✈️ F-16V jets head to Taiwan, but experts doubt impact

The first F-16V fighter jets from the US are arriving in the Taiwan region, with two single-seat fighters departing on August 17, 2026. A mainland expert stated that these new jets cannot fundamentally shift the existing air power balance across the straits. While comparable to the PLA's J-10C, they lack the edge against heavier fifth-gen aircraft like the J-20 and J-35. Victory hinges on the PLA's superior system-of-systems combat capabilities, not just individual aircraft performance. Therefore, relying on these jets to resist reunification is seen as futile. ✈️

🚔 Deva actor Rohullah Mehdi arrested in drug bust

Rohullah Mehdi, co-star in Shahid Kapoor's Deva, has been arrested in a social media drug network case. The Kashimira Police Crime Branch made the arrest in Mumbai's Mira Road area. Authorities seized 28 grams of MD drugs worth Rs 5.60 lakh, with the FIR being No. 437/2026. Police acted on tips that MD drugs were being sold via Snapchat and WhatsApp platforms. The investigation is now looking into possible connections within the film industry. 🚔

⚽ Man City seals record deal for Lille star

Manchester City has agreed a deal in principle to sign 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille. The transfer involves the Morocco international, who has been a target for City for several weeks. The agreement is valued at €100m, with him signing a five-year contract plus an option. Bouaddi shone at the World Cup and in Lille's 2024 Champions League win. He could debut against Crystal Palace this Friday if the signing happens early this week. ⚽

🔬 Tiny surface 'defects' boost heat transfer 5.5x

Scientists created a new surface coating that boosts condensation heat transfer up to 5.5 times compared to copper. This technology was developed by a joint team at KAIST, led by Professor Youngsuk Nam and Professor Sung Gap Im. The research was announced on August 23 and involved controlling an ultrathin polymer coating structure. The coating uses nanoscale 'defects' as nucleation sites to encourage droplet formation and quick detachment. This innovation could majorly improve energy efficiency in power plants and cooling for electronics. 💡

🏏 Kent edges out Middlesex in Championship clash

Kent secured a 46-run victory over Middlesex at Merchant Taylors' School. The win was sealed by leg-spinner Matt Parkinson, concluding the match at Merchant Taylors' School. Kent scored 350, while Middlesex managed 309, with the match taking place on an unspecified date. Joe Cracknell's unbeaten 65 and a 74-run partnership kept Kent under pressure. Kent now sits second in the table before facing Northamptonshire next Thursday. 🏏

🚀 China delays big Chang'e-7 moon mission launch

China has abruptly postponed its planned Chang'e-7 lunar mission, which was meant to search for water ice on the moon. This mission was scheduled to launch from the Wenchang Space Launch Site on Hainan island. The postponement was announced on Sunday because the mission did not meet the necessary launch conditions this year. The decision stems from a comprehensive assessment prioritizing prudence and absolute mission success. Preparations had been ongoing at the site for this seventh mission in the Chang'e program. 🚀

🛡️ Iran plans to counter US economic pressure

An IRGC spokesman stated that the US President has initiated a severe economic war against Iran. He claimed this admission signals a military defeat for the US in the arena. The spokesman mentioned that sanctions have been ongoing for 47 years across all Iranian economic sectors. Iran maintains a strategy to repel the adverse effects of this economic hostility. They are also strengthening economic ties with countries bypassing the US, expecting future results. 🛡️

🚀 China's Chang'e-7 launch delayed for this year

The planned launch of China's Chang'e-7 mission will not go ahead during the originally scheduled window this year. The mission is being managed by the China National Space Administration. The specific details regarding the new timeline are yet to be officially released. This postponement comes after technical assessments indicated certain hurdles needed to be cleared. Further updates on the revised launch date are anticipated soon from CNSA.

🚗 Kozhikode ramps up free parking for Onam rush

Enforcement teams are clearing illegal roadside parking to keep traffic smooth in Kozhikode city. The police identified 25 spots offering free parking for over 2,495 cars for the Onam rush. This temporary fix highlights the city's ongoing shortage of proper parking facilities. Key projects, like the Railway Station Link Road parking, have been stalled for years. Authorities are now looking into identifying revenue land for more permanent spots.

🛶 Tradition in motion: Bhattathiri sails for Aranmula temple

Anoop Narayana Bhattathiri of Mangattu Illam embarked on a centuries-old tradition by sailing for the Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula on Sunday. The 40-year-old software engineer from Kumaranallur, Kottayam, started the journey around 11:45 a.m. aboard a Churulan boat. This voyage is part of the Thiruvonathoni, which carries provisions for the Onasadya to the deity. The boat will traverse several rivers and halt at Veliyanad before reaching Aranmula on Thiruvonam morning. After rituals, Mr. Bhattathiri will return to Kumaranalloor by road.

🏏 Cummins on two-day win: Batting needs work

Pat Cummins expressed disappointment with Australia's batting output despite securing a series-leveling win in Mackay. This happened in Mackay where Australia secured the victory after a good bowling performance. The win occurred after previous scores of 198 and 284 in Darwin, with the match finishing in two days. Cummins noted that while bowling was strong, the batting was below average and needed improvement for world No. 1 status. Selectors will meet in the next week or two to plan the next Test squad facing South Africa. 🏏