Posts

,

Cold War 2.0 in all but name

In recent remarks made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, who criticized the United States for approving a proposed sale to the Philippines of 16 F-16C Block 70/72 fighter aircraft, four F-16D models, Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, radar systems, spare parts, and associated training support.

Guo’s pointed questions—“Who exactly is fueling the flames? Who exactly is instigating military confrontation? Who exactly is turning Asia into a ‘powder keg?’”—are emblematic of Beijing’s rhetorical strategy. These lines are crafted not merely for domestic consumption, but also to influence ASEAN neighbors and cast the U.S. as the aggressor, destabilizing the region. It is classic deflection: presenting China as the stabilizing force while accusing the United States of militarization.

In reality, the proposed sale reflects a growing demand from regional partners for credible deterrence in the face of China’s escalating assertiveness in the South China Sea. The inclusion of modern Block 70/72 F-16s, advanced radar, and Sidewinder missiles is not symbolic—it is strategic. These systems enable the Philippines to better monitor, patrol, and defend its exclusive economic zone and sovereign airspace. More importantly, the inclusion of training support suggests a deepening partnership and interoperability with U.S. forces, indicating that this is not a simple arms transaction but part of a long-term commitment.

China’s objections, particularly the phrase “regional countries are not blind,” are a not-so-subtle warning to its neighbors. But these nations are not blind. They see repeated Chinese incursions, coercive maritime tactics, and an ever-growing presence in disputed waters. In this context, the U.S. response is not only justified—it is measured.

This is Cold War 2.0 in all but name: a contest of influence, where China uses information operations and economic levers, while the United States reinforces alliances and deterrence postures. As history reminds us, arming the perimeter is not an act of aggression—it is an act of preparation.

By Skeeter Wesinger

April 3, 2025

 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cold-war-20-all-name-skeeter-wesinger-z9kee

/0 Comments/by
,

The U.S. Equips Japan with Additional Advanced E-2D Hawkeyes

In a move emblematic of the growing strategic partnership between the United States and Japan, the U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Tokyo valued at $1.38 billion. The sale includes up to five E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, along with a suite of associated equipment and support systems. This decision reflects not only the deepening military cooperation between the two nations but also the ongoing challenges of maintaining security in the increasingly tense Asia-Pacific region.

The deal builds on Japan’s earlier acquisition of 13 E-2D aircraft, underscoring Tokyo’s commitment to fortifying its airborne early warning capabilities. These latest additions to Japan’s arsenal will feature cutting-edge technology designed to ensure superiority in the contested airspaces of the modern battlefield.

Included in this tranche are five E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft, powered by ten installed T56-A-427A engines with two spares. The aircraft will also carry six Multifunction Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System Terminals (five installed and one spare), five APY-9 radars, and five AN/AYK-27 Integrated Navigation Control and Display Systems. Further enhancing their capability, the package includes twelve LN-251 Embedded Global Positioning Systems/Inertial Navigation Systems equipped with Embedded Airborne Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Modules or M-Code Receivers, as well as six ALQ-217 Electronic Support Measures Systems (five installed, one spare).

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye represents a significant leap forward in technology from its predecessors. Central to its advancements is the AN/APY-9 radar, capable of detecting and tracking a wide array of threats with unprecedented precision. These enhancements are designed to ensure Japan’s ability to monitor and respond to a broad spectrum of regional security challenges with unmatched efficiency.

Among the pivotal upgrades is the integration of the M-Code Receiver, a linchpin in modern military GPS technology. The M-Code is a robust signal developed to supersede the older encrypted P(Y) code, addressing the increasing threats of electronic warfare. This GPS signal ensures the security, accuracy, and reliability of positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data under the most challenging conditions. With its anti-jamming and anti-spoofing features, the M-Code safeguards navigational data, providing authentic and accurate readings even in environments saturated with electronic interference.

The M-Code’s binary offset carrier (BOC) modulation further bolsters its performance, enabling superior resistance to multipath interference—a common issue when signals reflect off surfaces such as buildings or water. Access to this highly secure signal is restricted to authorized military users, ensuring uninterrupted availability even when civilian GPS services are compromised or disabled.

The principal contractor for this sale, Northrop Grumman Corporation Aerospace Systems, headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, will oversee the production and delivery of the aircraft and associated systems. Beyond the aircraft themselves, the package includes radars, navigation systems, and electronic support measures—a testament to the comprehensive approach taken in enhancing Japan’s defensive capabilities.

This sale is more than a simple transfer of military hardware; it underscores the strategic depth of the U.S.-Japan alliance. As tensions continue to simmer in the Asia-Pacific region, these advanced systems represent a shared commitment to maintaining stability and countering emerging threats. In the shadow of history, where alliances and preparedness have often dictated the outcomes of great conflicts, this partnership serves as a reminder of the importance of foresight in the face of uncertainty.

By Skeeter Wesinger

December 30, 2024

/by