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Israeli Soldiers from the Caracal Battalion during their basic training – 2012
The Caracal Battalion is an infantry combat battalion of the Israel Defense Forces, composed of both male and female soldiers, of both Jewish and Arab descent.[It is named after the Caracal, a small cat whose sexes appear the same. As of 2009, approximately 70% of the battalion was female.It is part of the 512th "Sagi" Brigade of Israel's Southern territorial command.
Prior to Caracal's formation in 2000, women had been prevented from serving in direct combat positions with the IDF. The unit has since been tasked with patrolling the Israeli-Egyptian border. It took part in Israel's unilateral withdrawal from the Gaza Strip in the summer of 2005.
The unit badge, adopted in 2009, incorporates the Sagi Brigade badge, with the addition of the Caracal cat.
New recruits in the Caracal Battalion, are issued the Israeli-made Tavor assault rifle. Battalion members partake in a four-month basic training period that includes physical training at the Givati Brigade training base.
Soldiers specialize in various weapons including machine guns, advanced weaponry, grenades, and mortars.
All female soldiers who join the battalion are required to sign up for a third year of military service, the same as their male counterparts. The men are drawn from Nahal garinim, or have volunteered.
Caption: An Australian Special Operations Task Group soldier observing a 500lb bomb strike an insurgent position during the Shah Wali Kot Offensive.
Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) partnered with Australian Special Forces from the Special Operations Task Group conducted a deliberate operation to clear a Taliban insurgent stronghold in the Shah Wali Kot region of northern Kandahar province.
The Shah Wali Kot Offensive comprised synchronised and deliberate clearance operations involving Australian Commandos combined with a number of surgical helicopter-born assaults from Special Air Service (SAS) troops on key targets.
Removing Taliban insurgents from Afghan communities allows the Government of Afghanistan to establish a presence and gain the trust of the community to provide them with necessary infrastructure and security that was not provided by the insurgents.
The Shah Wali Kot Offensive was part of Australia’s contribution to Operation Hamkari, the Coalition operation to extend the Government of Afghanistan’s influence into Kandahar City.
Irish Military Static Line Parachute Course
Members of the Irish Defence Force during the Military Static Line Parachute Course at the Defence Forces Training Centre – 29th March 2012
Photos: Sgt Paul Brady
NATO Missile Defence Systems static display at HQ AIRCOM. 10th Army Air and Missile Defence Command PATRIOT firing unit and French Air Force SAMP/T firing unit. Photo: Cynthia Vernat, HQ AIRCOM PAO.
Hayling Beach sea defences on an evening when they are not really needed and the Virgin Kitesurfing Armada has retreated
On October 30, 2013, I found a small cardboard box amid a stack of larger boxes that put into storage in the basement of my mother’s home in Pretoria, South Africa, about three decades ago. When I pack stuff away, I usually record what's in the box by writing an inventory list on the outside. This one had nothing written on it, so I decided to take it upstairs to investigate. Back in my former bedroom, I opened the box up and found it to contain all manner of military ephemera from my two years compulsory national service in the South African Defence Force (July 1979 - July 1981). A menacing little time capsule from the worst years of my life.
Shrapnel from a RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenade and a container of SADF compressed fuel tablets.
As part of Defence Expo 2018 Exhibition at Thiruvidanthai, an Airshow took place on 14042018. Photos taken are presented here
Israel's Special Unit Bardalas Take Part in Training Exercise
Israeli male and female combat soldiers of the Bardales battalion take part in a training exercise July 13, 2016 in Nitzana, Israel. Bardales battalion is a new mixed-gender combat battalion that has been active since 2015.
Source: Ilia Yefimovich
IDF's Mostly Female Combat Unit Attend Training Day in Azuz
Israeli Soldiers from the Karakal Batallion on the Shooting range on July 6, 2016 in Nitzana, Israel.
The first mixed-sex Karakal combat battalion was formed in 2004 and is based in the Negev desert on the border with Egypt and Jordan.
The Estonian Ministry of Defence has purchased new service rifles from LMT Defense, formerly known as the Lewis Machine & Tool Company, and will supply the Country's Defence Force with two new service weapons.
The LMT MARS platform of AR-15 and AR-10 pattern rifles, as well as a 40 mm grenade launcher compatible with these Rifles.
Both Rifles will be replacing the current issue Rifles, the Israeli-built Galil-AR and the Swedish-made Ak4 (a licensed copy of the H&K G3A3).
The grenade launchers included in the contract are LMT’s M203 rail-mounted 40 mm GLs.
Photos @kaitsevagi.edf
Israel's Special Unit Bardalas Take Part in Training Exercise
Israeli male and female combat soldiers of the Bardales battalion take part in a training exercise July 13, 2016 in Nitzana, Israel. Bardales battalion is a new mixed-gender combat battalion that has been active since 2015.
Source: Ilia Yefimovich
Botswana Defence Force Millitary Hardware on Parade at the 50th Independence Celebration.
All Images courtesy of Botswana Aviation Art
Nahal's Elite Unit Concludes Training Course
The Gadsar, Nahal's Elite Unit, concluded their 16 month course with a final, challenging exercise. From storming and capturing hills, to a 15km trek throughout the night, the soldiers completed the course. At the concluding ceremony, the soldiers were awarded with their combat wing pins. February 13, 2013
Photo by Cpl. Zev Marmorstein, IDF Spokesperson's Unit
Israeli Karakal Battalion Graduation
Soldiers from the 'Karakal' Battalion during a graduation march near the Israeli-Egyptian border on March 13, 2010 near Azoz, Israel. The Karakal is a mixed-sex battalion formed in 2004, with men and women serving together in this combat unit, based in the Negev desert on the borders with Egypt and Jordan.
This field floods when there's heavy rain as part of Milford on Sea's flood defences. The picture came out this way, complete with flare - there's been no Photoshopping!
Focus on the goal, not the cold.
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The Israel Defence Force Alpinist Unit is an infantry special reserve unit that uses special equipment and transportation, like snowmobiles, to navigate around Mount Hermon, which borders Syria and Lebanon and acts as a strategic asset.
Photos: IDF
The Heinkel He 115 was a three-seat World War II Luftwaffe seaplane. It was used as a torpedo bomber and performed general seaplane duties, such as reconnaissance and minelaying. The aircraft was powered by two 960 PS (947 hp, 720 kW) BMW 132K nine-cylinder air-cooled radial engines. Some later models could seat four, had different engines or used different weapon arrangements.
In 1935, the German Reich Air Ministry (RLM, Reichsluftfahrt-ministerium) produced a requirement for a twin engined general purpose floatplane, suitable for patrol and for anti-shipping strikes with bombs and torpedoes. Proposals were received from Heinkel Flugzeugwerke and from the Blohm & Voss aircraft subsidiary Hamburger Flugzeugbau. On 1 November 1935, orders were placed with Heinkel and Hamburger Flugzeugbau for three prototypes each of their prospective designs, the He 115 and the Ha 140.
The first prototype Heinkel flew in August 1937, testing was successful and the He 115 design was selected over the Ha 140 early in 1938, leading to an order for another prototype and 10 pre-production aircraft. The first prototype was used to set a series of international records for floatplanes over 1,000 km (620 mi) and 2,000 km (1,200 mi) closed circuits at a speed of 328 km/h (204 mph).
Armament initially consisted of two 7.92 mm (.312 in) MG 15 machine guns, one in the nose and one in the dorsal position.[1] Later He 115s were fitted with a fixed forward-firing 15 mm or 20 mm MG 151 cannon and two rearward-firing 7.92 mm (.312 in) MG 17 machine guns in the engine nacelles. He 115 variants carrieded LTF 5 or LTF 6b torpedoes and SD 500 500 kg (1,100 lb) or SC 250 250 kg (550 lb) bombs. Some also carried LMB III or LMA mines.
At the beginning of the war, the He 115 was used for dropping parachute mines in British waters, normally aiming for narrow passages close to busy ports on the English south coast; the River Thames was also a prime target. The aircraft had its finest moment on anti-shipping operations against Arctic convoys from bases in northern Norway. Because the first convoys lacked air cover, the slow and lightly armed He 115 was less vulnerable than near the English coast. With the appearance of carriers and escort carriers, coupled with new Soviet heavy fighters like the Petlyakov Pe-3bis, Luftwaffe air superiority over the convoys was challenged and losses increased.
Apart from its use as a minelayer and torpedo bomber, the He 115 was used for coastal reconnaissance and by KG 200 to drop agents behind enemy lines.
In response to the rising tensions in Europe, the Norwegian Ministry of Defence had ordered six He 115Ns for the Royal Norwegian Navy Air Service (RNoNAS) on 28 August 1939 and the aircraft were delivered from 14 July – 13 November 1939.[7] The He 115N order was intended to replace the RNoNAS fleet of 1920s vintage Douglas DT torpedo bombers and the obsolescent Marinens Flyvebaatfabrikk M.F.11, which was the mainstay of the RNoNAS in 1940.[8] The Norwegians signed another order of six He 115Ns in December 1939, with delivery expected in March/April 1940 but this was forestalled by Operation Weserübung, the German invasion of Norway of 9 April 1940. At the outbreak of hostilities, the RNoNAS had six He 115Ns in service (F.50, F.52, F.54, F.56, F.58 and F.60) spread along the coast from the naval air stations at Sola and Flatøy in the south to the one at Skattøra Naval Air Station outside Tromsø in the north. At the beginning of the German invasion, the aircraft at the seaplane base at Hafrsfjord near Stavanger (F.60) was captured by the Germans, but two Luftwaffe He 115s (given the codes F.62 and F.64 in Norwegian service) were seized by an improvised militia unit of Norwegian riflemen at Ørnes in Glomfjord, Nordland and by police officers at Brønnøysund, Nordland. The two aircraft were seized after they ran out of fuel and had to make emergency landings on 10 April. Manned by Norwegian aircrews, they served against their former owners for the duration of the campaign.
Seven Norwegian He-115s, five of them He-115Ns, were employed against German and German-controlled ships (see: HNoMS Uller), as well as providing ground support to the Norwegian Army offensive on the Narvik Front. On 14 April 1940, three Norwegian He 115s made a successful attack on German Ju-52s at Gullesfjordbotn. Four of the Norwegian aircraft (F.52, F.56, F.58 and F.64) made the journey to the United Kingdom shortly before the 10 June 1940 surrender, a fifth (F.50) escaping to Finland, landing on Lake Salmijärvi in Petsamo. A sixth He 115 (F.54) also tried to make the journey to Britain but was lost over the North Sea. The last of the Norwegian He 115s, F.62 (one of the two captured German aircraft), was unserviceable at the time of the evacuation and was abandoned at Skattøra, later being repaired and flown by the Germans.
The four escaped aircraft were reformed into the Norwegian Helensburgh Group under Commander Bugge. The exiled Norwegian Cabinet Nygaardsvold made plans soon after arriving in Britain to use the four He 115 aircraft to perform leaflet dropping missions over Norway. The leaflet mission was to deliver a declaration to the Norwegian people, stating the Norwegian authorities were re-established in the UK and rejected any Nazi German overtures for a German–Norwegian peace deal. All four Norwegian He 115s were ordered from Helensburgh to Scapa Flow on 3 July 1940 to carry out the mission, although one had to return to Helensburgh due to engine problems. The three He 115s assembled at Scapa Flow were ordered to fly to Norway and drop the declaration over the cities of Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. Shortly before the mission was to get under way the British Air Ministry intervened and stopped the expedition, insisting that such an undertaking would be suicidal to attempt with the slow flying He 115s. Three days later, the aircraft returned to Helensburgh.
Three of the Norwegian He 115s (F.56, F.58 and F.64) were subsequently used in covert operations off Norway and in the Mediterranean Sea with Norwegian crews. In British service, the three received new serial numbers, BV184, BV185 and BV187. BV184 was attacked and damaged by two Polish Spitfire fighters over the Bay of Biscay in the spring of 1942, while co-operating with French fishing boats and later lost in a refuelling fire in the UK. BV185 was destroyed in an Italian air raid on Kalafrana, Malta after flying just one clandestine operation to North Africa. BV187 flew several missions on the North African coast from its base in Malta before being destroyed by two German Bf 109s. (Wikipedia).
River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme.
These images were taken during the first week of September, 2016.
Constant traffic nowadays with hard material being trucked in and dumped in storage areas along The Slang/Rehills section of the river bank.
Further work is now being undertaken to upgrade the protection of the riverbank edge with the laying down of extra stone material.
With the recent convoys of trucks bringing in vast quantities of stone, we now see that;
(a) some of the larger boulders are intended to be used as reinforcements along the base of certain bank edges (which have to be excavated again), and;
(b) some of the medium size stones look like they will be used to create secondary shelves along the riverside.
At the same time, the guys are working (or playing?) on changing the profile of the stepped terrace along the face of the Slang/Rehills section.
Seems like every time they do this, and we believe it is a 'finished' piece of work, they confound us later by ripping it up all over again.
I know there is value in maintaining this area as a smooth accessible strip. But the degree of attention they apply to this is then wasted by the randomness with which they undo all the previous work.
I call it the 'Biggest Sandpit/Playarea' in Wicklow, in Leinster, in Ireland.
Late evening mini-convoy of earth-moving vehicles with the sun casting long shadows.
Givati Brigade Trains in the Golan Heights
These Givati Brigade soldiers are tasked with protecting Israel's northern border. Here they train in the Golan Heights, Israel's highest altitude region.
Photo Credit: Gil Kremer, IDF Spokesperson's Unit
As part of Defence Expo 2018 Exhibition at Thiruvidanthai, an Airshow took place on 14042018. Photos taken are presented here
Israeli Soldiers from the Caracal battalion during a field training exercise 17th December 2011
Photos: Israel Defence Force
Botswana Defence Force Millitary Hardware on Parade at the 50th Independence Celebration.
All Images courtesy of Botswana Aviation Art
The European Defence Agency’s Annual Conference 2019 entitled 'Taking European Defence Cooperation to the Next Level - Prospects for the decade ahead’ took place in Brussels on 28 November.
For more information on the conference, visit www.eda.europa.eu/info-hub/press-centre/latest-news/2019/....
The Estonian Ministry of Defence has purchased new service rifles from LMT Defense, formerly known as the Lewis Machine & Tool Company, and will supply the Country's Defence Force with two new service weapons.
The LMT MARS platform of AR-15 and AR-10 pattern rifles, as well as a 40 mm grenade launcher compatible with these Rifles.
Both Rifles will be replacing the current issue Rifles, the Israeli-built Galil-AR and the Swedish-made Ak4 (a licensed copy of the H&K G3A3).
The grenade launchers included in the contract are LMT’s M203 rail-mounted 40 mm GLs.
Photos @kaitsevagi.edf
Israeli soldiers of the Golani brigade take part in an exercise near the border with Syria on May 6, 2013 at the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights. Syria has accused Israel of launching a series of airstrikes on targets near the Lebanon/Syria border, including an arms shipment and the Jamraya research centre, that was thought to produce chemical weapons.
The Iconic Ford Power Live Event took Place at Brands Hatch to Celebrate The Blue Badged Ford Motor Company and their Iconic Cars From both the Past and The Present. From Escort Mexico's to Modern Ford Mustang GT'S there was Everything for the Ford Enthusiast to enjoy.
The Support Races Featured During the Day were also Full of Different Makes and Models of Ford Racing Cars From The Focus RS to the Ford Escort and the Iconic Sierra Cosworth and even the Iconic Enduro KA series was Present and with Drivers and Spectators Ready the Racing was about to begin.
Lets Turn to the Race Track and See what is the First Support Race to make it onto the Race track.
Champion Of Brands (Qualifying)
First up Champion of Brands and with Fast and High Speed Action from Thease Machines Lets See who took that all important People Position to Start the Race in P1.
In First Place was (Tom Mills) in his Spectrum KMR with a Best Lap Time of 50.154 and a Top Speed of 86.70mph. Amazing work there Tom a truly Heroic and Brave Drive for Pole Position.
In Second Place was (Niall Murray) in his Van Diemen BD21 with a Best Lap Time of 50.397 and a Top Speed of 86.28mph. Fantastic Work Niall Very Fast and Quick Driving.
In Third Place was (Colin Queen) in his Ray GR18 with a Best Lap Time of 50.399 and a Top Speed of 86.28mph. Another Incredible Driver in Colin Pushing Hard and Almost Taking Second Place from Niall. I think we are in for some Really Intense Racing but who will be Fast Enough to on Track to Take Victory?
Champion Of Brands (Race 1 Results)
After a Thrilling Battle that saw Tom Mills take Pole Position its time to find out who Won the Race and out of The Top Three Could Anyone else on the Grid Challenge them for a Spot on the Podium. Lets Find Out.
In First Place and taking the Win was (Niall Murray) in his Van Diemen BD21 with a Lap Time of 50.518 and an Average Speed of 77.40mph. Incredible work there Niall Beating back Tom to take Victory in the First Race and a Well Determined Drive to Secure it.
In Second Place was (Tom Mills) in his Spectrum KMR with a Lap Time of 50.706 and an Average Speed of 77.38mph. Amazing Drive there Tom Keeping up with Niall and a Fantastic Battle thought the entire Race too.
In Third Place was (Colin Queen) in his RAY GR18 with a Lap Time of 50.820 and an Average Speed of 77.32mph. A Great Victory for Third Place on the Podium Colin showing a Determined Drive and a lot of Bravery thought the Race.
What an Incredible First Race to Start out the Days Events and with Another Coming up Soon after is it possible for Another Competitor to take Victory and the Spotlight? Lets Take A Look.
Champion Of Brands (Race 2 Results)
Race 2 Up Next and The Final Time for Anyone Racing in Champion of Brands to Score Points and Take Victory in either First Second or Third Place. After a Thrilling End to Race 1 which Saw Tom Mills getting Beaten by Niall Murray it was time to see who could Once Again bring the Roar and Thunder Home for a Final Time.
In First Place was (Niall Murray) in his Van Diemen BD21 with a Lap Time of 50.584 and an Average Speed of 84.84mph. Another Incredible Drive from Niall to once again take The Final Pole Position for Champion of Brands. Brilliant Drive there Niall.
In Second Place was (Tom Mills) in his Spectrum KMR with a Lap Time of 50.606 and an Average Speed of 84.47mph. Another Well Deserved Second Place for Tom Showing Incredible Car Control and Bravery Pushing the Limits on Every Corner to Keep up with Niall. Fantastic Drive Tom.
In Third Place was (Lucan Romenek) in his Van Diemen JL13 with a Lap Time of 50.927 and an Average Speed of 83.92mph. Very Well Done there Lucan Fantastic to see a New Driver take a Step onto the Podium and Celebrate the Victory.
What an Exciting Opening Day here at Brands Hatch for Ford Power Live with Champion of Brands Providing some Well Deserved Winners in Niall Tom Lucan and Colin. Well Done to all other Drivers taking Part and Continuing to Improve and do what it is that you Love. Keep Up the Momentum and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Making it to the Top Step of the Podium.
Lets See what Track Action is Next Up onto the Circuit as the Action Continues to Hot Up.
Clubman Sports Prototype Championship (Qualifying)
Clubman Sports Prototypes were up next and thease Mad Looking Machines are known for their Supreme Aerodynamics as well as Insane Straight Line Speed. each Driver will have to be on the ball and Keeping their Machine under Constant Control as they will be Powering round this 1,2 mile Indy Circuit at Speeds of at Least 90mph.
Lets Look to the Track to see who Qualified where and see who will be starting the Race on Pole.
In First Place and taking Pole Position was (Steve Dickens) in his Mallock MK29 with a Best Lap Time of 47.146 and a Top Speed of 92.23mph. Amazing Drive there Steve Very Fast and Committed for Pole Position.
In Second Place was (Clive Wood) in his Mallock MK23 with a Best Lap Time of 47.784 and a Top Speed of 91.00mph. Well Deserved there Clive Pushing that Mallock for all its worth and taking Second Place.
In Third Place was (Alex Champkin) Mallock MK27 Synergy with a Best Lap Time of 48.129 and a Top Speed of 90.35mph. Very Well Done there Alex Taking Third Place and a Spirited Drive with it.
A Very Fast and Fierce set of Drivers Ready to take on the Indy Circuit. Lets Get Right Down to the Action for Race 1.
Clubman Sports Prototype Championship (Race 1 Results)
After A Thrilling Battle in Qualifying Between Steve Clive and Alex which of them will be Poised and Ready to Attack on the Race Track to either Defend maintain or even potentially Loose their Positions to the other Drivers. Lets Find Out.
In First Place was (Steve Dickens) in his Mallock MK29 with a Lap Time of 48.076 and an Average Speed of 76.87mph. Incredible Driving there Steve Taking the Victory and the Spoils that come with it Amazing Work from you and The Entire Team.
In Second Place was (Alex Champkin) in his Mallock MK27 Synergy with a Lap Time of 47.515 and an Average Speed of 76.84mph. Another Super Drive by Alex to move him up into Second Place on the Podium. Fantastic Work and Driving Ability.
In Third Place was (Clive Wood) in his Mallock MK23 with a Lap Time of 47.802 and an Average Speed of 76.81mph. Very Well Done there Clive Super Driving and an All Round Great Victory for Third Place.
An Exciting Opening Race for Clubman's with Steve Dickens taking Both Qualifying and the First Race Win. Can he Do it again For Race 2 or will the likes of Alex and Clive Hunt Him down and take that Victory away Stay Tuned to find out as We Go Racing Once Again.
Clubman Sports Prototype Championship (Race 2 Results)
In First Place was (Clive Wood) in his Mallock MK23 with a Lap Time of 47.475 and an Average Speed of 87.35mph.
In Second Place was (Pete Richings) in his Mallock MK30 PR with a Lap Time of 48.784 and an Average Speed of 86.84mph.
In Third Place was (Steve Dickens) in his Mallock MK29 with a Lap Time of 48.448 and an Average Speed of 86.63mph.
What an Exciting End to Race 2 with a New Winner in P2 being Pete Richings Well Done Pete Amazing work and a well deserved Podium Spot. Will Pete be able to Retain that Second Place or even Improve though as we head into the Final Round in Race 3.
Clubman Sports Prototype Championship (Race 3 Results)
In First Place was (Pete Richings) in his Mallock MK30PR with a Lap Time of 48.218 and a Top Speed of 88.27mph. Incredible Driving Pete taking the Top Step of the Podium and the Race Win. A Truly Excellent Drive.
In Second Place was (Steve Dickens) in his Mallock MK29 with a Lap Time of 47.986 and an Average Speed of 88.17mph. Very Well Done again Steve Putting in a lot of Hard work to Reach Second Place.
In Third Place was (Clive Wood) in his Mallock MK23 With a Lap Time of 47.883 and an Average Speed of 88.08mph. Another Amazing P3 for Clive with a lot of Strong Determination Behind the Wheel.
What a Race Weekend for the Clubman's with Many Different Victories and Winners in Clive Steve Pete and Alex all Looking to Fight it it on Track and take Home those Valuable Championship Winning Points. Well Done to all other Competitors as well Keep Pushing Hard and Making Memories that will Last Forever.
Creative Funding Solutions Sports 2000 Championship (Qualifying)
Now it was time for the Creative Solutions Sports 2000's to hit the Track and After a Thunderous Performance by the Classic Clubman's Lets see what thease Mean Machines Have to Offer. With Speeds once again Reaching Nearly 92mph thease cars are Monsters and Driving and Controlling One is going to be Very Challenging with all that Break Horse Power.
Lets take a Look at Qualifying and see which Drivers made it to the Front end of the Grid for Race 1.
In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was ( Neil Burroughs) in his Gunn TS12 with a Best Lap Time of 47.202 and a Top Speed of 92.12mph. Fantastic work there Neil Once Again showing the Skill and Commitment Needed for a Championship Winning Drive.
In Second Place was (Tom Stoten) in his Gunn TS11 with a Best Lap Time of 47.400 and A Top Speed of 91.74mph. Great Work there Tom a Well Controlled and Well Balanced Car on the Race Track to Take P2 on the Grid.
In Third Place was (Joshua Law) in his MCR S2 with a Best Lap Time of 47.474 and a Top Speed of 91.59mph. Well Done Josh Really Amazing work to take P3 on the Grid for The Race.
What a Fantastic Qualifying Session with Battles Happening all over the Field but Neil Tom and Josh have made it into the Top Three and so Lets Find out in Race 1 which of them will be Taking Home Victory.
Creative Funding Solutions Sports 2000 Championship (Race 1)
In First Place and Taking Victory was (Tom Stoten) in his Gunn TS11 with a Lap Time of 48.471 and an Average Speed of 62.75mph. Amazing Work Tom taking yourself from P2 in Qualifying to P1 and The First Race Win, Incredible Drive.
In Second Place was (Michel Gibbins) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 48.457 and an average Speed of 62.69mph. Fantastic Work Michel and a Really Strong Drive to take P2 in the Race. A Fantastic Drive.
In Third Place was (Giles Billingsley) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 49.321 and an Average Speed of 62.31mph. Awesome Work there Giles a Brilliant Drive to Get P3 and the Last Spot on the Podium.
What an Exciting First Race with Tom Stoden being the First Race Winner in Sports 2000. A Big Congratulations to Michel and Giles too for some Heroic Driving and their Further P2 and P3 Finishes. Lets Find out what Race 2 Brings us Next.
Creative Funding Solutions Sports 2000 Championship (Race 2)
After a Really Hectic First Race which saw Tom Stoden Take P1 followed by Michel Gibbins and Giles Billingsley it was Time for Race 2. Lets see if Anyone Else can Challenge these Almighty Three Drivers at the Front of the Field.
In First Place was (Joshua Law) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 47.878 and an Average Speed of 70.46mph. Incredible Drive for Joshua Taking P1 from Tom Stoden and Claiming his First Race Win of the Weekend. Amazing work Josh.
In Second Place was (Tom Stoden) in his Gunn TS11 with a Lap Time of 48.409 and an Average Speed of 70.35mph. Another Very Confident and Fast Drive by Tom to Achieve Second Place showing Just How Talented and Brave of a Driver Tom is Fantastic Performance Tom.
In Third Place was (Michel Gibbins) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 48.395 and an Average Speed of 70.32mph. Really Good Drive there Michel Fantastic Car Control and a lot of Fast Race Pace. Well Done.
What Another Epic Race to Witness with a New Winner on the Top Step of the Podium being Joshua Law a Well Deserved Win from a Very Talented Driver. Amazing work to both Tom and Michel for their Respective P2 and P3 Finishes. With Race 3 Up Next who will be Taking Home that Final Pole Position of the Weekend for Sports 2000.
Creative Funding Solutions Sports 2000 Championship (Race 3)
The Final Round of the Day for the Sports 2000's and with Joshua Law Defending his People Position at the Front Will anyone be able to dethrone our New Race Winner. Lets Find Out.
In First Place and Taking the Victory was (Michel Gibbins) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 47.479 and an Average Speed of 89.11mph. What a Drive Michel Taking P1 and the Final Race Win. Incredible Work.
In Second Place was (Tom Stoden) in his Gunn TS11 with a Lap Time of 47.680 and an Average Speed of 88.95mph. Amazing work Once Again Tom Proving Just How Competitive This Racing Series for Drivers is.
In Third Place was (Joshua Law) in his MCR S2 with a Lap Time of 47.938 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. Great Work there Josh Really Good Drive in Taking P3.
What an Amazing Set of Races for the Sports 2000's with Many Different Victories for the likes of Joshua Tom Michel and Giles Drivers who Really Put the Pedal to the Metal when it really matters. Fantastic Work to all other Drivers on Track as well and Good Luck as the Season Continues.
Focus Cup Championship (Qualifying)
Next Up we take a Look to the Focus Cup Championship a Racing Series which Features the use of Ford Focus Road Cars Built to Racing Specifications. Thease Cars all Use The ZTEC 2.0 TDCI Engines and Have Proven to be Very Quick and also Very Twitchy when out Racing.
Lets Take a Look at Qualifying to see what Drivers Have made it to the Front of the Gird to start out the Days Racing.
In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Simon Rudd) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Best Lap Time of 58.625 and a Top Speed of 74.17mph. Great Work there Simon Very Fast Driving while Keeping the Car on the Race Track to clock in a Perfect Lap of the Indy Circuit for P1.
In Second Place was (Scott Parkin) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Best Lap Time of 58.880 and a Top Speed of 73.85mph. Very Well Done there Scott with a Blisteringly Quick Lap To take P2 on the Grid for the First Race.
In Third Place was (Gary Mitchell) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Best Lap Time of 59.025 and a Top Speed of 73.67mph. Very Well Done Gary Pushing Hard and Making every Millie Second Count to take P3 on the grid.
Three Very Quick Drivers in Simon Scott and Gary all Looking to take that First Race Win. Which One of them Can Do it. Lets Find Out as Race 1 Begins.
Focus Cup Championship (Race 1)
In First Place and Taking Victory was (Simon Rudd) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 58.725 and an Average Speed of 72.88mph. Congratulations Simon what an Epic Drive to Victory and a First Win of the Day for you. Very Well Done.
In Second Place was (Scott Parkin) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 58.776 and an Average Speed of 72.49mph. Amazing Work there Scott Well Driven and Controlled Thought the entire Race.
In Third Place was (Gary Mitchell) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 58.909 and an Average Speed of 72.39mph. Great Drive there Gary and A Brilliant Finish on the Podium in P3.
What an Exciting First Race for the Focus Cup showing Just How Fast thease Cars are and How Brave each Driver has to be to take Moves and Dive Bombs to work there way to the Front of the Grid. Lets See what Race 2 Brings and Can Simon Keep His Defence of P1.
Focus Cup Championship (Race 2)
In First Place was (Gary Mitchell) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 58.914 and an Average Speed of 68.78mph. Incredible Work there Gary taking P1 and The Race Win what a Fantastic start to the Weekend for Him.
In Second Place was (Richard Avis) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 59.506 and an Average Speed of 68.70mph. what a Drive there From Richard Fantastic to see a New Face in P2 on the Podium and a Well Deserved Victory in Second Place.
In Third Place was (Scott Parkin) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 59.283 and an Average Speed of 68.61mph. Very Well Done there Scott Pushing Hard and Making sure to Stay in the Top Three. Fantastic Drive.
Another Incredible Race with a Different Driver in Richard Avis taking Second Place with an Incredible Drive and Sheer Speed and Talent. Congratulations to both Gary and Scott as well for their Fantastic Finishes Too.
Now for Race 3 and its the Final Time to see who will be taking Home that Last P1 Victory for the Focus Cup Championship.
Focus Cup Championship (Race 3)
In First Place was (Simon Rudd) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 59.228 and an Average Speed of 71.60mph. Amazing Work as Usual Scott putting in One Final Flying Run to Gain Another Race Victory. Great Drive.
In Second Place was (Scott Parkin) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 59.972 and an Average Speed of 70.23mph. Another Really Impressive Drive by Scott to take P2 in the Final Race for The Focus Cup.
In Third Place was (Rob Gaffney) in his Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Zetec S with a Lap Time of 59.238 and an Average Speed of 70.19mph. Very Well Done Indeed Rob Finishing P3 and taking his First Podium of the Weekend. Phenomenal Drive.
What an Amazing End to the Focus Cup Championship at Brands Hatch with Many Different Victories for Simon Scott Rob and Gary who all Drove out of their Skin and showed Phenomenal Car Control and Ability to Drive. Fantastic Work to all the other Drivers too Keep Working Hard and Most Important of All Enjoy what you Love Doing.
MSVR Elise Trophy (Qualifying)
Next Up is the MSR Elise Trophy
with the Focus of this Race being on the Lotus Elise S1 S2 and S3 with Just One Qualifying Session and Just 1 Race This will be A Test of Will Power and Determination on the Track to see who can Take Victory.
First Lets look to Qualifying and See who will be Starting on the Front Row.
In First Place taking the Pole and Fastest Lap was (Maurizio Sciglio) in his Lotus Elise S2 with a Best Lap Time of 53.544 and a Top Speed of 81.21mph. Fantastic work there Maurizio to take P1 and start o the Front Row of the Grid.
In Second Place was (Jason Mcinulty) in his Lotus Elise S3 with a Best Lap Time of 53.914 and a Top Speed of 80.65mph. Very Well Done there Jason Putting in one Hell of a Quick Time to Gain P2 on the Grid.
In Third Place was (Simon Walsh) in his Lotus Elise S2 111R with a Best Lap Time of 54.076 and a Top Speed of 80.41mph. Incredible Drive from Simon to put Himself in P3.
With Three Very Quick Drivers in Maurizio Jason and Simon it was Time to see if Anyone Could challenge them and Win the Only Race of the Day for the Lotus Elise Trophy.
MSVR Elise Trophy (Race 1)
In First Place taking The Victory was (Jason Mcinulty) in his Lotus Elise S3 with a Lap Time of 54.638 and an Average Speed of 66.83mph. Fantastic Victory for Jason taking P1 and The Race Win for the Elise Trophy. Phenomenal Driving too.
In Second Place was (John Lamaster) in his Lotus Elise S2 135R with a Lap Time of 54.781 and an Average Speed of 66.75mph. Fantastic work John and So Great to see a New Face on the Podium Taking P2 what an Incredible Driver.
In Third Place was (David Alexander) in his Lotus Elise S1 with a Lap Time of 55.589 and an Average Speed of 66.62mph. Very Well Driven Dave Keeping an Eye out all over the Place and Bringing Home a Superb P3 Finish.
A Brilliant Race for the Elise Trophy and Victories for Jason John and David as well as Maurizio and Simon for their Heroic Efforts in Qualifying. Congratulations to Jason on the Race Win and Good Luck to all other Drivers in this Series.
Modified Ford Series (Qualifying Group A)
Now it was Time to head Back to the Blue Badged Ford Machines Once again as the Modified Ford Series Rolled out onto the Race Track with each car being Heavily Modified from their Road Counterparts. With Escort Cosworth's and RS200's Roaring and Ready to go it was Time to see what the First Group A set of Drivers could do in Qualifying.
Due to how large the Grids were and the Fact that both Group A and Group B Have Different Races I will only be putting up results from both Qualifying Sessions from Group A and Group B. I will Leave a Link Below each Qualifying Session so you can Get All the Race Result's and Action from the 4 Different Races.
Modified Ford Series (Qualifying Group A)
In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (David Cockell) in his Ford Escort Cosworth with a Best Lap Time of 49.872 and a Top Speed of 87.19mph. Very Well Done David Keeping that Escort on the Track Must Have Taken some Practice no Doubt Amazing work on Getting Pole.
In Second Place was (Wayne Crabtree) in his Ford RS200 with a Best Lap Time of 51.121 and a Top Speed of 85.06mph. Very Fast Drive from Wayne to take P2 and a Very Solid Drive Thought.
In Third Place was (Michael Saunders) in his Ford Escort MK1 Mexico with a Best Lap Time of 51.129 and an Average Speed of 85.05mph. Very Well Driven by Michael Being Able to Keep up with Both Wayne and David Must Have Ben a Real Pain but what a Fantastic Achievement.
What a Fantastic Set of Legendary Drivers all Battle Hardened and Ready to take on the Might of the Indy Circuit. But there can Only be One Winner who do you Think will Win the First Race? Click the Link Below to get all of the Race Results from this Racing Series.
(Link to Group A Race Results)
www.tsl-timing.com/Event/213751
Modified Ford Series Group B (Qualifying)
Now it was Time for Group B to make a stance and see what their Modified Ford Racing Machines could do. with How Fast and Action Packed Group A Had Been During both The Races and Qualifying Group B was looking to be much the Same.
Lets Waste No Time in Finding out who Has Taken Pole Position for the First of 4 Races.
In First Place Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Jessop) in his Ford Escort MK2 with a Best Lap Time of 52.030 and a Top Speed of 83.57mph. Fantastic Work there Neil and a Really Quick Escort to match too. Very Well Done.
In Second Place was (James Harris) in his Ford Escort MK2 with a Best Lap Time of 53.928 and a Top Speed of 80.63mph. Amazing work there James Pushing Hard and Giving the Old Girl everything she has to offer.
In Third Place was (Malcom Harding) in his Ford Escort MK1 with a Best Lap Time of 54.892 and a Top Speed of 79.22mph. Awesome Drive there from Malcom Overcoming a lot of Pressure to put in an Incredible Lap for P3.
What an Amazing Line up for Group B with Plenty of Experienced Drivers who know their cars inside out. But who will be Brave Enough to challenge the Top Three Drivers for Victory. Find out for Yourself at the Link Below.
(Link to Group B Race Results)
www.tsl-timing.com/Event/213751
Enduro KA (Qualifying)
The Final Qualifying Session of the Day Had Come and its the Enduro KA'S. with all of the Cars on the Grid being Models of the Popular Ford KA made Between 1998-2009 thease Cars were Fun City cars that could get you from A to B with Ease. They were Also Build on a tight budget meaning that Handling Performance and Comfort were a Big Selling point of thease Brilliant little cars.
The Racing Versions seen here in the pictures however are built for Racing. they use different tyres but still the same Legendary 1.3 Dura Tec Engine found in their Road Going Counterparts.
Lets Take a look at Qualifying and see which KA and Driver made it to the top step of the podium.
Enduro KA (Qualifying)
In First Place taking the Pole and Fastest Lap was (Octane Junkies Adam Smith and Martyn Smith) with a Best Lap Time of 1:03.495 and a Top Speed of 68.48mph. Fantastic Work Adam and Martyn Really Pushing the Car for all its worth.
In Second Place was (Alex Reade Motorsport Luke Reade and Chris Reade) with a Best Lap Time of 1:03.713 and a Top Speed of 68.25mph. Fantastic Drive there from Both Alex and Chris Claiming P2.
In Third Place was (Fat Boys Racing Matt Pinny) with a Best Lap Time of 1:03.921 and a Top Speed of 68.03mph. Very Well Done there Matt Great Drive and Awesome Car Control.
Three Very Quick and Determined Teams and with 4 Races to Race in this will be a Very Close and Tight Battles Between all Teams and Drivers. Skill and Talent will be crucial to survival and Who will be able to take the First Victory of Race 1. Lets Find Out.
Enduro KA (Race 1 Results)
In First Place Taking the Victory was (Alex Reade Motorsport's Luke Reade and Chris Reade) with a Lap Time of 1:03.688 and an Average Speed of 67.95mph. Congratulations Both Alex and Luke on a Superb Race Victory and Well Done to hold off the Pressure from the other Competitors.
In Second Place was (Octane Junkies Adam Smith and Martyn Smith) with a Lap Time of 1:03.416 and an Average Speed of 67.92mph. Very Well Done to both Adam and Martyn for that Amazing P2 Finish.
In Third Place was (Fat Boys Racing Matt Pinny) with a Lap Time of 1:03.664 and an Average Speed of 67.79mph. Incredible Work there Matt Amazing Drive and a Really Super Looking Car.
An Exciting Opening Race for the Enduro KA Series with Three Different Teams on the Podium in Alex Reade Motorsport Octane Junkies and Fat Boys Racing. Amazing work to all of you Now Lets see what Action Race 2 Brings and whether or not Alex Reade Motorsport can Hold onto that 1st Place.
Enduro KA (Race 2 Results)
In First Place was (Alex Reade Motorsport's Luke Reade and Chris Reade) with a Lap Time of 1:03.557 and an Average Speed of 67.94mph. Another Incredible Drive from both the likes of Alex and Luke to Keep their P1 Finish From the First Race. Amazing Work.
In Second Place was (Octane Junkies Adam Smith and Martyn Smith) with a Lap Time of 1:03.621 and an Average Speed of 67.90mph. Fantastic Work Once Again to the likes of Adam and Martyn Another Set of Drivers Keeping their Second Place Finish.
In Third Place was (Fat Boys Racing Matt Pinny) with a Lap Time of 1:04.005 and an Average Speed of 67.39mph. Well Done once again Matt Perfect Driving and a Well Balanced Car out there.
Looks like the Top Three Remain the Same even After Two Races but will Race 3 Bring a New Twist to the Current Driver and Team Standings. Lets Find Out.
Enduro KA (Race 3 Results)
In First Place was (Octane Junkies Adam Smith and Martyn Smith) with a Lap Time of 1:03.849 and an Average Speed of 67.57mph. Amazing Work there Adam and Martyn managing to topple the likes of Alex and Luke to Earn P1.
In Second Place was (Fat Boys Racing Matt Pinny) with a Lap Time of 1:03.584 and an Average Speed of 67.51mph. Well Done there Matt Improving up to P2 and Taking Home a Well Deserved Finish in the Standings for Race 3.
In Third Place was (Alex Reade Motorsport's Luke Reade and Chris Reade) with a Lap Time of 1:03.606 and an Average Speed of 67.44mph. Very Good Come Back Drive for Both Luke and Ale to Finish Third Great Driving.
Many Twists and Turns Have Benn brought into Race 3 with the Top Three Drivers now being Shuffled Around the Gird into different Positions. With One More Race to Go who will be The Last Driver of the Day on the Top Step of the Podium.
Enduro KA (Race 4 Results)
In First Place was (Octane Junkies Adam Smith and Martyn Smith) with a Lap Time of 1:03.442 and an Average Speed of 67.82mph. An Amazing Final Win for the Day to Octane Junkies Adam and Martyn Smith Congratulations and Very Well Driven.
In Second Place was (Piston Heads Peter Dignan) with a Lap Time of 1:03.781 and an Average Speed of 67.54mph. Incredible work there Peter Getting P2 and Standing on the Podium and Incredible Achievement.
In Third Place was (IP Racing Oliver Wilmot and Scott Parkin) with a Lap Time of 1:03.710 and an Average Speed of 67.47mph. Very Well Done to both Scott and Oliver on that Fantastic P3 Achievement. Something Very Special to Remember for both of you.
And With that The Days Racing at Brands Hatches Ford Power Live comes to an End and what an Incredible Array of Both Cars Teams and Drivers on Display Today. A Big Congratulations to the likes of Adam Martyn Luke Chris Peter Matt Oliver and Scott for their Incredible Achievements and All Other Drivers Keeping the World Of Motorsport Alive and Well.
Keep Working Hard everyone Else. Your Time Will Come.
See You All Again Next Year!!!!
Defence Medal 1914-1918
Awared to the Civilians of Germany EXPLORED
This is my favorite Medal in my Humble WW1 collection
Israeli Army Recruits to the Givati Brigade during a live fire training excerise
Photo: Israel Defence Force
The Estonian Ministry of Defence has purchased new service rifles from LMT Defense, formerly known as the Lewis Machine & Tool Company, and will supply the Country's Defence Force with two new service weapons.
The LMT MARS platform of AR-15 and AR-10 pattern rifles, as well as a 40 mm grenade launcher compatible with these Rifles.
Both Rifles will be replacing the current issue Rifles, the Israeli-built Galil-AR and the Swedish-made Ak4 (a licensed copy of the H&K G3A3).
The grenade launchers included in the contract are LMT’s M203 rail-mounted 40 mm GLs.
Photos @kaitsevagi.edf
Israeli Mostly Female Combat Unit "karakal" Perform Large Combat Exercise
Soldiers from the Karakal battalion participate in a graduation march near the Israeli-Egyptian border on September 03, 2014 near Azoz, Israel. The mixed-sex Karakal combat battalion was formed in 2004 and is based in the Negev desert on the border with Egypt and Jordan.
(September 2, 2014 - Source: Ilia Yefimovich/Getty Images Europe)
Israel's Special Unit Bardalas Take Part in Training Exercise
Israeli male and female combat soldiers of the Bardales battalion take part in a training exercise July 13, 2016 in Nitzana, Israel. Bardales battalion is a new mixed-gender combat battalion that has been active since 2015.
Source: Ilia Yefimovich
River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme.
These images were by the end of the 3rd week of September 2017.
Hard to believe - but I've been recording this project now for 5+ years.
Most of the main civil engineering works have ceased along the Slang/Rehills section of the river bank.
The soil-shifters have finished. The main area of land has been seeded and growth is already happening. In selected areas, plants/shrubs have also been planted.
The plan now will be to allow nature to complete the task of reverting this section back to a wild habitat.
The deer, the foxes, the herons, the raptor birds and other associated wildlife can reclaim the banks . . until the planners decide on their next, belated, unnecessary intervention.
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Between the M11 motorway, and the Upper Dargle Road / Hazelwood areas, a stream has run for many years. As well as running from the Fassroe region (west above the M11) this also funnels much of the water run-off from the motorway itself.
There is a culvert running under the road and draining directly into the river opposite The Slang/Rehills.
A branch also runs parallel and through the Egan Business Park before exiting under the road and into the Dargle close to what is identified in historic Ordnance Survey maps as 'Rose Cottage - Laundry'.
There are plans to lay a proper pipe system to channel this water directly across to the Dargle. No doubt a welcome relief to householders along this stretch of road, given that their properties have been victim to the flash flooding that is happening more often due to changes in the meteorological systems, compounded by developments on the opposite side of the motorway.
The downside of this work is the removal of many trees here, and the consequent unwelcome exposure to said properties.
However, recently the contractors have 'filled-in' a large swathe of the previously cleared opening.
To develop this new pipeline, they need to channel a branch pipe under the Upper Dargle Road, discharging into the adjacent Dargle River itself.
This is not a simple 'cut and fill' overnight operation. They have to excavate deeply, pile-drive the cuttings for support, and lay the pipe sections. The plan here is to close off one lane of the road, at a time, while the work proceeds.
This is quite a busy road, with traffic especially heavy during morning and evening rush hour.
Control traffic lights allow contra-flow systems.
This is causing yet more inconvenience for local residents.
Unfortunately, based on previous bad experience with mindless hooliganism, the temporary compound now requires 24-hour security to protect the assembled machinery.
Members of the Irish Defence Force serving with the 118th Battalion, serving in the Lebanon with UNIFIL
Photos: Airman Gibney
The Estonian Ministry of Defence has purchased new service rifles from LMT Defense, formerly known as the Lewis Machine & Tool Company, and will supply the Country's Defence Force with two new service weapons.
The LMT MARS platform of AR-15 and AR-10 pattern rifles, as well as a 40 mm grenade launcher compatible with these Rifles.
Both Rifles will be replacing the current issue Rifles, the Israeli-built Galil-AR and the Swedish-made Ak4 (a licensed copy of the H&K G3A3).
The grenade launchers included in the contract are LMT’s M203 rail-mounted 40 mm GLs.
Photos @kaitsevagi.edf
Twelve Tu-22M3s were converted to the Tu-22M3(R) reconnaissance variant for Soviet Naval Aviation. These aircraft were equipped with Shompol side-looking airborne radar (SLAR) and other electronic, IR, and optical equipment (ELINT). The aircraft first flew in December 1985 and serial production began in 1989 under the designation Tu-22MR. In 1994, part of the Tu-22M2 fleet was rebuilt to the Tu-22MR standard.
On 9 August 2008, a Russian Tu-22MR reconnaissance aircraft was shot down in South Ossetia by a Georgian air defence Buk-M1 surface-to-air-missile system during the five-day Russo-Georgian War. One of the crew was captured, two others were killed, and the crew commander was missing in action as late as November 2011.