phmacao legit The U.S. Navy is transforming a costly flub into a potent weapon with the first shipborne hypersonic weapon, which is being retrofitted aboard the first of its three stealthy destroyers. The USS Zumwalt is at a Mississippi shipyard where workers have installed missile tubes that replace twin turrets from a gun system that was never activated because it was too expensive. Once the system is complete, the Zumwalt will provide a platform for conducting fast, precision strikes from greater distances, adding to the usefulness of the warship. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. “It was a costly blunder. But the Navy could take victory from the jaws of defeat here, and get some utility out of them by making them into a hypersonic platform,” said Bryan Clark, a defense analyst at the Hudson Institute. The U.S. has had several types of hypersonic weapons in development for the past two decades, but recent tests by both Russia and China have added pressure to the U.S. military to hasten their production. Hypersonic weapons travel beyond Mach 5, five times the speed of sound, with added maneuverability making them harder to shoot down. Last year, The Washington Post reported that among the documents leaked by former Massachusetts Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira was a defense department briefing that confirmed China had recently tested an intermediate-range hypersonic weapon called the DF-27. While the Pentagon previously acknowledged the weapon's development, it had not recognized its testing. One of the U.S. programs in development and planned for the Zumwalt is the “Conventional Prompt Strike." It would launch like a ballistic missile and then release a hypersonic glide vehicle that would travel at speeds seven to eight times faster than the speed of sound before hitting the target. The weapon system is being developed jointly by the Navy and Army. Each of the Zumwalt-class destroyers would be equipped with four missile tubes, each with three of the missiles for a total of 12 hypersonic weapons per ship. In choosing the Zumwalt, the Navy is attempting to add to the usefulness of a $7.5 billion warship that is considered by critics to be an expensive mistake despite serving as a test platform for multiple innovations. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. The Zumwalt was envisioned as providing land-attack capability with an Advanced Gun System with rocket-assisted projectiles to open the way for Marines to charge ashore. But the system featuring 155 mm guns hidden in stealthy turrets was canceled because each of the rocket-assisted projectiles cost between $800,000 and $1 million. Despite the stain on its reputation, the three Zumwalt-class destroyers remain the Navy’s most advanced surface warship in terms of new technologies. Those innovations include electric propulsion, an angular shape to minimize radar signature, an unconventional wave-piercing hull, automated fire and damage control and a composite deckhouse that hides radar and other sensors. The Zumwalt arrived at the Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in August 2023 and was removed from the water for the complex work of integrating the new weapon system. It is due to be undocked this week in preparation for the next round of tests and its return to the fleet, shipyard spokeswoman Kimberly Aguillard said. A U.S. hypersonic weapon was successfully tested over the summer and development of the missiles is continuing. The Navy wants to begin testing the system aboard the Zumwalt in 2027 or 2028, according to the Navy. The U.S. weapon system will come at a steep price. It would cost nearly $18 billion to buy 300 of the weapons and maintain them over 20 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Critics say there is too little bang for the buck. “This particular missile costs more than a dozen tanks. All it gets you is a precise non-nuclear explosion, some place far far away. Is it really worth the money? The answer is most of the time the missile costs much more than any target you can destroy with it,” said Loren Thompson, a longtime military analyst in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Navy intercepted Houthi missiles and drones targeting two warships and three merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. But they provide the capability for Navy vessels to strike an enemy from a distance of thousands of kilometers — outside the range of most enemy weapons — and there is no effective defense against them, said retired Navy Rear Adm. Ray Spicer, CEO of the U.S. Naval Institute, an independent forum focusing on national security issues, and former commander of an aircraft carrier strike force. Conventional missiles that cost less aren’t much of a bargain if they are unable to reach their targets, Spicer said, adding the U.S. military really has no choice but to pursue them. “The adversary has them. We never want to be outdone,” he said. The U.S. is accelerating development because hypersonics have been identified as vital to U.S. national security with “survivable and lethal capabilities,” said James Weber, principal director for hypersonics in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies. “Fielding new capabilities that are based on hypersonic technologies is a priority for the defense department to sustain and strengthen our integrated deterrence, and to build enduring advantages,” he said. Image Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock The financial challenges facing U.S. military households are a significant concern throughout the year. Holidays such as Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, or Veterans Day highlight the ongoing struggles that service members face, particularly amid rising costs for everyday essentials. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey shows a troubling trend: Military personnel and their families are finding it more difficult to cover basic household expenses such as food, housing, and transportation than the average American. Our analysis examines how service members are faring in today’s economy compared to civilian households, highlighting the states where military families report the greatest challenges in managing their finances. As we enter Giving Season, we’ve also highlighted meaningful ways to support service members and their families through charitable contributions, offering an opportunity to make a direct impact on those who serve our nation. Service members are struggling more financially than the average American. Image Credit: Upgraded Points According to recent Household Pulse Survey data, members of the armed services are experiencing financial strain at higher rates than the general U.S. population. Over 40% of service members report difficulty covering their usual household expenses, compared to 36.6% of all U.S. adults. The data also shows heightened anxiety among service members regarding rising prices. Nearly 80% of military personnel express stress about recent price increases, significantly higher than the 71.8% of all U.S. adults who share similar feelings. Furthermore, 81.8% of service members are concerned about future price hikes, reflecting widespread uncertainty about inflation’s long-term impact on household budgets. More than half of service members in certain states have difficulty covering basic household expenses. Image Credit: Upgraded Points Across the U.S., the financial burden on service members varies significantly from state to state, primarily influenced by local economic conditions. According to the most recent data, Utah leads with 53.7% of service members reporting difficulty covering basic household expenses, closely followed by Louisiana (52.9%) and Alaska (52.8%). Other states where over half of service members are struggling include Indiana (52.0%), Tennessee (51.2%), New York (50.8%), and Florida (50.3%). A key issue service members frequently raise is that their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) has not kept pace with the rapidly rising cost of housing. In states where service members face the greatest financial difficulties, such as Utah, Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida, home price increases have far exceeded the national average, exacerbating the strain on household budgets. Another critical factor affecting military families is the employment challenges military spouses face. According to the Department of Defense, the military spouse unemployment rate was 21% in 2023, compared to a national rate of 3.6% that year. Many military bases are located in rural or remote areas, limiting job opportunities for spouses, particularly in specialized fields. Additionally, frequent relocations make it difficult for spouses to sustain long-term careers, especially for those in professions requiring state-specific occupational licenses that can be difficult to transfer. Service members are also more likely to report financial struggles in states with higher-than-average unemployment rates, such as Louisiana, Alaska, and New York. Conversely, the state unemployment rate is below average in 9 of the 10 states where service members report the least financial difficulty. This suggests that strong local employment opportunities, particularly for spouses, significantly ease the financial burden on military households. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock One of the most impactful ways to support service members, veterans, and their families who are facing financial hardships is through donations to reputable charities. These organizations are dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by military families and veterans, providing vital assistance in areas like housing, medical expenses, scholarships, and career training. To help guide your generosity, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated charities based on scores from Charity Navigator , CharityWatch , and GuideStar , which assess organizations on criteria such as impact, efficiency, accountability, and transparency. Here are some of the best charities supporting military families and veterans in need: 1. USO For over 80 years, the USO has provided crucial support to active-duty service members and their families. From financial assistance programs to community-building initiatives, the USO helps service members stay connected to loved ones while addressing their most pressing needs during deployments and transitions. 2. Homes For Our Troops This charity is focused on providing specially adapted homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. It helps veterans regain independence. Homes For Our Troops also provides financial planning and household budgeting to ensure long-term stability for the recipients. 3. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) Dedicated to advocating for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, IAVA works to improve government policies and programs that support military families. Its advocacy ensures veterans have access to financial resources, healthcare, and education opportunities. 4. Fisher House Foundation This foundation builds “comfort homes” near military and VA medical centers, allowing families to stay free of charge while a loved one is hospitalized. By reducing travel and lodging expenses, Fisher House eases financial stress during difficult times. 5. Hope For The Warriors Offering a range of programs focused on financial stability, wellness, social support, and education, Hope For The Warriors provides critical support to service members, veterans, and their families. Its services include direct financial assistance for transitioning service members and veterans in need, career training and job placement, and scholarships for spouses. 6. Semper Fi & America’s Fund Semper Fi & America’s Fund assists wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families through direct financial assistance and case management during hospitalization and recovery. The organization also provides educational support, career assistance, and health and wellness services. 7. Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS) WWFS supports families of those wounded or killed in combat through programs like medical travel grants, meal and housekeeping assistance, in-home care services, and family retreats. By addressing these families' immediate and ongoing needs, WWFS alleviates the financial burdens of those suffering from recent tragic events. For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points . Photo Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock Upgraded Points conducted the analysis using the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey Phase 4.0–4.2 , covering the period from January 9, 2024, to September 16, 2024. Service members were defined as adults currently serving in the U.S. armed forces (Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard) and their spouses. This analysis focuses on 3 key questions from the survey: Statistics with fewer than 50 survey responses were omitted from the analysis. Additional statistics on home prices were sourced from Zillow’s Home Value Index , and unemployment rates were sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates . For complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points. Get local news delivered to your inbox!All ahead AI: fresh risk, different rules, new features

In conclusion, the sharp decline in housing inventory in Beijing is a significant development that carries various signals and implications for the real estate sector. While it may reflect strong market demand and positive investor sentiment, it also raises concerns about affordability and accessibility for prospective homebuyers and renters. As the Beijing real estate market continues to evolve, monitoring housing inventory levels will remain crucial in understanding market dynamics and making informed decisions for all stakeholders involved.The decision to merge the worlds of Halo and Indiana Jones in this unique crossover image is a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural impact of both franchises. By blending the futuristic sci-fi elements of Halo with the timeless adventure and mystery of Indiana Jones, the "Fortune and Glory" release promises to offer players a thrilling and unforgettable gaming experience unlike any other.Spire Global CFO Leonardo sells $196,076 in stock

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Donations for the legal defense of Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, topped $55,000 Thursday, amid a wave of online support for the suspect that’s shown no signs of cresting. Started on the , the fundraiser was created by a group calling itself “The December 4th Legal Committee,” an apparent reference to the day that Thompson was gunned down in Midtown Manhattan. “We are not here to celebrate violence, but we do believe in the constitutional right of fair legal representation,” text on the site reads. The campaign has a goal of raising $200,000, and as of Thursday afternoon it had brought in over $56,000. Judging from the flood of comments praising Mangione that have been left on social media sites, his emergence as a folk hero boils down to two main factors: anger at the American health care system and Mangione’s good looks. “Luigi’s actions represent a fierce rejection of a system that profits massively yet doesn’t care about the American people,” an anonymous donor wrote on the crowdfunding site. “Our deaths, our pain, our cries for help are constantly silenced and ignored, as we work multiple jobs just to afford to live. This isn’t about political parties. It’s about CLASS CONSCIOUSNESS. FREE LUIGI.” "Admiration for the brave and revolutionary Luigi Mangione, who dared to challenge the healthcare system's injustices and became a voice for the oppressed,” a person identifying themselves as Emiliano GC wrote. Another message left accompanying a $6 donation by a person who did not leave their real name stated, “Thank you for being brave. Someone had to give the wake up call. Health care should be free and fair, not a financial trap designed to make us sick with stress! Free Luigi! Free universal healthcare for all!” After New York police circulated a photo of Mangione smiling with his mask lowered, and other photos were circulated of him hiking shirtless in Hawaii, social media was flooded with messages left by users Some donors to Mangione’s legal defense fund have also identified with the pain he suffered to do a back condition known as . “As a fellow sufferer of Spondylolisthesis who also has United Healthcare insurance, I empathize with what you've gone through that brought you to your current situation,” an anonymous donor who left $20 wrote. “I've been denied surgery for almost 2 years. I even had to pay out of pocket for my diagnostic MRI because they said it wasn't ‘necessary’. Thank you for your courage and sacrifice, which has brought these atrocities to light.” Mangione reportedly aggravated his back condition when he went surfing in Hawaii in 2022, and underwent surgery in early 2023. Initially, he described in a thread on Reddit how the surgery had left him pain free, but by May of that year, he complained that most doctors were “basically worthless” in a now deleted post on X. On Thursday, however, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said that Mangione . “We have no indication that he was ever a client of United Healthcare, but he does make mention that it is the fifth largest corporation in America, which would make it the largest healthcare organization in America. So that’s possibly why he targeted that company,” Kenny said in an interview with NBC New York. On Tuesday, Mangione’s lawyer Thomas Dickey said that he offering to help pay him for defending his client but that he was not inclined to accept them. “To be honest with you, I probably wouldn’t,” Dickey told . “I just don't feel comfortable about that. So, I don't know. I haven't given that much thought.” While Mangione comes from a wealthy Maryland family, it is unclear whether they will step forward to pay his legal bills. On the crowdfunding site, the organizers say they will redirect the money raised for Mangione’s defense if he refuses it. “All proceeds will be sent directly to Luigi or, if he chooses to reject the funds, they will instead be donated to legal funds for other U.S. political prisoners,” the website states without specifying who those other recipients might be.Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith will return to the lineup this week against the Carolina Panthers after missing the last two games with a hamstring injury. DeVonta Smith: “Count me in.” pic.twitter.com/tsCVf3A9Xg Smith, however, has been dealing with this hamstring injury since before Week 10's win over the Dallas Cowboys. He played through that win with the injury and suited up again with it in the Eagles' Week 11 win over the Washington Commanders before making it worse and having to sit out in Weeks 12 and 13. The Eagles kept Smith's snap count low in those two games as he played less than 60% of the team's offensive snaps and was targeted a total of nine times, catching six targets for 43 yards. That is the same approach that the Birds will need to make against Carolina if they want to keep Smith healthy for their inevitable playoff run. The Eagles are also already down tight end Dallas Goedert (knee) and wide receiver Britain Covey (neck), so that might make things difficult but they still have other options. Of course, Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown will heavily be relied upon but they also have Grant Calcaterra, Jahan Dotson, and rookie Johnny Wilson to pick up more snaps. Eagles Week 14 Injury Report Observations The Eagles are said to be monitoring Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley 's health closely so it will be normal for either or both of them to kick off the week limited moving forward. Reed Blankenship suffered a concussion while Dallas Goedert hurt his knee in the Eagles' Week 13 win over the Baltimore Ravens . With Goedert dealing with an injury, the Eagles signed tight end C.J. Uzomah to the 53-man roster. Per a report from Eagles insider Jeff McLane, Goedert could be sidelined on a "week-to-week" basis. The Eagles also signed wide receiver Parris Campbell back to the practice squad and fullback Khari Blasingame. Sydney Brown was on last week's injury report with the same knee injury. He ended up dressing vs. Baltimore but didn't play. Rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson was ruled out last Sunday so it's good to see him back, especially with the Eagles dealing with a banged-up receiver room. Cornerback Darius Slay has been on and off the injury report this season with a lingering knee issue. He suffered this concussion in Week 12's win over the LA Rams. With Reed Blankenship and Sydney Brown out this week, the Eagles will lean more on backup Tristan McCollum. Britain Covey 's absence isn't great but rookie Cooper DeJean is a solid backup on punt return. This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

Overall, the loan move of Naby Keita to Ferencváros represents an exciting chapter in the midfielder's career and a significant opportunity for both the player and the club. With his talent, experience, and determination, Keita has the potential to thrive in his new surroundings and make a lasting impression on Hungarian football.

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