Evening Brief: Lawmakers Grill Defense Secretary Hegseth Over Troop Deployment, Gunman Kills 10 in Austria’s Deadliest School Shooting

Good evening! Here’s your SOFREP Evening Brief for Tuesday, June 10, 2025, with the latest stories on defense and global affairs. At A Glance: The US Navy’s T-54A Marlin II has achieved initial operational capability, replacing the decades-old T-44C for modern pilot training. Defense Secretary Hegseth faced bipartisan criticism over Los Angeles troop deployment and Trump’s controversial defense budget. US-China trade talks in London show progress on export controls. Netanyahu says hostage deal talks are advancing, but a Gaza ceasefire remains uncertain. Russia launched a major drone and missile strike on Ukraine, killing three, as prisoner swaps continue. Austria suffered its deadliest school shooting, with 10 killed. South Korea nears a $6B K2 tank deal with Poland. Taiwan approved a military pay raise to boost recruitment amid China tensions.

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US Navy’s T-54A Marlin II Achieves Initial Operational Capability, Replacing Aging Trainer Fleet

The US Navy’s T-54A Marlin II training aircraft has recently reached initial operational capability (IOC), officially replacing the aging T-44C Pegasus fleet used since the 1970s.

The milestone marks a major modernization in naval aviation training with a platform tailored for today’s battlespace.

Developed by Textron and based on the Beechcraft King Air 260, the T-54A offers advanced avionics, updated navigational systems, and a pressurized cockpit with side-by-side seating and an extra jump seat. It also includes data-capture systems for condition-based maintenance, enhancing fleet readiness and reducing long-term costs.

The Navy currently operates 15 T-54As and plans to procure a total of 79 aircraft by 2026 under contracts awarded to Textron in 2023 and expanded in 2024.

Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney PT6A-52 engines, the T-54A can reach speeds of 259 knots, fly up to 35,000 feet, and has a range of 1,640 nautical miles.

The Navy expects the Marlin II to serve US and allied training missions through 2055.

Lawmakers Grill Defense Secretary Hegseth Over LA Troop Deployment, Budget Chaos

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced heated bipartisan criticism Tuesday during a contentious House Appropriations defense subcommittee hearing, as lawmakers demanded accountability for the troop deployment to Los Angeles and the lack of a finalized defense budget.

Democrats and Republicans slammed Hegseth for bypassing Congress and deploying over 4,800 troops — including 700 active-duty Marines — in response to unrest sparked by federal immigration raids. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) accused Hegseth of presiding over “endless chaos,” while others challenged the $134 million cost of the operation.

Hegseth justified the move, saying troops are protecting federal personnel and hinted at future domestic troop use under President Trump’s security strategy.

Tensions escalated further as lawmakers grilled Hegseth on Trump’s proposed $1 trillion defense budget, which includes controversial spending on converting a Qatari jet into Air Force One and a $45 million military parade aligned with the president’s birthday.

Hegseth and acting comptroller Bryn MacDonnell confirmed budget figures but sidestepped direct questions on strategic priorities.

.@RepPeteAguilar on National Guard deployment: “Invasion by a foreign nation, rebellion or dangerous rebellion against the authority of the government of the U.S. or the president is unable with regular forces to execute the laws of the U.S. Which authority is triggered here to… pic.twitter.com/iSI5HzfDHZ

— CSPAN (@cspan) June 10, 2025

Hegseth defended the use of the Insurrection Act if needed, as Trump hinted certain parts of LA resembled an “insurrection.”

Marine Commandant Gen. Eric Smith testified separately, expressing confidence that deployed Marines will follow lawful orders and avoid unnecessary force.

On Ukraine, Hegseth acknowledged the strategic shock of Kyiv’s recent drone strike on Russian bombers and said the Pentagon is re-evaluating airfield defenses. However, he confirmed that US military aid to Ukraine will be reduced in the next budget, signaling a shift toward seeking a “negotiated settlement.”

.@SecDef Pete Hegseth opening statement on defense budget request: “To carry out the president’s mission we have three core priorities, as was mentioned: Restore the warrior ethos, rebuild our military and reestablish deterrence.” pic.twitter.com/XUt8xpnbpW

— CSPAN (@cspan) June 10, 2025

The hearing also highlighted Hegseth’s focus on cultural overhauls at the Pentagon, including the elimination of diversity programs, while lawmakers noted his limited visibility in key global security negotiations involving NATO, Israel, and Iran.

US-China Trade Talks in London Show Progress Amid High-Stakes Dispute Over Export Controls

US and Chinese trade negotiators reported strong progress in London on Tuesday, with talks potentially extending into a third day as both sides aim to resolve disputes over dueling export controls.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, leading the American delegation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, said discussions were “going really, really well,” but noted that negotiations may continue into Wednesday.

The talks follow a 90-day tariff truce struck in Geneva last month and focus on rare earth exports and US semiconductor restrictions. China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng heads the Chinese side. Both sides have accused each other of attempting to strangle critical supply chains through export controls, escalating tensions that had earlier threatened to derail the Geneva agreement.

As delegations from the US and China begin a second day of trade talks, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said things are “going well” and expects discussions to go “all day today” https://t.co/ySdcfiszQI pic.twitter.com/tuU6HFiFWI

— Bloomberg TV (@BloombergTV) June 10, 2025

US economic adviser Kevin Hassett signaled a willingness to lift certain export restrictions if China resumes shipments of rare earth elements vital to US industries. However, he said the ban on high-end Nvidia artificial intelligence (AI) chips would remain in place due to national security concerns.

Trade analysts said the lengthy sessions indicate serious, detailed negotiations. Experts expect some form of agreement, even if limited, with President Trump likely to frame any outcome as a major success.

Markets have recovered since Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs in April, but the World Bank downgraded its 2025 global growth forecast due to tariff-related uncertainty. Meanwhile, Chinese exports to the US plummeted 34.5% in May, raising economic stakes on both sides.

While no official breakthrough has been confirmed, Washington remains optimistic a handshake deal in London could ease current trade hostilities and stabilize key global supply lines.

Netanyahu Says Hostage Deal Progress Made, But Gaza Ceasefire Still Uncertain

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that there has been “significant progress” in efforts to free the remaining 55 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, but cautioned that it is “too soon” to raise expectations of a final deal.

His remarks come amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations involving the US, Egypt, and Qatar, which have so far failed to break a deadlock between Israel and Hamas over core demands.

Netanyahu, under pressure from his right-wing coalition to continue military operations and restrict aid to Gaza, offered no details but confirmed talks were active.

A source close to the negotiations said the US has been offering Hamas assurances tied to ending the war. However, Israeli officials remain cautious while US officials express more optimism.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu says “there is significant progress” regarding a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. “I think it is too early to give hope, but we are acting non-stop. I hope we can make progress.” pic.twitter.com/jQCmToR7TG

— Ariel Oseran أريئل أوسيران (@ariel_oseran) June 10, 2025

A State Department spokesperson said Hamas must accept the deal on the table or face “consequences,” including regarding the bodies of two American hostages. Hamas sources denied knowledge of any new ceasefire proposals.

The US has pushed a 60-day ceasefire plan, which Israel reportedly supports. Hamas has demanded amendments, insisting on a permanent end to the war in exchange for releasing all hostages.

The group also stated it would cede governing authority in Gaza post-war to a neutral Palestinian technocratic body but refuses to disarm.

The war began after Hamas militants killed 1,200 Israelis and captured 251 hostages in an October 2023 attack. Israel’s response has left over 54,000 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

The conflict shows no immediate signs of resolution.

Russia Launches Yet Another Massive Drone and Missile Barrage on Kyiv and Odesa, Killing Three

Russia unleashed one of its largest coordinated aerial strikes against Ukraine early Tuesday, launching 315 drones and seven missiles on Kyiv and Odesa.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed three deaths and 13 injuries, calling it one of the biggest attacks on the capital in the three-year war. He urged the US and Europe to respond with “concrete action.”

A maternity hospital and homes in Odesa were damaged, killing two and injuring nine. One person died in Kyiv’s Obolonskyi district. Fires and destruction spanned seven of Kyiv’s ten districts, with debris igniting 19 separate blazes. Residents, including families with children, sheltered in metro stations during the multi-hour bombardment.

Russian retaliation intensifies – Kyiv shakes with powerful strikes on key strategic sites!
Missiles and drones hit military targets in seven regions, and parts of the capital are plunged into darkness.
Ukrainian media confirm that the Artem missile factory and fuel tanks at an… pic.twitter.com/9LflAzIs14

— Sprinter Observer (@SprinterObserve) June 10, 2025

Despite ongoing direct peace talks in Istanbul, no ceasefire has been achieved. Both sides did, however, continue prisoner exchanges. A second group of seriously wounded and long-held Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs), including Mariupol defenders, was returned on Tuesday.

The Kremlin accused Kyiv of delaying the parallel exchange of the dead.

Russia claimed its strikes hit military facilities in Kyiv, including arms plants and command centers. Ukraine denies this, pointing to civilian casualties and residential damage. Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry reported downing 102 Ukrainian drones over various regions, including Moscow and Crimea, forcing temporary flight restrictions at major Russian airports.

As Ukraine faces intensifying strikes, Zelenskyy and Ukrainian civilians reiterated calls for stronger international support to counter Moscow’s escalating aggression.

Gunman Kills 10 in Austria’s Deadliest School Shooting

A 21-year-old former student shot and killed 10 people before taking his own life at a secondary school in Graz, Austria, on Tuesday, marking the deadliest school shooting in the nation’s post-war history.

Authorities reported six female and three male victims died at the scene, with a tenth confirmed later at a hospital. Most victims were reportedly students.

The gunman entered the school around 10 a.m. (local time) armed with a shotgun and pistol and opened fire in at least two classrooms, one of which he had previously attended.

Police discovered his body in a bathroom. A farewell letter addressed to his parents was found, but it offered no explanation for the attack.

Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said at least 12 others were injured. Over 300 police responded alongside emergency services, swiftly cordoning off the area.

Multiple people were shot dead at a high school in Austria- its thought by an ex pupil – who rampaged through his old classrooms.

Sky’s @rachaelvenables explains what we know so far.https://t.co/IFvylDBYkL pic.twitter.com/vrGYBOkP5L

— Sky News (@SkyNews) June 10, 2025

Director General of Public Security Franz Ruf said victims were found across multiple floors.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker declared three days of national mourning and called the event a “dark day” for the country. A minute of silence was scheduled for Wednesday.

Reports suggest the attacker may have been bullied, though this remains unconfirmed as investigators continue to search for a motive.

Austria, despite a high civilian gun ownership rate, has rarely seen mass shootings of this scale. International leaders, including Germany’s chancellor, expressed condolences.

South Korea Nears $6 Billion K2 Tank Deal with Poland

South Korea is close to finalizing a multi-billion-dollar deal to supply K2 Black Panther tanks to Poland, according to the country’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration.

The agreement, part of a broader $13.7 billion arms package signed in 2022, is expected to be the largest in South Korea’s history based on a single weapon system.

Yonhap News reports the deal could be worth $6 billion and include 117 K2 tanks manufactured by Hyundai Rotem and 63 built locally in Poland by the Polish Armaments Group. Negotiations have included key provisions for local production and technology transfer.

Although a signing ceremony is tentatively scheduled for late June, officials say no final date has been confirmed.

🇵🇱🇰🇷 South Korea is close to concluding a deal worth about $6 billion to supply 180 K2 tanks to Poland.

This was reported by @Reuters.https://t.co/UshZJcWQS0 pic.twitter.com/VvIOVG8uIj

— Militarnyi (@militarnyi) June 10, 2025

The deal was delayed by political instability in South Korea, including a brief declaration of martial law in December 2024.

Seoul has emerged as a major defense exporter amid Russia’s war in Ukraine, securing major arms contracts with European allies such as Poland and Romania. Its defense exports now include K9 howitzers, Chunmoo rocket systems, and fighter jets.

The agreement comes as South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae-myung, signals a shift to a more conciliatory stance toward North Korea, which has deepened its military ties with Russia and sent troops to support Moscow in Ukraine.

Pyongyang recently declared the South an enemy state, further raising regional tensions.

Taiwan Parliament Approves Military Pay Raise

Taiwan’s opposition-controlled parliament passed amendments Tuesday to increase pay for military personnel, aiming to address recruitment and retention challenges amid rising Chinese military pressure.

Led by the Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People’s Party, lawmakers approved a new NT$30,000 ($1,000) monthly allowance for volunteer service members.

The move supplements earlier pay raises announced by President Lai Ching-te in March. The legislation also mandates conscripts earn no less than the minimum wage and introduces added compensation for combat units and overtime work.

The KMT stated the increases reflect heightened training demands and operational duties, and are intended to bolster manpower by improving incentives and retaining skilled personnel.

Volunteer members of Taiwan’s armed forces are getting a raise, after the opposition-led legislature passed a bill to increase their monthly allowances. pic.twitter.com/eO7cFk0CEN

— TaiwanPlus News (@taiwanplusnews) June 10, 2025

China continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory and has escalated military activity near the island. In response, Taiwan has prioritized defense readiness, including extending conscription and increasing training.

Premier Cho Jung-tai, from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, criticized the opposition for bypassing the cabinet, warning the government may challenge the amendments under the budget act.

Sources: News Agencies, Reuters, The Associated Press