Military Drone Crashes in Queensland During Test Flight
A significant setback has occurred in Australia's military program after an Integrator drone, valued at approximately $1 million, crashed during a test flight at Shoalwater Bay training area in central Queensland. The incident happened as the drone lost communication with ground control operators on takeoff, causing it to crash land. The program has been facing delays and budget overruns, adding to the complications.
Drone Attack Damages Merchant Vessel Near Yemen
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported damage to a merchant vessel following a drone attack 65 nautical miles west of Hodeidah, Yemen. Despite the incident, all crew members are safe, and the vessel is continuing to its next destination. Yemen's Houthi group has claimed responsibility for numerous drone and missile strikes in the area since November, in a campaign reportedly conducted in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. These attacks have resulted in significant maritime disruptions, including the sinking of two vessels, the seizure of another, and the deaths of at least three seafarers.