NewzIntel.com

Category: Artificial Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat Supports Executive Orders to Strengthen U.S. Drone Manufacturing and National Security

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, today issued a statement of support for a series of executive orders from the White House that advance U.S. leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and reinforce the resilience of America’s domestic industrial base.

    The executive actions are expected to remove regulatory barriers and modernize federal approval processes to prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones. Additional provisions include expanded detection and mitigation authority, and streamlined regulations to accelerate the deployment of UAS across federal and commercial sectors.

    “These executive orders send a clear signal that the U.S. is serious about enabling a secure domestic drone industry that supports mission-critical outcomes for the U.S. and its allies,” said Brendan Stewart, VP of Regulatory Affairs at Red Cat. “This level of policy alignment removes barriers to fielding trusted, American-made systems at scale. Red Cat stands ready to meet this moment with its proven, electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing systems that utilize advanced AI and computer vision solutions from partners including Palantir, Palladyne AI, Athena AI and Primordial Labs.”

    This announcement follows Red Cat’s earlier show of support for the White House’s April 2025 executive order aimed at restoring America’s maritime dominance. In alignment with that national strategy, Red Cat unveiled its initiative to develop advanced uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) designed to enhance multi-domain situational awareness and autonomous mission execution across maritime environments.

    Red Cat’s Family of Systems is anchored by its advanced aerial platforms, led by America’s Drone, the Black Widow™, a secure, autonomous ISR drone delivering real-time intelligence at the tactical edge. The company’s vision is to build a holistic ecosystem of fully integrated autonomous platforms to support operations across air, land, and sea. This vision aligns with the Order to support the warfighter by expanding access to U.S.-manufactured high-performing drones.

    The company supports the White House’s coordinated approach to enabling American drone and maritime dominance through regulatory clarity, targeted investment, and streamlined authorizations. Clear federal guidance is essential to unlock broader operational use cases and promote American leadership in production, certification, and export of systems for use across all domains.

    About Red Cat Holdings, Inc.

    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a leading-edge Family of Systems. This includes the flagship Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red. 

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red 

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    The Air Accidents Investigation Branch is recruiting for a Personal Assistant (EO) to the Chief Inspector

    Are you a dedicated professional with the ability to balance big-picture thinking and meticulous attention to detail? Do you have excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise and react to changing demands? Are you ready to develop your career in an interesting and varied role? If so, then this is the perfect role for you!

    The Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector of Air Accidents (PA CIAA) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Reporting directly to the Chief Inspector, the post-holder will provide high-level executive support to the Chief Inspector, Deputy Chief Inspector, and the wider AAIB management team. 

    This is a highly visible role with a strong external-facing element, involving regular interaction with senior stakeholders. 

    The successful candidate will be entrusted with handling sensitive and confidential information, and must demonstrate sound judgement, discretion, and professionalism at all times.

    Full job description and role profile (reference number: 406600): Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK

    Make sure to apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 22nd June 2025 to not miss out on this rare opportunity.

    Read more about our work here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chris Sun attracts talent in Germany

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun concluded a six-day visit to Europe by arriving in Munich to start the final day of his visit to Germany, where he attended pitch event.

    On June 8, Mr Sun officiated at the prize presentation ceremony of the pitch event co-organised by Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation.

    In delivering his remarks, Mr Sun praised the candidates for their business proposals ingeniously integrating with Hong Kong’s strengths and targeting the Asian markets. He highlighted that technology as well as talent are key engines driving the economy and society towards high-quality development.

    As Asia’s world city, Hong Kong is proactively attracting international high-calibre talent to tie in with the development under the strategic positioning of the “eight centres”, so as to inject new impetus into its high-quality development, he added.

    Last November, HKTE visited Germany and established a partnership network with a student association from the Technische Universität München and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation.

    Thereafter, the HKTE collaborated with the organisation to launch the pitch event targeting students from eligible universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme and young entrepreneurs, inviting talent in Germany with entrepreneurial ambitions and intentions to develop in Asia.

    Nearly 580 proposals for the pitch event were received across various fields, including artificial intelligence, deep tech, climate and sustainability. Twelve winners were selected and will be arranged to tour Hong Kong and other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in September to explore the region’s innovation and technology ecosystem, industry support and entrepreneurial opportunities.

    The HKTE delegation’s visit to Europe also encompasses Switzerland and France. In Switzerland, the delegation exchanged with representatives from three of the world’s top 100 universities, namely the Université de Genève, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and EHL Hospitality Business School, and invited two representatives from the hospitality sector in Hong Kong to share insights on the city’s tourism development and opportunities.

    In France, the HKTE co-hosts an event with the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires to proactively recruit talent in the finance and commerce sectors to pursue development in Hong Kong.

    During his stay in Germany, Mr Sun also had lunch with the Junior Chamber International Germany and a group of foreign students. He learnt about their lives, introduced Hong Kong’s latest developments and invited them to consider pursuing their development in the city.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AI Self-Learning Fabric Inspecting System

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The AI Self-Learning Fabric Inspecting System is a groundbreaking solution designed to modernize and automate the global textile inspection process. Traditionally, fabric inspection has relied heavily on manual labor, with a speed of just 10 yards per minute and only about 70% defect detection accuracy. It also demands experienced operators with at least three years of hands-on expertise and causes significant visual fatigue. Our system transforms this outdated method by offering a fully automated, 24/7 operation capable of inspecting fabric at 120 yards per minute-12 times faster than current market standards-while achieving up to 99% detection accuracy.

    At its core, the system utilizes dual AI algorithms: one for automatic color temperature adjustment (ranging from 1000K to 11000K), and another for precise fabric tension control. These intelligent features allow it to outperform the human eye in detecting subtle defects. The system’s user-centric design enables a single operator to install fabric within five minutes (compared to at least 20 minutes in traditional setups) and to manage multiple machines simultaneously. Operator training requires only two days after AI engineers configure the system.

    The system went through 30 rounds of prototyping and AI optimization to reach its current performance. It drastically reduces human error and reliance on skilled labor, and it minimizes workplace injuries due to its ergonomic, automated process.
    In terms of business impact, the system offers clear advantages: over 50% labor cost savings per unit, more than 30% material waste reduction, and increased production efficiency. It marks defect locations with 99% accuracy and is capable of future updates that include automated defect pattern analysis, helping fabric suppliers improve quality control and manufacturing processes.

    Environmentally, it reduces resource waste and improves logistics efficiency by lowering the rate of rejected or returned shipments. Socially, it lightens labor intensity by 40%, enhancing worker health and safety. From a strategic standpoint, it helps bridge the gap between fabric suppliers and global fashion brands by responding to digital transformation needs. This positions the system as a vital component of next-generation smart manufacturing.

    By introducing automation, precision, and intelligence into fabric inspection, this system reshapes the textile industry’s production line, offering high-speed performance, scalable deployment, and sustainable benefits.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 6 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 6 June 2025

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    • PM unveils revolutionary AI tool to transform planning system and speed up housebuilding at London Tech Week

    • ‘Extract’ set to digitise planning documents and bring England’s outdated planning system into the 21st century

    • Breakthrough AI tool to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026, using Google DeepMind’s Gemini model

    • Digital planning transformation to help deliver Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    Speaking at London Tech Week, the Prime Minister announced the launch of “Extract” – an AI assistant for planning officers and local councils, developed by government with support from Google.

    For the first time, this cutting-edge technology will help councils convert decades-old, handwritten planning documents and maps into data in minutes – and will power new types of planning software to slash the 250,000 estimated hours spent by planning officers each year manually checking these documents. This will dramatically reduce delays that have long plagued the system.

    Around 350,000 planning applications are submitted a year in England, yet the system remains heavily reliant on paper documents – some hundreds of pages long. Once submitted, each of these documents needs to be manually validated and approved by a planning officer.  

    In test trials across Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter councils, Extract digitised planning records, including maps, in just three minutes each – compared to the 1–2 hours it typically takes manually. This means Extract could process around 100 planning records a day – significantly speeding up the process.

    This represents a step-change in productivity, freeing up thousands of hours for planning officers to focus on decision-making to speed up housebuilding. It will also accelerate the delivery of much-needed housing, improve reliability in the planning process and reduce costs and save time for councils and developers. 

    Extract is expected to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026. The government’s ambition is to fully digitise the planning system – making it faster, more transparent, and easier to navigate for working people, councils, businesses and developers. 

    The rollout will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament and is part of the government’s efforts to harness tech and AI to deliver change and renewal for working people.

    It also comes alongside the government’s wider efforts to digitise the planning system, building on an estimated £59.4m per year spent by councils on digital planning and housing software, delivering an estimated time and cost saving of £527m for the public sector each year.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    For too long, our outdated planning system has held back our country— slowing down the development of vital infrastructure and making it harder to get the homes we need built. 

    This government is working hand in hand with business to change that. With Extract, we’re harnessing the power of AI to help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions, and unlock the new homes for hard-working people as part of our Plan for Change. 

    It’s a bold step forward in our mission to build 1.5 million more homes and deliver a planning system that’s fit for the 21st century.” 

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

    From day one we made an unwavering promise to use every tool at our disposal to build the 1.5 million homes and vital infrastructure through our Plan for Change that our local communities desperately need.  

    By using cutting-edge technology like Extract we can fix the broken planning system, cut delays, save money, and also reduce burdens on councils to help pave the way for the biggest building boom in a generation.” 

    Co-Founder & CEO of Google DeepMind, Demis Hassabis said:

    We build our AI models to understand all types of information – from text to handwritten notes and technical drawings – so it’s really exciting to see the UK government choose Gemini to help speed up the planning process and support planners and people across the country.

    Hillingdon Council’s Chief Operating Officer Matthew Wallbridge said:  

    ‘The UK Planning System relies on paper-based processes, and AI can help to read and then extract the key information from it, to help both residents and planning officers. The productivity benefits will allow for a faster and cheaper service’. 

    Tom Shardlow, CEO Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council said:  

    Just like many local authorities, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has many plans and documents in storage from historic planning applications over the years. Working with the Extract team, we have seen the outputs from Extract, and how these could improve our service, providing high quality, digital, GeoSpatial data and how this could speed up the process for our Planning Team.” 

    The government is now working with Google to develop and expand Extract to all local authorities in England using its Gemini model. The government will expand Extract to handle all planning document types with the aim of supporting local authorities to digitise all planning documents by the end of 2026.

    The planning data, unlocked through Extract, will be uploaded to a publicly accessible gov.uk service page. Open, public data will ensure the planning system is more transparent, accessible and understandable to the public. The government will also explore the best and most efficient ways to deploy Extract into local authorities – this might also include developing an app to scan documents instantly.

    This government is turning the page on the decline of the past and choosing growth with a significant number of planning decisions already made by Ministers since July. 

    This includes 18 planning decisions taken by Ministers over 85% of which within the target timeframe, and 18 nationally significant infrastructure projects approved, collectively spanning airports, data centres, solar farms and major housing developments such as the Expansion of London City Airport, a data centre in Buckinghamshire and a new M&S store in Oxford Street, London.  

    The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also provide the powers to accelerate the infrastructure and homes needed to deliver on the government’s ambitions – and fast track critical infrastructure such as wind farms, power plants, and major road and rail projects.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SLW visits Germany to attract I&T talent to Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, arrived in Munich to start the final day of his visit to Germany on June 8 (Munich time), concluding the six-day visit to Europe.

         In the afternoon, Mr Sun attended a pitch event co-organised by the Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation, where he officiated at the prize presentation ceremony.

         In delivering his remarks, Mr Sun praised the candidates for their business proposals ingeniously integrating with Hong Kong’s strengths and targeting the Asian markets. He highlighted that technology as well as talent are key engines driving the economy and society towards high-quality development. As Asia’s world city, Hong Kong is proactively attracting international high-calibre talent to tie in with the development under the strategic positioning of the “eight centres”, so as to inject new impetus into its high-quality development.

         Last November, the HKTE visited Germany and established a partnership network with a student association from the Technische Universität München and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation. Thereafter, the HKTE collaborated with the organisation to launch the pitch event targeting students from eligible universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme and young entrepreneurs, inviting talent in Germany with entrepreneurial ambitions and intentions to develop in Asia.

         Nearly 580 proposals for the pitch event were received across various fields, including artificial intelligence, deep tech, climate and sustainability, as well as health and biotechnology. After two rounds of shortlisting, 25 candidates competed in the finals. The judging panel of the finals included representatives from the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and start-up organisations, as well as an innovation and technology (I&T) expert and an angel investor from Hong Kong. Twelve winners were selected and will be arranged to tour Hong Kong and other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in September to explore the region’s I&T ecosystem, industry support and entrepreneurial opportunities.

         The HKTE delegation’s visit to Europe also encompasses Switzerland and France. In Switzerland, the delegation exchanged with representatives from three of the world’s top 100 universities, namely the Université de Genève, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and EHL Hospitality Business School, and invited two representatives from the hospitality sector in Hong Kong to share insights on the city’s tourism development and opportunities. In France, the HKTE co-hosts an event with the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) to proactively recruit talent in the finance and commerce sectors to pursue development in Hong Kong.

         During his stay in Germany, Mr Sun also had lunch with the Junior Chamber International Germany and a group of foreign students in Germany. He learned about their lives, introduced the latest development in Hong Kong, and invited them to consider pursuing their development in the city.

         Mr Sun will return to Hong Kong in the evening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: FrontFundr Marks 10 Years of Democratizing Private Markets, Surpasses $285M in Capital Raised

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FrontFundr, Canada’s leading equity crowdfunding platform, is celebrating a decade of impact, innovation, and community-driven capital. Since launching on May 29, 2015, the platform has processed over $285 million in investments from over 19,000 investors into 269 private market campaigns, transforming how Canadians invest—and who gets to participate.

    In just ten years, FrontFundr has grown from a bold idea into a powerful engine for innovation, access, and financial inclusion. The platform now boasts a community of 56,000+ users, 30,000+ investments, and a track record that includes record-setting raises and high-profile exits.

    “What started as an experiment in opening up capital markets has grown into a movement,” said Peter-Paul Van Hoeken, Founder and CEO of FrontFundr. “Our journey reflects the evolution of private investing in Canada—more inclusive, more accessible, more transparent, and more aligned with the values of today’s investors.”

    A Decade of Deal-Making and Milestones

    • Blossom Social, a social network for investors, broke the Canadian equity crowdfunding record in 2025 with a $1.93M raise in under 6 hours—surpassing its own 2024 record of $1.34M.
    • Sheringham Distillery, the award-winning spirits company behind Seaside Gin, raised $1.2M from over 800 investors, turning loyal fans into shareholders and expanding distribution across North America.
    • HEMPALTA, a Calgary-based cleantech company, closed a successful raise in 2022 and listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange in 2024, providing a liquidity event for early investors.
    • tiptap, the company behind touchless giving technology, raised on FrontFundr in both 2020 and 2023—scaling nationally and powering donation campaigns with organizations like the Salvation Army.

    These standout campaigns represent a broader surge in momentum. In 2024 alone, FrontFundr facilitated $68.3M in capital across 66 campaigns, marking its strongest year to date.

    A Broader Movement Toward Inclusive Investing
    FrontFundr has seen meaningful shifts in investor demographics, with women now representing 26% of all investors and individuals in their 30s emerging as the most active group. This growing diversity reflects the platform’s mission to make private investing more accessible, inclusive, and representative of the wider population.

    That same commitment extends to the companies raising capital on the platform. Thirty-four percent of the businesses in FrontFundr’s portfolio are led by underrepresented groups—including 19% founded or led by women.

    Importantly, the model is delivering results: 87% of companies funded through FrontFundr remain active, with 13.7% having already achieved liquidity events—including notable 2024 exits from Hempalta and Liquid Wind.

    Innovation That Scales With the Market
    Over the past year, FrontFundr introduced a redesigned investment workflow, launched the FrontFundr Elite Circle for experienced investors, and partnered with leading U.S.-based platforms StartEngine, Republic, and WeFundr to give Canadians access to top-tier AI and tech opportunities south of the border. These improvements helped drive a 17% increase in average investment size and a 97% jump in new investors last year alone.

    Celebrating a Decade—and Looking Ahead
    To mark its 10-year milestone, FrontFundr will host a community celebration on Tuesday, June 10th at OneEleven in Toronto, featuring a fireside chat with CEO Peter-Paul Van Hoeken, investor panels, and a showcase of standout campaigns. The event brings together investors, founders, and ecosystem partners to reflect on the last decade—and toast to the next one.

    “We’ve seen what’s possible when everyday people are invited to invest in the ideas they believe in,” said Trieste Reading, VP of Growth at FrontFundr. “Over the past decade, we’ve built more than a platform—we’ve built a movement. Now we’re scaling that vision across Canada and beyond, proving that inclusive capital is the future of investing.”

    About FrontFundr
    FrontFundr is Canada’s leading private markets investing platform, empowering startups and growth-stage companies to raise capital from their biggest supporters—everyday Canadians. Since 2015, FrontFundr has enabled thousands of investors to access vetted investment opportunities in private companies, reshaping who gets to participate in building the future. Learn more at www.frontfundr.com.

    Media Contact:
    Trieste Reading
    VP of Growth, FrontFundr
    trieste@frontfundr.com
    +1 (604) 910-5074

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 33/2025・Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 33 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 9 June 2025

    Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    On 28 February 2025, Trifork initiated a share buyback program in accordance with Regulation No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, (Safe Harbour regulation). The share buyback program runs from 4 March 2025 up to and including no later than 30 June 2025. For details, please see company announcement no. 7 of 28 February 2025.

    Under the share buyback program, Trifork will purchase shares for up to a total of DKK 14.92 million (approximately EUR 2 million). Prior to the launch of the share buyback, Trifork held 256,329 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.3% of the share capital. Under the program, the following transactions have been made:

            Number of shares        Average purchase price (DKK)        Transaction value (DKK)
    Total beginning 99,074 87.27 8,646,363
    2 June 2025 1,600 92.95 148,720
    3 June 2025 1,800 92.98 167,364
    4 June 2025 1,800 92.42 166,356
    5 June 2025     Market closed
    6 June 2025 1,800 93.49 168,282
    Accumulated 106,074 87.65 9,297,085

    A detailed overview of the daily transactions can be found here: https://investor.trifork.com/trifork-shares/

    Since the share buyback program was started on 4 March 2025, the total number of repurchased shares is 106,074 at a total amount of DKK 9,297,085.
    On 25 March, 25 April and 23 May 2025, 4,370 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized for the Executive Management’s monthly fixed salary, representing a change from cash payment to payment partly in shares (refer to company announcement no. 1 of 21 January 2025). On 1 April 2025, 19,943 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized to serve the RSU plan of Executive Management and certain employees.

    With the transactions stated above, Trifork holds a total of 338,090 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.7%. The total number of registered shares in Trifork is 19,744,899. Adjusted for treasury shares, the number of outstanding shares is 19,406,809.


    Investor and media contact
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director, frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17

    About Trifork
    Trifork (Nasdaq Copenhagen: TRIFOR) is a pioneering global technology company, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative digital products and solutions. With 1,215 professionals across 71 business units in 16 countries, Trifork specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced software across sectors such as public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. The Group’s R&D arm, Trifork Labs, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic, high-potential technology companies. Learn more at trifork.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Subsea7 awarded contract offshore Trinidad and Tobago

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luxembourg – 9 June 2025 – Subsea 7 S.A. (Oslo Børs: SUBC, ADR: SUBCY) today announced the award of a sizeable1 contract by Shell for the Aphrodite gas project offshore Trinidad and Tobago.

    The project involves the transportation and installation of subsea equipment at the Aphrodite development, located within Block 5a, at water depths of up to 290 metres.

    Project management and engineering activities will begin immediately at Subsea7’s office in Houston, Texas, with offshore operations planned for 2027.

    Craig Broussard, Senior Vice President for Subsea7 Gulf of Mexico, said, “Engaging with Shell from the outset has been key to building trust and driving efficiencies. This award in Trinidad and Tobago reflects our growing presence in the region, as well as our ongoing commitment to safe, predictable project delivery while supporting local talent and resources.”

    1. Subsea7 defines a sizeable contract as being between $50 million and $150 million.

    *******************************************************************************
    Subsea7 is a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the evolving energy industry, creating sustainable value by being the industry’s partner and employer of choice in delivering the efficient offshore solutions the world needs.
    Subsea7 is listed on the Oslo Børs (SUBC), ISIN LU0075646355, LEI 222100AIF0CBCY80AH62.

    *******************************************************************************

    Contact for investment community enquiries:
    Katherine Tonks
    Investor Relations Director
    Tel +44 20 8210 5568
    ir@subsea7.com

    Contact for media enquiries:
    Ashley Shearer
    Communications Manager
    Tel +1 713 300 6792
    ashley.shearer@subsea7.com

    Forward-Looking Statements: This document may contain ‘forward-looking statements’ (within the meaning of the safe harbour provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements relate to our current expectations, beliefs, intentions, assumptions or strategies regarding the future and are subject to known and unknown risks that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘future’, ‘goal’, ‘intend’, ‘likely’ ‘may’, ‘plan’, ‘project’, ‘seek’, ‘should’, ‘strategy’ ‘will’, and similar expressions. The principal risks which could affect future operations of the Group are described in the ‘Risk Management’ section of the Group’s Annual Report and Consolidated Financial Statements. Factors that may cause actual and future results and trends to differ materially from our forward-looking statements include (but are not limited to): (i) our ability to deliver fixed price projects in accordance with client expectations and within the parameters of our bids, and to avoid cost overruns; (ii) our ability to collect receivables, negotiate variation orders and collect the related revenue; (iii) our ability to recover costs on significant projects; (iv) capital expenditure by oil and gas companies, which is affected by fluctuations in the price of, and demand for, crude oil and natural gas; (v) unanticipated delays or cancellation of projects included in our backlog; (vi) competition and price fluctuations in the markets and businesses in which we operate; (vii) the loss of, or deterioration in our relationship with, any significant clients; (viii) the outcome of legal proceedings or governmental inquiries; (ix) uncertainties inherent in operating internationally, including economic, political and social instability, boycotts or embargoes, labour unrest, changes in foreign governmental regulations, corruption and currency fluctuations; (x) the effects of a pandemic or epidemic or a natural disaster; (xi) liability to third parties for the failure of our joint venture partners to fulfil their obligations; (xii) changes in, or our failure to comply with, applicable laws and regulations (including regulatory measures addressing climate change); (xiii) operating hazards, including spills, environmental damage, personal or property damage and business interruptions caused by adverse weather; (xiv) equipment or mechanical failures, which could increase costs, impair revenue and result in penalties for failure to meet project completion requirements; (xv) the timely delivery of vessels on order and the timely completion of ship conversion programmes; (xvi) our ability to keep pace with technological changes and the impact of potential information technology, cyber security or data security breaches; (xvii) global availability at scale and commercially viability of suitable alternative vessel fuels; and (xviii) the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this document. We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
    This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. 
    This stock exchange release was published by Katherine Tonks, Investor Relations, Subsea7, on 9 June 2025 at 08:00 CET.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Shell Plc First Quarter 2025 Euro and GBP Equivalent Dividend Payments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHELL PLC FIRST QUARTER 2025 EURO AND GBP EQUIVALENT DIVIDEND PAYMENTS

    June 9, 2025

    The Board of Shell plc today announced the pounds sterling and euro equivalent dividend payments in respect of the first quarter 2025 interim dividend, which was announced on May 2, 2025 at US$0.358 per ordinary share.

    Shareholders have been able to elect to receive their dividends in US dollars, euros or pounds sterling. Holders of ordinary shares who have validly submitted US dollars, euros or pounds sterling currency elections by June 2, 2025 will be entitled to a dividend of US$0.358, €0.3136 or 26.41p per ordinary share, respectively.

    Absent any valid election to the contrary, persons holding their ordinary shares through Euroclear Nederland will receive their dividends in euros at the euro rate per ordinary share shown above. Absent any valid election to the contrary, shareholders (both holding in certificated and uncertificated form (CREST members)) and persons holding their shares through the Shell Corporate Nominee will receive their dividends in pounds sterling, at the pound sterling rate per ordinary share shown above.

    Euro and pounds sterling dividends payable in cash have been converted from US dollars based on an average of market exchange rates over the three dealing days from June 4 to June 6, 2025. This dividend will be payable on June 23, 2025 to those members whose names were on the Register of Members on May 16, 2025.

    Taxation – cash dividend
    If you are uncertain as to the tax treatment of any dividends you should consult your tax advisor.

    Note
    A different currency election date may apply to shareholders holding shares in a securities account with a bank or financial institution ultimately holding through Euroclear Nederland. This may also apply to other shareholders who do not hold their shares either directly on the Register of Members or in the corporate sponsored nominee arrangement. Shareholders can contact their broker, financial intermediary, bank or financial institution for the election deadline that applies.

    Enquiries
    Media: International +44 (0) 207 934 5550; U.S. and Canada: https://www.shell.us/about-us/news-and-insights/media/submit-an-inquiry.html

    CAUTIONARY NOTE

    The companies in which Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this announcement “Shell”, “Shell Group” and “Group” are sometimes used for convenience to reference Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. ‘‘Subsidiaries’’, “Shell subsidiaries” and “Shell companies” as used in this announcement refer to entities over which Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. The terms “joint venture”, “joint operations”, “joint arrangements”, and “associates” may also be used to refer to a commercial arrangement in which Shell has a direct or indirect ownership interest with one or more parties.  The term “Shell interest” is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest. 

    Forward-Looking statements
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Shell to market risks and statements expressing management’s expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “aim”; “ambition”; ‘‘anticipate’’;  “aspire”; “aspiration”; ‘‘believe’’; “commit”; “commitment”; ‘‘could’’; “desire”; ‘‘estimate’’; ‘‘expect’’; ‘‘goals’’; ‘‘intend’’; ‘‘may’’; “milestones”; ‘‘objectives’’; ‘‘outlook’’; ‘‘plan’’; ‘‘probably’’; ‘‘project’’; ‘‘risks’’; “schedule”; ‘‘seek’’; ‘‘should’’; ‘‘target’’; “vision”; ‘‘will’’; “would” and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this announcement, including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell’s products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks, including climate change; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, judicial, fiscal and regulatory developments including tariffs and regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, regional conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict in the Middle East, and a significant cyber security, data privacy or IT incident; (n) the pace of the energy transition; and (o) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Shell plc’s Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 (available at www.shell.com/investors/news-and-filings/sec-filings.html and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this announcement and should be considered by the reader.  Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this announcement, June 9, 2025. Neither Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement.

    Shell’s net carbon intensity
    Also, in this announcement we may refer to Shell’s “net carbon intensity” (NCI), which includes Shell’s carbon emissions from the production of our energy products, our suppliers’ carbon emissions in supplying energy for that production and our customers’ carbon emissions associated with their use of the energy products we sell. Shell’s NCI also includes the emissions associated with the production and use of energy products produced by others which Shell purchases for resale. Shell only controls its own emissions. The use of the terms Shell’s “net carbon intensity” or NCI is for convenience only and not intended to suggest these emissions are those of Shell plc or its subsidiaries.

    Shell’s net-zero emissions target
    Shell’s operating plan and outlook are forecasted for a three-year period and ten-year period, respectively, and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next three and ten years. Accordingly, the outlook reflects our Scope 1, Scope 2 and NCI targets over the next ten years. However, Shell’s operating plan and outlook cannot reflect our 2050 net-zero emissions target, as this target is outside our planning period. Such future operating plans and outlooks could include changes to our portfolio, efficiency improvements and the use of carbon capture and storage and carbon credits. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell’s operating plans and outlooks to reflect this movement. However, if society is not net zero in 2050, as of today, there would be significant risk that Shell may not meet this target. 

    Forward Looking non-GAAP measures
    This announcement may contain certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures such as adjusted earnings and divestments. We are unable to provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside the control of Shell, such as oil and gas prices, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, estimating such GAAP measures with the required precision necessary to provide a meaningful reconciliation is extremely difficult and could not be accomplished without unreasonable effort. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future periods which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied in Shell plc’s consolidated financial statements.

    The contents of websites referred to in this announcement do not form part of this announcement.

    We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this announcement that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC.  Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.

    LEI number of Shell plc: 21380068P1DRHMJ8KU70
    Classification: Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of the United Kingdom

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE – NB Private Equity Partners Announces Transaction in Own Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    St Peter Port, Guernsey 9 June 2025

    NB Private Equity Partners (“NBPE” or the “Company”) today announces details of Class A Shares bought back pursuant to general authority granted by shareholders of the Company on 12 June 2024 and the share buy-back agreement with Jefferies International Limited.

    Transaction on London Stock Exchange

    Date of purchase of Shares 6 June 2025
    Number of Shares purchased 3,000 Class A Shares
    Highest price/lowest price paid £14.50 / £14.34
    ISIN for the Shares GG00B1ZBD492

    All Class A Shares bought back will be cancelled. Following the cancellation, the number of outstanding Class A Shares is 45,533,911‬. The Company also has 3,150,408 Class A shares held in treasury. For reporting purposes under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules the market should use the figure of 45,533,911 voting rights when determining if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company.

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations        +44 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason        NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com

    Kaso Legg Communications        +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman

    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $515 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last eleven years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of March 31, 2025.

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security.

    NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU offered Venezuela cooperation in education and science

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A working meeting with a delegation from the Ministry of Higher Education of Venezuela was held in the Committee for Science and Higher Education of St. Petersburg. The representatives of the friendly Latin American country were met by the Chairman of the Committee for Science and Higher Education Andrey Maksimov. Representatives of six universities of St. Petersburg took part in the meeting. The Polytechnic University was represented by the Head of the International Cooperation Department Vladimir Khizhnyak.

    The Venezuelan delegation was headed by the Minister of People’s Power for Higher Education, Richardo Mujica. The delegation included the Director General of the Directorate of Integration and International Relations, Gasparri Rey, the Director of Bilateral Meetings of the International Relations Department, Jimenez Cubillán, and the First Secretary of the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in the Russian Federation, Andrés González.

    During the meeting, Andrei Maksimov briefly spoke about St. Petersburg, which is one of the largest scientific and educational centers in Russia. It concentrates over ten percent of the country’s scientific potential, with more than 350 scientific organizations, including about 60 organizations of the Russian Academy of Sciences and other state academies. The human resources potential of science and education in St. Petersburg exceeds 170,000 employees of scientific organizations and universities, including approximately 9,000 doctors of science and 26,000 candidates of science. Andrei Stanislavovich presented the work of KNVS in general and the interaction of St. Petersburg universities with universities in Venezuela, in particular.

    Mr. Mujica began his speech by thanking Russia for supporting Venezuela in its fight against the aggressive policies of Western countries and expressing admiration for the courage and fortitude of the Russian people. He recalled that President Maduro had recently visited Russia, took part in events marking the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, and then visited St. Petersburg. Mr. Mujica also noted that Venezuela had adopted a program to develop cooperation with Russia in science and education. In accordance with this program, the number of students from this country in Russian universities should increase tenfold in the near future, from 200 to at least 2,000. A working group has been created at the Ministry to create an interuniversity university network of Venezuelan and Russian universities. It is planned to create joint programs and double degree programs. Priority areas of training are artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and new materials, agro-biotechnology, mining, etc. The issue of creating cultural and language centers in both Venezuela and Russia is also being worked on. The training of highly qualified personnel is also an urgent issue.

    Vladimir Khizhnyak spoke about the Polytechnic University and suggested areas of cooperation. He noted that the university has students from Venezuela, but there are not many of them, and our institutes are ready to accept many more representatives of this country in numerous training programs, including in English. Summer and winter school programs may also be of interest to students from Venezuela. Joint supervision of postgraduate students, participation of leading professors in dissertation councils and in the “Visiting Professor” program are also a good start for cooperation.

    Mr. Mujica responded positively to the proposal to visit the Polytechnic and conclude a cooperation agreement with the National Scientific University. It was opened recently and enjoys great support from the government of this country. He also noted that there are 25 polytechnic universities in Venezuela and he is ready to assist in establishing contacts with them. The country has adopted a 15-year program to support polytechnic universities.

    Mr. Mujica noted that the people of Venezuela remember that back in 1786, their compatriot, the hero of the national liberation struggle Francisco Miranda arrived in Russia and spent almost a year traveling around it. Catherine II granted him the rank of colonel of the Russian army, and he also received a passport of our country. The Empress allocated Miranda a cash subsidy to fight the Spanish colonizers and ordered a military squadron to be sent to the shores of Venezuela. So the friendship between our countries has deep roots and the Ministry of Higher Education is ready to contribute to its strengthening in every possible way.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney

    A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the other.

    And while tech billionaire Elon Musk appears to have cooled the spat somewhat – deleting some of his more incendiary social media posts about Donald Trump – the president still appears to be in no mood to make up, warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he backs Democrats at the mid-term elections in 2026.

    Tensions erupted over Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB). The OBBB proposes extensive tax cuts which could add roughly US$3 trillion (A$4.62 trillion) to the US national debt.

    After stepping down from his role as advisor to Trump, Musk criticised the OBBB as “disgusting abomination” that would “burden America [sic] citizens with crushing unsustainable debt”. Trump returned fire, suggesting “Elon was ‘wearing thin’, I asked him to leave […] and he just went CRAZY!”.

    In a dramatic escalation, Musk responded by calling for Trump’s impeachment. Musk also tweeted allegations that Trump was implicated in the Epstein files related to child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has since deleted those tweets.

    Why has the much-hyped “bromance” between Musk and Trump suddenly ended? And what was the basis of their alliance in the first place?

    Musk in politics

    Like many billionaires, Musk had previously been hesitant to get involved in frontline politics. He says he voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020, but claimed in 2021 “I would prefer to stay out of politics”.

    In early 2024, Musk was still claiming to be politically non-aligned, suggesting he would not donate to either presidential campaign.

    This apparent neutrality ended following the attempted assassination of Trump at a July 2024 campaign rally, with Musk immediately endorsing Trump.

    In reality, Musk’s conversion to the MAGA movement long predated the assassination attempt. Musk’s hyperactive Twitter/X account shows a steady radicalisation.

    Across 2020-2024, Musk engaged with accounts sharing MAGA and far-right conspiracy theories. These include the antisemitic Great Replacement Theory, and the related South African white genocide conspiracy. Musk’s posts also show the obsession with opposing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies characteristic of the MAGA movement.

    After endorsing Trump, Musk spent US$288 million (A$444 million) supporting Trump’s election and appeared at campaign events around the country.

    Musk’s support for Trump was both ideological and pragmatic.

    From tax cuts to immigration restrictions to opposing DEI, there were clearly many ideological commonalities between Musk and Trump.

    There were also clear practical benefits for both men. Trump gained the financial backing of the world’s wealthiest man. Musk gained not only unparalleled access to the US president, but also a role leading the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    DOGE: success and failure

    Early reporting on the second Trump presidency noted the omnipresence of Musk, who at one point moved into Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort to be close to the president.

    However, observers were sceptical about the potential effectiveness of DOGE, and Musk’s claim it would save the government US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion).

    In the early months of the Trump administration, Musk cut government programs and employees at a remarkable rate. The USAID program was particularly hard hit, as were the Department of Education and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

    As the spending cuts picked up pace, Musk began to attract more controversy. Critics questioned the apparent power wielded by the unelected billionaire. Musk’s ties to the far right were also in the spotlight after he appeared to perform two “Roman salutes”, which many observers believed to be a Nazi salute.

    Trump clips Musk’s wings

    Musk’s apparent rampage through government did not last long. As Trump’s executive appointees assumed control of their departments, Musk and DOGE experienced increasing resistance. After a series of fractious cabinet meetings, Trump reportedly reduced the power of DOGE in March.

    Political attention was also clearly affecting Musk’s businesses. The negative publicity has significantly damaged the Tesla brand, leading to declining sales around the world and repeated falls in Telsa’s share price.

    On May 1, Musk announced he would be leaving DOGE, claiming the department had saved the government US$180 billion (A$277 billion) in spending. This number is likely an exaggeration, but still falls well short of his original target.

    Musk has learned a harsh lesson in politics – that the complexities of government resist simple reform and cannot be easily rolled back in the way a CEO might slim down a company.

    For Trump, his manoeuvring of Musk appears to be another smart political move. As the public face of DOGE, Musk bore the negative rap for early government cuts and chaos. Having used his money and reputation, Trump dispensed with Musk as he has with so many advisers and appointees before.

    The falling out

    Musk departed his role in a muted White House ceremony, where Trump thanked him for his service and presented him with a ceremonial “golden key” to the White House.

    However, behind the public show of civility, tension was brewing over Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

    Trump and Musk had originally claimed that the US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion) in DOGE savings could be used to fund a substantial tax cut. With the efficiency savings not eventuating, Musk worried the OBBB would significantly increase US public debt.

    Unable to convince Trump or other Republican legislators, Musk took to X, launching a “Kill the Bill” campaign that ultimately led to his incendiary showdown with Trump.

    For his part, Trump has belittled Musk, suggesting Musk only opposed the OBBB because it cut subsidies for electric vehicles.

    Though the subsidy cuts will affect Tesla, Musk has previously supported eliminating subsidies. Musk’s anger at the OBBB is more likely driven by the realisation he has been played by Trump.

    What now?

    Trump has used and discarded many other powerful figures in his chaotic political career. Musk has more power than most, and might be able to strike back at Trump.

    Yet, with his public reputation and brands already tarnished, Musk would be ill-advised to pick further fights with Trump and his adoring MAGA movement.

    Accordingly, Musk has indicated over the weekend he is open to a détente. Tesla investors will no doubt be relieved if Musk makes good on his pledge to step back from politics and return to his businesses.

    More concerning are the prospects for democracy. With wealth and power continuing to concentrate in a handful of billionaires, voters appear reduced to the role of viewers forced to watch the reality TV drama unfold.

    Though Trump appears to have won this round of billionaire battle royale, whatever happens next, democracy is the real loser.

    Henry Maher 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 blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast? – https://theconversation.com/the-blow-up-between-elon-musk-and-donald-trump-has-been-entertaining-but-how-did-things-go-so-bad-so-fast-258394

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: TGS and Oseberg Partner to Integrate Lease Data into Well Data Analytics Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Texas (09 June 2025) – TGS, a global leader in energy data and intelligence, has announced a strategic partnership with Oseberg, a premier provider of lease and regulatory data for the energy sector. This collaboration brings Oseberg lease data attributes into TGS’ Well Data Analytics (WDA) platform for enhanced analysis.

    In the first phase of the integration, WDA users can now seamlessly access lease ownership data for Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, as well as other subsurface well data. This combined offering enables E&P companies to plan wells more efficiently, reduce legal and operational risks, and optimize development strategies by aligning drilling programs with land ownership and leasehold constraints. Key use cases include merger and acquisition analysis, project site planning, investment evaluation, and resource inventory management.

    Carl Neuhaus, Vice President of Well Data Products at TGS, said, “Our partnership with Oseberg creates a full-service subsurface data offering combining the highest quality lease data with the most comprehensive geological and well database. Integrating Oseberg lease ownership data empowers our users to verify land ownership in minutes and use TGS data to quantify resource deliverability, improve development planning accuracy, and quickly identify the most valuable opportunities. As always, these workflows are developed with customers to ensure seamless integration and hassle-free displacement of existing solutions.”

    Evan Anderson, CEO/CO-Founder of Oseberg, added, “You need clean, structured, and context-rich information to make real decisions. For our lease ownership data, we’ve chosen to focus where others haven’t: structuring the unstructured filings that underpin everything from the right to drill to the creation of proration units at the tract and formation level. This layer of insight is the bedrock on which reserves, strategy, and execution rely.

    That’s why, when we found a partner with complementary strengths in well and production data, TGS was the clear choice. In a world where public data can obscure critical details like elevations, depths, perforations, producing formations, and drill stem tests, TGS’ unparalleled subsurface and well log library unlocks a level of understanding that few others can match. Together, we’re harmonizing two bedrock layers of the upstream story, and we’re excited about what that enables for the market.”
     

    The lease data provided by Oseberg in the TGS Well Data application overlaying the well data.

    About TGS
    TGS maintains the industry’s most extensive well data library, comprising over 100 years of curated public and non-public sources. Our user-friendly Well Data Analytics tool integrates high-quality well data with adaptable search workflows, map-based visualizations, advanced plotting and customizable dashboards within a cloud-based application. For further information, please visit www.tgs.com (https://www.tgs.com/).

    About Oseberg
    Oseberg is a next-generation data company transforming unusable oil & gas public filings into actionable intelligence. Our NLP engine dStill handles what generic AI can’t – handwritten notes, inconsistent formatting, and domain-specific language. We create continuously updating streams of structured data that enable real-time signal detection, helping land, regulatory, and strategy teams anticipate what’s coming, not just interpret what happened. From filings to foresight. Learn more at oseberg.io.

    For media inquiries, contact:

    Bård Stenberg
    IR & Business Intelligence
    investor@tgs.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mihkel Kasepuu to Join Management Board of LHV Pank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Supervisory Board of AS LHV Pank, subsidiary of AS LHV Group, has elected Mihkel Kasepuu as a Member of the Management Board, with responsibility for technology and product development. Whether the new board member meets the eligibility requirements will also be approved bv the ECB. Kasepuu will assume his new position on 22, July for a five-year term.

    Mihkel Kasepuu has served as LHV Pank’s Chief Technology Officer and Chief Technology and Product Officer since 2024. Previously, he worked at Nortal from 2015 to 2023. At LHV, he has played a key role in building scalable, secure systems and driving product innovation. His expertise will be central to advancing the bank’s digital capabilities.

    Kasepuu holds a master’s degree in IT from Taltech. He is a shareholder and a management board member in several small IT consultancy and software development companies Panda Solutions OÜ, SM Capital OÜ, and Futuleap OÜ. Kasepuu owns 10 ordinary shares in AS LHV Group and holds options to subscribe for 79,733 shares for options issued in 2024.

    Rain Lõhmus, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of LHV Group, commented:
    “Mihkel Kasepuu’s appointment to the Management Board of LHV Pank supports our ambition to become more technology and product driven. As role of engineers and engineering is growing, so shall their representation at Board. Mihkel shall lead LHV’s strategic direction focused on consistently shipping intelligent, desirable, and user-friendly products by leveraging machine learning and rapidly evolving technologies. Mihkel is known for his top-level engineering mindset, and high agency. In a short time at LHV he has already demonstrated his ability to deliver acceleration in infrastructure platform change and ability to energize product organization. Keep going.” 

    Comment from Mihkel Kasepuu:
    “While we’ve made strong progress in recent years — implementing our cloud strategy, automating processes, and modernising our banking system — a lot of interesting challenges still lie ahead. Our goal is for LHV’s product and technology to represent world-class product-led engineering, capable of competing with the best globally. That ensures our solutions are sustainable and deliver security, speed, and convenience for our customers. We have a proud, skilled and motivated team, ready to take bold steps forward.”

    In addition to Mihkel Kasepuu, the Management Board of LHV Pank includes: Kadri Kiisel (Chief Executive Officer), Meelis Paakspuu (Chief Financial Officer), Kadri Haldre (Chief Risk Officer), Jüri Heero (Chief Information Officer), Annika Goroško (Head of Retail Banking), and Indrek Nuume (Head of Corporate Banking).

    LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Group’s key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,150 people. As at the end of April, LHV’s banking services are being used by 468,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 113,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

    Priit Rum
    Communications Manager
    Phone: +372 502 0786
    Email: priit.rum@lhv.ee 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “BugHunting Campaign 2025” opens for applications (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    BugHunting Campaign 2025 opens for applications (with photo) 
         Launched in 2023, the BugHunting Campaign aims to assist resource-limited SMEs in enhancing their cybersecurity protection and strengthen Hong Kong’s overall cybersecurity. The campaign this year will run from July to August.
     
         As artificial intelligence (AI) technology rapidly integrates into various business operations, enterprises enjoying greater efficiency also face growing cybersecurity threats. The BugHunting Campaign 2025 will recruit cybersecurity professionals to conduct free vulnerability assessments for local SMEs, by utilising AI-powered technology and a bounty-based vulnerability detection model. Additionally, security audits will also be conducted on their AI applications to prevent data breaches and provide comprehensive defences against emerging cyber threats.
     
         The crowdsourced vulnerability detection platform CyberBay employs a secure identity and credential verification system that aligns with banking standards. All participating cybersecurity professionals must pass technical assessments and background checks to ensure their expertise and integrity. Certified cybersecurity professionals, known as “bounty hunters”, will provide safe and high-quality vulnerability detection services to local enterprises.
     
         The campaign has received an overwhelming response over the past two years, with over 210 SMEs participating. This year, additional resources will be allocated to provide participating enterprises with detailed inspection reports and complimentary one-on-one professional consultation services to address their vulnerabilities more effectively. Enterprises that demonstrate a solid cybersecurity foundation or successfully remediate vulnerabilities within a specified timeframe will be honored with an official BugHunting 2025 digital badge, recognising their commitment to cybersecurity excellence. Furthermore, cybersecurity awareness training will be offered to employees of participating enterprises to enhance their skills and vigilance in preventing data breaches.
     
        Further details of the campaign and registration arrangements are available on the relevant websites (cyberdefender.hk/en-us/bughunting_campaign_2025/ 
    Issued at HKT 11:56

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU Faculty of Information Technology graduates developed a system for monitoring the condition of water intake wells

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Graduates Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) NSU developed a system for monitoring the condition of water intake wells — a hardware and software complex that allows real-time monitoring of key parameters of their operation. The complex includes sensors installed on wells, a server platform for collecting and analyzing data, as well as a user interface — a web version and a mobile application on Android. The development has already been implemented and is used by employees of OJSC Suzunskoye ZhKH in the Novosibirsk Region, where the system collects data on the water level and electricity consumption of pumping equipment at wells.

    The idea for the project emerged two years ago, when the task of developing a comprehensive monitoring system was announced at a meeting of the technical council of the State Institution of the Novosibirsk Region “Project Directorate of the Ministry of Housing and Public Utilities of the Novosibirsk Region”. This initiative was picked up by Alexey Fage, a graduate of the NSU Institute of Information Technologies and a candidate of technical sciences. Over the next year, he studied the requirements of potential users and technical solutions for completing the tasks. Subsequently, the team was joined by Alexander Vlasov, a graduate of the NSU Institute of Information Technologies and a candidate of technical sciences, and Efim Pashko, a third-year student of the NSU Institute of Information Technologies at that time. Alexey managed the project and also developed software for the hardware part of the project, responsible for recording sensor readings at the well. Efim, under the guidance of his scientific advisor Alexander Vlasov, worked on the server part and the user interface, including the web version and mobile application. The development is Efim’s diploma project. This example clearly demonstrates how graduates of the Faculty of Information Technology of NSU continue to actively participate in the life of their university, offering students relevant and interesting projects that can grow into significant developments.

    There are various water well monitoring systems on the Russian market, but the system under review has no complete analogues on the open market. Existing approaches can be divided into 2 types. Thus, the first type collects data on well parameters and automatically sends them to a remote server. However, such solutions are usually part of larger, universal industrial automation systems. For example, these can be water well control systems with a load distribution function. These complex systems are usually much more expensive and often require the customer to independently organize and maintain the server infrastructure. Another approach is represented by simpler systems, where a sensor is installed on the well, which collects data on the internal memory. In this case, manual intervention is required to unload and analyze the data – the operator must come to the site with a laptop, which is extremely inconvenient for remote wells.

    — We are trying to create a specialized, but at the same time extremely easy-to-use system, which can be described as “install and forget”. It is designed with a wide range of consumers in mind, who only need to know how to use a smartphone. In essence, this is a regular user service in the modern sense, — explained Efim Pashko.

    The monitoring system consists of three parts. The first is the one installed directly on the well. These are sensors and a single-board computer that collects readings from the sensors and sends them to the server. The second is the server part, which receives, saves and processes all data coming from the sensors. In the future, the server part will also include a data analysis module. The third part is access to this data, which is carried out either through a computer (web browser) or through a phone (mobile application).

    Currently, a pilot project for the implementation of this system is being implemented with OJSC Suzunskoye ZhKH in the Novosibirsk Region. The developers are collecting feedback from users in order to further refine and improve the system. Thus, with the help of sensors, it is monitored whether the dynamic water level in the well (the water level in the well during pump operation) corresponds to the passport, since operation with a low level can lead to premature failure of the well. The system also records problems with the power supply, for example, phase imbalance – a violation of the uniform distribution of voltage between the phases, which can result in damage to electrical equipment.

    Thus, continuous monitoring of well parameters contributes to a more accurate assessment of the condition of the equipment and the water intake as a whole, which has a positive impact on maintenance planning and operational strategy.

    The relevance of the development is also due to new regulatory requirements. Thus, in May, a new decree of the Government of the Russian Federation was issued, according to which legal entities – owners of wells – must monitor their condition, since in the case of operating wells with a water level below the permissible level, this can not only lead to equipment failure, but also adversely affect the condition of the aquifer and harm the environment. The monitoring system allows you to promptly record the occurrence of such situations and take measures to eliminate them. In addition, the availability of objective data collected by the system reduces the likelihood of conflicts between operating organizations and regulatory authorities (for example, the Ministry of Natural Resources) – due to increased transparency and accountability of actions.

    Currently, the system collects water level data and electrical energy indicators (voltage, current, reactive and active power). However, the hardware is quite versatile, so it allows you to include additional sensors and expand the range of collected data, for example, add parameters such as water temperature, water flow at the well outlet, pressure in the main line, etc. Also, in the future, the developers plan to expand the functionality of the system, in particular, automate the compilation of reports and improve the data processing module using artificial intelligence technologies.

    — Of course, the mathematical method that we are currently using allows us to analyze data quite deeply, but machine learning opens up new horizons. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I will apply for a master’s degree in a field related to machine learning and will continue working on this project. It is quite possible that I will find a new technology that can be applied, — added Efim.

    This solution was recently presented to the Minister of Housing and Public Utilities and Energy of the Novosibirsk Region. The system interested the Minister, who confirmed the relevance of its implementation. Work is currently underway on a feasibility study for subsequent presentation to the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: MoneyHero Group Expands Digital Asset Wealth Product Offerings in Hong Kong in Strategic Collaboration with OSL

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) (“MoneyHero” or the “Company”), a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia, today announced a strategic collaboration with OSL Group Limited (HKEX: 863) (“OSL”), Asia’s leading regulated digital asset platform, to expand its digital asset wealth product offerings. This collaboration marks a key step as MoneyHero expands its wealth products offerings in Hong Kong to include digital asset-related services provided by Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (“SFC”)-licensed institutions, aiming to enhance financial wellbeing for consumers in Hong Kong.

    Through this collaboration, MoneyHero users can compare digital asset account products offered by leading SFC-licensed platforms like OSL, alongside insurance, stock, and bank account products, empowering them to make smarter and more informed financial decisions with a broader range of product choices. Hong Kong’s growing interest in digital assets reflects increasing demand for diversified financial solutions. According to data from Investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC)1, a subsidiary of the SFC, 8% of retail investors in Hong Kong invested in virtual assets and related products in 2023, up from just 1% in 2019, while 11% of retail investors showed intention to invest in these products – reflecting the growing direct participation and interest that MoneyHero and OSL are addressing.

    Rohith Murthy, CEO of MoneyHero, said: “We are thrilled to work with OSL, a recognised leader in the regulated digital asset space in Asia. This collaboration reflects our unique value proposition and position as the leading digital acquisition partner for the majority of banks across Greater Southeast Asia, which we are leveraging to extend our offerings into the digital asset space. We are committed to providing our users with comprehensive financial solutions and access to emerging asset classes in a responsible and informed manner. OSL’s strong regulatory compliance and institutional expertise provide valuable support for our expansion into the sector, where we also see significant potential to broaden our offerings in the future.”

    Jack Derong, CMO of OSL, said: “We are delighted to join forces with MoneyHero, an established and trusted platform across Southeast Asia. We believe that providing accessible and regulated pathways to digital assets is crucial for the industry’s sustainable growth. MoneyHero’s extensive user network and transparent and reliable comparison tools will empower a wider audience with the knowledge and access to participate in the digital asset economy with confidence.”​​​​

    About MoneyHero Group

    MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) is a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia. The Company operates in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines. Its brand portfolio includes B2C platforms MoneyHero, SingSaver, Money101, Moneymax and Seedly, as well as the B2B platform Creatory. The Company also retains an equity stake in Malaysian fintech company, Jirnexu Pte. Ltd., parent company of Jirnexu Sdn. Bhd., the operator of RinggitPlus, Malaysia’s largest operating B2C platform. MoneyHero had over 290 commercial partner relationships as at 31 December 2024, and had approximately 6.2 million Monthly Unique Users across its platform for the three months ended 31 December 2024. The Company’s backers include Peter Thiel—co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies, and the Founders Fund—and Hong Kong businessman, Richard Li, the founder and chairman of Pacific Century Group. To learn more about MoneyHero and how the innovative fintech company is driving APAC’s digital economy, please visit www.MoneyHeroGroup.com.

    About OSL Group
    OSL Group (HKEX: 863.HK) is a leading global financial infrastructure platform bridging traditional finance and the digital asset economy through blockchain technology. The Group is dedicated to providing efficient, seamless, and regulatory-compliant financial services to individuals and businesses worldwide.

    OSL delivers a comprehensive suite of regulated services through its licensed platforms, including 24/7 OTC brokerage with deep liquidity fiat gateways and competitive pricing; omnibus brokerage solutions enabling traditional financial institutions to integrate digital assets; SOC 2 Type 2-certified custody with up to US$1 billion insurance protection; and compliant retail trading channels; wealth management solutions, including scheduled launches on tokenised treasuries and RWAs; and in preparation for cross-border payment infrastructure via OSL Pay.

    “Open, Secure, Licensed” are the principles OSL lives by. OSL is expanding its compliant infrastructure across Japan, Australia, and Europe, potentially Southeast Asia, powering the next generation of global financial infrastructure.

    For more information, please visit group.osl.com.

    For MoneyHero inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    MoneyHero IR Team
    IR@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    Media Relations:
    MoneyHero PR Team
    Press@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    For OSL inquiries, please contact:
    OSL Media Team
    media@osl.com

    Disclaimer

    The Company and its subsidiaries do not hold any license issued by the SFC and do not engage in any regulated activities as defined under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong). This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to constitute, an offer or invitation to provide any securities, investment, or other regulated services to the public in Hong Kong.

    1Investor and Financial Education Council. (2023). Retail Investor Study 2023. Retrieved from https://www.ifec.org.hk/web/common/pdf/about-ifec/retail-investor-study-2023.pdf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Legacy in action: How Beijing’s dual-Olympic venue powers sport, community

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    From the fierce clashes of Olympic ice hockey to the roar of basketball fans and the graceful arcs of figure skating, Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium has become a model for sustainable Olympic venue use.

    17 years after hosting gymnastics, trampoline and wheelchair basketball events at the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, and three years after staging ice hockey competitions during the 2022 Winter Olympics, the venue is once again welcoming world-class athletes, with the FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held at one of the city’s iconic “dual Olympic” venues.

    Martyna Lukasik (R) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between Poland and Thailand at the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Yuan)

    At the heart of the stadium’s success lies a simple yet powerful strategy: putting sports first and sharing it with the community. In doing so, it reflects a broader vision of how Olympic legacy can serve both elite performance and public engagement.

    “We’ve always believed that a world-class sports venue must serve athletes, spectators and the city alike,” National Indoor Stadium chairman Wang Yue told Xinhua.

    SMART OPERATIONS, OLYMPIC LEGACY

    Built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the National Indoor Stadium underwent major upgrades for the 2022 Winter Games, becoming one of the two ice hockey competition venues.

    During renovations, designers incorporated a dual-size ice rink system, allowing conversion between the standard 60m x 26m Olympic ice hockey field and a 60m x 30m configuration for figure skating and other events. This design foresight laid the foundation for versatile, long-term use.

    Following the Winter Olympics, the stadium returned to its sports-first mission under the Beijing Performing Arts Group, aligning with the city’s call to refocus Olympic venues on athletic development. Since then, it has hosted a growing portfolio of top-tier events and become home to Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team the Beijing Royal Fighters.

    “Our post-Olympic mission has been to fully return to our core mission – sports. This venue is designed to host elite competitions, and also to welcome citizens in their everyday lives. We’re building a world-class stadium brand rooted in Olympic spirit and open access,” Wang explained.

    The venue’s reputation for professionalism has also been affirmed by visiting teams during the VNL.

    “This stadium has amazing lighting and atmosphere. It makes the players feel like they’re on one of the world’s biggest stages,” said Türkiye head coach Daniele Santarelli.

    China captain Gong Xiangyu echoed this sentiment: “It’s exciting to play here. You feel the energy of the crowd and the history of the place.”

    FROM OLYMPIC SPOTLIGHT TO DAILY USE

    Since its post-Winter Olympics reopening, the stadium has focused on optimizing space and schedule through precise planning. With an annual calendar packed with over 60 major events – spanning volleyball, basketball, ice hockey, concerts and exhibitions – the venue runs on what its operators call a “full-time, full-space” model.

    “We host around 30 professional sports events a year, and the same number of other commercial and cultural events,” said Wang.

    Behind these seamless transitions is a core operation team of fewer than 20 people, who oversee everything from scheduling to logistical coordination.

    “Our team is small but specialized,” Wang explained. “After a concert teardown at night, we can switch the space into basketball mode by the next morning.”

    Beyond major events, the stadium shifts gears on non-match days to serve everyday fitness and public engagement.

    “We offer rhythmic gymnastics and badminton classes in the main hall. The training hall becomes a hub for table tennis and balance-bike lessons,” Wang noted.

    A dedicated ice hockey rink built for the Winter Games now supports both Beijing’s men’s ice hockey team and public skating hours, while outdoor tennis and 3×3 basketball courts are fully booked on weekends.

    “Hosting events isn’t our only goal,” said Wang. “We want local residents to see this as their home stadium. Whether you’re watching volleyball or playing badminton with your children, this is the place for you.”

    “We are positioning ourselves as an Olympic legacy venue that delivers on both elite performance and daily vitality,” he added.

    BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE, PEOPLE-CENTERED MODEL

    With the goal of long-term sustainability, the stadium is developing a diversified revenue model that combines core sports events with concerts, exhibitions, themed retail and dining.

    “Our operations are now basically breaking even,” Wang noted. “We are pushing for a balance between economic return and public benefit.”

    To support this strategy, the stadium is building two flagship sports brands: basketball and ice hockey.

    “The Beijing Royal Fighters plays most of its home games here. We’re also the training base and competition site for Beijing’s city-level ice hockey team,” said Wang, adding these projects help drive identity and fan engagement.

    Wang also emphasized the stadium’s public-service function.

    “More than 1,000 amateur events are held here every year,” he said. “This isn’t a major profit center, but it’s about public value. As a state-owned venue, we must serve the community.”

    The five-day VNL competitions have drawn tens of thousands of fans and ignited a new wave of enthusiasm. Visitors can use match tickets for discounts at restaurants and shops nearby – part of a growing “ticket stub economy” that ties sport with city life.

    “Sport is more than a competition,” said Wang. “It’s a way to connect people, boost local business and enhance urban life. That’s the Olympic legacy we hope to continue.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch 399

    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.
    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 399
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    830 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southwest Arkansas
    Northwest Louisiana
    Southeast Oklahoma
    North-Central and Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 830 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds expected with scattered significant
    gusts to 100 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense clusters and supercells are expected to
    track east-southeast over southern Oklahoma and north-central/
    northeast Texas this evening into the early overnight hours.
    Widespread severe/damaging winds are anticipated with this activity,
    with peak gusts potentially reaching up to 80-100 mph in the more
    intense bowing clusters. Scattered large to very large hail also
    remains possible with embedded supercells, along with a few
    tornadoes.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest
    of Mineral Wells TX to 10 miles north northeast of Shreveport LA.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for 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. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 392…WW 393…WW
    394…WW 395…WW 396…WW 397…WW 398…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 85 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    30035.

    …Gleason

    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 399
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    830 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southwest Arkansas
    Northwest Louisiana
    Southeast Oklahoma
    North-Central and Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 830 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds expected with scattered significant
    gusts to 100 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense clusters and supercells are expected to
    track east-southeast over southern Oklahoma and north-central/
    northeast Texas this evening into the early overnight hours.
    Widespread severe/damaging winds are anticipated with this activity,
    with peak gusts potentially reaching up to 80-100 mph in the more
    intense bowing clusters. Scattered large to very large hail also
    remains possible with embedded supercells, along with a few
    tornadoes.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest
    of Mineral Wells TX to 10 miles north northeast of Shreveport LA.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for 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. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 392…WW 393…WW
    394…WW 395…WW 396…WW 397…WW 398…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 85 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    30035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW9
    WW 399 SEVERE TSTM AR LA OK TX 090130Z – 090900Z
    AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50WNW MWL/MINERAL WELLS TX/ – 10NNE SHV/SHREVEPORT LA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM N/S /58SSW SPS – 11SSE EIC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..85 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30035.

    LAT…LON 34219887 33749376 31439376 31909887

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU9.

    Watch 399 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (>95%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    High (90%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (50%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM launches national skills drive to unlock opportunities for young people in tech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM launches national skills drive to unlock opportunities for young people in tech

    Pupils across the country will be given the skills and tools needed to get the AI-powered jobs of the future thanks to a new skills programme launched by the Prime Minister.

    • 1 million students in secondary school to be given an unprecedented chance to learn and develop their skills in tech and AI
    • £187 million investment in national skills programme to bring digital skills and AI learning into classrooms and communities
    • 7.5 million UK workers to gain essential AI skills by 2030 through industry partnership as major tech players including NVIDIA, Google and Microsoft back the Government’s skills drive
    • Skills drive to break down barriers to opportunity, drive growth and put more money in people’s pockets through skilled jobs as part of the Plan for Change and the forthcoming modern Industrial Strategy

    Pupils across the country will be given the skills and tools needed to get the AI-powered jobs of the future thanks to a new skills programme launched by the Prime Minister today (Monday 9 June).

    At the heart of the skills drive, and as part of the upcoming modern Industrial Strategy, is a new £187 million government “TechFirst” programme to bring digital skills and AI learning into classrooms and communities and train up people of all ages and backgrounds for the tech careers of the future.

    Today’s announcements show this government is laser focused on investing in the futures of young people across Britain, knocking down barriers to opportunities, regardless of where they grow up.  

    It comes as research commissioned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) shows that by 2035, around 10 million workers will be in roles where AI will be part of their role or responsibilities in some form, with a further 3.9 million in roles directly in AI.

    The flagship strand of this programme “TechYouth” – backed by £24 million of government funding – will give 1 million students over three years across every secondary school in the UK the chance to learn about technology and gain access to new skills training and career opportunities.

    There will also be an online platform to inspire and educate students about the potential of computing and tech careers – building on CyberFirst’s Explorers which has access to most secondary schools in the UK with 100,000 students registered already. This will bring together learning tools and training opportunities in a streamlined accessible space.

    In each of the UK’s regions and nations, a local delivery partner will be selected by DSIT to run the programme and deliver activities to schools and colleges in local areas.

    The AI sector alone is valued at £72.3 billion and is projected to exceed £800 billion by 2035. It is growing 30 times faster than the rest of the economy, employing over 64,000 people across more than 3,700 companies.

    But despite these strengths, access to AI skills in the UK remains one of the biggest barriers to growth—especially for startups, scaleups, and regions outside London. According to a TechNation report released today, one in three UK tech founders say the availability of top talent is their biggest barrier to growth.

    That’s why the government is backing young people and investing in skills as an engine of economic growth—putting more money in people’s pockets and breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change.

    This package underpins the upcoming industrial strategy and also delivers on the government’s manifesto commitment to create higher-quality training and employment paths by empowering local communities to develop the skills people need and putting employers at the heart of our skills system.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    “We are putting the power of AI into the hands of the next generation – so they can shape the future, not be shaped by it.

    “This training programme will unlock opportunity in every classroom – and lays the foundations for a new era of growth.

    “Too many children from working families like the one I grew up in are written off. I am determined to end that.

    “This programme is the Plan for Change in action – breaking down barriers, driving innovation, and giving every young person the chance of a good, well paid job and a bright future.”

    TechFirst will also support over 4,000 graduates, researchers, and innovators through three additional strands:

    • TechGrad (£96.8m) – will support 1,000 exceptional domestic students a year with undergraduate scholarships in areas like AI, cyber security, and computer science. This will also go towards 100 Research MSc places in key tech sectors, and 100 elite AI scholarships. Applicants will be able to apply to the scheme online and those successful will have their bursaries paid from a central fund.
    • TechExpert (£48.4m) – will give up to £10,000 in additional funding to 500 domestic PhD students conducting research in tech with the aim of accelerating cutting-edge innovation, strengthen the UK’s research pipeline in strategic technology sectors, and ensure that emerging talent is supported to contribute to national tech leadership.
    • TechLocal (£18m) – will offer seed funding to help regional innovators and small businesses develop new tech products and adopt AI. A panel made up of local tech businesses will be established in each region to decide which applications have merit, with the necessary checks then done centrally by Innovate UK.

    Major industry players including IBM, BAE Systems, QinetiQ, BT, Microsoft and the Careers & Enterprise Company – the national body for careers education – have backed the initiative.

    TechFirst builds on the success of the CyberFirst programme, which has already helped hundreds of thousands of young people gain cyber security skills.

    Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 

    “We are getting Brits ready for jobs of the future by helping millions across the country gain vital digital skills in AI and beyond.

    “Embedding these skills into our education system and local communities will help people of all backgrounds and ensure tech talent flourishes in every corner of our nation.

    “These partnerships with industry will translate skills into real jobs and economic growth, putting more money in people’s pockets and breaking down barriers to opportunity. This is our Plan for Change in action – investing in the skills that will power our economy and deliver prosperity for working people across the country.”

    David Hogan, Vice President Enterprise EMEA – NVIDIA said:

    “AI developers are the engine of the next industrial revolution. AI talent, skills and research are crucial ingredients in the UK’s mission to become an AI maker, not an AI taker.

    “So, we’re delighted to partner with the government to train the next generation of AI developers, capable of finding new cures for diseases, discovering new materials and building world-beating, British AI companies.”

    Google EMEA President, Debbie Weinstein, said: 

    “Our AI Works report revealed that £400bn worth of economic growth awaits the UK, but half of this depends on workers embracing and using AI. That’s precisely why we’re thrilled to join this crucial initiative, essential for supercharging AI upskilling, unlocking AI-powered growth and cementing the UK’s position as an AI leader.”

    Carolyn Dawson OBE, CEO of Founders Forum Group and Tech Nation, said: 

    “AI will transform every industry – but we can only unlock its full potential if we ensure the UK’s workforce has the skills to keep pace. This national upskilling programme is an ambitious and necessary step – not just to boost productivity, but to make sure we’re equipping the UK to participate in and benefit from the AI-driven economy. At Tech Nation, we’ve long championed the power of both homegrown talent and global expertise – whether that’s through supporting founders to scale or endorsing the UK’s Global Talent Visa. We’re proud to support initiatives that help the UK remain globally competitive”.

    Leon Butler Chief Executive of IBM UK and Ireland said:

    “Boosting technology skills across the economy is key to the UK maintaining its leadership position in AI. Having helped millions globally to develop new AI skills with our IBM SkillsBuild programme, we are delighted to partner with the UK government to help equip workers with vital tech skills. This complements our long-standing commitment to programmes such as CyberFirst, which we are excited to see expand. We look forward to continuing our support as the programme grows.”

    Darren Hardman CEO of Microsoft UK said:

    “Artificial Intelligence represents a generational opportunity, already transforming the way we live, work, and innovate. For the UK to remain globally competitive, we have to equip people with the skills they need to be successful in an AI-powered economy. Microsoft is proud to be playing its part, by training one million people with AI skills this year, and by supporting millions more through this new initiative.”

    Intuit EMEA General Manager Leigh Thomas said:

    “AI is a growth enabler for small and medium-sized businesses, levelling the playing field, by giving them the opportunity to access the sort of technology solutions that larger businesses have access to. The announcement today is a great step forward in improving their bottom line, and we look forward to collaborating with Government and other private sector partners to accelerate knowledge, understanding and adoption of AI tools by the businesses that need it most.”

    Jensen Huang, Founder and CEO, NVIDIA said:

    “AI developers power the next industrial revolution. AI talent, skills and research are crucial ingredients in the UK’s mission to become an AI maker, not an AI taker. We’re delighted to partner with the government to train the next generation of AI developers, capable of finding new cures for diseases, discovering new materials and building word-class AI companies.”

    Alongside TechFirst, the Prime Minister also announced a new government-industry partnership to train 7.5 million UK workers in essential skills to use AI by 2030—equivalent to around 20% of the UK workforce.

    Leading technology companies including Google, Microsoft, IBM, SAS, Accenture, Sage, Barclays, BT, Amazon, Intuit, and Salesforce have signed up to the partnership. They have committed to making high-quality training materials widely available to workers in businesses – large and small – up and down the country free of charge, over the next five years. 

    Training will focus on enabling workers to use and interact with AI systems such as chatbots and large language models to boost productivity across a wide range of roles. Sector-specific training will also be developed to meet the needs of industries from healthcare to finance to manufacturing.

    These companies will meet the Technology Secretary Peter Kyle this week to discuss how to meet the 2030 target, agree a terms of reference and will convene regularly to track progress.

    Following his speech, the Prime Minister will join NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang for an “in conversation” event to discuss the challenges of closing the AI skills gap and the potential of AI to transform public services and drive economic growth.

    This comes as the government and NVIDIA today signed two Memorandums of Understanding, supporting the development of a nationwide AI talent pipeline and accelerating critical university-led research into the role of AI in advanced connectivity technologies. In addition, NVIDIA will expand its AI lab in Bristol to other areas of the UK to accelerate UK research in AI.  

    Today’s package follows the Department for Education’s announcement of the board members for Skills England, a new body which will work with employers and local leaders to shape training policy and delivery. Skills England will identify and tackle skills shortage in key Industrial Strategy sectors such as digital, creating more opportunities for young people.

    Yesterday, the Prime Minister hosted a private reception at Chequers with leading tech CEOs and investors—including Eric Schmidt (Former CEO & Chairman of Google), Angie Ma (Faculty AI) Demis Hassabis (Google DeepMind), and Alex Wang (Scale) —to reaffirm the UK’s position as a global tech leader.

    Tomorrow, he will welcome business leaders and entrepreneurs to Downing Street, including 16-year-old AI entrepreneur Toby Brown, who recently secured $1 million in Silicon Valley funding for his startup, Beem.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch 396

    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.
    SEL6

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 396
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    400 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southwest Oklahoma
    Western North Texas and Low Rolling Plains

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 400 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds and scattered significant gusts to 105
    mph likely
    Widespread large hail likely with isolated very large hail
    events to 5 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Increasing intense severe storm development is expected
    through late afternoon into evening. This will include initial
    supercells capable of very large hail with a tornado risk, but a
    prominent potential for widespread damaging winds should evolve this
    evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
    statute miles north and south of a line from 10 miles northwest of
    Lubbock TX to 40 miles southeast of Chickasha OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for 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. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 391…WW 392…WW
    393…WW 394…WW 395…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 90 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    29035.

    …Guyer

    SEL6

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 396
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    400 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southwest Oklahoma
    Western North Texas and Low Rolling Plains

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 400 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds and scattered significant gusts to 105
    mph likely
    Widespread large hail likely with isolated very large hail
    events to 5 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Increasing intense severe storm development is expected
    through late afternoon into evening. This will include initial
    supercells capable of very large hail with a tornado risk, but a
    prominent potential for widespread damaging winds should evolve this
    evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
    statute miles north and south of a line from 10 miles northwest of
    Lubbock TX to 40 miles southeast of Chickasha OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for 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. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 391…WW 392…WW
    393…WW 394…WW 395…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 90 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    29035.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW6
    WW 396 SEVERE TSTM OK TX 082100Z – 090400Z
    AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    10NW LBB/LUBBOCK TX/ – 40SE CHK/CHICKASHA OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM N/S /4NNW LBB – 32NNW ADM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..90 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 29035.

    LAT…LON 34790194 35709747 33689747 32750194

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU6.

    Watch 396 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (90%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    High (80%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (50%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, Raising the Standard for Gaming Handhelds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • All-day comfort: Redesigned chassis is purpose-built to fit the hands like a real gamepad
    • Seamless software experience: New Xbox® software offers the best of Xbox and Windows PC gaming in one handheld
    • Efficiency and performance: Two new processors offer incredible AAA and indie gaming experiences

    LOS ANGELES, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) is proud to announce an all-new series of Ally handhelds built from the ground up with improved ergonomics and a seamless player-first user experience.

    Developed in partnership with the incredible team at Xbox, the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X offer best-in-class ergonomics and a full-screen Xbox experience that marries the best of Xbox and PC gaming in one cohesive package.

    “We wanted to take our handheld to the next level, but we could not do it alone.” said Shawn Yen, Head of the Consumer product team at ASUS. “This revolutionary partnership with Microsoft allowed us to forge a brand new device with ROG muscle and the soul of Xbox.”

    The ROG Xbox Ally sports an AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor with incredible power efficiency, while the ROG Xbox Ally X offers the new AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor for next-level gaming performance. Both launch holiday 2025 in select markets, with additional markets to follow.

    All-day comfort

    The ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X feature a completely redesigned chassis. Gaming on handheld is a very personal experience, and comfort in the hand is a key pillar of a well-designed device. With years of feedback on the original Ally and Ally X, the ROG Xbox Ally series offers a more comfortable grip than ever, inspired by Xbox. With a redesigned palm rest and texturing patterns to keep gamers locked on target, the ROG Xbox Ally series truly raises the bar for comfort with a handheld gaming device.

    The ROG Xbox Ally X also features impulse triggers, improving the haptics in supported games. These triggers allow for more nuance and immersion and are a feature that Xbox gamers have come to expect with their controllers. These devices are the most comfortable and immersive handhelds ever built by ROG.

    Seamless software experience

    While the ROG Armoury Crate Special Edition software made the original Ally easy to use, ROG and Xbox aimed to make handheld gaming even more seamless on Windows 11. “We wanted to create an authentic Xbox experience in a handheld form factor,” explained Roanne Sones, CVP at Xbox. “With ROG, we made it happen on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.”

    As soon as players power on the device, they enter the full screen Xbox experience. Powered by Windows 11 underneath, this software has been optimized for the ROG Xbox Ally, reducing system overhead and offering easy joystick and button navigation. Quick access to settings and customizable widgets are available via Game Bar with a single press of the Xbox button. But with the full freedom of Windows 11 running under the hood, games and mods from other sources are still easily accessible. The ROG Xbox Ally series offers the power of Xbox, the craftsmanship of ROG, and the versatility of Windows, all in one cohesive device.

    Efficiency and performance

    The ROG Xbox Ally X features the new top-of-stack AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor, giving it plenty of horsepower even in AAA games. Combined with software optimizations from the new Xbox experience, the ROG Xbox Ally X stands ready to provide gamers with next-gen handheld performance.

    “Battery life is paramount on handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X,” said Jack Huynh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of AMD. “The Ryzen Z2 series improves efficiency over the previous generation while still offering excellent performance in modern games.”

    The ROG Xbox Ally offers console-caliber performance with its AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor. At the same time, its ultra-efficient design at low wattages and its 60Wh battery produce improved battery life. Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally X takes performance to greater heights, offering more room for graphical fidelity at higher framerates with the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor.

    Both chips are primed to take full advantage of AMD’s latest software suite for graphics and performance improvements, including AMD FidelityFX™ Super Resolution (FSR), Radeon Super Resolution (RSR), and AMD Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF) frame generation, the latter of which can offer better framerates for improved smoothness.

    In a nod to the future, the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme-equipped ROG Xbox Ally X features an NPU. With these next-generation chips, the ROG Xbox Ally X will be ready to power the latest AI features as they are introduced.

    At launch this holiday, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be available in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with availability to follow for other markets where ROG Ally series products are sold today.  

    For more information, please visit https://rog.asus.com/content/rog-xbox-ally/. Users can also sign up on the page to get notified when pre-orders go live.

    SPECIFICATIONS

    ROG Xbox Ally X (2025)

    Operating System Windows 11 Home
    Comfort & input Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control

    ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU
    Processor AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor
    Display 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9
    120Hz refresh rate
    FreeSync Premium
    Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® + Corning DXC Anti-Reflection
    Memory 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
    Storage 1TB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade
    Network and Communication Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth® 5.4
    I/O Ports 1x USB4® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0, Thunderbolt™ 4 compatible

    1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0

    1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC; UHS-I with DDR200 mode)

    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
    Battery 80Wh
    Dimensions 290.8 (W) x 121.5 (D) x 50.7 (H) mm
    Weight 715 grams
    Included ROG Xbox Ally X

    65W charger

    Stand

    ROG Xbox Ally (2025)

    Operating System Windows 11 Home
    Comfort & input Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort

    ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall Effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU
    Processor AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor
    Display 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9

    120Hz refresh rate

    FreeSync Premium

    Corning® Gorilla® Glass Vitus® + Corning DXC Anti-Reflection
    Memory 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
    Storage 512GB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade
    Network and Communication WiFi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth® 5.4
    I/O Ports 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0

    1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC)

    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
    Battery 60Wh
    Dimensions 290.8 (W) x 121.5 (D) x 50.7 (H) mm
    Weight 670 grams
    Included ROG Xbox Ally

    65W charger

    Stand

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    ROG Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asusrog

    ROG X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus_rog

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global Twitter: https://www.x.com/asus

    About ROG

    Republic of Gamers (ROG) is an ASUS sub-brand dedicated to creating the world’s best gaming hardware and software. Formed in 2006, ROG offers a complete line of innovative products known for performance and quality, including motherboards, graphics cards, system components, laptops, desktops, monitors, smartphones, audio equipment, routers, peripherals and accessories. ROG participates in and sponsors major international gaming events. ROG gear has been used to set hundreds of overclocking records and it continues to be the preferred choice of gamers and enthusiasts around the world. To become one of those who dare, learn more about ROG at http://rog.asus.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/589e47e6-72cf-472f-b58a-2d4425432efb

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Insider Takes Us Inside Trump and Musk’s Quiet Plan to Reboot America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New briefing reveals the creation of a secret AI system designed to reshape the country’s infrastructure, governance, and future — starting July 1.

    Bestselling author and longtime tech analyst James Altucher has released a stunning new report that pulls back the curtain on what he calls “the most important project in America today” — and it has nothing to do with Washington.

    According to Altucher, Elon Musk is building a system called Project Colossus — a privately operated supercomputer that’s now being quietly positioned as the technological foundation of a new, AI-driven America.

    It All Started on Day One

    Altucher points to Donald Trump’s very first executive action in office as the moment this project became possible.

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That single move, Altucher says, eliminated regulatory bottlenecks and opened the floodgates for full-speed development by private operators — especially Musk.

    Hidden in Plain Sight

    “Right here, inside this warehouse in Memphis, Tennessee… lies a massive supercomputer Musk calls ‘Project Colossus.’”

    Altucher reports that the machine is already live, powered by 200,000 of Nvidia’s most advanced AI chips — with a tenfold upgrade scheduled for rollout by July 1.

    “Making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    The Mission: Replace the System

    According to Altucher, Colossus isn’t just designed to speed up processes — it’s meant to replace outdated decision-making structures altogether.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    Altucher warns that while most Americans are focused on politics-as-usual, the real transformation is happening behind firewalls — with Musk writing the code, and Trump clearing the path.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author who has worked in artificial intelligence for over four decades. A contributor to IBM’s Deep Blue and an early AI pioneer on Wall Street, his latest briefings reveal the hidden buildout of America’s post-industrial, AI-powered infrastructure — and the forces quietly driving it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Reflects on History of the AIDS Crisis: “That’s Why I Came Here. I Came to Fight.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – During World Pride celebrations in the nation’s capital, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi paid a solemn visit to the AIDS Memorial Quilt display at St. Thomas’ Parish in Dupont Circle. The exhibit honors members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. who died of AIDS in the 1980s and ’90s.

    Pelosi, a lifelong champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, viewed panels created in memory of more than 30 chorus members, many lovingly sewn by grieving friends and family during the height of the epidemic.

    “At first, I thought a quilt was a bad idea. But I was wrong,” Speaker Emerita Pelosi said. “The art became the most unifying thing. You see someone’s story laid out before you—their grief, their joy, their love—and suddenly, you understand. That is the power of this movement.”

    Pelosi reflected on her decades-long advocacy, recalling her first speech on the House Floor about HIV/AIDS and the initial resistance she faced. “People said, ‘Why would you lead with that?’ And I said, ‘Because that’s why I came here. I came to fight.’”

    Read coverage of the visit below:

    The Advocate: Nancy Pelosi visits AIDS Quilt exhibit during WorldPride

    [John Casey, 6/8/25]

    In the hushed sanctuary of St. Thomas’ Parish in Dupont Circle, there is a sacred memorial in fabric and thread. During WorldPride, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., in partnership with St. Thomas’ and the National AIDS Memorial, unveiled a deeply personal display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt that includes panels for chorus members who were lost to the epidemic in the 1980s and ’90s.

    The exhibit features full quilt blocks and a companion photo display, honoring dozens of chorus members who died of AIDS complications. Some panels are decades-old, sewn by grieving loved ones at the height of the crisis. One in particular, the first made by and for chorus members, holds special meaning.

    “For us, this is not just history. These are our people,” said Michael Hughes, the chorus’s outreach manager, who has sung with the group for more than 20 years. “We estimate that about 100 members of our chorus died of AIDS. A hundred voices silenced.”

    The idea for the exhibit was sparked earlier this year after chorus members visited a local high school class reading Angels in America. “The students had no context for what life was like in the ’80s and ’90s,” Hughes explained. “We told them about the fear, about watching friends die, and about the quilt.”

    After that visit, chorus member Larry Cohen emailed Hughes with an idea and a question: What if they searched for quilt panels made in honor of their fallen members?

    “So we spent two and a half months digging into the National AIDS Memorial database, the Names Project records, and the digitized archives in the Library of Congress,” Hughes said. “We were able to confirm 33 individual chorus members who had panels made. Some we remembered personally.”

    The setting of St. Thomas’ Parish is itself part of the story. “During the AIDS crisis, only two or three churches in the city would even hold funerals for someone who had died of AIDS,” Hughes said. “St. Thomas’ was one of them.”

    On Friday night, the exhibit drew a special guest, House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, a longtime and fierce advocate in the fight against AIDS. Pelosi spent time with chorus members and viewed the panels while the group performed two songs in honor of her visit under the direction of Artistic Director Thea Kano.

    Addressing the chorus members, Pelosi recalled her own early skepticism about the quilt’s power. “At first, I thought a quilt was a bad idea,” she said. “But I was wrong. The beauty was in the art. And the art became the most unifying thing.”

    “People who may not think they have anything in common suddenly find that they do through these panels,” Pelosi continued. “You see someone’s story laid out before you, and the love they had in their lives. The grief, the anger, the joy, all of it. And it moves you.”

    Pelosi also reflected on the political and cultural battles of the time, and how vital the LGBTQ+ community’s activism was to making change.

    “When I made my first speech in Congress about HIV/AIDS, people said, ‘Why would you talk about that? Why would you lead with that?’” Pelosi recounted. “I said, because that’s why I came here. I came to fight.”

    “Yes, we worked to change policies, pass laws, allocate resources,” she said. “But the real miracle was the outside mobilization of the LGBTQ+ community who refused to be silent. That’s what made the difference. That’s what changed the world.”

    As Pride Month unfolds, the quilt serves as a memorial, a call to action, and a loving and prophetic testament to the quilt’s ability to humanize loss, to transform mourning into music.

    The AIDS Memorial Quilt exhibit is open to the public through Sunday at St. Thomas’ Parish. Daily visiting hours and more information are available at GMCW.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 392

    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.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 392
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    225 PM EDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Maryland
    Northern and Central Virginia
    Far Eastern West Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 225 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop and
    further increase through late afternoon and evening, with damaging
    winds, hail, and tornadoes possible, especially near a warm front.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north of Martinsburg WV to 20
    miles southeast of Richmond VA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    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 390…WW 391…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25025.

    …Guyer

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 392
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    225 PM EDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Maryland
    Northern and Central Virginia
    Far Eastern West Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 225 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop and
    further increase through late afternoon and evening, with damaging
    winds, hail, and tornadoes possible, especially near a warm front.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north of Martinsburg WV to 20
    miles southeast of Richmond VA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    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 390…WW 391…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 392 TORNADO DC MD VA WV CW 081825Z – 090200Z
    AXIS..75 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    20N MRB/MARTINSBURG WV/ – 20SE RIC/RICHMOND VA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 65NM E/W /48WNW EMI – 18SE RIC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25025.

    LAT…LON 39687657 37297569 37297842 39687939

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 392 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

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

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (10%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Marine Economy Development Index Up 2.3% in 2024

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HAIKOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — China’s marine economic development index, a key indicator of the country’s progress in the sector, increased 2.3 percent year on year to 125.2 in 2024, showing robust development of the maritime sector.

    The index was released by China’s Ministry of Natural Resources on Sunday to mark World Oceans Day.

    Data show that in 2024, China’s maritime sector structure was further optimized and technological innovation capability was improved. The sub-index of marine economy optimization and upgrading in 2024 was 131, up 1.8 percent year on year.

    The ministry’s statistics also show that the added value of emerging marine industries grew 7.2 percent year-on-year in 2024. Marine-related companies raised 11.4 billion yuan (US$1.58 billion) in IPOs, accounting for 17 percent of the total funding for all IPO companies in China, indicating strong capital market activity in the maritime sector. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI LEADS CA COLLEAGUES IN OPPOSING AI MORATORIUM IN RECONCILIATION BILL

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, led a group of her California colleagues in sending a letter to Senate leadership, strongly objecting to the section of H.R. 1 that would impose a ten-year moratorium on state and local enforcement of their own artificial intelligence laws and regulations. 

    “This moratorium’s assumption—that the United States will be unable to lead the world in AI if states identify and implement measures to protect their citizens from potential AI harms—is misguided,” wrote the lawmakers. “It wrongly accepts the premise that identifying and addressing AI-specific risks and harms and imposing guardrails is counterproductive to being the world’s AI leader. Nothing is further from the truth. Common sense AI guardrails can propel innovation by building trust with consumers and future users, while promoting a fair, open, and competitive playing field.” 

    In the absence of a federal AI regulatory framework, California and other states across the nation are embracing common-sense safeguards that ensure innovation and competition can continue to thrive. As AI tools grow more sophisticated and more widely deployed, these state measures are crucial to promote safety and trust with consumers. The House-passed moratorium, spearheaded by Republicans, would strip states of their authority to respond to new and evolving AI risks—freezing vital consumer protections for a full decade.

    “We should not place consumers in harm’s way by pausing for a decade the good work that states have done and will continue to do,” the lawmakers continued. “Instead, let us work together in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion to create smart, tailored, and consensus-driven legislative solutions that empower Americans’ use of AI and automated decision systems.”

    Full text of the letter can be found below or HERE. 

    Dear Majority Leader Thune, Minority Leader Schumer, Chairman Cruz, and Ranking Member Cantwell:

    We are writing to express our strong objections to the section of H.R. 1 that would impose a sweeping ten-year moratorium on state and local enforcement of their own artificial intelligence (AI) laws and regulations.  

    As part of being the global AI leader, the United States must take the lead on identifying and setting common sense guardrails for responsible and safe AI development and deployment. To prevent states, including our state of California, from enforcing state AI regulations that provide such guardrails—particularly without any meaningful federal alternative—is inconsistent with the goal of AI leadership. This moratorium’s assumption—that the United States will be unable to lead the world in AI if states identify and implement measures to protect their citizens from potential AI harms—is misguided.  It wrongly accepts the premise that identifying and addressing AI-specific risks and harms and imposing guardrails is counterproductive to being the world’s AI leader. Nothing is further from the truth. Common sense AI guardrails can propel innovation by building trust with consumers and future users, while promoting a fair, open, and competitive playing field. 

    California is the fourth largest economy in the world in part because innovative technology companies, including 32 of the world’s 50 leading AI companies, call the state home. As a hub of AI activity, our state has been a national leader in ensuring that innovation and competition thrive alongside common-sense safeguards, starting with transparency. In our increasingly digital world, AI and other emerging technologies are rapid disruptors. To place a ten-year hold on state and local enforcement of their own AI laws, especially without federal alternatives, exposes Americans to a growing list of harms as AI technologies are adopted across sectors from healthcare to education, housing, and transportation. The resulting regulatory gap created by the AI moratorium in H.R. 1 would decimate the good work that California and other states, led by both Democrats and Republicans, have done, such as:

    • requiring transparency regarding training data or the use of AI to communicate with patients in medical settings
    • giving performers and their families rights over digital replicas of their likenesses
    • protecting American artists’ voice and likeness from unauthorized AI impersonations,
    • requiring employers to ensure AI-enabled employment decisions comply with civil rights laws,  and
    • requiring mental health platforms to disclose to users that they are interacting with an AI mental health chatbot, not a human therapist. 

    These examples and other proposed state legislation exemplify the mounting desire among AI experts and the American public to provide guardrails to promote AI safety, trust, and transparency.  This is an extension of bipartisan concerns over online safety and manipulative algorithms—issues that, if left unchecked, leaves Americans vulnerable to harms impacting their health, their jobs, their education, and ultimately, their lives. Now is the time for Congress to work on bipartisan legislation to address these harms. The House Republican ten-year moratorium, by contrast, would gut protections for the very people we represent. 

    This bill provision isn’t limited to state laws and regulations of new and emerging AI. It imposes a ten-year moratorium on laws and regulations regulating “automated decision making systems” which arguably covers any computer processing.  

    Furthermore, the provision covers state and local regulations of their own use of AI and of automated decision making systems, which will mean states and localities cannot impose procurement requirements on AI and computer systems that are different than those imposed on other technologies. Under this provision, they would not be allowed, for example, to adopt regulations imposing safeguards on education technology to be used in public schools or on AI systems that they want to use to improve the provision of government services.  That makes no sense at all.

    Late in the process, House Republicans added an exception to the ten-year moratorium for state and local laws to the extent they impose criminal penalties.  But that exception only underscores the absurd breadth of the 10-year moratorium.  Why should the federal government incentivize states and localities to adopt criminal penalties to deal with harms from AI models and systems, and automated decision-making systems, in instances where a civil penalty, breach of contract claim, injunctive relief or some other non-criminal remedy is more appropriate to address the problem at hand?

    We have already seen an outpouring of opposition to this moratorium, including bipartisan opposition from state attorneys general, state legislators, voters, and over 140 consumer advocacy, online safety, and civil rights groups.  The House Bipartisan AI Taskforce last Congress acknowledged the “risks” of enacting an AI moratorium on state activity and, instead, recommended that Congress “commission a study to analyze the applicable federal and state regulations and laws that affect the development and use of AI systems across sectors.” We should not place consumers in harm’s way by pausing for a decade the good work that states have done and will continue to do. We must learn from them. After all, we have had the opportunity to learn from five years’ worth of several state efforts to criminalize the sharing of non-consensual intimate imagery, real and AI-generated, to produce the TAKE IT DOWN Act that President Trump recently signed into law. Now is not the time to deny Congress the critical insight our states provide as laboratories of democracy. 

    Additionally, this moratorium is procedurally deficient, as it bears no relationship to the federal budget. House Republicans stretch credulity beyond its breaking point when claiming this moratorium is necessary to effectuate their reconciliation bill’s $500 million for the Department of Commerce to update its IT and cybersecurity systems. Under the Supremacy Clause, states cannot pass laws that restrict or impose obligations on the federal government, including the Department of Commerce and federal procurement rules governing agency IT systems.  Consequently, the moratorium does not impact the federal budget and must fall out as an “extraneous matter” prohibited, under the Senate Byrd Rule, from inclusion in a reconciliation bill. 

     

    As you take up the House Republicans’ reconciliation bill for consideration, we urge you to remove the AI moratorium provision. Instead, let us work together in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion to create smart, tailored, and consensus-driven legislative solutions that empower Americans’ use of AI and automated decision systems. We can learn from what the states—like California, New York, Tennessee, Utah, and many others—are doing to leverage the benefits of AI technologies while protecting consumers from their harms.

                                                    

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trump Taps Musk to “Rebuild Government from the Ground Up,” Says One Tech Insider

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a newly surfaced public briefing, bestselling author and tech analyst James Altucher reveals what he calls a “massive transfer of control” inside the federal government — one that began on Day One of President Trump’s return to the White House.

    According to Altucher, Trump isn’t just slashing bureaucracy — he’s outsourcing innovation to Elon Musk. The result is Project Colossus: a 200,000-chip AI supercomputer hidden inside a Memphis warehouse and operated entirely outside the traditional system.

    A Silent Power Shift — Signed by Trump

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That reversal, Altucher says, stripped away Biden’s AI restrictions — immediately giving private operators like Musk the runway to build freely.

    Trump then revealed Stargate, a $500 billion AI infrastructure initiative that, according to Altucher, is “not about building government… it’s about replacing it.”

    Musk’s AI Is Already Online

    “Right here, inside this warehouse in Memphis, Tennessee… lies a massive supercomputer Musk calls ‘Project Colossus.’”

    “Making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    Altucher claims that the system is already operational — and is expected to expand dramatically before July 1, when a major upgrade could “10X its power overnight.”

    Not Reform. Replacement.

    According to Altucher, Musk and Trump aren’t just reforming the system — they’re replacing it with autonomous intelligence designed to streamline decisions, reduce costs, and eliminate delay.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    Altucher warns that what began as an infrastructure story is fast becoming one of control — and that the real question now is: who governs the machines?

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author with four decades of experience in artificial intelligence. He studied at Cornell and Carnegie Mellon, helped develop IBM’s Deep Blue, and has built AI-powered systems for use in finance and enterprise. His latest briefings focus on how AI is being deployed beyond the public’s view — and who’s behind it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hainan launches South China Sea Tsunami Early Warning Center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HAIKOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — The South China Sea Tsunami Early Warning Center began operation in south China’s Hainan Province on Sunday, aiming to provide early warning services on marine disasters to countries in the region.

    The center, headquartered in the coastal city of Sanya during its trial operation, was set up by the National Marine Environment Forecasting Center and the Hainan Provincial Ocean Administration. It aims to develop a comprehensive multi-functional early warning system for tsunamis, marine heat waves, harmful algal blooms and other natural disasters.

    The Centre also aims to become a platform for international cooperation in the field of marine forecasting and warning.

    In addition, on the same day, the National Deep-Sea Testing Site was launched in Sanya to support deep-sea fundamental scientific research, original deep-sea technological innovation and the development of related industries.

    The SCS region is prone to tsunamis and other marine hazards due to its complex tectonic background, including active fault lines and frequent underwater earthquakes in nearby areas. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –