- France conducts unilateral air raids in Central Africa – not that I oppose this, but it France’s “principled” support for multilateral institutions seems rather hollow.
- Britain has awarded the second Victoria Cross since the Falklands War, and the 13th since the end of WWII. The late Corporal Bryan Budd was recognised for valour in the face of the enemy in Afghanistan, July-August 2006. Read the citiation.
- Cannabis is America’s most valuable cash crop, with $35 billion produced annually. And unlike other American crops, it receives no subsidies.
- US Special Forces have been secretly used around the world in controversial spy missions.
- Data mining violates privacy and is not effective in counterterrorism.
- Heads of several Western intelligence agencies visited Wellington for the 50th anniversary of the NZSIS last month. Their speeches are online.
- Events in southern Nigeria offer a snapshot of the evolution of 21st century warfare.
Thanks to Defense Tech and FP Passport for some of these links.
