Australian bush fires turn deadly
01.09.2009
At least 25 people have been killed by wildfires in southern Australia, the deadliest in the country for decades.
The deaths occurred in areas across Victoria state, state police said. There are fears that as many as 40 may have perished.
Firefighters are battling dozens of fires in parks and bush land, amid a heatwave, with temperatures set to reach 47 C (117F) this weekend.
Aircraft are dropping water bombs and thousands of firemen are on standby.
More than 100 homes have been destroyed in nine major blazes in Victoria. Officials say they are battling against the worst fire conditions in the state's history. Tens of thousands of firefighters are trying to contain blazes in two further states - New South Wales and South Australia - but blazes there were largely contained or burning away from residential areas.
Australia (1) -- Analyses -- 2009
Australia outlines military plans
01.09.2009
The Australian government says it is to spend more than $72bn upgrading its military over the next two decades.
Key purchases include 100 fighter jets and 12 new submarines, replacing the current fleet of six.
Eight frigates and 24 combat helicopters are also on the list, set out in the country's first defence white paper for 10 years.
The government says it will enable Australia to defend its interests in a changing Asia-Pacific region.
The white paper is entitled: "Defending Australia in the Asia-Pacific Century. Force 2030".
The 12 new hunter-killer submarines - which will be built in Australia - will double the size of the current fleet.
One hundred F-35 fighters will be purchased over the next decade, and funds will also be allocated to counter cyber and electronic warfare.
Bulgarian