wants to be champion, who has perseverance and the intention to win — and what changes his life is this encounter with this coach, when Rocky Balboa meets Mickey Goldmill … it's that relationship where the coach sees a champion buried inside a contender and refuses to give up on Rocky.' On the track, De Grasse has been healthy and training under new coach Mike Holloway at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Fla. He is set to compete in the 100 on Saturday and the 200 on Sunday at a Grand Slam Track event in Miami — part of a new pro series aiming to bring star power and prize money to the sport outside the traditional Diamond League. De Grasse will face familiar rivals from Olympic finals, including Americans Kenny Bednarek and Fred Kerley, in both races. 'I'm excited to race and I think this format is pretty cool because it's something that I'm used to doing at championships, so I'm definitely looking forward to it,' De Grasse said. 'Having the best athletes be a part of it so that it can take off and do something special (and) it makes sense financially as well for everybody.' Check out our sports section for the latest news and analysis. Editorial Cartoons Toronto Maple Leafs Ontario Sunshine Girls Toronto & GTA