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Microsoft's Military Deal Sparks Intense Ethical Debate

Unknown microsoft, military, military technology, modern warfare, technology

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 During Microsoft’s event marking their 50th anniversary, a protest took place where someone alleged that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were utilizing Microsoft’s technology in activities within the Gaza Strip.
 


 Mustafa stated that approximately 50,000 Palestinians lost their lives due to Israeli military actions, and mentioned that the IDF employed technology from the Redmond-based company. This emotionally charged comment was made roughly one minute into the audio clip.


 It should be mentioned that the exact number of individuals who suffered due to the conflict remains uncertain—statistics provided by either side might be overly exaggerated or downplayed. Furthermore, an extra complication arises because Hamas combatants frequently dressed as civilians, complicating efforts to differentiate between combatants and non-combatants.


 
 Read also:
 


 IDF explores options for repurposing captured Russian and Iranian weaponry


 As reported by journalists at The Guardian along with their collaborative partners, Microsoft supplied its resources to the IDF. These exchanges generated revenues of around $10 million (CAD$14 million) starting from October 7, 2023, and potential deals planned for 2024 might add another $30 million (CAD$43 million) to this figure; however, the real totals may end up being even greater. It has been noted that the Israeli military utilizes Azure cloud infrastructure as well as ChatGPT AI technology.

<h2>
 Microsoft and the Israel Defense Forces
</h2>

 This technology is crucial in contemporary military engagements. With the prevalent use of drones and surveillance systems, it has become feasible to maintain constant oversight of combat zones. Nonetheless, the sheer volume of data produced presents a significant challenge for efficient analysis.


 
 Read also:
 


 US Tariffs Shock Israel Despite Last-Minute Concession


 Conventional military analytic frameworks are inadequate for swiftly and effectively examining this influx of data. As such, AI algorithms are being implemented to distill numerous hours of footage into brief segments necessitating deeper examination by experts, a development that is widely valued.


 These algorithms similarly assist in the decision-making process, allowing for quick data transmission from operational units to analysts and commanders, which enables prompt actions such as airstrikes or artillery strikes. Information systems for command purposes are increasingly common—a conceptually similar system is currently under testing by the U.S. Army, whereas ad hoc versions utilizing platforms like Discord have been adopted by the military forces of Ukraine and Russia.


 
 Read also:
 


 Testing the Limits: French Army Tests Japan's Ronin Helmet


 Developing and sustaining sophisticated systems, akin to the Azure framework used by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), entails significant financial outlays and substantial resource demands. Likewise, systems similar to TITAN utilized by the U.S. Army highlight the essential part played by current technological advancements and cloud architecture in present-day military operations.


 
 Read also:
 


 Apple's most recent AI update sparks creativity and ethics discussions.


 Ukraine's cutting-edge drone strategies to counter Russian advancements


 Microsoft's Copilot: Evolving from an aide to a captain

Microsoft's Military Deal Sparks Intense Ethical Debate

Unknown microsoft, military, military technology, modern warfare, technology

During Microsoft’s event marking their 50th anniversary, a protest took place where someone alleged that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were utilizing Microsoft’s technology in activities withi…

US Fighter Jets Neutralize Houthi Drones Using Cheaper Rockets Than Top Air-to-Air Missiles, New Video Reveals

Unknown military, military technology, military weapons, modern warfare, weapons and warfare

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/slideshow/AA1BgAK4" data-reference="slideshow"/>

 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BgD8j" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BgD8j.jpg"/>
 <ul class="summary-list">
 <li>
 The U.S. military released new video footage demonstrating its planes employing rockets to neutralize Houthi drones.
 </li>
 <li>
 The video highlights how U.S. fighter aircraft can utilize ordnance that costs less than air-to-air missiles.
 </li>
 <li>
 The aerial combat occurs as a fresh phase emerges in the Red Sea conflict.
 </li>
 </ul>
 
 On Wednesday, the U.S. military released a video providing a seldom-seen glimpse of an air-to-air engagement over the Red Sea. The footage depicts American fighter jets neutralizing Houthi drones using inexpensive, precision-guided rockets that cost considerably less than advanced air-to-air missiles.
 
 
 The popular segment showcases an affordable method for U.S. aircraft to
 take down Houthi drones
 , which have persistently threatened alongside missiles for more than a year now.
 
 
 U.S. Central Command, which is responsible for
 Middle East operations
 , stated on Wednesday that a U.S. fighter jet intercepted a single Houthi assault drone with APKWS laser-guided rockets. Video evidence shows both drones detonating over the sea.
 
 
 The AGR-20 FALCO Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System, known as APKWS, transforms Unguided Hydra 70 2.75-inch rockets into precise weaponry by adding laser-guidance kits. These rockets measure almost 19 inches in length and under 3 inches in diameter, rendering them very slender.
 
 
 Gen. David Allvin, the Air Force Chief of Staff, said the APKWS costs just $35,000 a piece — a fraction of one of the air-to-air missiles that could have been used instead to take down the drone. For instance, he said, the AIM-9 missile costs around $500,000, while the AIM-120 is more than double that at around $1 million.
 
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bgqxf" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bgqxf.jpg"/>
 
 The cost of the rockets is more closely aligned with the price tag of a Houthi drone, which is likely in the range of tens of thousands of dollars. Officials have said that using an expensive missile to intercept this kind of threat is on the wrong side of the cost curve.
 
 
 "More savings. More lethality. More Air Force," Allvin wrote on social media on Wednesday.
 
 
 CENTCOM did not disclose when or where the engagement occurred, nor did it say what aircraft used the APKWS to shoot down the Houthi drones. These rockets can be fired from a range of aircraft. A US official
 told
 The War Zone earlier this year that US Air Force F-16s had used the rockets against Houthi drones.
 
 
 Years earlier, the Air Force tested the air-to-ground rockets as a cheaper air-to-air kill solution.
 
 
 The footage comes amid a
 fresh campaign of US airstrikes
 against the Houthis in Yemen. The Trump administration has vowed to intensify its efforts to deter the rebel group from attacking military and civilian vessels transiting key Middle East shipping lanes.
 
 
 The new campaign began on Saturday, with CENTCOM saying that it had "initiated a series of operations consisting of precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets across Yemen to defend American interests, deter enemies, and restore freedom of navigation."
 
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 Air Force Lt. Gen Alexus Grynkewich, the director of operations for the Joint Staff, said Monday that the initial wave of strikes hit over 30 Houthi targets at multiple locations in Yemen, including training sites, drone infrastructure, weapons storage facilities, and command centers.
 
 
 Grynkewich told reporters at a briefing that the operation extended into Sunday and Monday and would continue for several days "until we achieve the president's objectives."
 
 
 CENTCOM has published footage this week showing flight operations aboard the
 USS Harry S. Truman
 — the latest US aircraft carrier to see combat against the Houthis — as well as missile launches from warships in its strike group.
 
 
 And President Donald Trump has suddenly taken an aggressive approach to the
 Houthi conflict
 after a period of relative quiet in the Red Sea. He has vowed to keep striking the rebels and even threatened to go after Iran, their main supporter and provider of military assistance.
 
 
 "Tremendous damage has been inflicted upon the Houthi barbarians, and watch how it will get progressively worse — It's not even a fair fight, and never will be. They will be completely annihilated!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/BB1nCWHx" data-reference="video"/>
 
 If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow
 Business Insider
 on MSN.

US Fighter Jets Neutralize Houthi Drones Using Cheaper Rockets Than Top Air-to-Air Missiles, New Video Reveals

Unknown military, military technology, military weapons, modern warfare, weapons and warfare

The U.S. military released new video footage demonstrating its planes employing rockets to neutralize Houthi drones. The video highlights how U.S. fighter aircraft can utilize ordn…

How Ancient Silk Weaving Is Solving the F-22's Stealth Coating Cracks in China

Unknown military technology, modern warfare, stealth aircraft, technology, technology trends

As the US faces issues with aging radar-absorbent materials, China has turned to historical approaches for its advanced solutions.

 As US stealth aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor struggle with peeling radar-absorbent materials—a issue compared to "molting cicada wings"—China asserts it has discovered a traditional remedy for this problem affecting its fifth-generation fighter jets.


 New disclosures from defense sector experts indicate that advanced stealth technologies may
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/technology" title="">
 technology
 </a>
 aboard China's smooth-skinned
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3293421/chinas-mystery-6th-gen-stealth-fighter-poised-be-command-centre-combat-drones" title="">
 stealth fighters
 </a>
 Its durability might be attributed to a 3,000-year-old textile advancement: the technique of silk jacquard weaving.


 Modern stealth airplanes, including the
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/f-22-raptor-fighter-jets" title="">
 F-22
 </a>
 and
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/f-35-stealth-fighter-jets" title="">
 F-35
 </a>
 Relies on multi-layered coatings to divert radar waves. However, these materials deteriorate quickly when exposed to stress.


 Are you curious about the most significant issues and global trends? Find out here.
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/knowledge">
 SCMP Knowledge
 </a>
 Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our acclaimed team.


 US maintenance logs reveal that even minor abrasions from high-speed flight or desert sandstorms can slash stealth efficacy, forcing crews to reapply
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3287546/new-coating-can-make-chinas-stealth-aircraft-invisible-anti-stealth-radar-study" title="">
 radar-absorbent materials
 </a>
 (RAM) approximately every three weeks, with expenses surpassing $60,000 per flight hour, as reported by certain US media outlets.


 Moreover, in areas such as Florida, humidity intensifies adhesive problems, whereas corrosion close to seaside installations additionally undermines effectiveness.


 Chinese aerospace engineers have frequently criticized these makeshift solutions. Rather, they aimed for a fundamental approach — an innovation embedded within the very fabric of the materials themselves.


 As reported in a study released last month in the Chinese scholarly magazine Knitting Industries, the solution hinges on a two-tier combined material modeled after
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/han-dynasty" title="">
 Han dynasty
 </a>
 (206 BC-AD 220) Jacquard looms - a silk weaving method originating from around 200 BC.


 By incorporating conductive threads into a warp-knit “double-layered jacquard” design, scientists from the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) along with Tiangong University developed a fabric that can absorb up to 90.6 percent of radar waves within the 8-26 GHz range, surpassing traditional coating methods.


 According to Professor Jiang Qian’s research team, this material represents a “fusion of traditional patterns with contemporary electromagnetism.”

<div class="image-inline-container">
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</div>

 Similar to how traditional Jacquard weavers utilized “flower books” with patterns akin to perforated cards to store complex designs, Jiang and her team incorporated radar-evading structures right into the fabric’s structure. The quartz fibers serve as an insulating foundation layer, whereas stainless-steel threads generate resonating circuits designed to convert electromagnetic waves into thermal energy.


 Each conductive thread is positioned precisely to direct and capture signals, much like how ancient weavers would arrange silk threads to portray dragons or clouds, as stated by the
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science" title="">
 researchers
 </a>
 .


 The laboratory tests highlighted significant mechanical benefits. It was discovered that the composite can endure up to 93.5 megapascals of longitudinal tensile stress—which surpasses the strength of conventional coatings by over tenfold. This enhanced resilience is due to the knitted material’s anisotropic design, wherein the load-carrying threads are oriented parallel to each other.
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3298181/chinas-stratospheric-airship-can-detect-american-f-35-fighters-1800km-study" title="">
 aircraft's
 </a>
 stress vectors, reflecting the axial strength found in Han Dynasty textiles.


 The Smith Chart, used for electromagnetic analysis, demonstrated nearly perfect impedance matching in the longitudinal direction, enabling
 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3300083/china-declassifies-tech-worlds-first-high-orbit-radar-satellite-worrying-us" title="">
 radar waves
 </a>
 to delve into rather than mirror, as per the study.


 Archaeologists link Jacquard’s roots back to the looms of the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC), where craftsmen used manual “multi-heddle” mechanisms to create intricate geometric designs. These devices advanced significantly during the Han period, featuring as many as 120 heddle rods, evolving into highly refined machinery. This technological progression culminated in what was essentially an early form of the Jacquard weaving system, evidenced by the discovery of such a device among the artifacts found in Chengdu's Laoguanshan Tombs, marking it as the world’s earliest known example.


 A scholar from Beijing specializing in scientific history mentioned that those Han dynasty looms were not solely used for producing luxurious items," but wished to remain anonymous because of the sensitive nature of the technology involved.


 Just as early binary computers stored weaving codes in physical memory, today’s military engineers appear to have rediscovered this approach.


 More Articles from SCMP


 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3300892/why-china-could-capitalise-trump-zelensky-showdown-rift-emerges-west?utm_source=Microsoft&utm_medium=Off-Platform-referrals&utm_campaign=Off-Platform-referrals">
 Why China might benefit from the growing divide between Western leaders during the dispute involving Trump and Zelensky.
 </a>


 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3300867/hong-kongs-finance-sector-benefit-ai-china-opening-asia-wealth-think-tank?utm_source=Microsoft&utm_medium=Off-Platform-referrals&utm_campaign=Off-Platform-referrals">
 Hong Kong's financial industry set to gain from AI advancements, China's openness, and growing Asian wealth: research institute
 </a>


 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3300786/optimism-chinas-property-market-well-deserved-caution?utm_source=Microsoft&utm_medium=Off-Platform-referrals&utm_campaign=Off-Platform-referrals">
 China's optimism regarding its real estate sector is justified, though it should be tempered with prudence.
 </a>


 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3300921/hong-kong-stocks-sink-almost-2-week-low-trumps-tariffs-stoke-trade-war-fears?utm_source=Microsoft&utm_medium=Off-Platform-referrals&utm_campaign=Off-Platform-referrals">
 Hong Kong shares plunge to nearly a two-week low amid concerns over trade wars sparked by Trump's tariffs.
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 The article initially appeared on the South ChinaMorning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China andAsia.


 Copyright © 2025. South ChinaMorning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

How Ancient Silk Weaving Is Solving the F-22's Stealth Coating Cracks in China

Unknown military technology, modern warfare, stealth aircraft, technology, technology trends

As the US faces issues with aging radar-absorbent materials, China has turned to historical approaches for its advanced solutions. As US stealth aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor struggle with peeling…

U.S. Bolsters Submarine Presence in Strategic Australian Ports Under New AUKUS Deal

Unknown armed forces, military, modern warfare, submarines, united states navy

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B1TXd" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B1TXd.jpg"/>

 By Kirsty Needham


 PERTH () – Inside the command center of the US Navy’s Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Minnesota, stationed off the western coastline of Australia, sonar technicians are adapting to the sounds of dolphins in unfamiliar waters as the area anticipates an increased presence of American submarines.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B1TXe" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B1TXe.jpg"/>

 During a training mission from its homeport in Guam, USS Minnesota leads the way for four Virginia-class submarines that will be stationed at a Western Australian naval base starting in 2027 as part of the AUKUS agreement aimed at transferring nuclear-powered submarine capabilities to Australia.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B1RtI" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B1RtI.jpg"/>

 Crew use video game joysticks to interrogate screen images from a photonic mast that has replaced a periscope. Life aboard can mean up to 100 days without seeing sunlight, and intermittent communication with families via email to maintain stealth.


 The commanding officer, Jeffrey Corneille, states that the Virginia-class submarine is "the most technologically advanced naval vessel globally."


 He states that if someone wakes up and asks 'Is today the day?' we ensure they also think 'Perhaps not,' highlighting its preventive impact.


 Around 50-80 United States navy personnel will arrive by the middle of the year at Western Australia's HMAS Stirling base, which is undergoing an A$8 billion ($5 billion) upgrade to prepare for the "Submarine Rotational Force West", Australian officials have said.


 Within two years, these figures will balloon to include hundreds of U.S. Navy personnel and support staff.


 Peter Dean, who leads Foreign Policy and Defence studies at the University of Sydney’s United States Studies Centre, noted that the positioning of HMAS Stirling, which is nearer to Asia and the Indian Ocean compared to the U.S. Pacific Fleet base in Hawaii, holds significant strategic importance for the United States.


 He stated that protecting the Indian Ocean from China’s growing capabilities and influence is crucial.


 The Virginia submarine program has received an exemption from the Pentagon’s budget reductions because the Trump administration is shifting its focus away from the Middle East and Europe towards the Indo-Pacific region, according to him.


 The third-highest-ranking Pentagon official during the Trump administration, Elbridge Colby, stated at a recent U.S. Senate confirmation hearing that attack submarines are “crucially important” for ensuring the defense of Taiwan remains feasible. He emphasized that production levels should be increased initially to address American requirements and also to uphold commitments to supply submarines to Australia as part of the AUKUS agreement.

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 In November, the USS Minnesota relocated its home port from Hawaii to Guam, a U.S. Pacific territory nearer to Taiwan and close to the sole forward-deployed U.S. submarine base.


 Australian authorities have pointed out that a Chinese naval fleet which sailed around Australia in February and March, conducting unusual live-fire exercises near the eastern coast that interfered with regular flights, then moved past Western Australia simultaneously with the arrival of the USS Minnesota at a port facility, underscores Beijing’s intention to increase its presence regularly within the region surrounding Australia.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B1P5k" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B1P5k.jpg"/>

 Through AUKUS, which marks Australia's costliest defense initiative, the country plans to acquire two used Virginia-class submarines in the coming decade. Additionally, they aim to develop a new class of nuclear-powered submarines alongside Britain, intended to supersede their current aging diesel-powered fleet.


 There are currently 115 Australians undergoing training in the U.S. nuclear navy program or stationed with Virginia-class submarines, along with another 130 individuals who are being trained for nuclear submarine maintenance at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, according to statements made by U.S. Navy officials.


 (Reported by Kirsty Needham in Perth; edited by Giles Elgood)

U.S. Bolsters Submarine Presence in Strategic Australian Ports Under New AUKUS Deal

Unknown armed forces, military, modern warfare, submarines, united states navy

By Kirsty Needham PERTH () – Inside the command center of the US Navy’s Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Minnesota, stationed off the western coastline of Australia, sonar technicians are a…