The LOWDOWN
The LOWDOWN Podcast delivers a weekly intelligence briefing designed for military professionals, analysts, and strategic thinkers. Each episode summarizes the most critical open-source developments related to China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, covering real-world reporting across diplomatic, military, economic, cyber, and information warfare domains. With a clean, voice-ready format and zero fluff, The LOWDOWN helps you stay mission-focused with timely, fact-driven updates. Whether you're prepping an intel brief, tracking adversary TTPs, or just need the facts without the noise—this is your weekly OSINT download.
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The LOWDOWN
Strategic Brinkmanship: From China's Modular Missile Ships and the U.S. Blockade of Venezuela to Global Nuclear and Aviation Advancements
China has outfitted a cargo ship with 60 modular missile cells and radar, demonstrating a capability to convert its merchant fleet into improvised arsenal ships. In Iran, purpose-built hardened shelters for Su-35 fighters are nearing readiness at Hamadan Air Base. Reports also claim Supreme Leader Khamenei authorized developing miniaturized nuclear warheads for ballistic missiles in late 2025.
For the war in Ukraine, President Zelensky proposed a 20-point peace plan to freeze frontlines, though Russia maintains an uncompromising stance. Ukrainian forces recently regained territory near Kupyansk despite sustained Russian drone strikes on critical energy infrastructure.
U.S. forces are currently enforcing a "total blockade" of Venezuelan oil tankers using multiple carrier and amphibious ready groups. Additionally, joint U.S.-Nigerian strikes recently targeted IS-linked militant camps in Sokoto State. Finally, North Korea unveiled an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine designed for "super-powerful offensive capability".
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