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  • MIL-OSI USA: Gallego, Governor Lewis Announce $107 Million is Coming to Gila River Indian Community for Colorado River Conservation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ruben Gallego (AZ-07)

    September 25, 2024

    WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) and Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) Governor Stephen Roe Lewis announced that $107 million in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act is coming to GRIC for three Colorado River conservation projects.

    “Arizona’s tribes are critical partners in securing our water future,” said Rep. Gallego. “That’s why I’m proud to announce this funding, which I helped secure, to support the Gila River Indian Community and conserve Colorado River water.”

    “We are very excited to be finalizing our agreements for these three major infrastructure improvements, which will have major benefits not just for the Community, but for the entire region,” said Gov. Lewis. “Each one of these projects will allow us to use our water more efficiently on our farms, with annual savings in water of over 7,400 acre-feet per year.  Because we are the largest entitlement holder of Colorado River water delivered through the CAP canal, our savings can readily translate into major reductions in our use of Colorado River water, which will add to the 1 million acre-feet of our water that we have already left in Lake Mead for the benefit of the system.”

    The funding announced today is expected to conserve of over 73,000 acre-feet of water over the next 10 years. The funding will be split among the following three projects:

    • $64 million to replace and upgrade irrigation systems on Gila River Farms.

    • $26 million to concrete line over 7.5 miles of earthen canals in the Blackwater area.

    • $17 million to construct a regulating reservoir to capture flows that are currently being spilled from the Santan Canal when too much water is accidentally ordered or delivered into the system.

    Gov. Lewis added that the projects are ready to go, reaffirming to the significance of today’s announcement.

    “We will begin construction on two of these projects in early October and on the third in early November,” he explained. “ All the projects will be completed prior to the Post-2026 Guidelines, which will undoubtedly hit the State of Arizona very hard. These savings will help us all weather those anticipated cuts, and also put us in a position of ensuring we use every drop of our water most efficiently.

    The entire Gila River Indian Community is appreciative of the role that Cong. Gallego and the Arizona delegation played in ensuring that drought and water conservation funding were included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act.”

    You can learn more about Rep. Gallego’s work on water in his report: Securing Arizona’s Water Future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin ups the ante on his nuclear blackmail – the big question is how the west will respond

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Christoph Bluth, Professor of International Relations and Security, University of Bradford

    Vladimir Putin has announced what appears to be a dramatic strengthening of Russia’s nuclear doctrine. The Russian president was responding to speculation that the west may relax its restrictions on Ukraine’s use of its weapons to attack targets inside Russia.

    He told his security council that Russia would consider using nuclear weapons if it was attacked by any state with conventional weapons. The trigger for the launch of nuclear missiles against Ukraine or any of its allies, he said, would be “reliable information about a massive launch of aerospace attack means and their crossing of our state border”.

    Whether this will affect the thinking of Ukraine’s western allies about the use of its long-range missiles has yet to be seen. But one of the major features of the public discourse about the Ukraine war has been the risk of the use of nuclear weapons.

    Nuclear threats have been a standard tactic for the Russian leadership. Whenever Ukraine receives new weapons from the west or is allowed to use western arms to target Russian territory Moscow has responded by either referring to the devastation it could wreak with its nuclear arsenal or by holding a drill to remind the west of its existence.

    But there have recently been reports of a growing realisation among Putin’s close advisers that these threats are beginning to wear thin, as one after another of Moscow’s “red lines” are ignored.

    Nevertheless, despite providing Ukraine with the most advanced air defence systems and offensive missiles that could strike targets deep within Russia – and perhaps even influence the course of the war – Nato countries are maintaining a strict limit on their use. It’s an indication that despite scepticism about Putin’s willingness to use nuclear weapons, deterrence remains robust – in western minds anyway.

    Nuclear deterrence is based on the threat to inflict “unacceptable damage” on an enemy. It is credible only if the adversary believes that the threat is accompanied by the capability and will to follow through.

    Nuclear powers have generally conducted nuclear messaging by publicising guidelines for the use of their arsenals. Nato’s current strategic concept was adopted by heads of state and government at the alliance’s summit in Madrid in June 2022. It states: “The circumstances in which Nato might have to use nuclear weapons are extremely remote.”

    But the document stresses that if nuclear weapons were used against any Nato member state it would “fundamentally alter” any conflict in which Nato was engaged. It goes on to warn that: “The Alliance has the capabilities and resolve to impose costs on an adversary that would be unacceptable and far outweigh the benefits that any adversary could hope to achieve.”

    Russia, meanwhile, is reportedly updating its nuclear doctrine in response to what it says is “western escalation” in the war in Ukraine. The current doctrine, established by a decree in 2020, says Russia can use nuclear weapons to respond to a nuclear attack by an enemy, or to a conventional attack that “threatens the existence of the state”.

    The latest statement by Putin is apparently the “draft” of a reworked nuclear doctrine. It certainly appears to lower the bar on resorting to the use of nuclear weapons.

    Sabre rattling

    The Russian leader made his first overt threat to use nuclear weapons in the conflict in Ukraine in September 2022. He was overseeing the annexation of four occupied Ukrainian provinces after hastily arranged plebiscites, which were generally regarded in the west as being rigged.

    He stated that “the US is the only country in the world that twice used nuclear weapons, destroying the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Incidentally, they created a precedent.”

    He went on to assert that during the second world war the US and Britain had deliberately bombed several German cities to rubble. This, he insisted, had the “sole goal, just like in the case of nuclear bombardments in Japan, to scare our country and the entire world”.

    But CIA director William Burns recently said the west should not take Putin’s threats seriously: “Putin’s a bully. He’s going to continue to sabre rattle from time to time.”

    CIA director Wiliam Burns and MI6 chief Richatrd Moore in conversation at an FT conference, September 2024.

    Burns told a festival organised by the Financial Times on September 7 that: “There was a moment in the fall of 2022 when I think there was a genuine risk of potential use of tactical nuclear weapons … I never thought … we should be unnecessarily intimidated by that.”

    He said he had subsequently passed on a message from US president Joe Biden to Sergey Naryshkin, the head of the Russian foreign intelligence service at a meeting in Turkey in November 2022 “to make very clear what the consequences of that kind of escalation would be”.

    US satellite networks and other intelligence sources have shown no evidence of any preparations for the employment of nuclear weapons. This is despite Russian claims that the alert status of Russian forces has been raised.

    But Putin’s proxies have been busily putting out propaganda messages to reinforce their leader’s threats. According to the Washington Post, Alexander Mikhailov, the director of the Bureau of Military Political Analysis, recently called for Russia to bomb plywood mock-ups of London and Washington to simulate a nuclear attack, so that that would “burn so beautifully that it will horrify the world”.

    The speaker of the lower house, Vyacheslav Volodin, warned that strikes on Russia would lead to war with nuclear weapons and warned that the European parliament in Strasbourg was only a three-minute flight for a Russian nuclear missile.

    So far Putin’s threats have been sufficient to limit the scope of western involvement. Whether the Russian president’s latest threat will be effective is now the question.

    Christoph Bluth received funding from the Volkswagen Stiftung and the AHRC

    – ref. Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin ups the ante on his nuclear blackmail – the big question is how the west will respond – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-ups-the-ante-on-his-nuclear-blackmail-the-big-question-is-how-the-west-will-respond-239660

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    While Russia continues its nuclear sabre rattling, with renewed threats to use its arsenal if attacked, fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine and in Russia’s Kursk region remains intense. But the diplomatic centre of gravity of the war recently shifted to New York and Washington.

    Discussions at the UN and meetings scheduled between the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, the US president Joe Biden and vice-president Kamala Harris are by no means unimportant for the outcomes of the conflict. But it is unlikely that they will constitute the pivotal moment in accelerating the pace towards a Ukrainian victory that Zelensky might envisage.

    At meetings at the UN general assembly and security council, Zelensky appealed to world leaders to support his country and force Russia to make peace with Ukraine. His vision to achieve this is via a second global peace summit. This time he wants Russia to participate after the first effort in Switzerland in June achieved very little.



    Read more:
    Ukraine summit fails to provide a path to peace for Kyiv and its allies

    But with Zelensky continuing to push his ten-point peace plan and Putin insisting on Ukraine recognising Russia’s annexation of Crimea and four regions on the mainland, the two sides are as far apart as ever. So prospects of any meaningful negotiations virtually non-existent.

    This has not deterred Zelensky from promoting to Ukraine’s allies what he is calling his “victory plan”.

    The plan “envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners … from now until the end of December”. These concrete steps are likely to include more western military support and the permission to use longer-range western weapons against targets deeper inside Russia.

    This latter point is something on which the western alliance is divided – and the US sceptical on its strategic value. Putin’s insistence that Russia will respond by using its nuclear arsenal if it detects any western missiles crossing its border will have added to this uncertainty.

    Even if more decisive western support were suddenly forthcoming, it is unlikely that it would offset other disadvantages that Ukraine and its allies are facing on the battlefield and beyond. Russia has consolidated its alliances with Iran, North Korea and China. All of these countries have supplied mission-critical ammunition and equipment that has enabled the Kremlin to sustain its war effort in Ukraine.

    Russia, so far, has also maintained its advantage in numbers. It appears to be determined to push this even harder following Putin’s order to increase the number of combat troops of the Russian army by another 180,000 soldiers.

    Meanwhile, a relentless Russian air campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure has also caused lasting damage, especially to the country’s energy supply network. This is likely to have a particularly adverse effect on Ukraine’s civilian population. It is likely to seriously dent morale during the coming winter.

    Other plans (and priorities)

    As discussions at the UN this week have underlined, there is also some diplomatic momentum building up behind a joint proposal by Brazil and China that was initially launched in May. Brazil’s president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, pushed the plan during his speech at the UN general assembly on September 24, as did China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi.

    Like previous proposals from China and Brazil individually, as well as from Indonesia, a group of African states and Saudi Arabia, the joint Brazilian-Chinese plan calls for a ceasefire along the current frontlines. Negotiations would then follow.

    Ukraine fears, rightly, that this would entrench the status quo and effectively amount to Kyiv giving up territory illegally annexed by Russia. It would not guarantee any fruitful negotiations but give Russia time and space to regroup and rebuild its armed forces for a likely future escalation. None of this is acceptable to Ukraine and its allies as Zelensky made clear in his speech at the UN.

    Volodymr Zelensky criticises the Brazil-China plan at the UN general assembly.

    China’s previous effort to promote this joint initiative with Brazil just before the peace summit in Switzerland last June, did not go very far. It may not go much further this time either.

    But attention and resources are now much more focused on the Middle East and – to a lesser extent – the civil war in Sudan. So the very fact of this plan’s resurrection may be enough for Russia and its allies to prevent the rest of the world from uniting behind the western-backed Ukrainian proposal for a second global peace summit.

    This is clearly a concern for Ukraine. Zelensky, with a clear eye on countries in the global south, not only rejected the proposal but also argued that forcing Ukraine to make territorial concessions to Russia would be akin to reimposing a version of the brutal colonial past of the Soviet era on his country.

    Will Zelensky be Trumped in November?

    While the stars are thus hardly aligning in Ukraine’s favour at the UN in New York, things did not go much better as far as US domestic politics is concerned ahead of presidential elections in November. Questioning whether Donald Trump really has a credible plan to end the war, Zelensky triggered the notoriously short-fused Republican contender into lashing out at him at campaign rallies.

    Donald Trump takes aim at Volodymr Zelensky.

    Trump is both accusing Zelensky of refusing to make a deal and expressing doubts about Ukraine’s ability to win the war. Meanwhile, a recent opinion piece penned by Robert F. Kennedy Jnr and Donald Trump Jnr for The Hill, an influential political newspaper, urges that Ukraine be pushed to make a deal with Russia to prevent nuclear escalation.

    And Trump’s running-mate J.D. Vance has made clear his opposition to the US continuing to supply aid to Ukraine if elected in November. So it’s pretty clear that there is a very real prospect that Washington may soon cease to be Kyiv’s most important global ally.

    All of this explains the urgency behind Zelensky’s push for more and more decisive western support in the coming months, and his pleas to the wider international community to back efforts for a just peace for Ukraine. But it also indicates that Russia and its allies have, for now, done enough to further frustrate any progress towards a Ukrainian victory both on the battlefield and at the negotiation table.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-zelenskys-pleas-for-help-are-getting-drowned-out-in-the-clamour-from-the-middle-east-239752

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The world isn’t taking Putin’s nuclear threats seriously – the history of propaganda suggests it should

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Colin Alexander, Senior Lecturer in Political Communications, Nottingham Trent University

    Vladimir Putin has spoken several times about using nuclear weapons since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, the initial attention and concern that global news media gave to Putin when he first spoke on the issue in September 2022 seemed to have largely dissipated over the past two years of conflict, perhaps because of the frequency with which he has threatened to resort to use of Russia’s nuclear arsenal.

    Now Putin has issued his strongest threat yet, saying that Russia would use nuclear weapons against any country attacking it, even with conventional weapons. This statement appears to be intended to influence the debate happening at the United Nations, where Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is trying to persuade his country’s western allies to allow Ukraine to use the weapons they have provided against targets deep within Russia itself.

    This has been a “red line” hitherto that Ukraine’s allies have been unwilling to cross. That may be about to change though and Russia’s reaction has been to reiterate a nuclear response.

    For those interested in the study of propaganda, Putin’s threats appear to have moved from what American media scholar Dan Hallin called the “sphere of legitimate controversy”, where the validity of an utterance is urgently debated by journalists, politicians and academics, into the “sphere of consensus”, where there is broad agreement about the meaning of the message. This generally results in it receiving less attention.

    To believe that Putin is not serious about using nuclear weapons is a dangerous assumption to make. But it provides a good opportunity to examine the political and public relationship with nuclear weapons in more detail.

    The psychology of nuclear threat

    Most adults know of the existence of nuclear weapons and understand the consequences of their use. Very few are simply ignorant of them or their immense power. But global annihilation is too overwhelming to think about other than fleetingly. As a result we tend to focus on less drastic futures.

    These regular denials and self-deceptions affect political outlooks though. Every so often the leader of a nuclear-armed country is asked by a journalist or another politician about their readiness to press the nuclear button. They always say “yes”. When this question is asked in front of an audience there is usually enthusiastic applause.

    This response – applauding an individual politician’s willingness to bring about the end of the world – is perhaps the most compelling evidence of the duality that the threat of nuclear war exists within. Rather than perceiving such a response as the worrying sign that a maniac has somehow manoeuvred their way into high office and should be immediately removed, the voter perceives the utterance as a signifier of leadership strength.

    Psychologically, it can be argued that the applause actually represents an outpouring of relief that this mass self-deception can continue.

    ‘Fear propaganda’ and confirmation bias

    During the cold war, official propaganda placed great emphasis upon threat and preparedness for nuclear attack. The BBC film Threads first aired 40 years ago in September 1984 and depicted the aftermath of a nuclear strike. It was responsible for great alarm among the British public at a time when news media, movies and even official literature were also focused upon the threat of nuclear war.

    Between 1974 and 1980, the UK government issued a booklet entitled Protect and Survive, accompanied by short films. The BBC, in its public service role, also ran documentary programming including a 1980 edition of Panorama called If The Bomb Drops. While US secretary of state Henry Kissinger’s 1957 study Nuclear War and Foreign Policy caused alarm for arguing that small-scale nuclear war using “battlefield” weapons might be possible.

    Cold war communications like these served to focus the public mind towards the threat of nuclear attack above all other fears. And perhaps, at that time, they were right to do so. But more than 30 years have now passed since the end of the cold war and the emphasis within what is known as “fear propaganda” now focuses on other threats, such as extremism, pandemics and migration.

    As such, Putin’s nuclear threats provide propaganda analysts like myself with a case study about the important role played by fear propaganda in determining what people are scared of. If taken within the wider history of the fear of nuclear holocaust, it is clear that political leaders cannot rely on their words alone to be taken seriously. They require a wider supportive propaganda environment – like the atmosphere created at the height of the cold war.

    Putin the ‘madman’

    Questions around how to understand Putin’s nuclear attack threats ought to be positioned as the latest in a long(ish) line of world leaders who have tried to convince global publics of their readiness to commit nuclear genocide.

    Richard Nixon, for example, used what was referred to as “madman” tactics when trying to convince people of his readiness to push the button. Interestingly, the more recent depictions of Putin, Kim Jong-un and other authoritarian leaders as madmen by western tabloids can actually helps them by playing down the fact of their inferior military capabilities when compared to those of the Nato allies.

    Don’t think for a moment though that any of this discussion of propaganda increases or decreases the actual threat posed by nuclear weapons. Indeed, there exists a degree of confirmation bias among politicians, journalists and other public commentators that because nuclear war did not happen during the cold war, it is unlikely to happen now. But this can’t be guaranteed. It may be that these conclusions are mistakenly based upon the intensity of the propaganda environment – not the actuality of the threat posed.

    To this end, it ought to be remembered that the ability to press the button sits well within the capacity of the sane human mind. US president Harry S. Truman pushed the button in 1945. He was then given detailed reports of the death and destruction that his decision caused to Hiroshima. Then he pushed the button again to annihilate Nagasaki.

    Colin Alexander does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The world isn’t taking Putin’s nuclear threats seriously – the history of propaganda suggests it should – https://theconversation.com/the-world-isnt-taking-putins-nuclear-threats-seriously-the-history-of-propaganda-suggests-it-should-239942

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How history can teach us to prevent deaths at sea

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Guy Collender, Post Doctoral Senior Research Associate, Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures, University of Portsmouth

    AndriiKoval/Shutterstock

    The rapid sinking of the Bayesian superyacht and the loss of seven lives, including tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, in August 2024 cruelly emphasised the potentially lethal perils of the sea. This tragedy, although much publicised, is far from unusual. Globally, accidents at sea lead to thousands of deaths every year – but the true scale of the problem is unknown.

    Undoubtedly, life at sea remains hard and dangerous in the 21st century, but this is difficult to quantify. There were 215 shipping industry related deaths at sea recorded in 2022. However, due to a lack of standardised data and under-reporting this figure is likely to be an underestimate.

    Efforts to raise awareness and improve safety at sea today have much to learn from historic and successful safety initiatives in the UK’s docks. My research on early 20th century docks shows that proper data is a prerequisite to understanding a problem and identifying trends. Such an assessment can then lead to the allocation of resources, targeted safety measures – and life-saving change.

    These steps all apply to improving safety at sea, but the lack of accurate data is a real stumbling block.

    Life and death at sea

    Fishing is widely recognised as the “most dangerous occupation globally”, but estimates of deaths among the fishing community vary enormously from 32,000 to more than 100,000 deaths per year. Of course, such deaths also occur inland in lakes and rivers, as well as at sea.

    Twenty-six vessels of over 100 gross tonnes were recorded lost in 2023, with 13 sinking beneath the waves. This is low when compared with the loss of more than 200 vessels a year in the 1990s, but there have also been recent worrying trends such as attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. So far in 2024, four Red Sea seafarers have been killed by Houthi rebels from Yemem, with others injured and held hostage.

    Desperation and war are also leading to deaths and risks elsewhere. A total of 3,155 migrants crossing the Mediterranean were recorded as missing or dead in 2023.

    Nevertheless, such challenges and risks to life are increasingly being recognised and efforts are underway to address them. Importantly, better data collection and monitoring is in the pipeline.

    An amendment to the 2006 international maritime labour convention is expected to come into force in December 2024. It will require countries that have agreed to the convention to report deaths of seafarers on an annual basis to the UN’s International Labour Office.

    These will be published in a global register, and they will be investigated. It remains to be seen how such reporting will operate in practice and how deaths will be categorised – but it will be a good start.

    History lessons

    This is where it is helpful to learn from the past. I have researched the historic reduction of the dangers of dock work in the UK for Hindsight Perspectives for a Safer World – a collaboration between History and Policy and Lloyd’s Register Foundation.

    My study shows how progress was linked to gathering better data, and recognising the risks of loading and unloading cargo. The counting and scrupulous categorisation of accidents helped identify the problems and appropriate safety measures.

    In 1900, factory inspectors identified five causes of dock accidents, including falls (into the ship’s hold, or into the water), and shunting accidents involving trains. The docks were classified as one of the “dangerous trades” in the Factory and Workshop Act, 1901.

    Under the dock regulations of 1904, “life-saving appliances” – chains or floats – were introduced to prevent drownings. Lifting machinery was also subject to stringent checks to prevent deaths from falling loads.

    And more and more proactive inspections took place as the number of inspectors rose from 137 in 1900 to 320 by 1939. All these safety measures and others contributed to dock deaths falling from 115 a year in 1899 to 69 a year in 1939.

    Today’s safety initiatives at sea often echo the work of those safety pioneers in the early 20th century. Together in Safety, a consortium of companies dedicated to improving safety in the maritime sector, suggests a three-step safety process – assess the situation, act to improve, appraise the progress – which replicates the work of those early legislators and inspectors.

    Together in Safety’s clear and succinct golden safety rules show how to mitigate the risks of maritime work, including working over water and entering enclosed spaces.

    What’s more, Lloyd’s Register Foundation – a charity that helps to protect life and property at sea, on land, and in the air – is undertaking work to “assure the safety of people as the ocean economy grows” as part of its Global Maritime Trends 2050 Research Programme.

    Two million seafarers face daily dangers to keep the global supply chain operating smoothly. Doing more to highlight their safety will hopefully lead to a better understanding of the challenges they face. This, in turn, should lead to better safety procedures and practices to save lives at sea.

    Guy Collender was commissioned and paid to research the history of dock safety in the UK for Hindsight Perspectives for a Safer World – a collaboration between History and Policy and Lloyd’s Register Foundation. He is currently employed by the University of Portsmouth on the ‘Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green’ research project, which is funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation.

    – ref. How history can teach us to prevent deaths at sea – https://theconversation.com/how-history-can-teach-us-to-prevent-deaths-at-sea-237432

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: New ADB–IFFEd Partnership to Unlock $500 Million in Concessional Education Financing in Asia and Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (26 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed an agreement with the International Finance Facility for Education (IFFEd) that will enable at least $500 million in new concessional education funding for lower middle-income countries (LMICs) in Asia and the Pacific.

    Under the financing partnership, IFFEd—a sovereign-backed Swiss foundation established in 2023 to invest in education and skills in LMICs—will guarantee $125 million of ADB’s sovereign loan exposure across all sectors, known as a synthetic portfolio, and provide an initial $50 million in grants.

    By blending IFFEd’s guarantees to ADB with grants that will comprise 10% of every loan, the first-of-its-kind arrangement facilitates a four times leverage ratio of the guarantee, boosting the amount of capital ADB can lend while lowering borrowing costs for the bank’s developing member countries (DMCs).

    “Education is the cornerstone of modern, prosperous, and inclusive societies, and we are pleased to announce this partnership with IFFEd,” said ADB Vice-President for Sectors and Themes Fatima Yasmin. “By pooling catalytic and concessional financing, this initiative means our lower middle-income DMCs can scale up their investments in education and skills—vital to building knowledge-based economies—along with other sectors at the same time.”

    LMICs face an education crisis. More than 50% of students in these countries are not able to read simple text by age 10 despite attending school, and graduates do not have the skills to find jobs, leaving employers unable to fill vacancies.

    As countries move from lower to lower middle-income status, they tend to get caught in a financing “missing middle” where they are no longer eligible to receive grants but cannot afford nonconcessional financing—forcing a difficult decision of where to invest, exacerbated by limited domestic financing.

    By bringing concessional or grant resources to developing countries seeking to strengthen their education systems, the ADB–IFFEd partnership’s key innovation lies in the fact that—at a time of rapid change—it will help ADB’s DMCs prepare for a future characterized by digital transformation, climate change, demographic transitions, and rapid urbanization.

    IFFEd’s sovereign donors include Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, while the Atlassian Foundation, Jacobs Foundation, Porticus, Rockefeller Foundation, and the Soros Economic Development Fund (the investment arm of Open Society Foundations) have provided seed capital. IFFEd, which benefits from a strong credit rating, will initially focus on Asia and the Pacific, and Africa, in collaboration with multilateral development banks (MDBs).

    “Investing in education and skills in LMICs—home to nearly half of the world’s children and youth—is key to powering long-term economic growth and making progress on global health, climate, and equity goals,” said IFFEd Founding Chief Executive Officer Karthik Krishnan.

    “IFFEd has been recognized by the G20 MDB Capital Adequacy Framework Review as one of the most significant development finance innovations in the past decade and delivers seven times more impact than traditional grants. ADB played a key role in shaping the IFFEd instrument and as our first founding MDB partner, ADB is showcasing its unwavering commitment to alleviating poverty and powering economic growth in Asia and the Pacific,” added Mr. Krishnan.

    The following ADB DMCs are currently eligible for IFFEd funding: Bangladesh, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam.

    IFFEd-funded education projects can support ADB programs at any level of the education system—from early childhood development and school education to technical and vocational training, skills development and tertiary education.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Galaxy S24 Series Expands With S24 FE: A Premium Experience That Makes Full Galaxy AI Capabilities Attainable for More Users

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today unveiled the Galaxy S24 FE, the latest addition to the Galaxy AI ecosystem, delivering premium mobile experiences to more users.
    Powered by the AI-based ProVisual Engine and Galaxy AI’s Photo Assist features, Galaxy S24 FE showcases an enhanced camera setup that empowers users to be more creative. It’s the perfect device for gaming on the go with a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a long-lasting 4,700mAh battery,1 and a powerful Exynos 2400 series chipset. The Galaxy S24 FE offers premium Galaxy AI2 tools and ecosystem connectivity to enhance communication, productivity, and creativity — all housed in an iconic design and protected by robust Samsung Knox security.

    “We want everyone to enjoy all the benefits of our latest mobile innovations,” said SeaYoung Lee, Corporate EVP and Head of the Smartphone Research and Development team at Samsung Electronics. “Galaxy AI opens so many new experiences for users, helping them communicate, and be more creative and productive. Galaxy S24 FE makes the powerful performance and premium Galaxy AI capabilities of the S24 series available to even more people.”
    Unlock Creativity With AI-enhanced Camera and Editing
    Galaxy S24 FE makes it easy for anyone to shoot stunning photos and videos. Its premium camera setup features a 50MP wide lens and 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom — both supported by optical image stabilization (OIS) — plus a 12MP ultra-wide lens and a 10MP selfie camera.

    The camera system’s capabilities are further elevated by Samsung’s dynamic ProVisual Engine, an AI-driven camera engine that takes photo quality to incredible heights. Making its debut in the FE series, the ProVisual Engine features innovative technology that leverages advanced AI algorithms to deliver breathtaking detail and remarkably subtle textures:
    Nightography with AI image signal processing (ISP) to improve low light performance, enabling beautiful night portraits
    The wide camera’s 50MP Adaptive Pixel Sensor helps enable optical-quality performance at 2x and 3x zoom. AI zoom also provides enhanced image quality for distances between digital zoom lengths
    Object-Aware Engine to recognize scenes and optimize colors in Super High Dynamic Range (HDR), ensuring vibrant and lifelike photos and videos

    When it is time to edit, Photo Assist features help users turn their ideas into reality. Since its introduction on Galaxy S24 series devices, Galaxy AI has become invaluable for editing images and expressing creativity:
    Generative Edit3 reassembles the world through object moving and removal capabilities, allowing more creative freedom
    Portrait Studio4 reimagines selfies as cartoons, comics, watercolor paintings, or sketches to add flair to online profiles
    Edit Suggestions quickly remove pesky flaws, such as reflections, with the press of a button
    Instant Slow-mo5 immortalizes every second of life’s important moments in a snap
    Game On With Powerful Performance

    The powerful Exynos 2400 series chipset enables an uncompromised gaming experience compatible with cutting-edge features such as Ray Tracing. When every bit of speed and efficiency counts, the Galaxy S24 FE utilizes several key features to stay ahead of the competition:
    A 1x larger vapor chamber6 improves cooling to maintain peak performance for longer durations.
    A higher-capacity 4,700mAh battery7 allows for long, worry-free gaming sessions.
    A 7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display — the largest display ever used in the FE series — with a up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, provides a smooth and stunning viewing experience.
    Vision Booster optimizes color and contrast for clear and comfortable gaming even in sunlight.
    Seamless Galaxy AI Experiences
    The Galaxy S24 FE incorporates the same advanced AI experience as the Galaxy S24 series. Designed to enhance work, simplify communication, and increase connectivity, Galaxy AI on the S24 FE offers tools that unlock new possibilities.

    Circle to Search with Google8 satisfies curiosity with unprecedented ease by offering instant search results with just a long press of the home button and circle
    Interpreter9 instantly translates in-person conversations, lectures, or any other type of presentation, even when offline
    Live Translate10 breaks down communication barriers on phone calls, and is now being extended to a selection of popular third-party apps
    Composer from Samsung keyboard generates suggested text based on simple keywords for email and supported social media apps
    Note Assist11 streamlines the note-taking process and automates formatting and translation. In Samsung Notes you can directly get transcription, translation, and summarization of voice recordings. Text in PDF files can also be translated and overlaid through PDF overlay translation

    Connecting and Securing the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem
    Every Galaxy AI-enhanced experience becomes even more useful when the Galaxy S24 FE is connected to Samsung’s expansive mobile ecosystem. It seamlessly transfers files, quickly sets up extended displays, and effortlessly executes complex creative ideas through intuitive inputs. In this hyper-connected Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, Galaxy S24 FE enables experiences that increase productivity, creativity, and efficiency.
    Building on the innovative legacy of the S series, the Galaxy S24 FE is fortified with strong security. Samsung Knox, Galaxy’s multi-layer security platform that safeguards critical information and protects against vulnerabilities with end-to-end secure hardware, real-time threat detection, and collaborative protection.
    As a continuation of the S24 series tradition of sustainable design, the Galaxy S24 FE  has been made to do more with less when it comes to the planet’s resources . It features a wide variety of recycled materials, including recycled plastics, aluminum, glass, and rare earth elements in both internal and external components.12 It also features seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates,13 and comes in a packaging box made from 100% recycled paper material.14
    Enhanced Experiences With Watch FE LTE
    In June, Samsung advanced the legacy of FE devices by offering key health and wellness tools to even more users with Galaxy Watch FE. That continues with the upcoming release of Galaxy Watch FE LTE, which allows users to take advantage of their Galaxy Watch from anywhere, by taking calls, tracking their wellness progress, and so much more — all without needing a connection to a phone.

    Availability & Offers
    The Galaxy S24 FE and Galaxy Watch FE LTE are both available for pre-order on Samsung.com beginning today.
    Pricing for Galaxy S24 FE starts at $649.99 and comes in four colors: Blue, Graphite, Gray, and Mint,15 available on Samsung.com and major carriers and retailers nationwide beginning October 3.
    Pricing for Galaxy Watch FE LTE starts at $249.99, with availability at Samsung.com and major carriers and retailers beginning October 3.
    Those who pre-order Galaxy Watch FE LTE will receive a free light-weight fabric watch band.

    Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Specifications

    Display  6.7-inch FHD+
    Dynamic AMOLED 2X
    120Hz Adaptive refresh rate (60/120Hz)
    Vision Booster
    *Measured diagonally, Galaxy S24 FE’s screen is 6.7-inch in the full rectangle and 6.5-inch accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
    Dimensions & Weight77.3 X 162.0 X 8.0mm, 213g
    *Device weight may vary by market.
    Camera12MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    • F2.2, FOV 123˚ 
    50MP Wide Camera
    • OIS F1.8, FOV 84˚ 
    8MP Telephoto Camera
    • 3x Optical Zoom, OIS F2.4, FOV 32˚ 
    10MP Front Camera 
    • F2.4, FOV 80˚ 
    ProcessorExynos 2400e (4nm)
    Memory + Storage8 + 128 GB
    8 + 256 GB
    8 + 512 GB
    *Storage options and availability may vary by carrier, country or region. Actual storage availability may vary depending on pre-installed software.
    Battery4,700 mAh
    * Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated (minimum) capacity is 4,565mAh. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
    Charging*Wired charging*: Up to 50% charge in around 30 mins with 25W Adapter** and 3A USB-C cable***
    Fast Wireless Charging****
    Wireless PowerShare*****
    *Wired charging compatible with QC2.0 and PD.
    **25W Power Adapter sold separately. Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables.
    *** Results from internal Samsung lab tests, conducted with 25W Travel Adapter connected to newly pre-released version of Galaxy S23 Ultra while device had 0% of power remaining, with all services, features and screen turned off. Actual charging speed may vary depending on the actual usage, charging conditions and other factors.
    ****Wireless charging compatible with WPC.
    *****Limited to Samsung or other brand smartphones with Qi wireless charging, such as Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip6, S24 Ultra, S24+, S24, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, S23 Ultra, S23+, S23, S23 FE, Z Fold4, Z Flip4,, S22 Ultra, S22+, S22, Z Fold3, Z Flip3, S21 Ultra, S21+, S21, S21 FE, Z Fold2, Note20 Ultra, Note20, S20+, S20, S20 FE, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip, Note10+, Note10, S10 5G, S10+, S10, S10e, S10 Lite, Fold, S9, S9+, S8, S8+, S8 Active, S7, S7 edge, S7 Active, S6, S6 edge, S6 Active, S6 edge+, Note9, Note8, Note FE and Note5. Only available with certain Samsung Galaxy wearables such as Galaxy Buds3, Buds3 Pro, Buds FE, Buds2 Pro, Buds2, Buds Pro, Buds Live, Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch6, Watch5, Watch 5 Pro, Watch4, Watch4 Classic, Watch3, Watch Active2, Watch Active, Gear Sport, Gear S3, Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds. If battery power is lower than 30% Wireless PowerShare may not function. May not work with certain accessories, covers, other brand devices or some Samsung wearables. During PowerShare, it may affect call reception or data services, depending on your network environment.
    OSAndroid 14
    One UI 6.1
    Network and Connectivity 5G*, LTE**, Wi-Fi 6E,*** Wi-Fi Direct Bluetooth® v 5.3
    *Requires optimal 5G network connection, available in select markets. Check with carrier for availability and details. Download and streaming speeds may vary based on content provider, server connection and other factors.
    **Availability of LTE model varies by market and carrier. Actual speed may vary depending on market, carrier, and user environment.
    ***Wi-Fi 6E network availability may vary by market, network provider and user environment. Requires optimal connection.Will require a Wi-Fi 6E router.
    SecurityAuto Blocker, Samsung Knox, Samsung Knox Vault, Samsung Knox Matrix, Passkey
    Water ResistanceIP68
    * IP68 Rating: Conducted under lab test conditions. Water resistant in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes and protected from dust, dirt, and sand. Rinse residue/dry after wet. Not advised for beach or pool use. Water and dust resistance of device is not permanent and may diminish over time.
    1 Charger not included. Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables. Do not use worn or damaged chargers or cables. An incompatible charger or cable can cause damage to your device and/or serious injuries.
    2 Galaxy AI features by Samsung will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices.
    3 Generative Edit requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit results in a resized photo up to 12MP. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    4 Portrait Studio requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Supports JPG, HEIC (HEIF), BMP and PNG files. The background must not be transparent. Editing with Generative Portrait results in a resized photo up to 12MP. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    5 Instant Slow-Mo available only with videos saved in the Samsung Gallery app, recorded at up to 4K@60fps (not available with HDR10+ videos)
    6 Compared Galaxy S24 FE to Galaxy S23 FE.
    7 Compared Galaxy S24 FE to Galaxy S23 FE (4,500mAh).
    8 Requires internet connection; results may vary by uniqueness, clarity and framing of circled image and related factors.
    9 Requires Samsung account login and language preset (English and Spanish pre-installed; other languages require free download) Results may vary.
    10 Requires compatible Galaxy device. Samsung account login and language preset (English and Spanish pre-installed; other languages require free download). Results may vary.
    11 For text in Samsung Notes only (200 – 4,000 characters); requires Samsung account login and internet connection.
    12 It features a wide variety of recycled materials, including recycled plastics, aluminum, glass, and rare earth elements in both internal and external components.
    13 Availability and timing of Android OS upgrades and security updates may vary by device model and market.
    14 100% recycled paper is used in the following packaging components: the Product Packaging Unit Box, Cover Protector, Manual Box, Manual Pad, and DLC Band.
    15 Availability of colors may vary by market and carriers.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Galaxy Tab S10 Series is Samsung’s AI-Ready Tablet

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today unveiled the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+, Samsung’s first tablets purpose-built for AI. Premium hardware includes 14.6-inch1 and 12.4-inch2 Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays — the ideal canvas for the intuitive S Pen bundled with both models. Performance upgrades for the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra3 include an 18% increase in CPU, 28% increase in GPU, and 14% increase in NPU compared to the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra.
    This improved processing power enables faster and more responsive AI features, which are now easily accessible with written prompts using the new Galaxy AI Key on the compatible Book Cover Keyboards, helping users customize their AI assistant.4 Cutting-edge software includes features such as Note Assist5 and Drawing Assist6 optimized for the tablet form factor. The Galaxy Tab S10 series also acts as a home AI device, with a 3D Map View that provides a visual overview of the home and connected devices to streamline device management across the SmartThings ecosystem.7 Robust Samsung Knox security provides data privacy and control, keeping users’ information safe.
    “The Galaxy Tab S10 series is packed with AI enhancements right out of the box, joining our portfolio of innovative Galaxy AI enabled devices,”8 said MC Lee, VP, Head of Galaxy Ecosystems Business Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re proud to add to our seamless ecosystem of connected devices, bringing versatile experiences that only an AI tablet can offer through the Galaxy Tab S10 series’ blend of power and portability.”

    Peak Performance on the Go
    Built on Samsung’s legacy of providing powerful experiences, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+ harness significant leaps in AI processing power to deliver a supercharged, lag-free experience. Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra includes a more than 18% increase in CPU, 28% increase in GPU, and 14% increase in NPU compared to Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. Coupled with long-lasting battery life and Super-Fast Charging,9 the Galaxy Tab S10 series allows the device to be used for long periods of time  without needing a charge.
    Elegant Build Quality, Mesmerizing Display

    Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s 14.6-inch display and Galaxy Tab S10+’s 12.4-inch display both feature cutting-edge Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology and offer a vibrant yet natural viewing experience, even outdoors. Every detail remains clear from any angle and in any environment with advanced anti-reflective technology, minimizing distracting glare and reducing reflection rate. The series’ quad speaker setup is further enhanced with AI-powered Dialogue Boost, which amplifies voices over unwanted noise to create ultra-clear audio. And for use on the go, the Galaxy Tab S10 series offers uncompromised durability with an IP68 rating10 further protected by enhanced Armor Aluminium — built to use anytime, anywhere.
    Work Smarter, Achieve True Creativity
    The Galaxy Tab S10 series offers an efficient experience — enhancing productivity — and serves as the ideal canvas to let out your creative side.

    With Note Assist and the intuitive S Pen, notetaking is a breeze on the tablet’s large display. Schoolwork, note-taking, and personal journaling become more efficient with automated transcriptions and summaries provided by AI. With PDF Overlay Translation, the Galaxy Tab S10 series can also seamlessly translate PDFs via an on-screen overlay. Handwriting Help cleans up untidy handwritten notes, too.
    Galaxy AI’s Sketch to Image11 makes the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra perfect for turning imagination into reality, acting as the ideal creative assistant for overcoming mental roadblocks.
    With Circle to Search12 with Google on the Galaxy Tab S10 series you can learn about almost anything without switching apps. Instantly translate anything you see on your tablet with Google, including any image, video, or text in two taps — allowing you to quickly get the info you need, then get right back to what you were doing. Circle to Search can even recognize and outline steps for solving physics and math problems.
    The Galaxy S Pen’s Air Command with AI provides instant access to Galaxy AI Assistant features without toggling between menus. AI Assistant apps can also be easily launched by the Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboards with written prompts, making it easier for users to access Galaxy AI. Users can even choose between Samsung’s Bixby and Google’s Gemini for a customized AI experience.13
    Intelligent Home Device

    The Galaxy Tab S10 series doubles as a Galaxy home AI device, simplifying device management. With large screen optimized features such as 3D Map View, it’s easy to see and take control of SmartThings enabled devices via the SmartThings widget. That means switching off the TV and lowering the lights from the table when it’s dinner time, turning up the air conditioning without getting off the couch, or getting notified when someone leaves the refrigerator door open — all on one powerful device. Users can also enable SmartThings Energy and AI Energy Mode to easily monitor their devices’ energy consumption. Galaxy AI doesn’t just enhance life on the go, it also takes the stress out of home life.
    Expanded Third-Party App Ecosystem

    The Galaxy Tab S10 series expands Galaxy’s unique connected experience and third-party app ecosystem, offering new and enhanced apps. The Tab S10 series provides access to leading third-party apps including Goodnotes,14 LumaFusion,15 Noteshelf3,16 Clip Studio Paint,17 PicsArt, and Sketchbook. Users can easily control speeds and add dramatic visual effects when editing videos on LumaFusion, or share their creative edits and re-created content with friends via PicsArt. With the Galaxy Tab S10 series’ extensive third-party app ecosystem, there’s something for everyone.
    Secure Experiences, Powered by Samsung Knox
    Samsung is committed to providing users with choice and control over their devices and their data. With Advanced Intelligence settings, users can choose to disable online data processing to ensure their data remains on-device. Samsung Knox’s real-time threat detection and collaborative protection keeps users safe, so they can live life to the fullest.
    Availability & Offers
    The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+ are available for preorder starting today, with general availability beginning October 3 at Samsung.com and national retailers.
    Galaxy Tab S10+ will also be available in a 5G model at major carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
    For those who pre-order Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra or Galaxy Tab S10+ at Samsung.com or Best Buy, Samsung is offering enhanced trade-in value up to $800 off either device.
    Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra starts at $1,199.99, with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options.
    Galaxy Tab S10+ starts at $999.99, with 256GB and 512GB storage options.
    Both devices are available in Moonstone Gray and Platinum Silver.
    For more information about the Galaxy Tab S10 series, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/us/tablets/galaxy-tab-s10/

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anti-Slavery Day Lunch and Learn Sessions

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council is thrilled to be launching the a timetable of lunch and learn sessions to mark National Anti-Slavery Day in October.

    To mark National Anti-Slavery Day on the 18 of October 2024, Coventry City Council will be hosting a series of free Lunch & Learn Sessions highlighting different elements of modern slavery and exploitation.

    These sessions are aimed at professionals in Coventry who may encounter modern slavery in their roles, both operationally and strategically. The sessions will be provided by a range of agencies, covering different topics. Every session will run from 12 to 12:30pm over Teams.

    The Council would like to thank all the agencies that are delivering sessions, this is a true partnership effort which highlights the collaborative approach our city is taking to tackle exploitation.

    Please book onto as many sessions as you like. If you have any questions regarding the sessions, do not hesitate to contact the Council’s Modern Slavery Lead at modernslavery@coventry.gov.uk

    The events:

    Download a timetable of the events.

    Thursday, 26th September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Confirmed Government funding sets the scene for two cultural projects

    Source: City of Derby

    Government funding for two leading cultural projects in Derby has been secured, paving the way for the restoration of the historic Guildhall Theatre, and Derby Theatre’s redevelopment project.

    Sign-off of £20 million of UK Government funding, which was put on hold when the General Election was called, has now been confirmed by the Ministry of Communities, Housing and Local Government (MCHLG).

    Partners Derby City Council, the University of Derby and Derby Theatre will now work to develop their plans for the two buildings.

    Half of the funding, £10 million, will go towards bringing the Grade II listed Guildhall Theatre back into use. Further funding has been allocated from the Council’s capital budget, and opportunities for match funding are being explored.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said:

    It is fantastic news that this much-needed funding has been secured for our city. Now we can look towards restoring one of our historic buildings and create more space for community-led arts groups to perform right in the city’s cultural heart.

    The other half of the funding will go towards a new accessible and flexible studio theatre adjoining the current building at Derby Theatre. In addition, a new Learning and Research Hub will develop further the undergraduate and postgraduate offer to study theatre in a professional setting and give more space to Derby Theatre’s expanding community programme.

    Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said:

    We are delighted that plans to develop Derby Theatre are progressing forwards. 

    The Theatre plays a vital role in the creative and cultural ecology of our city and is a key part of our university. As a professional, producing and learning theatre, it provides our students with a unique and valuable opportunity to study alongside professionals.

    We are fully committed to supporting Derby Theatre and the regeneration of our city and look forward to continuing to work with partners on this project.

    Sarah Brigham, CEO and Artistic Director of Derby Theatre said:

    These new facilities will enable us to expand and embed our community programmes into the heart of the theatre, become a hot house for artistic talent in the city and develop work which suits a more intimate setting. At a difficult time for artists and cultural venues, we are delighted by this vote of confidence in Derby Theatre.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change to health board status

    Source: Scottish Government

    NHS Forth Valley move to stage 3

    NHS Forth Valley will move to stage 3 of the NHS Scotland Support and Intervention Framework following improvements in leadership, culture and governance at the Health Board.

    The move will apply from 1 October 2024 and will mean NHS Forth Valley no longer requires direct formal oversight from the Assurance Board, in place since 23 November 2022, which will now be stood down.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “Following considerable progress against measures outlined in their improvement plan, it is encouraging the Scottish Government are now able to move NHS Forth Valley to stage 3 on the Support and Intervention Framework.

    “The Board has provided evidence of tangible and sustainable improvements across the three areas they were escalated for: leadership, culture, and governance.

    “This is a step forward, however it is vital improvements made are sustained and the Board continues to prioritise delivery of actions now being monitored as business as usual.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flooding impacts across the country

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Heavy rainfall forecast over the next 24 hours across the country means significant river and surface water flooding is possible across central England.

    Heavy rainfall forecast over the next 24 hours across the country means significant river and surface water flooding is possible across central England

    Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Worcestershire, Bedfordshire and Gloucestershire, amongst others, are likely to be affected with minor impacts expected in other parts of Southern England and the North with river flooding is also possible on Friday in the north-east of England.

    At 1pm on Thursday there were 27 flood warnings, showing flooding is expected, and 73 flood alerts, showing flooding is possible.

    Heavy rain and thunderstorms earlier in the week has led to around 385 properties flooded Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Kent and the Home Counties.

    With further rain coming, Environment Agency teams are out on the ground putting up flood defences, clearing blockages and supporting local authorities in their response work.

    We continue to urge people to keep an eye on the weather, check their flood risk, and take care planning their journeys.

    Kate Marks, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Heavy rainfall across the country means that significant river and surface water flooding impacts are possible in parts of central England today and into Friday. Minor river flooding impacts are also possible in parts of north-east England today and Friday.

    Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

    People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.

    The Flooding Minister has today visited communities in Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard to hear more about the impacts earlier this week. On Wednesday, Environment Secretary visited Northamptonshire on Wednesday to receive a briefing on their response and the actions taken to protect communities locally.

    Updates to this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State visits farm amidst bluetongue outbreaks

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Secretary of State Steve Reed visited an Essex farm this week to hear from NFU representatives and a famer who recently had animals tested for bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3).

    Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed

    Secretary of State Steve Reed visited an Essex farm this week (Wednesday 25th September) to hear from NFU representatives and a famer who recently had animals tested for bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3).

    The Secretary of State, accompanied by Animal Plant Health Agency staff, including APHA’s Veterinary Head of Outbreaks for England Sascha Van Helvoort, heard about the impact this disease has been having on the industry and the importance of reporting livestock suspected of having the disease.

    Bluetongue virus is primarily transmitted by midge bites and affects cattle, goats, sheep, deer and camelids, with case numbers now increasing dramatically in northern Europe. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, ulcers or sores in the mouth or nose, and reduced milk yield.

    Disease control zones were put in place to control the movement of potentially affected animals as soon as bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) was detected. These zones have been under constant review and adjustment as the disease situation has developed, such as when evidence of local transmission of disease emerged. A single Restricted Zone is now in place covering the east of England from Lincolnshire to West Sussex.

    Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, said:

    I have heard first-hand the experiences of farmers battling this disease and we are working hard to prevent its spread into other areas of England and Great Britain.

    We understand restrictions can have an impact but stress the importance of everyone adhering to these. We are committed to working with everyone affected and urge people to report livestock they suspect have the disease.

    Sascha Van Helvoort, APHA Veterinary Head of Field Delivery and Veterinary Head of Outbreaks for England, said:

    The increasing number of bluetongue virus (BTV-3) cases demonstrate the importance of vigilance from all livestock keepers and farmers.

    We have field teams, vets and scientists across the country who are working hard to help tackle bluetongue virus and ensure farmers are being supported.

    If you have any suspicions of disease, you must report this to the Animal Plant Health Agency immediately so we can provide assistance.

    Defra has permitted use of the currently available unauthorised BTV-3 vaccines, subject to licence. We recommend animal keepers work with their veterinarians to decide if vaccination is right for their animals. To prioritise initial supplies, a general licence allows those in high-risk counties of England to use the vaccine. Specific licences can be applied for through APHA by animal keepers elsewhere in England who wish to use the vaccine

    BTV is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301, 03003 038 268 in Wales or your local Field Services Office in Scotland. 

    View more information about bluetongue. Check the list of all bluetongue cases and control zones and view the bluetongue interactive map.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Statement on Safety and Enforcement During Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    During emergency events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works with its federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support the needs of the people in the areas that may be impacted.

    In such circumstances, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) remind the public that sites that provide emergency response and relief are considered protected areas. To the fullest extent possible, ICE and CBP do not conduct immigration enforcement activities at protected areas such as along evacuation routes, sites used for sheltering or the distribution of emergency supplies, food or water, or registration sites for disaster-related assistance or the reunification of families and loved ones.

    At the request of FEMA or local and state authorities, ICE and CBP may help conduct search and rescue, air traffic de-confliction and public safety missions. ICE and CBP provide emergency assistance to individuals regardless of their immigration status. DHS officials do not and will not pose as individuals providing emergency-related information as part of any enforcement activities.

    DHS is committed to ensuring that every individual who seeks shelter, aid, or other assistance as a result of a natural disaster or emergency event is able to do so regardless of their immigration status.

    DHS carries out its mission without discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, ethnicity, disability or political associations, and in compliance with law and policy.

    For information about filing a complaint with the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties about these matters, please visit our Make a Civil Rights Complaint page.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 20 rescued, 144 arrested in major child abuse operation across South America

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    26 September 2024

     

    LYON, France – An international operation targeting child sex offenders has led to 144 arrests and enabled the safeguarding of 20 victims across South America.

    During Operation Orion International, 12 South American countries joined forces to combat the production, distribution and possession of online child sexual abuse and exploitation material, focusing particularly on victim identification and rescue.

    As a result of the operation, undertaken with the coordination and support of INTERPOL, 18 direct abusers were caught and 111 people were charged with possession and distribution of abuse material. Seven individuals wanted internationally for child sex offenses, who were the subjects of INTERPOL Red Notices, were also arrested as part of the crackdown.

    The arrested individuals, predominantly men, were aged between 14 and 86 and came from diverse backgrounds. Their occupations included: professor, graphic designer, security guard, mechanic, musician, journalist, psychologist and taxi driver.

    Case studies: child victims safeguarded after years of abuse

    In Argentina, local authorities had identified abuse material circulating on messaging applications.  With the support of INTERPOL and its additional data, authorities were able to identify and safeguard a nine-year-old victim who had suffered at least six years of abuse.

    In a separate case in Chile, police identified an offender sharing child sexual exploitation material in messaging groups. Following his arrest, investigators analysed the seized information and established that the same person had also produced child sexual abuse material at the arrest location. This made it possible to identify and safeguard a 14-year-old girl, the daughter of the perpetrator’s partner.

    As part of Operation Orion International, participating countries were also asked to assess existing Red Notices for child sexual offenders believed to be living within their borders.

    In one such case, Korean authorities had provided information about the manager of a website which shared child exploitation material. Thanks to the collaboration between Korea and Ecuador, with coordination from INTERPOL, the individual was apprehended.

     

    Chile: Targeting the production and distribution of online child sexual abuse material

    Hardware seized in Argentina has opened new avenues for investigation

    Paraguay: 144 arrests were made during the international operation

    Venezuela was one of 12 participating countries in the operation

    Arrests in Colombia as part of Operation Orion International

    International cooperation throughout South America

    The region-wide initiative, which ran from May to September 2024, was launched by INTERPOL following information provided by Chile’s cybercrime unit and the Buenos Aires’ prosecutor’s office, concerning investigations into the transnational distribution of child sexual abuse material on instant messaging applications.

    INTERPOL’s Crimes Against Children unit analysed and consolidated this information, along with its existing data, and then shared this intelligence with participating countries. A preoperational meeting with prosecutors and investigators, supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, laid out the roadmap for cross-border collaboration.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “This operation, and the harrowing cases it exposed, is yet another reminder that child abusers are from all walks of life. Thanks to this international effort, children who have known a lifetime of abuse have been protected from further exploitation.

    “INTERPOL will continue to work with all member countries in our continued, and vital, efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of society.”

    As well as joint international action, the operation required cooperation at a national level, across multiple states. It resulted in arrests and victim identification in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    The hardware seizures and evidence gathered during Operation Orion International have opened new avenues for investigation, with further results to follow.

    Participating countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Glenwilliam — PEI RCMP Police Dog helps arrest a St. Mary’s Road man for outstanding arrest warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    September 26th 2024, Glenwilliam, Prince Edward Island – PEI RCMP used a police dog to help arrested a 31-year-old St. Mary’s Road man. He is facing 20 charges including driving, property and resist arrest offences.

    On September 24th, 2024, RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section executed a warrant at a residence in Glenwilliam, Prince Edward Island with the goal of arresting an accused who had an outstanding warrant of arrest, and was charged in multiple investigations. During the execution of the search warrant the accused fled on foot from the property. RCMP officers pursued the man and the RCMP police dog was instrumental in his safe apprehension. The man received minor injuries and was held in custody to appear before provincial court on September 26th, 2024.

    31-year-old Morgan Daniel Dixon will answer to 20 charges in relation to 6 separate investigations into driving, property, failing to appear in court and resist arrest offences.

    This investigation was completed by the PEI RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section with the assistance from the Kings District RCMP, and the PEI RCMP Police Dog Service.

    “Arrest warrants don’t go away, in cases where an individual has an outstanding arrest warrant, RCMP remain diligent in their efforts to investigate and bring that person to justice,” said Cpl Gavin Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

    If you have information about crimes in your community please contact your local police detachment or call anonymously to Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Middle East and North Africa Programme: Drawing Together All Area-Related Initiatives

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    Sciences Po’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) programme centralises initiatives relating to the study and research on this region. On 26 September, a one-day launching event was organised on the topic of the wars in the Middle East and their repercussions on the MENA societies.

    As an interdisciplinary and cross-cutting structure, the main mission of the MENA programme is to promote, coordinate, and enhance the institution’s activities relating to the Middle East and North Africa. By strengthening academic, scientific and cultural collaborations with partner universities, the programme supports student work at all levels (bachelor, master, doctorate), while creating a unique space for dialogue between researchers, artists and civil society members, thereby fostering an enriched understanding of the region.

    Interview with the programme’s two co-directors: Léa Albrieux, in charge of the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, the Gulf, and Pakistan at the International Affairs Office, and Bayram Balci, researcher at the Center for International Studies (CERI).

    Can you tell us about your background and your interest in the Middle East and North Africa area?

    We both studied the Middle East and North Africa as part of our studies and spent many years there. Our interest also stems from the fact that this region, its conflicts, but also its culture – including its cuisine – are present in our daily lives in France and even in Europe. So the desire to understand this region, whose conflicts have repercussions that go far beyond its borders, played a central role in our decision to focus on it. This area also forms a bridge between several continents, which makes it all the more interesting to explore collaborations with Sciences Po’s other regional programmes, covering Africa and South Asia. 

    What are the major contemporary challenges facing the region, and how does the new programme intend to tackle them?

    The main challenge is to find a way back towards peace, stability, and democracy, which go hand in hand. As the cradle of three great religions, but also of several great cultures and civilisations, the region has been constantly confronted, since its emergence from colonial domination, with conflicts of varying intensity. Those security and political challenges regularly call into question the progress that has been made. Our programme is humble; it does not claim to resolve the tensions in the region concerned. Contributing to analyse and understand them, through research and teaching, would be our first step. 

    Can you explain your vision and ambitions as co-directors of the programme?

     This structure gathers the diverse people who study and work on the region within Sciences Po’s departments, research centres, campuses, as well as its undergraduate and graduate schools. Its mission is to support and highlight all the institution’s scientific and educational activities and partnerships relating to the MENA area. To this end, we plan to develop a variety of activities combining teaching, research, and partnerships, as well as actions relating to the arts and culture of this region. 

    What topics will be highlighted at the launch event on 26 September?

    Although the aim of our programme is not to comment on every event that shakes the region, the event on 26 September will be devoted essentially to the attack of 7 October 2023 and its effects on Middle Eastern societies. The unprecedented Hamas attack on Israel plunged the Middle East into a new phase of war. While this renewed violence is having profound effects on the regional balance, it is also having major consequences for local societies, in Israel and Palestine, but also in neighbouring countries. This conference will shed a light on this internal and local dimension of the ongoing conflict.

    Cover image caption: Doha, Qatar, mars 2019. (credits: Jaanus Jagomägi / Unsplash)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $7 Million For Community Environmental Education

    Source: US State of New York

    In celebration of Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $7 million in competitive grant funding for community-based, not-for-profit, and tribal organizations to support the construction, or renovation of existing facilities, to create community environmental education centers, which will offer classes and programs on environmental awareness. The centers must be located within or serve a disadvantaged community or an environmental justice community and will help inspire exploration, discovery, and learning about the environment.

    “New York State’s innovative work to protect the environment and address climate change’s disproportionate impacts on disadvantaged communities includes ensuring the next generation of environmental advocates have access to nature where they live, work and play,” Governor Hochul said. “Environmental education centers supported by this funding will equip visitors with the knowledge they need to join the charge against climate change, protect our environment for future generations, and encourage people to discover and support local cultural preservation.”

    New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) recognizes that climate change doesn’t affect all communities equally and charged the Climate Justice Working Group with the development of criteria to identify disadvantaged communities to ensure frontline and otherwise under-resourced communities benefit from the state’s historic transition to cleaner, greener sources of energy, reduced pollution, cleaner air, and improved economic opportunities. Visit New York’s Climate Act website to view an interactive map and a list of disadvantaged communities statewide.

    Funding for this grant opportunity is provided from the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) and is available to support capital costs of new construction or renovation proposals. Grants ranging from $250,000 to $3 million will be awarded to fund education centers that explore a broad range of topics such as urban ecology, environmental justice challenges, green technology, and urban environmental sustainability. Proposals may include capital costs, such as purchasing of building or land; construction or renovation; expansion or updating a facility; purchasing furniture, fixtures, and equipment; and purchasing technological hardware.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “DEC recognizes that bolstering environmental education is critical to supporting real action to fight climate issues affecting disadvantaged and environmental justice communities statewide. Environmental education centers provide a variety of accessible programs and services for individuals, families, and groups and serve as valuable community assets where people gather to hold events, learn about cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, build community resilience, and engage in community climate action.”

    Possible uses or programming for a center include:

    • Education about indoor air pollution and modeling methods to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution;
    • Education about environmental justice challenges;
    • Cultural preservation and environmental stewardship;
    • Green jobs training and education;
    • Programs, information and exhibits that increase awareness and stewardship of the local environment;
    • Models of sustainable development, including LEED Green Building Certification, green infrastructure, and agriculture;
    • Extreme weather shelters with innovative architecture or engineering demonstrations;
    • Research and monitoring programs, focusing on watershed issues, combined sewer overflow, vehicle emissions, energy generation, solid waste transfer activities and/or other environment issues;
    • Community space for local community-based organizations, community events, and workshops;
    • K-12 educational programming in STEAM that may include ecology, environmental harms/risks/issues, green technology, and environmental sustainability;
    • College level electives in ecology, green energy technology and environmental sustainability; and
    • Outdoor components such as community gardens or farms.

    The deadline for all applications is 3 p.m. on Jan. 22, 2025. The request for applications (RFA) is only available online through The Statewide Financial System of New York (sfs.ny.gov). Not-for-profit community-based organizations must be registered and prequalified in SFS to apply.

    New York State’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan 

    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that a minimum of 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is advancing a suite of efforts – including the New York Cap-and-Invest program (NYCI) and other complementary policies – to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and 85 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. New York is also on a path toward a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economy-wide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York’s unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $28 billion in 61 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the State, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 170,000 jobs in New York’s clean energy sector as of 2022 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New York’s climate action with more than 400 registered and more than 150 certified Climate Smart Communities, over 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the State’s largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the State to help target air pollution and combat climate change.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Victory in the Field Begins in the Factory’: Ukrainian President Thanks IAM Local 847 Members in Visit to Pennsylvania Ammunition Facility

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently visited a factory in Scranton ,Pa., to watch proud IAM Local 847 (District 1) members manufacture artillery shells. Zelensky also wanted to meet and thank the workers he considers vital to his country’s defense.  He was accompanied by U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.,) and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) , who also wanted to meet and thank IAM Union members. 

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

    Over 400 IAM members work at the Scranton Army Ammunition factory, with another 1,000 General Dynamics workers nearby manufacturing the lethal explosives used inside each shell. 

    “400 people save millions of Ukrainian people,” said Zelensky. “I just say thank you.”

    Watch a highlight video here.

    If you are a Russian soldier on the front in Ukraine, you have roughly 75 seconds from the time Ukrainian forces fire a 155 millimeter shell your way, until that artillery round hits. When it does, most things within 50 meters are dead, and much within 100 meters is seriously shredded by steel shrapnel.

    The modern artillery systems, like the famed M777 Howitzer cannon, sold to the Ukrainians by NATO since the Russian invasion in 2022, are accurate to within 10 meters of a target point. Russians within 100 meters of that target point are having a seriously bad day.

    Ukrainian military leaders report that they fire 6,000 to 8,000 rounds of these artillery shells every day at the Russians, from 15 to 20 miles away. Russian troops are firing multiple thousands of 120 millimeter artillery rounds per day back at the Ukrainians, with far less accuracy, which often fail to function on impact. Ukraine has asked western defense contractors, like this U.S. Army factory run by General Dynamics, to up their production rate of artillery shells so that Ukraine can send 7,000 to 9,000 shells a day at the Russians.

    That means steady work for IAM members of local 847, just outside of Scranton.

    “Our members at Local 847 have been shaping the steel artillery rounds for the Army for a few generations now,” said IAM District 1 Directing Business Representative Anthony Armideo. “General Dynamics runs that factory now, but we have been at that site since Hoffman Machinery Corp. converted the factory to produce artillery shells in 1953.”

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

    “Any time we hear that production is ramping up for our members, that is good news. Local 847 has a long history with the IAM, dating back to its charter in 1952 when 500 brothers voted to join,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Now these Brothers, Sisters, and Siblings are continuing that legacy of shaping steel for our defense industry at General Dynamics”.

    Media reports that Ukraine has ordered 1.5 million of these rounds, and IAM members have helped meet that demand. 155 millimeter rounds have become one of the most sought after tools for the Ukrainian military. Some unique engineering has seen mortars and artillery rounds dropped from drones by the Ukrainians to defeat Russians. 

    “Our members do this work everyday, with little notice or fanfare,” said IAM Local 847 President Joe Leary. “We were just happy to see Zelensky up close, because we want him to win.”

    A banner stretches above the factory floor: “Victory in the field begins in the factory.” Above the banner hangs a flag of each U.S. military service branch, with the U.S. flag in the proper position of honor, facing forward from the right of all other flags.

    These IAM members are honored to hold their position in this factory to bring victory closer each day. Hoping to shape an outcome of a war of self defense that keeps Ukraine free and independent.

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VA makes tele-emergency care available nationwide, offering Veterans more virtual care options

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

    Skip to content

    WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced that tele-emergency care (tele-EC) is now available nationwide, a step that increases timely access to virtual emergency care options for Veterans enrolled in VA health care. This expansion of care — piloted in recent months — has already shown promise for Veterans, helping more than 61,182 callers with a 59.4% case resolution rate (meaning Veterans’ needs were resolved without having to travel from their homes to urgent care or an emergency department).

    Tele-emergency care is a part of VA Health Connect, a phone service that Veterans can call nationwide. Veterans who contact VA Health Connect will speak to a clinical triage nurse, who will connect them to tele-emergency care when clinically appropriate. Tele-EC providers will then evaluate the Veteran over the phone or on video and recommend treatment or follow-up, including if in-person care is needed. In life-threatening emergencies, the clinical triage nurse will call 911 and stay on the line until help arrives. It is important to note Veterans experiencing a life-threatening emergency should immediately contact 911, versus seeking support via tele-EC.

    This expansion is a part of VA and the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to expand access to timely, world-class care for Veterans. Veterans enrolled in VA health care can now access tele-EC nationwide by calling VA Health Connect, and through the VA Health Chat app. Veterans can find their local VA Health Connect number by searching for their facility.

    “Veterans can now be evaluated for possible emergencies from the comfort of their home,” said VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D. “Sometimes, you’re not sure whether what you’re experiencing is a minor emergency or not — and tele-emergency care can help you resolve those questions. Veterans can get immediate, virtual triage with a VA medical provider who has direct access to their medical records. This avoids having to potentially drive to the nearest emergency department and wait to be evaluated, if appropriate.”

    Through VA’s tele-emergency care, Veterans now have increased and quicker access to timely emergency care from VA clinicians, helping them get the right care, at the right time, from the right place. While tele-EC does not replace the need for in-person emergency evaluation, for Veterans in rural areas or those with mobility and transportation challenges, in-person immediate care can be difficult to access. VA’s tele-EC helps bridge this gap through quick, virtual triage assessments.

    VA continues to increase Veterans’ access to VA health care through initiatives like tele-EC, access sprints, and by designing and implementing more virtual care options. Since President Biden signed the PACT Act into law, VA is delivering more care to more Veterans than ever before. Nearly 740,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care in the past two years.

    Veterans’ trust in VA is at an all-time high, with outpatient health care trust scores reaching 91.8% in the latest VA Trust Report. For the second consecutive year, VA outperformed non-VA hospitals in a major independent, nationwide review of care quality, with the majority of VA facilities receiving 4- and 5-star ratings. At the same time, 79% of VA facilities received 4- or 5-star ratings for patient satisfaction — the ninth consecutive quarter in which VA facilities have outperformed non-VA counterparts in this independent review.

    For more information about VA care, visit VA’s health care website. For more information about Veteran trust in VA, visit the VA trust website. To enroll in VA care, visit https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/.

    Veterans should immediately seek care at the nearest medical facility if they are having a medical emergency. A medical emergency is an injury, illness, or symptom so severe that without immediate treatment, an individual believes his or her life or health is in danger. Examples include severe chest pain or shortness of breath, stroke-like symptoms, or excessive bleeding. If a Veteran believes their life or health is in danger or is experiencing a suicidal crisis, they should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.

    Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov

    Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

    Contact us online through Ask VA

    Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

    Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

    Subscribe today to receive these news releases in your inbox.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 685

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 685
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1045 AM EDT Thu Sep 26 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northern Florida
    Southern Georgia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Thursday morning and evening from 1045 AM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Rainbands associated with Hurricane Helene will continue
    to move through this area throughout the day. Wind fields will
    strengthen as the hurricane continues northward, with low-level
    winds becoming increasingly favorable for tornadoes. These
    conditions will result in a long-duration risk for tornadoes across
    northern Florida and southern Georgia.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 40 miles west northwest of
    Tallahassee FL to 60 miles north northeast of Gainesville FL. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 683…WW 684…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 16035.

    …Mosier

    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 685
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1045 AM EDT Thu Sep 26 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northern Florida
    Southern Georgia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Thursday morning and evening from 1045 AM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Rainbands associated with Hurricane Helene will continue
    to move through this area throughout the day. Wind fields will
    strengthen as the hurricane continues northward, with low-level
    winds becoming increasingly favorable for tornadoes. These
    conditions will result in a long-duration risk for tornadoes across
    northern Florida and southern Georgia.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 40 miles west northwest of
    Tallahassee FL to 60 miles north northeast of Gainesville FL. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 683…WW 684…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 16035.

    …Mosier

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW5
    WW 685 TORNADO FL GA CW 261445Z – 270200Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    40WNW TLH/TALLAHASSEE FL/ – 60NNE GNV/GAINESVILLE FL/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /31W TLH – 21WNW CRG/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..0.5 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 16035.

    LAT…LON 31498497 31358187 29618187 29758497

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU5.

    Watch 685 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Low (10%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Application Informs Users About Reprocessed Landsat Products

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Apart from planned large-scale reprocessing events (i.e., entire dataset reprocessing), only a small percentage of Landsat products are reprocessed. Satellite, sensor, or processing systems can all experience disconnects or anomalies that can cause issues during Landsat product generation – these can include instances where data storage or distribution systems experience unexpected outages that disrupt the flow of data during processing and causes data corruption. Additionally, some products received in support of the Landsat Global Archive Consolidation (LGAC) effort replace products already in the Landsat archive. 

    A screenshot of the Landsat Reprocessing Application.

    The Landsat Reprocessing Events application allows users to query and view a list of Landsat products that have been removed, along with products that have been reprocessed and added back into the inventory. 

    The application contains records for Landsat Level-1, U.S. Analysis Ready Data (ARD), Level-2 and Level-3 science products from October 1, 2023, to present and is updated monthly. 

    Individual search results can be downloaded, and a spreadsheet containing all records can be downloaded for further investigation.

    Data users are encouraged to review the Landsat Reprocessing Events webpage to learn more about the contents of the search application. USGS EROS User Services staff are available to answer questions and help you understand your search results of the application. 

    Return to all Landsat Headlines

    Related Content

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Releases Historic Guidance on Health Coverage Requirements for Children and Youth Enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    In another demonstration of the Biden-Harris Administration’s unwavering commitment to children’s health, today the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released comprehensive guidance to support states in ensuring the 38 million children with Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage – nearly half of the children in this country – receive the full range of health care services they need. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smooth arrival of giant pandas gifted by Central Government in Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Smooth arrival of giant pandas gifted by Central Government in Hong Kong (with photos)
    Smooth arrival of giant pandas gifted by Central Government in Hong Kong (with photos)
    **************************************************************************************

         The two giant pandas gifted by the Central Government to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) arrived smoothly in Hong Kong today (September 26) from Dujiangyan, Sichuan. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, officiated at the Welcome Ceremony to greet the two giant pandas.     The two giant pandas left the Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda at 3.05am today. They then left Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport this morning and arrived at the Hong Kong International Airport at 11.05am.     Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chan said that it doubled the happiness to welcome the two recently matured and energetic giant pandas, which were again gifted to the HKSAR by the Central Government, to join the Hong Kong family in the run-up to the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.     He said, “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda, and the Sichuan Provincial Government for their time and tremendous effort in arranging the transfer of the giant pandas to Hong Kong over the past few months. This fully demonstrates the Central Government’s care and support for the HKSAR and recognises our efforts in conservation, caring and rearing of giant pandas, which is of great significance to Hong Kong.”     Mr Chan also thanked Cathay Cargo for arranging and sponsoring the entire transportation of the giant pandas from Sichuan to the Ocean Park Hong Kong (Ocean Park); and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust for their contribution in enhancing the new giant panda facilities at the Ocean Park, as well as their support for the Park’s conservational education work related to giant pandas.     Upon their arrival in Hong Kong, the giant pandas were immediately transported to the Ocean Park. They will undergo a one-month quarantine period, followed by approximately one month to adapt to the new environment. The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) will maintain close communication with experts from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Ocean Park, and subject to the health and adaptation conditions of the giant pandas, arrange them to meet the public as early as possible.     The two giant pandas have already had names in the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda. The male giant panda is named “An An” and the female giant panda “Ke Ke”. To welcome these two giant pandas to the Hong Kong family, the CSTB will soon hold a citywide naming competition, inviting all Hong Kong citizens to exercise creativity and suggest meaningful new names for the giant pandas that highlight their characteristics. Besides, the CSTB will organise a large-scale painting competition, inviting all citizens to vividly depict the adorable nature of the giant pandas through their artwork. Details of the two competitions will be announced shortly.     In collaboration with the Ocean Park and Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the CSTB is also organising various promotional and marketing activities. The Government will seize the opportunity brought by the arrival of the giant pandas to connect different sectors of the society to actively plan and launch related promotional initiatives and create a joyful atmosphere to welcome the giant pandas in Hong Kong, thereby generating business opportunities for different sectors and boosting the economy.           ???To provide citizens and visitors with more information, the HKTB has launched a one-stop “Giant Panda Special Page” on its tourism information platform “Discover Hong Kong”. The Ocean Park has also established a “Hong Kong Giant Panda Fans Page” to provide update on the living condition of the two new giant pandas after their arrival in Hong Kong.

     
    Ends/Thursday, September 26, 2024Issued at HKT 22:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “I refuse to play their game”: Hern statement on short-term spending bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 9747, a short-term government funding bill to maintain government funding levels through December.

    “Democrats and their allies in the media would love to see a shutdown so close to Election Day,” said Rep. Hern. “They would falsely blame Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress for every problem that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris created, but I refuse to play their game. In the past, I have supported government shutdowns as an alternative to continuing the status quo in Congress of spending with no respect to the taxpayer. Today is not the day to do that.

    “Just last week, the House failed to pass a government funding bill that included the much-needed SAVE Act. I believe that if we had passed that bill, Republicans would dare the White House and Senate Democrats to shut down the government over their objections to ensuring only American citizens vote in our elections. The entire Oklahoma delegation supported this strategy, but unfortunately, the bill did not pass and we are now faced with a clean extension of funding through December or a shutdown.” 

    Rep. Hern continued, “I am confident that we will soon have majorities in the House and the Senate, along with President Trump in the White House, working together to cut spending and deliver results for the American people.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Bill to Streamline TSA Security Clearance Process for Transportation Workers Moves Through Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act passed through the Committee on Homeland Security, bringing this important legislation one step closer to becoming law.

    Representatives Adam Smith (Ranking Member, House Armed Services Committee) and Garret Graves (Chairman, House Aviation Subcommittee) introduced the Transportation Safety Administration Modernization Act in December 2023 to eliminate redundant fees and background checks for essential transportation workers.
     
    The bill cuts through red tape to allow workers to apply existing valid background checks to multiple TSA-managed credentialing programs, preventing workers from going through identical processes multiple times. With each of these credentials having varying expiration dates and fees, workers end up spending a significant amount of time and money keeping their credentials up to date, preventing them from fully participating in the workforce.
     
    This new streamlining legislation reduces costs and hassle for workers like truck drivers, pipeline operators, longshoremen, and warehouse managers, among many others, who must obtain these credentials as a condition of employment.
     
    “I’m thrilled to hear that this bill has passed through the Homeland Security Committee, bringing us one step closer to less redundancy in the TSA screening process,” said Rep. Smith.  “I’ve heard from many transportation workers in my district who have had to spend a significant amount of time and money to keep their credentials up to date. It’s urgent we pass this legislation into law so that our transportation workers can have a more streamlined application and renewal process. After this great step forward, I am optimistic and hopeful that this bipartisan, commonsense legislation will pass the Senate and become law.”
     
    “The Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act unlocks the potential of Louisiana’s transportation workforce by knocking out duplicative processes without sacrificing security,” said Graves. “This is a huge win for the 1 in 5 Louisianans whose jobs are tied to the efficiency of our ports and a nation who relies on us to ensure the resilience of the American supply chain.”

    Background
     
    The Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act does not make any modifications to the back-end security assessment conducted on individual applicants, ensuring that applicants must undergo the same level of review as they do under current law. This bill simply modernizes the consumer-facing applicant process to reduce the burden on American transportation workers who must maintain more than one TSA credential, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credentials and Hazardous Materials Endorsements.

    A fact sheet for the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act can be found here.
    A full list of endorsements can be found here.
    The bill text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bonamici, Bacon, Valadao Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Connect People with Overdose, Detox Aid

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

    WASHINGTON, DC [9/26/24] – This week Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Don Bacon (R-NE), and David Valadao (R-CA) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide transportation for people in need of overdose prevention, substance use disorder treatment, detoxification, and supportive services.

    The Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act is inspired by the former long-running van service provided by the health and housing nonprofit Central City Concern that transported people in need to a sobering center in Portland, Oregon. The legislation would create a grant program to improve access to or expand services that provide transportation to connect people with sobering centers, behavioral health supports and supportive services including outpatient health services, case management, and mental health services.

    “People who are intoxicated or in danger of overdosing need a safe way to access care,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Lack of transportation shouldn’t be a barrier to getting help. Central City Concern’s CHIERS van helped many people reach sobering centers in Portland. This bipartisan legislation will build on that model to create new transportation programs in Oregon and across the country.”

    “Everyone deserves a second chance,” said Rep. Bacon. “The CHIERS Act will improve access to developing services that provide individuals with transportation to and from substance use disorder treatments or support services. This program will help thousands of citizens get the help they need.”

    “Rural communities throughout the Central Valley have been impacted by the devastating effects of the opioid crisis,” said Congressman Valadao. “Those seeking treatment and services often face long travel times and high transportation costs to access the resources they need. I’m proud to cosponsor this legislation, which would eliminate many of these travel barriers and make it easier for folks to access the treatment they need.”

    Funding from the CHIERS Act could be used to train staff, purchase vehicles, and contract with ridesharing services to cover transportation. The grant program would be run jointly through the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Housing and Urban Development and eligible entities include community health centers, Continuum of Care Program participants, opioid recovery centers, state, Tribal and local governments, and nonprofit organizations.

    The legislation is endorsed by Central City Concern, Drug Policy Alliance, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association of Counties, National Health Care for the Homeless Council, Lyft, Uber, and the City of Portland.

    “Providing no cost critical ‘first and last mile’ transportation to the front door of recovery services for our most vulnerable neighbors is an essential part of the continuum of care,” says Brooke Goldberg, Director of Public Policy at Central City Concern. “We know from our years of experience of providing transport services that thousands benefitted from this simple act. And, it provided a critical public safety need in our community. We are grateful for Representative Bonamici’s continued efforts to enhance community services.”

    “In 2023, over 48 million Americans had a substance use disorder (SUD). Substance use treatment services save the lives of millions of Americans each year, but too many people struggle to find transportation to these life-saving services,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “Rep. Bonamici’s CHIERS Act would provide transportation to those with an SUD so that they can be connected to these life-changing services. NAMI is proud to support the CHIERS Act.”

    “Lyft is proud to support the CHIERS Act,” said Lyft VP of Healthcare Buck Poropatich. “This important bill will help people get rides to and from critical supportive services. Supporting this bill aligns with Lyft’s goal to be a force for good in communities across the country by removing transportation barriers. This legislation has the potential to greatly enhance public health, safety, and help those who need it most. We urge Congress to take it up.”

    “Uber is proud to support the Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act,” said CR Wooters, Head of Federal Affairs at Uber. “Lack of transportation should not stand in the way of accessing care. Through Uber Health, community organizations and non-profits can help patients reach the services and care they need to aid recovery. We applaud Representatives Bonamici, Bacon, and Valadao for their leadership on this issue.”

    The legislative text of the CHIERS Act can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wenstrup Votes to Fund Military & Keep Government Operating

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02)

    Wenstrup Votes to Fund Military & Keep Government Operating

    Washington, September 25, 2024

    Today, Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 9747 Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which passed the House in a vote of 341-82:

    “Today I voted to keep our military and border patrol agents paid. The Biden-Harris administration has emboldened America’s adversaries across the world, and created an unprecedented crisis at our border. I believe it is critical that in these particularly tumultuous times the government remains operating and Ohioans are able to access services including small business loans, tax returns, and assistance for farmers affected by the ongoing drought in Ohio. 

    “I’ve heard from many constituents concerned about the out-of-control Federal deficit spending, and I share these concerns. Last year, Republicans forced the White House to accept the most significant deficit reduction in a decade by passing the Fiscal Responsibility Act. This year, although the House has passed five fiscally conservative appropriations bills, the Democrat-controlled Senate has not passed a single Fiscal Year 2025 bill, necessitating a stop gap to prevent a lapse in government funding. Shutting down the government is costly and wasteful — and puts the Biden-Harris administration in the driver’s seat as to what cuts will be made. Although passing this stop gap measure is not ideal, it is the best choice for our national security and for Ohioans who rely on access to critical government programs.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Three Saskatchewan Agriculture Commodities Reach $1 Billion Mark in 2024

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 26, 2024

    Export Value of Three of Saskatchewan’s Agri-Food Commodities Have Each Surpassed $1 Billion Already in 2024

    Saskatchewan’s non-durum wheat exports have reached $1.7 billion for the current year, along with canola seed and canola oil reaching $1.3 billion $1.1 billion, respectively.  Several other agri-food exports are on track surpass the $1 billion export value mark for this year.

    “The global marketplace is increasingly recognizing Saskatchewan as not only a source of the agri-food products it needs, but also as a provider of the most sustainable products grown anywhere,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said. “Our research sector drives that innovation and our producers in the field continue to find ways to do it better than anyone, year after year. That’s what a competitive, profitable and world-leading agriculture industry looks like.”

    Results of research commissioned by the Global Institute for Food Security and announced earlier this year show that Saskatchewan’s net carbon footprint for production of major crops is significantly lower than that of other comparable jurisdictions studied. For example, Saskatchewan-produced non-durum wheat is 62 per cent lower while canola is 67 per cent lower.

    “Customers from around the world choose Saskatchewan for the sustainable, high-quality products they rely on, which is supported by our strong and stable business environment,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Our government will continue to protect and promote key sectors, including agriculture, through international engagement, which is leading to Saskatchewan products reaching new markets. Saskatchewan’s historic growth in agri-food exports is providing new employment and economic opportunities for province’s strong and vibrant communities.”

    Saskatchewan’s 2030 Growth Plan target of $20 billion in annual agri-food exports was met in 2023 with total shipments of $20.2 billion, setting a new record for the fourth consecutive year.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Armed Forces establishes a new Cyber Command

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, and General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, officially announced the establishment of the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command (CAFCYBERCOM). This new command will consolidate the CAF’s cyber capabilities into a single unified and dedicated entity, which will enhance the military’s readiness to tackle threats in the cyber domain.

    The establishment of CAFCYBERCOM represents an important milestone for the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Our North, Strong and Free committed to establishing a new CAF Cyber Command, demonstrating Canada’s commitment to operating in the cyber domain and reflecting the essential role of cyber in modern operations.

    This new command will be led by Major-General Dave Yarker, who will be responsible for cyber operations, and cyber force sustainment, management, and development.

    Through CAFYBERCOM, the CAF continues to develop and scale its offensive and defensive cyber operations capabilities in close cooperation with the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE). The CAF and CSE have a longstanding partnership in developing advanced technical and specialized capabilities for providing intelligence to support military operations. Over the last decade, the partnership has evolved to include collaboration in the areas of cybersecurity, and defensive and offensive cyber operations.

    The new CAF Cyber Command also enables Canada to meet our NATO commitments such as the Virtual Cyber Incident Support Capability and the Sovereign Cyber Effects Provided Voluntarily by Allies. The creation of the new command aligns with similar investments by Canada’s key partners and allies in NORAD, the “Five Eyes” alliance, and NATO. By bolstering its cyber capabilities, Canada is supporting greater interoperability with its allies, is better equipped to counter the full spectrum of cyber threats, and is advancing NATO mission goals and objectives.

    Quotes

    “The establishment of the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command demonstrates to our allies, partners, and adversaries Canada’s ongoing commitment to operating in a challenging cyber domain. By enhancing our work in the cyber domain, and by continuing to collaborate with our partners and allies, we can detect, deter, and defend against cyber threats and malicious actors targeting Canada and our interests.”

    The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

    “Through the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces will continue to develop and scale offensive and defensive cyber operations capabilities in close cooperation with the Communications Security Establishment. This initiative supports cyber operations at both the tactical and strategic levels. The new organization will focus resources so that we can advance existing activities in cyberspace related to operations, personnel, policies, and capabilities.”

    General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff

    “I extend my congratulations to Major-General Yarker as he assumes the role of Commander of the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command. He brings considerable knowledge, experience, and leadership to the benefit of the Command, the Defence Team, and all Canadians.”

    Stefanie Beck, Deputy Minister of National Defence

     “Building decisive advantage in the cyber domain demands speed, trust, agility and unity of effort, and I am proud to be appointed as the head of the organization that will strive to deliver just that.”

    Major General Dave Yarker, Commander, Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command

    “CSE has been a critical CAF partner since our inception. Working together comes naturally to us, and the CAF Cyber Command will be no different. That’s why we are uniting our already world-class foreign cyber operations capabilities to protect Canada in a complex world. At a time when we face cyber warfare even in peace time, this partnership will benefit Canadians as well as Canada’s allies and give us all better visibility on the evolving threat landscape we navigate every day.”

    Caroline Xavier, Chief, Communications Security Establishment Canada

    Quick facts

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Simon Lafortune
    Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of National Defence
    Email: Simon.Lafortune2@forces.gc.ca

    Media Relations 
    Department of National Defence
    Phone: 613-904-3333
    Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca   

    MIL OSI Canada News –