Latest news with #MT_Anderson
NDTV
31-07-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Epicentre Of Huge 8.8 Earthquake Was Close To Russian Nuclear Submarine Base, Concerns Raised
Concerns have been raised after a magnitude 8.8 earthquake jolted Russia's Far Eastern Kamchatka coast on Wednesday (July 30), with its epicentre being alarmingly close to the Avacha Bay, home to some of the Russian Navy's most strategic nuclear submarines. The massive earthquake triggered tsunami warnings in regions as far away as French Polynesia and Chile in the Pacific. It was followed by an eruption of Klyuchevskaya Sopka volcano on the peninsula. Despite being one of the strongest earthquakes in recorded history, the quake only damaged buildings and injured several people in the remote region, according to Russian authorities. Experts have claimed that aftershocks might hit the region as Japan's eastern seaboard was ordered to evacuate, and also parts of Hawaii. Concerns Raised For Avacha Bay According to media reports, the Rybachiy submarine base within Avacha Bay houses Russia's nuclear ballistic missile submarines, including Borei and Delta-class submarines, which are crucial for Moscow's nuclear deterrence and strategic military capabilities. Separate missile loading and shipyard facilities are also there. The War Zone reported that the naval bases in Avacha Bay have nuclear-powered, but conventionally-armed Yasen-M and Oscar-class guided missile submarines, or SSGNs. Of significance is the proximity of the epicenter to the Russian Pacific Fleet submarine bases around Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Rybachiy and Vilyuchinsk. Just 65 nautical miles. 2/ — Evergreen Intel (@vcdgf555) July 30, 2025 Wonder how the 🇷🇺sub piers and ammo loading piers are doing at Rybachiy/Vilyuchinsk after the 8.8 magnitude earth struck ~70 miles offshore about 20 min ago... — MT Anderson (@MT_Anderson) July 30, 2025 Also Read | Oprah Winfrey Faces Backlash Over Claims Of Not Opening Private Road For Tsunami Evacuation Russian scientists said that the quake was the most powerful to hit the region since 1952. The U.S. Geological Survey said it was shallow, at a depth of 19.3 km (12 miles), and centred 119 km (74 miles) east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a city of 165,000. Experts are concerned about potential damage to the submarines and the base's infrastructure due to the earthquake and tsunami. Even if the base is designed to withstand nuclear blasts and natural disasters, repeated seismic activity could compromise its structural integrity over time. "I have no information that critical damage to the Russian Navy's naval bases in Kamchatka. I think everything is within the normal range," a retired Russian Navy officer who maintains close contacts with active service members, and goes by @Capt_Navy on X, told The War Zone. "These bases were designed and built with the possibility of a nuclear attack by the enemy in mind." Russia's official statement mentioned that there were no serious consequences, but still, international experts remain sceptical due to limited independent verification. What submarines were present in Avacha Bay when the earthquake occurred is unclear. As per the report, military analysts are now studying satellite images of the region to get better insights.
Newsweek
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Satellite Photo Shows US Aircraft Carrier in Pacific Rivalry With China
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The United States aircraft carrier USS Nimitz continues to operate in the South China Sea, satellite imagery shows, as the Chinese navy expands its presence in the Pacific Ocean. The Seventh Fleet—the largest of the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed fleets, with more than 50 vessels and 150 aircraft—delivers "combat-credible forces" in the western Pacific and Indian Oceans alongside the U.S.'s allies and partners, the Fleet said in a statement to Newsweek. Newsweek has also contacted the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment by email. Why It Matters The Nimitz began its "regularly scheduled deployment" to the western Pacific Ocean in late March—likely its final overseas mission before decommissioning. After a brief transit in the Strait of Malacca, the nuclear-powered warship returned to the South China Sea in late May. United States Navy sailors checking the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the South China Sea on June 2. United States Navy sailors checking the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the South China Sea on June 2. Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Franklyn Guage/U.S. Navy The U.S. aircraft carrier deployment in the South China Sea, where China's territorial claims overlap those of other regional countries, comes as the Chinese navy—the world's largest by hull count—has two aircraft carriers operating simultaneously in the broader western Pacific. What To Know According to satellite imagery captured on Sunday and shared by open-source intelligence researcher @MT_Anderson on X, formerly Twitter, the Nimitz was spotted operating in the West Philippine Sea, about 167 miles northeast of the disputed Scarborough Shoal. 🇺🇸Carrier Strike Group 11🇺🇸 CVN-68 is back in the West Philippine Sea, operating ~270km NE of 🇵🇭Scarborough Shoal (8 June 2025) Along with her are likely 2x Arleigh Burkes and potentially 1x 🇦🇺Hobart Class (?) Length is in the correct range and it doesn't look like a PLAN… — MT Anderson (@MT_Anderson) June 9, 2025 The maritime feature, under China's control since 2012, lies about 138 miles west of Luzon Island in the northern Philippines. Manila uses the term "West Philippine Sea" to refer to the portion of the South China Sea that falls within its 230-mile-wide exclusive economic zone. The most recently released official photos, taken on June 2, show the Nimitz underway in the South China Sea. The aircraft carrier's deployment demonstrates the U.S. Navy's unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, according to a photo caption. Meanwhile, the second American aircraft carrier deployed in the western Pacific Ocean, USS George Washington, was spotted departing its home port at Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo, Japan's capital, on Tuesday, according to photos taken by a local ship spotter. The George Washington returned to Yokosuka on June 4 following "routine operations" in nearby waters. The aircraft carrier and its naval aviators are preparing for their first patrol since returning to Japan—a U.S. ally—for a forward deployment almost eight months ago. What People Are Saying The U.S. Seventh Fleet said in a statement to Newsweek: "Every day the U.S. Pacific Fleet operates to protect the security, freedom, and prosperity for the United States and our allies and partners, reflecting our commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region." The Seventh Fleet is one of two fleets—along with the Third Fleet—that report to the Pacific Fleet, whose command area extends from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean. U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Maximilian Clark, the commander of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, said in April: "Operating forward as a strike group hones our ability to maintain persistent and capable forces at sea, always ready to provide our leaders with a broad spectrum of military capabilities to respond to any crisis or contingency." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether the Nimitz will depart the South China Sea for the Philippine Sea—located east of the Philippines—to conduct operations with the George Washington.
Miami Herald
27-05-2025
- General
- Miami Herald
Satellite Photos Show British Aircraft Carrier Heading Toward Pacific
Satellite imagery captured the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales passing through Egypt's Suez Canal as it led a naval strike group on a mission to the western Pacific Ocean. The British High Commission in Singapore also announced that the United Kingdom carrier strike group, led by the Prince of Wales, is scheduled to make a port call in the South China Sea country next month to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Newsweek has contacted the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment by email. The Prince of Wales has been conducting Operation Highmast-an eight-month mission set to take it to Singapore, Australia, Japan and India-since departing from its home port in southern England on April 22, forming a naval task group with several NATO naval vessels. The aircraft carrier's deployment comes as the United States-a major ally of the U.K.-and China-which has the world's largest navy by hull count-jostle for naval dominance in the western Pacific Ocean, where both countries have recently deployed their aircraft carriers. Open-source intelligence researcher @MT_Anderson wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that a group of nine warships appeared to be transiting the Suez Canal southward on Saturday, sailing from the Mediterranean Sea toward the Red Sea, as shown in a satellite image. Based on its silhouette, the researcher identified one of the warships as the Prince of Wales, positioned as the second ship in the single-line formation. Prior to their transit in the Suez Canal, the aircraft carrier and its escorting warships made a stopover at Greece's Souda Bay. The presence of the Prince of Wales near the Red Sea comes after the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Trumanleft the region. The American warship had been engaged in conflict with Yemen's Houthis until both sides reached a ceasefire agreement earlier this month. Meanwhile, @MT_Anderson said two American destroyers were likely part of the formation. According to the specialist outlet The Maritime Executive, their presence would make it difficult for the Houthis to target non-U.S. ships within the U.K. carrier strike group. Regarding the Prince of Wales' planned visit to Singapore, the British High Commission told Newsweek that it was unable to share much information at the moment. It remains unclear exactly when the British carrier strike group will arrive in the Southeast Asian country. The Royal Navy said in a statement issued on April 29: "The 2025 mission, known as Operation Highmast and commanded by Commodore James Blackmore and his staff from aboard HMS Prince of Wales, occurs with a changed world order and even more volatile geo-political situation." U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey said in a statement issued on April 22: "As one of only a few nations capable of leading a deployment of this scale, the Royal Navy is once again demonstrating that U.K. defense is strong, modern, and ready to meet the threats of today and tomorrow." It remains to be seen whether the Prince of Wales will operate in or near contested areas in the western Pacific Ocean-the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait-during its mission. Related Articles Donald Trump Attacks UK's 'Unsightly Windmills'Map Shows Countries Condemning Israel Over Gaza OffensiveThe EU Needs a Navy. Can the UK Supply It? | OpinionEurope Squeezes Putin as Trump Pins Ukraine Hopes on More Talks 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Satellite Photos Show British Aircraft Carrier Heading Toward Pacific
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Satellite imagery captured the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales passing through Egypt's Suez Canal as it led a naval strike group on a mission to the western Pacific Ocean. The British High Commission in Singapore also announced that the United Kingdom carrier strike group, led by the Prince of Wales, is scheduled to make a port call in the South China Sea country next month to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Newsweek has contacted the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment by email. Why It Matters The Prince of Wales has been conducting Operation Highmast—an eight-month mission set to take it to Singapore, Australia, Japan and India—since departing from its home port in southern England on April 22, forming a naval task group with several NATO naval vessels. Members of the public watching the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales leave from Portsmouth Naval Base on the south coast of England on April 22. Members of the public watching the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales leave from Portsmouth Naval Base on the south coast of England on April 22. BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images The aircraft carrier's deployment comes as the United States—a major ally of the U.K.—and China—which has the world's largest navy by hull count—jostle for naval dominance in the western Pacific Ocean, where both countries have recently deployed their aircraft carriers. What To Know Open-source intelligence researcher @MT_Anderson wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that a group of nine warships appeared to be transiting the Suez Canal southward on Saturday, sailing from the Mediterranean Sea toward the Red Sea, as shown in a satellite image. Based on its silhouette, the researcher identified one of the warships as the Prince of Wales, positioned as the second ship in the single-line formation. Prior to their transit in the Suez Canal, the aircraft carrier and its escorting warships made a stopover at Greece's Souda Bay. 🚨update🚨 🇬🇧UK Carrier Strike Group 2025🇬🇧 After closer examination of the SB transit, I see the 7x warships (order of N to S) Nunez Mendez | Maud | Ville de Quebec | Roald Amundsen | Richmond | Prince of Wales | Dauntless To my surprise there are 2x additional warships in the… — MT Anderson (@MT_Anderson) May 25, 2025 The presence of the Prince of Wales near the Red Sea comes after the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman left the region. The American warship had been engaged in conflict with Yemen's Houthis until both sides reached a ceasefire agreement earlier this month. Meanwhile, @MT_Anderson said two American destroyers were likely part of the formation. According to the specialist outlet The Maritime Executive, their presence would make it difficult for the Houthis to target non-U.S. ships within the U.K. carrier strike group. Regarding the Prince of Wales' planned visit to Singapore, the British High Commission told Newsweek that it was unable to share much information at the moment. It remains unclear exactly when the British carrier strike group will arrive in the Southeast Asian country. What People Are Saying The Royal Navy said in a statement issued on April 29: "The 2025 mission, known as Operation Highmast and commanded by Commodore James Blackmore and his staff from aboard HMS Prince of Wales, occurs with a changed world order and even more volatile geo-political situation." U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey said in a statement issued on April 22: "As one of only a few nations capable of leading a deployment of this scale, the Royal Navy is once again demonstrating that U.K. defense is strong, modern, and ready to meet the threats of today and tomorrow." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether the Prince of Wales will operate in or near contested areas in the western Pacific Ocean—the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait—during its mission.
Newsweek
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Satellite Photo Shows US Aircraft Carrier at China's Doorstep
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Latest satellite imagery shows that the United States aircraft carrier USS Nimitz continues to operate in the South China Sea, where China's sovereignty claims cover most of the waters. Regarding the Nimitz's deployment in the South China Sea, the U.S. Seventh Fleet—which maintains U.S. naval presence in the Western Pacific Ocean—previously told Newsweek that the nuclear-powered ship "provides presence and combat-ready forces to the theater." Newsweek has also reached out to the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment by email. Why It Matters The U.S. Navy has the largest aircraft-carrier fleet in the world, with 11 vessels in service. They are regularly deployed overseas to demonstrate America's "unwavering commitment" to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where China is challenging U.S. naval dominance. Tensions persist in the South China Sea as China's sovereignty claims—based on what it calls "historic rights"—overlap with those of neighboring nations, including the Philippines, a U.S. defense treaty ally, leading to standoffs and clashes at sea between the two sides. United States Navy sailors prepare for flight operations on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS "Nimitz" in the South China Sea on May 12, 2025. United States Navy sailors prepare for flight operations on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS "Nimitz" in the South China Sea on May 12, 2025. Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Franklyn M. Guage/U.S. Navy What To Know Open-source intelligence researcher @MT_Anderson said on X (formerly Twitter) that the Nimitz and its two escorting destroyers were spotted underway in the southern part of the South China Sea, about 310 miles west of Brunei on Tuesday, based on a satellite image. 🇺🇸Carrier Strike Group 11🇺🇸 CVN-68 and 2x of her 4x Arleigh Burke class destroyers are operating ~500 km W of 🇧🇳Brunei (13 May 2025) CSG 11 last spotted near 🇵🇭Scarborough Shoal on 9 May 2025@Schizointel — MT Anderson (@MT_Anderson) May 15, 2025 In a press release, the U.S. Navy confirmed that the aircraft carrier remained in the South China Sea, where it held a change-of-command ceremony for its carrier strike group on Wednesday. Commissioned in 1975, the Nimitz is the oldest American aircraft carrier in active service. It departed from its home port—Naval Base Kitsap in Bremerton, Washington—in late March for a deployment in the Western Pacific Ocean, likely on its final mission before retirement. Following its deployment in waters east of the Philippines, the Nimitz reached the South China Sea as early as May 3 and was seen underway west of Luzon in northern Philippines. Besides the Nimitz, a second U.S. aircraft carrier, USS George Washington, is stationed in the Western Pacific Ocean. As of Friday, it remained at its Yokosuka home port in Japan, according to a local government website that tracks port visits by U.S. nuclear-powered warships. What People Are Saying The U.S. Navy said: "[Nimitz Carrier Strike Group] is operating in the U.S. [Seventh] Fleet area of operations. U.S. [Seventh] Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region." Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said: "The current situation in the South China Sea is generally stable. There isn't any problem with the freedom of navigation and overflight that countries enjoy in accordance with the law." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether the Nimitz will be redeployed from the Western Pacific Ocean to the Middle East, where two of its sister ships are currently stationed amid regional tensions.
