NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected dangerous drugs worth about $10.25 million (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs on May 12 and yesterday (May 13) seized about 21 kilograms of suspected ketamine and about 1.1kg of suspected cannabis buds with a total estimated market value of about $10.25 million at Hong Kong International Airport and in Sau Mau Ping.

    Through risk assessment, Customs on May 12 inspected an air cargo consignment, declared as audio cable and arriving in Hong Kong from Belgium, at the airport. The consignee address was a residential address in Sau Mau Ping. Upon inspection, Customs officers found about 21kg of suspected ketamine, with an estimated market value of about $10 million, concealed in the consignment.

    After a follow-up investigation, Customs officers conducted a controlled delivery operation yesterday (May 13) and arrested a male consignee, aged 24, in the aforesaid residential unit in Sau Mau Ping. Customs officers later searched the premises and further seized about 1.1kg of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of about $250,000.

    The arrested person has been charged with two counts of trafficking in a dangerous drug. He will appear at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (May 15).

    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people, nor to release their personal data or home address to others for receiving parcels or goods.

    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Choi Yuk-lin attends APEC meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin today attended the 7th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Education Ministerial Meeting (AEMM) in Jeju, South Korea. The theme of this year’s meeting is “Bridging Educational Gaps & Promoting Sustainable Growth in the Era of Digital Transformation”.

    Ms Choi exchanged views with education ministers from other APEC economies and spoke about the advantages of Hong Kong’s education system.

    Speaking at a thematic session, “AI ‧ Digital Transformation & Personalized Education Innovation”, she outlined that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has established a “Steering Committee on Strategic Development of Digital Education”.

    She added that the Education Bureau provides subsidies for students in need, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities in their access to e-learning. The bureau invests in e-learning platforms and has launched curricula on innovation and technology, including coding lessons for junior secondary and upper primary students to boost their digital literacy and skills.

    The bureau is also endeavouring to enhance teachers’ use of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in teaching. In addition to running professional development programmes, it organises Mainland study tours and a large-scale learning and teaching expo to keep teachers abreast of the latest developments in e-learning and the application of AI to teaching.

    Ms Choi also mentioned that the bureau has launched a Digital Education Centre of Excellence Scheme for schools to share e-learning practices.

    At another thematic session, on “Educational Cooperation & Expanding Access to Opportunities”, Ms Choi stressed that Hong Kong is committed to becoming an international post-secondary education hub and a cradle for talent. She mentioned that five publicly funded universities in Hong Kong rank among the world’s top 100.

    Speaking at a third thematic session, “Strengthening Quality Education & Sustainable Economic Growth”, Ms Choi said that Hong Kong’s education system provides all students with high-quality education, thereby fostering social mobility.

    She emphasised that the bureau encourages schools to adopt a “whole school approach” in supporting students with special educational needs, and provides schools with additional resources, professional support and teacher training to promote an inclusive learning environment.

    At the closing of the AEMM, participating ministers issued a joint declaration recognising the importance of education in addressing global challenges such as bridging digital divides. They also underlined the need to enhance the digital and AI competencies of educators, and called for collaborative efforts to promote appropriate integration of AI in education.

    Yesterday, Ms Choi met South Korea’s Acting President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Lee Ju-ho, as well as education ministers from other APEC economies, to discuss various aspects of education policies.

    She also delivered a speech at the APEC Global Education Reform Conference, briefing attendees on Hong Kong’s practical experience in information technology education and its development as an international post-secondary education hub.

    Moreover, she met South Korea’s Vice Minister of Education Oh Seok-hwan to discuss strengthening education collaboration between South Korea and Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Taking intermittent quizzes reduces achievement gaps and enhances online learning, even in highly distracting environments

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jason C.K. Chan, Professor of Psychology, Iowa State University

    More Americans are learning remotely. Drazen/E+ via Getty Images

    Inserting brief quiz questions into an online lecture can boost learning and may reduce racial achievement gaps, even when students are tuning in remotely in a distracting environment.

    That’s a main finding of our recent research published in Communications Psychology. With co-authors Dahwi Ahn, Hymnjyot Gill and Karl Szpunar, we present evidence that adding mini-quizzes into an online lecture in science, technology, engineering or mathematics – collectively known as STEM – can boost learning, especially for Black students.

    In our study, we included over 700 students from two large public universities and five two-year community colleges across the U.S. and Canada. All the students watched a 20-minute video lecture on a STEM topic. Each lecture was divided into four 5-minute segments, and following each segment, the students either answered four brief quiz questions or viewed four slides reviewing the content they’d just seen.

    This procedure was designed to mimic two kinds of instructions: those in which students must answer in-lecture questions and those in which the instructor regularly goes over recently covered content in class.

    All students were tested on the lecture content both at the end of the lecture and a day later.

    When Black students in our study watched a lecture without intermittent quizzes, they underperformed Asian, white and Latino students by about 17%. This achievement gap was reduced to a statistically nonsignificant 3% when students answered intermittent quiz questions. We believe this is because the intermittent quizzes help students stay engaged with the lecture.

    To simulate the real-world environments that students face during online classes, we manipulated distractions by having some participants watch just the lecture; the rest watched the lecture with either distracting memes on the side or with TikTok videos playing next to it.

    Surprisingly, the TikTok videos enhanced learning for students who received review slides. They performed about 8% better on the end-of-day tests than those who were not shown any memes or videos, and similar to the students who answered intermittent quiz questions. Our data further showed that this unexpected finding occurred because the TikTok videos encouraged participants to keep watching the lecture.

    For educators interested in using these tactics, it is important to know that the intermittent quizzing intervention only works if students must answer the questions. This is different from asking questions in a class and waiting for a volunteer to answer. As many teachers know, most students never answer questions in class. If students’ minds are wandering, the requirement of answering questions at regular intervals brings students’ attention back to the lecture.

    This intervention is also different from just giving students breaks during which they engage in other activities, such as doodling, answering brain teaser questions or playing a video game.

    Why it matters

    Online education has grown dramatically since the pandemic. Between 2004 and 2016, the percentage of college students enrolling in fully online degrees rose from 5% to 10%. But by 2022, that number nearly tripled to 27%.

    Relative to in-person classes, online classes are often associated with lower student engagement and higher failure and withdrawal rates.

    Research also finds that the racial achievement gaps documented in regular classroom learning are magnified in remote settings, likely due to unequal access to technology.

    Our study therefore offers a scalable, cost-effective way for schools to increase the effectiveness of online education for all students.

    What’s next?

    We are now exploring how to further refine this intervention through experimental work among both university and community college students.

    As opposed to observational studies, in which researchers track student behaviors and are subject to confounding and extraneous influences, our randomized-controlled study allows us to ascertain the effectiveness of the in-class intervention.

    Our ongoing research examines the optimal timing and frequency of in-lecture quizzes. We want to ensure that very frequent quizzes will not hinder student engagement or learning.

    The results of this study may help provide guidance to educators for optimal implementation of in-lecture quizzes.

    The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.

    Jason C.K. Chan receives funding from the USA National Science Foundation.

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

    – ref. Taking intermittent quizzes reduces achievement gaps and enhances online learning, even in highly distracting environments – https://theconversation.com/taking-intermittent-quizzes-reduces-achievement-gaps-and-enhances-online-learning-even-in-highly-distracting-environments-254046

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump is making it easier to fire federal workers, but they have some legal protections – 3 essential reads

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Amy Lieberman, Politics + Society Editor, The Conversation

    An estimated 2% of federal civil servants could soon find their jobs are no longer secure under the Trump administration. iStock/Getty Images Plus

    The Trump administration is moving ahead with policy changes that would make it easier to fire some federal workers.

    The Office of Personnel Management, or OPM, filed proposed regulations in the Federal Register on April 23, 2025, that would reclassify about 50,000 career civil servants as “at-will” employees.

    Trump’s first administration attempted similar changes, known as by some as Schedule F but those plans were not implemented.

    An estimated 2% of nearly all of the 3 million federal workers would then experience a shift in how the government classifies their jobs, renaming their classification “Schedule Policy/Career.”

    It is not entirely clear which workers will be reclassified, since the process is largely at Trump’s discretion.

    “This will allow agencies to quickly remove employees from critical positions who engage in misconduct, perform poorly, or undermine the democratic process by intentionally subverting Presidential directives,” the Office of Personnel Management proposal reads.

    Trump supports these changes and says they can help remove corrupt or unqualified workers. Critics maintain that the changes will allow the administration to fire federal employees the administration sees as not supporting its agenda.

    Trump is expected to sign another executive order in the next few weeks that would formally reclassify certain federal job positions as Schedule Policy/Career.

    Here are three stories from The Conversation’s archive about the rights of federal civil servants.

    Former U.S. Agency for International Development employees terminated by the Trump administration collect their belongings at USAID headquarters in February 2025.
    Chip Somodevilla/Gety Images

    1. When a president fired half of the civil service

    Before Trump was elected to a second term in November 2024, he promised he would fire as many as 50,000 civil servants and replace them with people loyal to him.

    Nearly 200 years before that, President Andrew Jackson took office in 1828 and promptly fired about half of the government’s civil service. He replaced these employees with political loyalists. This shift became known as the spoils system.

    “The result was not only an utterly incompetent administration, but widespread corruption,” write Sidney Shapiro, a professor of law at Wake Forest University, and Joseph P. Tomain, a professor of law at the University of Cincinnati.

    Samuel Swartwout, for example, was a Jackson former Army friend whom he selected to serve as collector of customs in New York. The job was well paid and prestigious, and “involved collecting taxes and fees on imported goods that arrived in the nation’s busiest port.”

    “But a congressional investigation showed that Swartwout had stolen a little more than US$1.2 million during his tenure, or about $40 million in today’s dollars,” Shapiro and Tomain write.

    Jackson also found that he could not legally influence hiring at all federal agencies, including the U.S. Post Office, and easily place his own high-level appointees there.

    Today, some federal workers, including U.S. Border Patrol agents, would be exempt from Trump’s reclassification plans.



    Read more:
    Donald Trump wants to reinstate a spoils system in federal government by hiring political loyalists regardless of competence

    An 1830 political cartoon by Thomas Nast about civil service reform shows five people bowing down at a statue of Andrew Jackson.
    Fotosearch/Getty Images

    2. Federal workers have protections against partisan attacks

    Federal workers have had federal legal protections for their hiring and firing in place since the 1880s. This has helped federal employees thwart moves by presidents like Jackson aiming to “control a lot of workers who would serve the president,” and not the American people, according to James L. Perry, a scholar of public affairs at Indiana University, Bloomington.

    The 1883 Pendleton Act ensures that “government workers are hired based on their skills and abilities, not their political views,” Perry says. Congress updated this law in 1978 with the Civil Service Reform Act, which provides additional “protections for workers against being fired for political reasons.”

    “Those rules cover about 99% of staff in the federal civil service. Currently, there are just about 4,000 political appointees,” Perry told Jeff Inglis, an editor at The Conversation U.S., in February 2025.

    Perry points out that the Trump administration’s proposed restructuring would also likely be unpopular among Americans. As many as 87% of Americans have said they want a merit-based, politically neutral civil services, according to Perry



    Read more:
    Trump’s moves to strip employment protections from federal workers threaten to make government function worse – not better

    .

    3. A precarious moral and ethical tightrope

    Leading into Trump’s second term, federal government workers were advised by colleagues to “stay calm and keep their heads down,” and draw minimal attention to their work. This includes not directly using terms like climate change and human rights, which they correctly thought the administration would target, according to Jaime L. Kucinskas, a sociologist at Hamilton College.

    There were some unknowns about how Trump’s second administration would act. But many civil servants also likely understood that “this pressure is real” under the new administration and could affect their day-to-day work, Kucinskas writes.

    Kucinskas interviewed 66 career civil servants from 2017 through 2020. A number of these workers told Kucinskas that working under the first Trump administration caused their mental health and morale to decline. The experience also worsened their productivity and innovation at work.

    “Among a sizable proportion of the people I spoke with, the pressures at work became too much; about a quarter of those I spoke with quit during the first Trump administration,” Kucinskas wrote in January 2025.

    Some civil servants chose to not speak openly about their work experiences with the first Trump administration, including mid-level civil service workers who watched as political appointees “fought over policy agendas levels above them,” according to Kucinskas. Other employees tried to simply keep their work moving, regardless of the politics at play.

    “Yet, even among those who felt most alone, I found they had many experiences in common with others who also felt isolated in trying to walk a precarious moral and ethical tightrope between their desire to faithfully serve the elected president – under chaotic leadership and insufficient and sometimes questionably legal guidance,” Kucinskas wrote, “and do quality work upholding the law and benefiting the nation and the American public



    Read more:
    Civil servants brace for a second Trump presidency

    .”

    This story is a roundup of articles from The Conversation’s archives.

    – ref. Trump is making it easier to fire federal workers, but they have some legal protections – 3 essential reads – https://theconversation.com/trump-is-making-it-easier-to-fire-federal-workers-but-they-have-some-legal-protections-3-essential-reads-256313

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Redfin and Magnite Join Forces to Give Advertisers Priority Access to Audience Targeting Across the Homebuying Journey

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Redfin (NASDAQ: RDFN), the technology-powered real estate brokerage, has selected Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the largest independent sell-side advertising company, as its preferred SSP to power data-driven deals. Leveraging Magnite’s programmatic technology, Redfin can connect advertisers with exclusive real estate audiences at key moments in their home-buying journey.

    Redfin Media uniquely connects brands with 46 million upwardly mobile customers at each stage of their buying journey. With a vast network including Redfin, Rent.com, ApartmentGuide.com and WalkScore.com, the partnership delivers national scale and hyper-local targeting in a brand safe environment. Using sophisticated intent signals, Redfin uniquely knows when people move, where they are going, and what type of home they are looking for, enabling marketers to reach high-value, hard-to-reach customers.

    “As we build Redfin’s Commerce Media Network, we’re partnering with leading brands and platforms to connect high-intent homebuyers and movers with the right products and services at pivotal moments in their journey—creating meaningful value for both advertisers and consumers,” said Conny Mirza, General Manager of Digital Ads and Partnerships at Redfin.

    “Our collaboration with Magnite gives us the tools to package and activate that opportunity through scalable, transparent programmatic solutions,” said Amit Grover, Head of Programmatic Partnerships at Redfin.

    “Redfin is a trusted source for millions of homebuyers and renters and their insights provide advertisers with a unique opportunity to reach consumers at key decision-making moments,” said Ashley Wheeler, SVP, DV+ Platform at Magnite. “We’re excited to work closely with the Redfin team to enrich their omnichannel inventory and create more impactful advertising experiences.”

    About Magnite

    We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, colorful Singapore, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.

    About Redfin

    Redfin (www.redfin.com) is a technology-powered real estate company. We help people find a place to live with brokerage, rentals, lending, and title insurance services. We run the country’s #1 real estate brokerage site. Our customers can save thousands in fees while working with a top agent. Our home-buying customers see homes first with on-demand tours, and our lending and title services help them close quickly. Our rentals business empowers millions nationwide to find apartments and houses for rent. Since launching in 2006, we’ve saved customers more than $1.8 billion in commissions. We serve approximately 100 markets across the U.S. and Canada and employ over 4,000 people.

    Media Contact:

    Megan Hughes
    mhughes@magnite.com

    Investor Relations Contact:

    Nick Kormeluk
    nkormeluk@magnite.com
    949-500-0003

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Embrace the process: Master Sgt. Preston Lewis Reflects on service, leadership, legacy at African Lion 2025

    Source: United States Army

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), poses for a picture during African Lion 2025 (AL25) at Agadir, Morocco on May 8, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Back to

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)

    AGADIR, Morocco – On the surface, U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis’s role in African Lion 2025 (AL25) might seem procedural—coordinating accountability, awards and human resource (HR) operations across four countries, including 50 multinational partner nations. But behind the spreadsheets, manifests and morning reports is a leader nearing the end of a 20-year journey through some of the most defining environments in the modern U.S. Army.

    For Lewis, currently serving as the Plans, Operations and Personnel Accountability (G1) noncommissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), AL25 has been both a capstone assignment and a full-circle reflection of what service means.

    “I was assigned to assist in human resource operations, particularly personnel accountability for the entire area of responsibility,” Lewis said. “This is my first time supporting African Lion, and it’s been a great experience—setting the HR conditions and procedures across all spokes of the exercise.”

    A global career, rooted in purpose

    Lewis enlisted from Akron, Ohio, in 2005, beginning a career that would span the globe and multiple operational domains. From fueling helicopters in Korea, to serving as a gunner in Iraq, an inspector general at Fort Knox, and now a senior HR planner in Italy—his breadth of assignments reflects a generation of service shaped by war, reform and transformation.

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), poses for a photo during African Lion 2025 (AL25) at Agadir, Morocco, May 8, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “I’ve been fortunate to serve all over the world,” Lewis said. “I’ve deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan, and Atlantic Resolve-Poland. I’ve served as a fueler, a drill sergeant and now as an HR professional. It’s been a journey.”

    He joined SETAF-AF in April 2023 after serving as an inspector general with U.S. Army Cadet Command, then quickly integrated into one of the most operationally agile staff directorates in the theater. At AL25, his work enabled the personnel functions that make a 10,000-troop, 50-nation exercise succeed: accountability, essential personnel services and award recognition planning.

    “Success for the G1 team during AL25 is 100% accountability, timely and accurate HR support and appropriate awards recognition,” he said. “And that’s a team effort—from my leadership to our junior NCOs [noncommissioned officers].”

    Interoperability through friction

    In a joint and multinational environment, personnel accountability is not just a checklist; it is a dynamic, evolving challenge. Working alongside units like the 646th Regional Support Group, U.S. Army Reserve unit under the 103rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, and coordinating across language and procedural barriers, Lewis and his team had to balance doctrinal processes with real-world adaptability.

    “Interoperability is a daily goal, but the friction it creates is also where the most meaningful growth happens,” he said. “It forces you to communicate better, plan tighter and adjust faster.”

    He credited U.S. Army Lt. Col. Bridgette Bell, G1 division chief, SETAF-AF, and Staff Sgt. Alessandra Johnson, an HR operations NCO with the same unit, for creating an environment where clarity and initiative are standard.

    Leadership, legacy and the long view

    For Lewis, who will soon transition to serve as the brigade human resources NCOIC for the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade, the pace has not slowed. But he is increasingly aware of his next chapter, especially as he watches his son, a newly minted geospatial engineer, begin his own Army career.

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, right, stands proudly beside his son, Pfc.Tristin D. Griffin, following Griffin’s Advanced Individual Training graduation at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, April 16, 2025. The moment marked a generational milestone as one Soldier nears the end of a 20-year career, and another begins his own journey in uniform. The image accompanies Lewis’ African Lion 2025 (AL25) feature story on leadership, legacy and service. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (Courtesy photo) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “My son just graduated AIT [advanced individual training] and wants to become a warrant officer,” he shared proudly. “At the same time, my daughter was inducted into the National Honor Society at Vicenza High School. Seeing them grow reminds me that I’m at the point where legacy matters.”

    That legacy is shared closely with his wife, Teresha, who also serves in the SETAF-AF community as a human resources specialist, Civilian Personnel Division. Together, they have raised a family and built a life anchored in purpose, service and resilience.

    “Preston is the kind of leader who shows up for his people, even when no one’s watching.” said Teresha. “He’s devoted to his team, to our family, and to building something that lasts beyond the uniform.”

    To those who wear a military uniform, including his children, he gives the following advice.

    “Embrace the process. We live in a world of instant gratification, but the journey is the gift,” he said. “The most valuable lessons I’ve learned have come through struggle, reflection and the grind.”

    About SETAF-AF

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

    Follow SETAF-AF on:

    Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Toppenish Man Pleads Guilty to Assault and Firearm Charges for Shooting at Law Enforcement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Leland James Vijarro, age 26, of Toppenish, Washington, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington to assault and firearm charges for shooting at federal officers.

    Based on court documents and information presented at the change-of-plea hearing, at around 9 p.m. on February 10, 2024, law enforcement in Toppenish, Washington, responded to reports that two vehicles were chasing one another.  According to these reports, the vehicles’ occupants were firing gunshots at one another

    When officers responded to the scene and stopped one of the vehicles involved, Vijarro, who was a passenger in the vehicle, got out and ran from the scene, armed with a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition. Vijarro then fled into a nearby home in attempt to hide from law enforcement. At this point, law enforcement set up a permitter around the home where Vijarro was apparently hiding.

    Just before 11p.m., Vijarro walked into the backyard of the home and fired three shots at law enforcement. Vijarro then stood on top a pallet in the backyard, took up a shooting stance while aiming at law enforcement, and fired two more shots. Two Yakima County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were hit by bullets fired by Vijarro.

    Vijarro eventually surrendered to law enforcement after breaking into a home next door and barricading himself inside. These events, including the shots fired at law enforcement, occurred on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation. Mr. Vijarro is not an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation.

    At the change-of-plea hearing, Vijarro admitted that he intentionally fired at law enforcement officers, who had set up a perimeter around the home he had barricaded himself in.

    “Firing at law enforcement officers is an intolerable act of violence that puts lives at risk and undermines public safety,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. Mr. Vijarro’s reckless and dangerous actions could have resulted in tragedy. I commend the officers involved for their professionalism and restraint.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to hold violent offenders accountable and protect our communities.”

    “During Police Week, we are especially reminded of how law enforcement place themselves daily in harm’s way to protect us. FBI Seattle and our partners are committed to combatting violent crime to keep our communities safe, including on tribal lands,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “From the vehicle chase to the hiding in houses, so many parts of this scenario were dangerous and could have resulted in far worse results than the damaged sheriff’s office vehicles. We are thankful no one was injured by Mr. Vijarro’s actions.”

    United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Vijarro’s plea and set sentencing for August 11, 2025. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.

    1:24-cr-02055-MKD

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wolf Point man pleads guilty to multiple assault charges on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point man accused of assaulting two individuals on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Philip Ray Azure, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon related to two separate incidents. Azure faces a term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for September 24, 2025. Azure was detained pending further proceedings.

    The first incident occurred on March 16, 2023, when Azure went to John Doe’s residence in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Azure and John Doe were friends and were drinking alcohol together. Azure became intoxicated and was asked to leave for being too loud. A family member of Doe’s, who also lives in the home, started to walk Azure out. As he was leaving, he struck the family member. John Doe confronted Azure about hitting his family member. Azure pulled out a knife and stabbed Doe in the chest and then turned and walked away without saying anything.

    Doe was rushed to the hospital for treatment of his serious injuries. The stab wound pierced his lung, causing a partial collapse that caused blood, gas, and air to build in the space between his lungs and rib cage. Doe was airlifted to Billings for surgery. After surgery to repair his lung, Doe spent a week in the hospital before being discharged.

    The second incident happened on January 27, 2024. Azure and several friends, including two co-defendants, and the victim, John Doe 2, were in a yard in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, playing a game of “slap-boxing.” The fighting escalated and eventually the group separated. Azure and his co-defendants returned home, and John Doe 2 arrived a short time later asking for his phone. Azure and his co-defendants exited the home and confronted Doe 2 in the driveway.

    Several people witnessed the assault. One witness described seeing Azure and his co-defendants hitting John Doe 2 and saw someone using a bat and someone else using a hammer. A second witness saw Azure and his two co-defendants approach Doe 2 while he backed away and said all three “jumped” Doe 2. That witness saw Azure use a bat during the assault.

    Doe 2 died at the scene before law enforcement arrived. According to an autopsy, he died from blunt and sharp force injuries to the head and chest, including a stab wound to the chest that perforated Doe 2’s sternum, heart, and esophagus.

    Azure was arrested the day after the second assault. He initially claimed he wasn’t there when Doe 2 was assaulted. He later admitted he was involved but didn’t remember the details because he was intoxicated. He claimed Doe 2 had a big knife and he ultimately hit Doe 2 with a bat to stop him from using the knife. None of the other witnesses reported seeing Doe 2 with a knife.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and Wolf Point Police Department conducted the investigation.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Cabinet approves sixth semiconductor unit in Uttar Pradesh, boosting Atmanirbhar Bharat vision

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major boost to India’s semiconductor ambitions, the Union Cabinet, on Wednesday approved the setting up of a new semiconductor manufacturing unit in Uttar Pradesh. This will be the sixth facility under the India Semiconductor Mission, underscoring the nation’s drive towards self-reliance in this critical technology sector.

    The approved unit is a joint venture between HCL, a pioneer in hardware manufacturing, and global electronics giant Foxconn. The new plant will be located near Jewar Airport in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) region. Designed to manufacture display driver chips, the facility will cater to a wide range of devices including mobile phones, laptops, automobiles, PCs, and other electronics.

    With a production capacity of 20,000 wafers per month and an output target of chips 36 million (3.6 crore) monthly, the plant is expected to significantly enhance India’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The project will attract an investment of ₹3,700 crore.

    The announcement comes as India’s semiconductor landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Five semiconductor units are already in advanced stages of construction, and world-class design facilities have emerged across multiple states. Currently, 270 academic institutions and 70 startups are actively engaged in semiconductor design innovation, with 20 student-developed products having been taped out by the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Mohali.

  • Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to retain grade A+ contracts post retirement: BCCI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will continue to receive Grade A+ central contracts, despite retiring from T20 Internationals and Test cricket, star Indian batters, confirmed BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Wednesday. Both players remain key figures in Indian cricket and will enjoy all the benefits associated with the top-tier contract.

    In the 2024–25 player retainership list, Kohli and Rohit were placed in the elite A+ category alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.

    Virat Kohli played 123 Test matches and scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. In T20Is, he featured in 125 matches, scoring 4,188 runs at an average of 48.69, with one century to his name. He is also the leading run-scorer in T20 World Cup history with 1,292 runs.

    Rohit Sharma played 67 Test matches, amassing 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries. In T20Is, he played 151 matches and scored 4,231 runs at an average of 32.05. He holds the record for most centuries (5) in T20Is and retires as the format’s leading run-scorer.

    Their retirement from Tests and T20Is marks the end of an era, but their continued presence in the Grade A+ bracket signals their ongoing importance to Indian cricket, especially in ODIs and mentoring roles.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan and India expel each other’s diplomats

    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

    ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI, May 14 (Xinhua) — Pakistan and India on Tuesday announced the mutual expulsion of one diplomat each from the country, accusing the officials concerned of spying.

    Pakistan has declared an employee of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad persona non grata. The Foreign Ministry said the diplomat had been ordered to leave the country within 24 hours.

    The Indian Charge d’Affaires was summoned to the Pakistani Foreign Office, where he was handed an official note informing him of the decision, the ministry said. The Pakistani side also called on the Indian mission to ensure that its staff refrain from actions that are inconsistent with their diplomatic status.

    According to Indian media, the Indian government earlier said it had expelled an employee of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and also asked him to leave the country within 24 hours.

    The Pakistani diplomat, who was declared persona non grata by Indian authorities, was “engaged in activities inconsistent with his official status in India,” according to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Global-e Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH-TIKVA, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global-e Online Ltd. (Nasdaq: GLBE) the platform powering global direct-to-consumer e-commerce, today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2025.

    “We had another quarter of strong results, demonstrating our ability to grow fast even within macroeconomic turbulent times with Q1 results coming in at or above the midpoints across our guidance. While the market remains volatile with a higher level of uncertainty given the on-going global duty tariff dynamics, our pipeline is very active and we see increased interest in our services.”

    We are also excited about the long term extension of our strategic partnership agreement with Shopify, which will allow us to take this partnership to the next level,” said Amir Schlachet, Founder and CEO of Global-e.”

    Q1 2025 Financial Results

    • GMV1 in the first quarter of 2025 was $1,243 million, an increase of 34% year over year
    • Revenue in the first quarter of 2025 was $189.9 million, an increase of 30% year over year, of which service fees revenue was $84.0 million and fulfillment services revenue was $105.9 million
    • Non-GAAP gross profit2 in the first quarter of 2025 was $86.3 million, an increase of 31% year over year. GAAP gross profit in the first quarter of 2025 was $84.1 million
    • Non-GAAP gross margin2 in the first quarter of 2025 was 45.4%, compared to 45.3% in the first quarter of 2024. GAAP gross margin in the first quarter of 2025 was 44.3%
    • Adjusted EBITDA3 in the first quarter of 2025 was $31.6 million compared to $21.3 million in the first quarter of 2024
    • Net loss in the first quarter of 2025 was $17.9 million compared to $32.1 million in the first quarter of 2024

    Recent Business Highlights

    • Announced a new 3-year strategic partnership agreement with Shopify, renewing the companies’ long-standing relationship for both 1P (i.e. Shopify Managed Markets) and 3P solutions
    • Launched our 3B2C offering allowing merchants to partially mitigate unnecessary price hikes in key destination markets, while avoiding the costs and effort involved in creating a full multi-local setup for specific markets
    • Revamped our Merchant Portal, adding two important Self-Service BI tools for merchants – a real time sales dashboard and a funnel analysis dashboard, and providing easier access to frequently used areas
    • Continued growing with brands across geographies and verticals, including:
      • Europe: Launched Subdued out of Italy and VIBAe footwear, Global-e’s first large merchant based in Finland
      • Sports clubs: Launched with Atletico Madrid in Spain
      • APAC: Multiple merchant launches including Threetimes and Samo Ondoh in Korea, T2Tea and Scarlet & Sam in Australia, Bandai-Namco, United Arrows Tabaya and Sacai in Japan, and many more
      • Expanded with a number of merchants including the launch of Adidas Hong Kong

    Q2 2025 and Full Year Outlook

    Global-e is introducing second quarter guidance and is maintaining the full year guidance as follows:

    Q2 2025 and Full Year Outlook

    Global-e is introducing second quarter guidance and is maintaining the full year guidance as follows:

      Q2 2025   FY 2025   Previous FY 2025
    (in millions)
    GMV (1) $1,387 – $1,427   $6,190 – $6,490   $6,190 – $6,490
    Revenue $204 – $211   $917 – $967   $917 – $967
    Adjusted EBITDA (3) $35 – $39   $179 – $199   $179 – $199

    1 Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) is a key operating metric. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics” for additional information regarding this metric.

    2 Non-GAAP Gross profit and Non-GAAP gross margin are non-GAAP financial measures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics” for additional information regarding this metric.

    3 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional information regarding this metric, including the reconciliations to Operating Profit (Loss), its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. The Company is unable to provide a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Profit (Loss), its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable effort because items that impact this GAAP financial measure are not within the Company’s control and/or cannot be reasonably predicted. These items may include, but are not limited to, share-based compensation expenses. Such information may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable impact on the Company’s future financial results.

    Conference Call Information:

    Global-e will host a conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
    The call will be available, live, to interested parties by dialing:

    United States/Canada Toll Free: 1-800-717-1738
    International Toll: 1-646-307-1865
       

    A live webcast will also be available in the Investor Relations section of Global-E’s website at: https://investors.global-e.com/news-events/events-presentations

    Approximately two hours after completion of the live call, an archived version of the webcast will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s web site and will remain available for approximately 30 calendar days.

    The press release with the financial results will be accessible on the Company’s Investor Relations website prior to the conference call.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics

    To supplement Global-e’s financial information presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, or GAAP, Global-e considers certain financial measures and key performance metrics that are not prepared in accordance with GAAP including:

    • Non-GAAP gross profit, which Global-e defines as gross profit adjusted for amortization of acquired intangibles. Non-GAAP gross margin is calculated as Non-GAAP gross profit divided by revenues
    • Adjusted EBITDA, which Global-e defines as net profit (loss) adjusted for income tax (benefit) expenses, financial expenses (income) net, stock based compensation expenses, depreciation and amortization, commercial agreements amortization, amortization of acquired intangibles, merger related contingent consideration, and acquisition related expenses.
    • Free Cash Flow, which Global-e defines as net cash provided by operating activities less the purchase of property and equipment.

    Global-e also uses Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) as a key operating metric. Gross Merchandise Value or GMV is defined as the combined amount we collect from the shopper and the merchant for all components of a given transaction, including products, duties and taxes and shipping.

    The aforementioned key performance indicators and non-GAAP financial measures are used, in conjunction with GAAP measures, by management and our board of directors to assess our performance, including the preparation of Global-e’s annual operating budget and quarterly forecasts, for financial and operational decision-making, to evaluate the effectiveness of Global-e’s business strategies, and as a means to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. These measures are frequently used by analysts, investors and other interested parties to evaluate companies in our industry. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are appropriate measures of operating performance because they remove the impact of certain items that we believe do not directly reflect our core operations, and permit investors to view performance using the same tools that we use to budget, forecast, make operating and strategic decisions, and evaluate historical performance.

    Global-e’s definition of Non-GAAP measures may differ from the definition used by other companies and therefore comparability may be limited. In addition, other companies may not publish these metrics or similar metrics. Furthermore, these metrics have certain limitations in that they do not include the impact of certain expenses that are reflected in our consolidated statement of operations that are necessary to run our business. Thus, Non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as substitutes for, or in isolation from, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the reconciliation tables provided below. The accompanying reconciliation tables have more details on the GAAP financial measures that are most directly comparable to non-GAAP financial measures and the related reconciliations between these financial measures.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains estimates and forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future strategy and projected revenue, GMV, Adjusted EBITDA and other future financial and operational results, growth strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, including, among others, expansion in new and existing markets, the launch of large enterprise merchants, and our ongoing partnership with Shopify, are forward-looking statements. As the words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Global-e believes there is a reasonable basis for its expectations and beliefs, but they are inherently uncertain. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this announcement, including but not limited to, our rapid growth and growth rates in recent periods may not be indicative of future growth; our ability to retain existing merchants and to attract new merchants; our ability to anticipate merchant needs or develop or integrate new functionality or enhance our existing platforms to meet those needs; the impact of imposed tariffs or other trade regulations on our business and financial results; our ability to implement and use artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies successfully; our ability to compete in our industry; our reliance on third-parties, including our ability to realize the benefits of any strategic alliances, joint ventures, or partnership arrangements and to integrate our platforms with third-party platforms; our ability to adapt our platform and services for the Shopify platforms; our ability to develop or maintain the functionality of our platforms, including real or perceived errors, failures, vulnerabilities, or bugs in our platforms; our history of net losses; our ability to manage our growth and manage expansion into additional markets and the introduction of new platforms and offerings; our ability to accommodate increased volumes during peak seasons and events; our ability to effectively expand our marketing and sales capabilities; our expectations regarding our revenue, expenses and operations; our ability to operate internationally; our reliance on third-party services, including third-party providers of cross-docking services and third-party data centers, in our platforms and services and harm to our reputation by our merchants’ or third-party service providers’ unethical business practices; our operation as a merchant of record for sales conducted using our platform; regulatory requirements and additional fees related to payment transactions through our e-commerce platforms could be costly and difficult to comply with; compliance and third-party risks related to anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, anti-bribery, regulations, economic sanctions and export control laws and import regulations and restrictions; our business’s reliance on the personal importation model; our ability to securely store personal information of merchants and shoppers; increases in shipping rates; fluctuations in the exchange rate of foreign currencies has impacted and could continue to impact our results of operations; our ability to offer high quality support; our ability to expand the number of merchants using our platforms and increase our GMV and to enhance our reputation and awareness of our platforms; our ability to adapt to emerging or evolving regulatory developments, changing laws, regulations, standards and technological changes related to privacy, data protection, data security and machine learning technology and generative artificial intelligence evolves; our role in the fulfilment chain of the merchants, which may cause third parties to confuse us with the merchants; our ability to establish and protect intellectual property rights; and our use of open-source software which may pose particular risks to our proprietary software technologies; our dependency on our executive officers and other key employees and our ability to hire and retain skilled key personnel, including our ability to enforce non-compete agreements we enter into with our employees; litigation for a variety of claims which we may be subject to; the adoption by merchants of a D2C model; our anticipated cash needs and our estimates regarding our capital requirements and our needs for additional financing; our ability to maintain our corporate culture; our ability to maintain an effective system of disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting; our ability to accurately estimate judgments relating to our critical accounting policies; changes in tax laws or regulations to which we are subject, including the enactment of legislation implementing changes in taxation of international business activities and the adoption of other corporate tax reform policies; requirements to collect sales or other taxes relating to the use of our platforms and services in jurisdictions where we have not historically done so; global events or conditions in individual markets such as financial and credit market fluctuations, war, climate change, and macroeconomic events; risks relating to our ordinary shares, including our share price, the concentration of our share ownership with insiders, our status as a foreign private issuer, provisions of Israeli law and our amended and restated articles of association and actions of activist shareholders; risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel, including risks related to the ongoing war and related hostilities; and the other risks and uncertainties described in Global-e’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2025 and other documents filed with or furnished by Global-e from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements.

    About Global-E Online Ltd.

    Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) is the world’s leading platform enabling and accelerating global, Direct-To-Consumer e-commerce. The chosen partner of over 1,400 brands and retailers across the North America, EMEA and APAC, Global-e makes selling internationally as simple as selling domestically. The company enables merchants to increase the conversion of international traffic into sales by offering online shoppers in over 200 destinations worldwide a seamless, localized shopping experience. Global-e’s end-to-end e-commerce solutions combine best-in-class localization capabilities, big-data best-practice business intelligence models, streamlined international logistics and vast global e-commerce experience, enabling international shoppers to buy seamlessly online and retailers to sell to, and from, anywhere in the world. For more information, please visit: www.global-e.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Alan Katz
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    IR@global-e.com

    Press Contact:
    Sarah Schloss
    Headline Media
    Globale@headline.media 
    +1 786-233-7684

    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
     
        Period Ended
         December 31,     March 31, 
         2024     2025 
          (Audited)        (Unaudited)  
    Assets                
    Current assets:                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 254,620     $ 207,716  
    Short-term deposits     183,475       183,229  
    Accounts receivable, net     41,171       34,700  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     84,613       116,967  
    Marketable securities     36,345       53,888  
    Funds receivable, including cash in banks     122,984       87,484  
    Total current assets     723,208       683,984  
    Property and equipment, net     10,440       10,453  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     24,429       23,365  
    Deferred contract acquisition and fulfillment costs, noncurrent     3,787       3,836  
    Long-term investments and other long-term assets     8,313       8,213  
    Commercial agreement asset     66,527        29,510  
    Goodwill     367,566        367,566  
    Intangible assets, net     59,212        54,810  
    Total long-term assets     540,274       497,753  
    Total assets   $ 1,263,482     $ 1,181,737  
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                
    Current liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 79,559     $ 67,184  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     141,551       117,852  
    Funds payable to Customers     122,984       87,484  
    Short term operating lease liabilities     4,347       4,366  
    Total current liabilities     348,441       276,886  
    Long-term liabilities:                
    Long term operating lease liabilities     20,510       19,508  
    Other long-term liabilities     1,098       1,088  
    Total liabilities   $ 370,049     $ 297,482  
                     
    Shareholders’ equity:                
    Share capital and additional paid-in capital     1,425,317       1,434,341  
    Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)     515       169  
    Accumulated deficit     (532,399 )     (550,255 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     893,433       884,255  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,263,482     $ 1,181,737  
                     
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (In thousands, except share and per share data)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024     2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Revenue   $ 145,873     $ 189,882  
    Cost of revenue     82,587       105,798  
    Gross profit     63,286       84,084  
                     
    Operating expenses:                
    Research and development     23,538       28,138  
    Sales and marketing     56,955       63,938  
    General and administrative     12,054       11,193  
    Total operating expenses     92,547       103,269  
    Operating profit (loss)     (29,261 )     (19,185 )
    Financial expenses (income), net     3,510       (1,870 )
    Loss before income taxes     (32,771 )     (17,315 )
    Income taxes     (720 )     541  
    Net earnings (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders   $ (32,051 )   $ (17,856 )
    Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders   $ (0.19 )     (0.11 )
    Basic and diluted weighted average ordinary shares     166,187,424       169,346,771  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024   2025
        (Unaudited)  
    Operating activities                
    Net loss   $ (32,051 )   $ (17,856 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:                
    Depreciation and amortization     512       536  
    Share-based compensation expense     8,711       8,793  
    Commercial agreement asset amortization     36,296       37,017  
    Intangible assets amortization     5,002       4,402  
    Changes in accrued interest and exchange rate on short-term deposits     369       (842 )
    Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign currency     2,726       (1,477 )
    Accounts receivable     8,418       6,471  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     2,685       (28,405 )
    Funds receivable     (7,688 )     (9,182 )
    Long-term receivables     708       101  
    Funds payable to customers     (30,857 )     (35,500 )
    Operating lease ROU assets     817       1,064  
    Deferred contract acquisition and fulfillment costs     (268 )     (101 )
    Accounts payable     (17,049 )     (12,375 )
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     (30,228 )     (23,710 )
    Deferred tax liabilities     (1,424 )     –  
    Operating lease liabilities     (944 )     (983 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (54,265 )     (72,047 )
    Investing activities                
    Investment in marketable securities     (1,042 )     (17,768 )
    Proceeds from marketable securities     1,012       999  
    Investment in short-term investments and deposits     (56,949 )     (70,972 )
    Proceeds from short-term investments     58,000       67,059  
    Investment in long-term deposits     (31 )     –  
    Purchases of property and equipment     (882 )     (548 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities     108       (21,230 )
    Financing activities                
    Proceeds from exercise of share options     120       210  
    Net cash provided by financing activities     120       210  
    Exchange rate differences on balances of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash     (2,726 )     1,477  
    Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash     (56,763 )     (91,590 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash—beginning of period     268,597       331,682  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash—end of period   $ 211,834     $ 240,092  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    SELECTED OTHER DATA
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024
    		   2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Key performance metrics      
    Gross Merchandise Value     929,510               1,242,514            
    Adjusted EBITDA (a)     21,260               31,563            
                                       
    Revenue by Category                                  
    Service fees     68,258       47 %     83,983       44 %  
    Fulfillment services     77,615       53 %     105,899       56 %  
    Total revenue   $ 145,873       100 %   $ 189,882       100 %  
                                       
    Revenue by merchant outbound region                                  
    United States     72,112       49 %     100,554       53 %  
    United Kingdom     41,276       28 %     41,747       22 %  
    European Union     26,343       18 %     33,530       18 %  
    Israel     316       0 %     401       0 %  
    Other     5,826       4 %     13,650       7 %  
    Total revenue   $ 145,873       100 %   $ 189,882       100 %  

    (a) See reconciliation to adjusted EBITDA table

    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO Non-GAAP GROSS PROFIT
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
          2024       2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Gross profit     63,286       84,084  
                     
    Amortization of acquired intangibles included in cost of revenue     2,796       2,198  
    Non-GAAP gross profit     66,082       86,282  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO ADJUSTED EBITDA
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024
    		   2025
        (Unaudited)  
    Net profit (loss)     (32,051 )     (17,856 )
    Income tax (benefit) expenses     (720 )     541  
    Financial expenses (income), net     3,510       (1,870 )
    Stock-based compensation:                
    Cost of revenue     180       267  
    Research and development     3,468       3,625  
    Selling and marketing     1,282       1,438  
    General and administrative     3,781       3,463  
    Total stock-based compensation     8,711       8,793  
                     
    Depreciation and amortization     512       536  
                     
    Commercial agreement asset amortization     36,296       37,017  
                     
    Amortization of acquired intangibles     5,002       4,402  
    Adjusted EBITDA     21,260       31,563  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO Free Cash Flow
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
          2024       2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (54,265 )     (72,047 )
    Purchase of property and equipment     (882 )     (548 )
    Free Cash Flow     (55,147 )     (72,595 )

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor Reports 2025 First Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    9% year-over-year revenue growth

    Affirms sequential quarterly revenue growth target throughout 2025

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM) reports today its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter of 2025 Results Overview
    Revenues for the first quarter of 2025 were $358 million as compared to $327 million for the first quarter of 2024, representing 9% year-over-year revenue growth.

    Gross profit and operating profit for the first quarter of 2025 were $73 million and $33 million, respectively, as compared to gross profit and operating profit of $73 million and $34 million in the first quarter of 2024, respectively. Gross and operating profits remain similar since the positive impact of the $31 million revenue increase was offset by the fixed costs of the new 300mm Agrate facility, as previously disclosed.

    Net profit for the first quarter of 2025 was $40 million, reflecting $0.36 basic and $0.35 diluted earnings per share. First quarter of 2024 net profit was $45 million, reflecting $0.40 basic and diluted earnings per share, having been positively impacted by a non-recurring income tax benefit.

    Cash flow generated from operating activities in the first quarter of 2025 was $94 million. Investments in property and equipment, net, were $111 million and debt payments totaled $27 million.

    Corporate Credit Rating 
    On May 7, 2025, Standard & Poor’s Maalot (an S&P Global Ratings fully owned company) completed its annual rating review for the Company and reaffirmed its corporate credit rating as “ilAA, with a stable outlook”.

    Business Outlook
    Tower Semiconductor guides revenues for the second quarter of 2025 to be $372 million, with an upward or downward range of 5%, reflecting 6% year-over-year revenue increase; and reiterates its previously communicated company target for continued quarter-over-quarter revenue growth within 2025.

    Russell Ellwanger, Chief Executive Officer of Tower Semiconductor, stated:
    “Tower delivered continued record revenue in RF infrastructure, which includes SiPho and SiGe. We target further revenue growth of these technologies throughout the year, increases in our high voltage 200mm power management business and higher revenue levels in our sensors business. Additionally, we have entered a new served market for Tower, namely envelope trackers, using our 300mm technology platform. In the face of geo-political uncertainties, we are leveraging Tower’s global scale and technology breadth into new opportunities.”

    Teleconference and Webcast
    Tower Semiconductor will host an investor conference call today, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern time (9:00 a.m. Central time, 8:00 a.m. Mountain time, 7:00 a.m. Pacific time and 5:00 p.m. Israel time) to discuss the Company’s financial results for the first quarter of 2025 and its business outlook.

    The call will be webcast and available through the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at ir.towersemi.com. The pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is accessible here. Upon completing the registration, participants will receive the dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. To access the webcast, click here. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    The Company presents its financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The financial information included in the tables below includes unaudited condensed financial data. Some of the financial information, which may be used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, which we may describe as adjusted financial measures and/or reconciled financial measures, are non-GAAP financial measures as defined in Regulation G and related reporting requirements promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as they apply to our Company. These adjusted financial measures are calculated excluding the following: (i) amortization of acquired intangible assets as included in our costs and expenses, (ii) compensation expenses in respect of equity grants to directors, officers, and employees as included in our costs and expenses, (iii) merger contract termination fees received from Intel, net of associated cost and taxes following the previously announced Intel contract termination as included in net profit in 2023 and (iv) restructuring income, net, which includes income, net of cost and taxes associated with the reorganization and restructure of our operations in Japan including the cessation of operations of the Arai facility, which occurred during 2022, as included in net profit. These adjusted financial measures should be evaluated in conjunction with, and are not a substitute for, GAAP financial measures. The tables also present the GAAP financial measures, which are most comparable to the adjusted financial measures used and/or presented in this release, as well as a reconciliation between the adjusted financial measures and the comparable GAAP financial measures. As used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, as well as may be included and calculated in the tables herein, the term Earnings Before Interest Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization which we define as EBITDA consists of operating profit in accordance with GAAP, excluding (i) depreciation expenses, which include depreciation recorded in cost of revenues and in operating cost and expenses lines (e.g., research and development related equipment and/or fixed other assets depreciation), (ii) stock-based compensation expense, (iii) amortization of acquired intangible assets, (iv) merger contract termination fees received from Intel, net of associated cost following the previously announced Intel contract termination, as included in operating profit and (v) restructuring income, net in relation to the reorganization and restructure of our operations in Japan including the cessation of operations of the Arai facility, as included in operating profit. EBITDA is reconciled in the tables below and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company from GAAP operating profit. EBITDA and the adjusted financial information presented herein and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, are not a required GAAP financial measure and may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies. EBITDA and the adjusted financial information presented herein and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The term Net Cash, as may be used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, is comprised of cash, cash equivalents, short-term deposits, and marketable securities less debt amounts as presented in the balance sheets included herein. The term Net Cash is not a required GAAP financial measure, may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for cash, debt, operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The term Free Cash Flow, as used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, is calculated to be net cash provided by operating activities (in the amounts of $94 million, $101 million and $110 million for the three months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively (less cash used for investments in property and equipment, net (in the amounts of $111 million, $93 million and $98 million for the three months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively). The term Free Cash Flow is not a required GAAP financial measure, may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing, and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    About Tower Semiconductor 
    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiPho, SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    CONTACT:
    Liat Avraham | Investor Relations | +972-4-6506154 | liatavra@towersemi.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This release, as well as other statements and reports filed, stated and published in relation to this quarter’s results, include certain “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, among others, projections and statements with respect to our future business, financial performance and activities. The use of words such as “projects”, “expects”, “may”, “targets”, “plans”, “intends”, “committed to”, “tracking”, or words of similar import, identifies a statement as “forward-looking.” Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements and you should not place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which describe information known to us only as of the date of this release. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with: (i) demand in our customers’ end markets, (ii) reliance on acquisitions and/or gaining additional capacity for growth, (iii) difficulties in achieving acceptable operational metrics and indices in the future as a result of operational, technological or process-related problems, (iv) identifying and negotiating with third-party buyers for the sale of any excess and/or unused equipment, inventory and/or other assets, (v) maintaining current key customers and attracting new key customers, (vi) over demand for our foundry services resulting in high utilization and its effect on cycle time, yield and on schedule delivery, as well as customers potentially being placed on allocation, which may cause customers to transfer their business to other vendors, (vii) financial results that may fluctuate from quarter to quarter, making it difficult to forecast future performance, (viii) our debt and other liabilities that may impact our financial position and operations, (ix) our ability to successfully execute acquisitions, integrate them into our business, utilize our expanded capacity and find new business, (x) fluctuations in cash flow, (xi) our ability to satisfy the covenants stipulated in our agreements with our debt holders, (xii) pending litigation, (xiii) meeting the conditions set in approval certificates and other regulations under which we received grants and/or royalties and/or any type of funding from the Israeli, US and/or Japan governmental agencies, (xiv) receipt of orders that are lower than the customer purchase commitments and/or failure to receive customer orders currently expected, (xv) possible incurrence of additional indebtedness, (xvi) the effects of global recession, credit crisis and/or unfavorable macro-economic conditions, such as the imposition of regulatory requirements, tariffs, import and export restrictions and other trade barriers and restrictions, including the timing and availability of export licenses and permits, (xvii) our ability to accurately forecast financial performance, which is affected by limited order backlog and lengthy sales cycles, (xviii) possible situations of obsolete inventory if forecasted demand exceeds actual demand when we create inventory before receipt of customer orders, (xix) the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry and the resulting periodic overcapacity, fluctuations in operating results and future average selling price erosion, (xx) financing capacity acquisition related transactions, strategic and/or other growth or M&A opportunities, including funding Agrate fab’s significant 300mm capacity investments and acquisition or funding of equipment and other fixed assets associated with the capacity corridor transaction with Intel as announced in September 2023, in addition to other capacity and capability expansion plans, such as announced for SiPho and SiGe, and the possible unavailability of such financing and/or the availability of such financing on unfavorable terms, (xxi) operating our facilities at sufficient utilization rates necessary to generate and maintain positive and sustainable gross, operating and net profit, (xxii) the purchase of equipment and/or raw material (including purchases beyond our needs), the timely completion of the equipment installation, technology transfer and raising the funds therefor, (xxiii) product returns and defective products, (xxiv) our ability to maintain and develop our technology processes and services to keep pace with new technology, including artificial intelligence, evolving standards, changing customer and end-user requirements, new product introductions and short product life cycles, (xxv) competing effectively, (xxvi) the use of outsourced foundry services by both fabless semiconductor companies and integrated device manufacturers, (xxvii) our dependence on intellectual property rights of others, our ability to operate our business without infringing others’ intellectual property rights and our ability to enforce our intellectual property against infringement, (xxviii) the Fab 3 landlord’s alleged claims that the noise abatement efforts made thus far are not adequate under the terms of the amended lease due to which he requested a judicial declaration that there was a material non-curable breach of the lease and that he would be entitled to terminate the lease, as well as uncertainties associated with the ability to extend such lease or acquire the real estate and obtain the required local, state and/or other approvals required to be able to continue operations beyond the current lease term, (xxix) retention of key employees and recruitment and retention of skilled qualified personnel, (xxx) exposure to inflation, currency rates (mainly the Israeli Shekel, the Japanese Yen and the Euro) and interest rate fluctuations and risks associated with doing business locally and internationally, as well as fluctuations in the market price of our traded securities, (xxxi) meeting regulatory requirements worldwide, including export, environmental and governmental regulations, as well as risks related to international operations, (xxxii) potential engagement for fab establishment, joint venture and/or capital lease transactions for capacity enhancement in advanced technologies, including risks and uncertainties associated with the Agrate fab and the capacity corridor transaction with Intel as announced in September 2023, such as their qualification schedule, technology, equipment and process qualification, facility operational ramp-up, customer engagements, cost structure, required investments and other terms, which may require additional funding to cover their significant capacity investment needs and other payments, the availability of which funding cannot be assured on favorable terms, if at all, (xxxiii) potential liabilities, cost and other impact due to reorganization and consolidation of fabrication facilities, or cessation of operations, including with regard to our 6 inch facility, (xxxiv) potential security, cyber and privacy breaches, (xxxv) workforce that is not unionized which may become unionized, and/or workforce that is unionized and may take action such as strikes that may create increased cost and operational risks, (xxxvi) the issuance of ordinary shares as a result of exercise and/or vesting of any of our employee equity, as well as any sale of shares by any of our shareholders, or any market expectation thereof, as well as the issuance of additional employee stock options and/or restricted stock units, or any market expectation thereof, which may depress the market value of the Company and the price of the Company’s ordinary shares, and in addition may impair our ability to raise future capital, and (xxxvii) climate change, business interruptions due to floods, fires, pandemics, earthquakes and other natural disasters, the security situation in Israel, global trade “war” and the current war in Israel, including the potential inability to continue uninterrupted operations of the Israeli fab, impact on global supply chain to and from the Israeli fab, power interruptions, chemicals or other leaks or damages as a result of the war, absence of workforce due to military service as well as risk that certain countries will restrict doing business with Israeli companies, including imposing restrictions if hostilities in Israel or political instability in the region continue or exacerbate, and other events beyond our control. With respect to the current war in Israel, if instability in neighboring states occurs, Israel could be subject to additional political, economic, and military confines, and our Israeli facility’s operations could be materially adversely affected. Any current or future hostilities involving Israel or the interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners, or a significant downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

    A more complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this release or which may otherwise affect our business is included under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F and 6-K, as were filed with the SEC and the Israel Securities Authority. Future results may differ materially from those previously reported. The Company does not intend to update, and expressly disclaims any obligation to update, the information contained in this release.

    (Financial tables follow)

       
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES  
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)  
    (dollars in thousands)  
      March 31,   December 31,  
      2025   2024  
    ASSETS        
    CURRENT ASSETS        
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 274,818   $ 271,894  
    Short-term deposits 906,446   946,351  
    Trade accounts receivable 219,496   211,932  
    Inventories 276,072   268,295  
    Other current assets 51,429   61,817  
    Total current assets 1,728,261   1,760,289  
    PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 1,346,213   1,286,622  
    OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS, NET 34,131   33,574  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 3,108,605   $ 3,080,485  
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
    CURRENT LIABILITIES        
    Short-term debt $ 27,490   $ 48,376  
    Trade accounts payable 118,318   130,624  
    Deferred revenues and customers’ advances 17,233   21,655  
    Other current liabilities 86,421   84,409  
    Total current liabilities 249,462   285,064  
    LONG-TERM DEBT 134,835   132,437  
    OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 22,293   22,804  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 406,590   440,305  
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 2,702,015   2,640,180  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 3,108,605   $ 3,080,485  
             
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars and share count in thousands, except per share data)
      Three months ended
      March 31,
    		   December 31,
    		   March 31,
      2025
    		   2024
    		   2024
    REVENUES $ 358,170     $ 387,191     $ 327,238  
    COST OF REVENUES 284,999     300,338     254,632  
    GROSS PROFIT 73,171     86,853     72,606  
    OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES:                
    Research and development 20,172     20,622     19,951  
    Marketing, general and administrative 20,101     19,812     18,670  
      40,273     40,434     38,621  
                     
    OPERATING PROFIT 32,898     46,419     33,985  
    FINANCING AND OTHER INCOME, NET 10,598     8,315     3,984  
    PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAX 43,496     54,734     37,969  
    INCOME TAX BENEFIT (EXPENSE), NET   (3,779 )     (2,149 )   5,078  
    NET PROFIT 39,717     52,585     43,047  
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest 425     2,553     1,587  
    NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 40,142     $ 55,138     $ 44,634  
    BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE $ 0.36     $ 0.49     $ 0.40  
    Weighted average number of shares 111,575     111,493     110,840  
    DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE $ 0.35     $ 0.49     $ 0.40  
    Weighted average number of shares 113,152     112,967     111,627  
     
    RECONCILIATION FROM GAAP NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY TO ADJUSTED NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY:
    GAAP NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 40,142     $ 55,138     $ 44,634  
    Stock based compensation and amortization of acquired intangible assets 10,335     11,258     7,209  
    ADJUSTED NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 50,477     $ 66,396     $ 51,843  
    ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE:                
    Basic $ 0.45     $ 0.60     $ 0.47  
    Diluted $ 0.45     $ 0.59     $ 0.46  
                     
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONSOLIDATED SOURCES AND USES REPORT (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands)
      Three months ended
      March 31,
    		   December 31,
    		   March 31,
      2025
    		   2024
    		   2024
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 271,894     $ 270,979     $ 260,664  
    Net cash provided by operating activities 93,922     100,816     110,038  
    Investments in property and equipment, net   (111,411 )     (93,396 )     (98,018 )
    Debt received (repaid), net   (26,874 )   2,795       (8,409 )
    Effect of Japanese Yen exchange rate change over cash balance 2,817       (4,972 )     (2,665 )
    Proceeds from (investments in) deposits, marketable securities and other assets, net 44,470       (4,328 )     (1,113 )
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – END OF PERIOD $ 274,818     $ 271,894     $ 260,497  
                     
     TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands)
      Three months ended
        March 31,     December 31,     March 31,
        2025     2024     2024
    CASH FLOWS – OPERATING ACTIVITIES                      
    Net profit for the period $ 39,717     $ 52,585     $ 43,047  
    Adjustments to reconcile net profit for the period                      
    to net cash provided by operating activities:                      
    Income and expense items not involving cash flows:                      
    Depreciation and amortization *   74,228       75,820       59,544  
    Other expense, net   558       12,439       5,993  
    Changes in assets and liabilities:                      
    Trade accounts receivable   (6,354 )     (19,034 )     (6,489 )
    Other current assets   5,622       (36,464 )     (13,454 )
    Inventories   (4,128 )     (3,356 )     (23,703 )
    Trade accounts payable   (11,114 )     18,320       32,559  
    Deferred revenues and customers’ advances   (4,432 )     (8,712 )     (1,931 )
    Other current liabilities   3,718       7,057       16,868  
    Other long-term liabilities   (3,893 )     2,161       (2,396 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   93,922       100,816       110,038  
    CASH FLOWS – INVESTING ACTIVITIES                      
    Investments in property and equipment, net   (111,411 )     (93,396 )     (98,018 )
    Proceeds from (investments in) deposits, marketable securities and other assets, net   44,470       (4,328 )     (1,113 )
    Net cash used in investing activities   (66,941 )     (97,724 )     (99,131 )
    CASH FLOWS – FINANCING ACTIVITIES                      
    Debt received (repaid), net   (26,874 )     2,795       (8,409 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   (26,874 )     2,795       (8,409 )
    EFFECT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE CHANGE   2,817       (4,972 )     (2,665 )
                           
    INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   2,924       915       (167 )
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – BEGINNING OF PERIOD   271,894       270,979       260,664  
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – END OF PERIOD $ 274,818     $ 271,894     $ 260,497  
     
    * Includes stock based compensation and amortization of acquired intangible assets in the amounts of $10,335, $11,258 and $7,209
    for the 3 months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on May 8th, 2025 2025-05-14 Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on March 8th, 2025.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

    On the afternoon of May 8th, 2025, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on May 8th, 2025.  (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    (The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    Zhang Xiaogang: I have two pieces of information to announce on the top.

    Firstly, in mid-to-late May, the Chinese and Cambodian militaries will hold the “Golden Dragon-2025” joint exercise in Cambodia. Focusing on joint counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, the exercise will be conducted both on land and at sea, as well as in relevant air spaces. Cultural and sports exchanges, and vessel open day activities will also be conducted. This exercise will be the 7th of its kind between the Chinese and Cambodian militaries. It will facilitate practical cooperation between the two sides and contribute to the building of a China-Cambodia all-weather community with a shared future for the new era.

    Secondly, from May 13th to 14th, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense will host the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Military Medicine Seminar in Xi’an. Under the theme of “Building an SCO Community with a Shared Future: Contributions from Military Medicine”, leaders of military health departments and medical experts from countries including Russia, Cambodia and Sri Lanka will attend the event. As the rotating presidency of the SCO this year, China will host multiple events including the SCO Defense Ministers’ Meeting and the Military Medicine Seminar, and actively contribute to building a closer SCO Community with a Shared Future.

    Journalist: It is reported that the “Eagles of Civilization-2025” joint air force training between China and Egypt has recently concluded. Could you please review this joint training and brief us on its features?

    Zhang Xiaogang: From April 17th to May 4th, the air forces of China and Egypt held the first “Eagles of Civilization-2025” joint training at an Egyptian air force base. The Chinese Air Force dispatched J-10C, KJ-500 and YY-20 aircraft to participate. This was the first time that China sent force packages to Africa for joint training, during which the two sides conducted drills on such subjects as air superiority operations, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), battlefield search and rescue, and mixed grouping. Discussions and exchanges on training models, air combat tactics and aerial refueling were also held. This joint training marks a new starting point for the cooperation between the Chinese and Egyptian militaries. It enhanced the technical and tactical competence of the participating troops, and deepened friendship, mutual trust, and practical cooperation between the two militaries. It is also an effective test of the Chinese Air Force’s capabilities in long-range force projection, agile deployment and systemic operations.

    (Video by Yu Hongchun, Jia Chong and Li Kangxi)

    Journalist: NATO recently released its annual report, labeling China as a “systemic challenge” and claiming that the country is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and that its policies pose a threat to the interests, security, and values of NATO member states. What’s your comment on that?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The relevant report by NATO reflects nothing but the Cold War mentality. The hype-up of the so-called “China threat” is in blatant disregard of the facts and simply barking up the wrong tree. China never seeks to challenge or threaten anyone. China’s nuclear policy is highly stable, consistent, and predictable. China unswervingly follows a nuclear strategy of self-defense, with its nuclear forces always kept at the minimum level required for national security.

    In contrast, NATO has been overreaching in recent years, expanding its remit, and interfering in the Asia-Pacific. These actions seriously undermine regional peace and stability. NATO possesses the world’s largest nuclear arsenal through its nuclear-sharing arrangements. Some member states are investing heavily in upgrading their strategic forces and there are plans to pursue nuclear submarine cooperation that would involve the large-scale transfer of weapon-grade nuclear material to non-nuclear-weapon states. Relevant practices constitute a grave violation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), severely undermine the international nuclear non-proliferation system, and deal a huge blow to global strategic security and stability. We urge NATO to take a hard look at its own actions instead of making groundless accusations and shifting blame onto others.

    Journalist: It is reported that during the Philippine-U.S. “Balikatan” exercise, the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong appeared in the waters north of the Philippines. Some analysts believe this might be a response to the Philippine-U.S. military exercise, or to the Philippine patrol vessel’s entering into the waters near Huangyan Dao. Furthermore, the Philippine Navy spokesperson claimed that the Philippine military and Taiwan troops are only one step away from holding joint exercises. What is your comment on this?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The Shandong aircraft carrier task group was conducting its annual training mission in relevant waters to further test and enhance the integrated combat capabilities of the carrier task group. This is in accordance with international law and common practice, and is not directed at any specific country or target.

    Certain individuals in the Philippines are colluding with external forces such as the U.S., to “stir up the sea” for selfish gains, undermining peace and stability in the South China Sea region. They even attempt to play with fire on the Taiwan question. We sternly warn the Philippine side to cease its infringements and provocations, and stop offending China’s core interest in any form. China will continue to take resolute and forceful measures to defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on May 8th, 2025.  (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Journalist: According to reports, the US Secretary of Defense has directed the development of the 2025 National Defense Strategy (NDS), with a particular focus on strengthening deterrence against China in the Indo-Pacific region. Besides, the US military also plans to establish a large storage facility in Subic Bay, the Philippines before 2026, to store weapons, equipment, and logistical supplies. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: To maintain its hegemony and selfish gains, the US has repeatedly made an issue out of China in a vain attempt to turn the Asia-Pacific into a powder keg and reduce certain countries to pawns on the front line. Such actions seriously undermine the security and well-being of peoples across the region. Facts have repeatedly proved that being America’s enemy is dangerous, but being America’s friend can be fatal. We urge the countries concerned not to invite the wolf into the house or willingly become its pawns, and not to undermine the hard-won peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Introduction to UXUY Protocol

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abstract
    The advent of crypto has created the largest ownerless asset system in human history. Under the guidance of evolving crypto narratives, assets are being minted, issued, traded, and stored at near-zero marginal cost.
    While centralized exchanges (CEXs) offer trading venues for a select number of popular assets, they can no longer meet the rapidly growing demand. It is evident that CEXs are limiting the expansion of the crypto industry.
    UXUY Protocol aims to become a new layer of on-chain infrastructure by creating a permissionless and decentralized DEX framework. By connecting multiple major blockchains, it seamlessly integrates AMMs and order books, enabling ultra-fast on-chain crypto trading. At the same time, it provides powerful tools for developers and users to foster innovation and adoption in areas such as RWA and DeFi.
    Just as Uniswap opened the door to on-chain trading, UXUY Protocol is accelerating the path toward mass adoption.

    The Explosion of Crypto Assets

    As blockchain continues to gain traction, crypto assets are rapidly emerging as one of the most disruptive and high-growth forces globally. From the “super meme cycle” to the “Trump coin” craze, and the widespread use of USD, treasuries, stablecoins, and RWAs (Real World Assets), crypto assets have evolved far beyond simple transfers and trades. They are now deeply integrating with the real world and accelerating the structural transformation of the global financial system.

    In this permissionless new system, crypto assets have created a trustless financial network with no central authority—becoming the largest and most open ownerless asset system in human history. Various cryptocurrencies, tokens, and other forms of digital assets are minted, issued, traded, and stored at nearly zero marginal cost. This enables founders, users, small dev teams, and large institutions across the globe to easily participate in this decentralized economy.

    The explosion of crypto assets calls for an entirely new infrastructure—this is where UXUY Protocol comes in.

    Permissionless Trading Infrastructure

    Existing trading infrastructure is under strain. While centralized exchanges (CEXs) provide trading for major crypto assets, their centralized nature cannot keep up with the rapidly expanding demand. CEXs have become a major bottleneck for asset discovery and adoption.

    The key to solving this lies in building a permissionless and decentralized trading infrastructure that can meet the broader needs of DeFi and multi-chain asset trading. UXUY Protocol was born to break these limitations—offering a more open, transparent, and secure decentralized trading platform.

    UXUY Protocol connects multiple leading blockchains and integrates AMM, order book, RFQ, and oracle-based solutions to provide a fast and low-cost trading environment, enabling free movement of assets across chains. This decentralized model not only improves early asset liquidity but also enhances user security and privacy.

    UXUY Protocol is pioneering a new paradigm in crypto trading—launching an entirely new category beyond CEXs and DEXs: SEX (Smart Exchange Protocol).

    Unlike traditional centralized or decentralized exchanges, SEX goes beyond mere trading. It introduces innovations such as abstract wallets, GasLess transactions, on-chain AI alerts, and one-click trading—fundamentally reshaping the on-chain trading. By making trading faster, cheaper, and smarter, it delivers truly accessible crypto finance for everyone. The first app built on SEX, UXUY APP, is non-custodial—user assets remain fully in their control without exposure to platform risks or hacks, enabling both security and self-sovereignty.

    With its innovative GasLess module, users can trade on-chain without paying gas fees. This allows both everyday users and developers to enjoy efficient decentralized trading without extra costs—accelerating the adoption of crypto assets and advancing the decentralized ecosystem.

    What Is UXUY Protocol Doing?

    UXUY Protocol’s core mission is to build a permissionless protocol that comprehensively addresses the liquidity issues of on-chain trading. By combining multiple trading mechanisms, it not only offers an efficient platform for existing crypto assets but also supports the onboarding and liquidity of emerging ones.

    The protocol uses smart routing to aggregate a variety of trading models, including AMM (Automated Market Maker), OrderBook, RFQ (Request for Quote), and oracle-based pricing solutions—providing diverse trading options to cater to the needs of users and developers.

    Whether you’re a professional trader, DeFi developer, or an institution bringing RWA onto the blockchain, UXUY Protocol offers the right trading path for you.

    Unlike traditional DEX protocols, UXUY Protocol retains the advantages of various trading models and builds on them to offer accurate pricing and lower slippage.

    AMM (Automated Market Maker)

    AMMs are the dominant trading model for traditional DEXs. Users trade assets via liquidity pools, making it ideal for long-tail and early-stage tokens. The benefits include simplicity, no need for matching engines, and inherent decentralization.

    However, AMMs face challenges such as high slippage, impermanent loss, and low capital efficiency, making them vulnerable to frontrunning and MEV attacks. Many LPs (liquidity providers) report greater losses from impermanent loss than gains from fees.

    UXUY Protocol treats AMM as a core liquidity source and uses smart routing to dynamically optimize trade paths, enhancing efficiency and cost—without being limited to AMM alone.

    OrderBook (On-Chain Order Book)

    Order books—used in traditional finance and CEXs—offer more precise price discovery than AMMs. But on-chain implementation demands higher performance and infrastructure, along with complex deployment and higher liquidity costs.

    Best suited for high-volume assets, UXUY Protocol supports high-performance on-chain order book protocols to improve price precision and depth—delivering a professional-grade experience for serious traders.

    RFQ (Request for Quote)

    RFQ is ideal for large trades where liquidity may be limited—making it the preferred choice for custom OTC deals.

    Since RFQ relies on market makers’ responses, it’s less real-time and less automated, and therefore not suitable for frequent small trades. UXUY Protocol integrates RFQ to meet institutional demands for price stability and trade privacy.

    Oracle-Based Solutions

    Oracle models provide asset pricing through high-quality data sources—ideal for RWA, stablecoins, and some derivatives. Their strength lies in transparency and authoritative pricing, though they may suffer from delays, manipulation, or feed attacks.

    UXUY Protocol leverages major oracle networks to support pricing and settlement, building a more robust trading system.

    Additionally, UXUY Protocol’s cross-chain interoperability and liquidity provide a richer infrastructure for the on-chain trading of crypto assets.

    UXUY Founder Kevin Says:

    “By integrating AMM, OrderBook, RFQ mechanisms, and oracle-powered pricing, UXUY Protocol systematically solves the liquidity challenges in crypto trading. It is also the first on-chain trading system to implement GasLess transactions—lowering the user barrier and accelerating the shift from CEX to SEX (Smart Exchange Protocol).”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Registration for LCSD’s ICH Highlight Tours starts on May 16 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Registration for LCSD’s ICH Highlight Tours starts on May 16  
    There will be a total of 15 field trips for the ICH Highlight Tours, which will visit Yau Tsim Mong, Tsuen Wan, Tai Po, Sha Tin, Eastern District, and Islands District respectively. With 20 participants per tour, the tour, conducted in Cantonese, will run for approximately two hours. Members of the public can register through the ICHO website (www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/hk_ich_month_2025_tours.html 
    The dates and relevant ICH items of the field trips include:
     
    Islands District – Tai O (May 31, two tours in total)
    Salted Fish Making Technique, Shrimp Paste Blocks and Shrimp Paste Making Technique and Fishing Net Plaiting Technique, etc, and enjoying Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade.
     
    Tai Po District (June 1 and 7, three tours in total)
    Soybean Product Making Technique, Cha Kwo (Steamed Sticky Rice Dumpling) Making Technique and Noodles Making Technique, etc.
     
    Yau Tsim Mong District (June 7 and 8, three tours in total)
    Steamer Making Technique, Wood Carving Technique and Mahjong Tile Making Technique, etc.
     
    Tsuen Wan District (June 15, two tours in total)
    Unicorn Dance, Traditional Architectuer Presrvation Technique and Melon Seed Making Technique, etc.
     
    Sha Tin District (June 21, two tours in total)
    Lion Dance, Patterned Band Weaving Technique and Paper Crafting Technique, etc.
     
    Eastern District (June 28 and 29, three tours in total)
    Wooden Boat Building Technique, Noodles Making Technique and Hung Gar Kuen Style, etc.
     
         Moreover, the ICHO collaborates with the Hong Kong Tourism Board in organising ICH Highlight Tours at Yau Tsim Mong District for tourists. Details will be announced later.
     
    Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 is presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the ICHO of the LCSD, with ICH June as a strategic partner. Highlight activates also include carnivals or fun days in various districts across Hong Kong on several weekends and Sundays in June, an exhibition, a seminar, talks and workshops, which welcome members of the public and tourists to join. For details of the programmes, please visit the website     www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/hk_ich_month_2025.htmlIssued at HKT 18:45

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Driverless cars expected in 2 years

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Transport & Logistics Mable Chan today said she would expect the application of autonomous vehicles (AV) in selected communities within the next one to two years based on the current progress of testing.

    Ms Chan told lawmakers that since a new regulatory regime allowing wider and more flexible trials of AVs on the road was rolled out last year, the testing and application of AVs in Hong Kong are enhancing speed and efficiency.

    She said the Transport Department has issued two pilot licences to allow 12 AVs to be tested in North Lantau and the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) respectively.

    The transport chief noted that significant progress has been made in the trial in North Lantau since its commencement from the end of last year and various breakthroughs have been achieved.

    These include the scale of the trial being expanded from a single vehicle to 10 vehicles operating simultaneously in order to collect the data of multiple vehicles running in parallel; carrying passengers on specified routes after a safety assessment; conducting a trial on more complex roads; expanding current trial routes at Airport Island with plans to conduct a trial in Tung Chung in the future simultaneously; and allowing the speed limit to be increased to 50km per hour in accordance with the trial route’s maximum speed limit. 

    The project applicant also plans to expand the trial to Cyberport, Ms Chan added.

    Another project, located at the WKCD, will trial autonomous light buses equipped with an autonomous driving system that follows Hong Kong’s left-handed traffic rule.

    Ms Chan noted that upon completion of the entire system development and when the system has been proven safe to operate, trials with passengers will be carried out on public roads in the WKCD.

    Looking forward, the Government will consolidate the experience gained from various projects, refine technical standards and share research outcomes with the industry to promote the development of AVs with safety as its guiding principle. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Uzbekistan to host first meeting of Termez Dialogue on connectivity between Central and South Asia

    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

    Tashkent, May 14 (Xinhua) — The first meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Central and South Asian Interconnection on the theme “Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship and Prosperity” will be held in Termez, Uzbekistan, on May 19-21, the Narodnoye Slovo newspaper reported on its website on Wednesday.

    The organizers are reportedly the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

    “The main goal of the dialogue is to form a multilateral discussion platform for the practical promotion of the special resolution of the UN General Assembly “Strengthening the Connectivity between Central and South Asia”, adopted in 2022 on the initiative of the President of the Republic Shavkat Mirziyoyev,” the statement said.

    The forum participants will reportedly discuss the current state and prospects of interregional cooperation between Central and South Asia. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Pakistan repatriates BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shaw detained since April 23

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A Border Security Force (BSF) constable who had been in Pakistani custody since April 23 was returned to India on Wednesday. Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had inadvertently crossed the International Border while on duty in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector and was subsequently detained by Pakistan Rangers.

    According to a BSF statement, Shaw was handed over to Indian authorities at the Attari-Wagah border at 10:30 am. “Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had inadvertently entered Pakistani territory around 11:50 am on April 23 while on operational duty in the Ferozepur sector. He was detained by the Pakistan Rangers. Due to continuous efforts by BSF, including regular flag meetings and communication through established channels, his repatriation was made possible,” the statement said.

    The development follows a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on May 10, days after India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, targeting terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

    Earlier, on May 5, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had expressed concern over the incident. “This is an extremely unfortunate situation. His name is Shaw. Our party’s Kalyan Banerjee is in touch with the family. We want him to be brought back at the earliest. We have clearly stated that our party stands with the government on matters of internal and external security. This is not an issue for political division,” she had said.

    Following Shaw’s detention, the BSF issued a strict advisory to its personnel, calling for heightened vigilance during patrols along the sensitive border.

    The BSF is tasked with guarding the 3,323-kilometre-long India-Pakistan border, which spans Jammu and Kashmir (including parts of the Line of Control), Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • India’s defence exports surge 34-fold over a decade: Rajnath Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high, witnessing a remarkable 34-fold increase over the past decade, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

    “India exported defence goods worth Rs. 23,622 crore in 2024–25, compared to just Rs. 686 crore in 2013–14,” his office stated in a post on X. The Minister emphasized that the dramatic rise underscores the growing strength of India’s defence sector, fuelled by the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

    Driven by the Make in India initiative and strategic policy interventions such as Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, the government has sought to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian manufacturers, boost exports, attract foreign investments, and reduce dependency on imports.

    The results are now evident: Defence production has soared, delivering substantial returns for investors in public sector undertakings (PSUs) engaged in defence manufacturing.

    India’s defence and aerospace ecosystem is also expanding rapidly, with the establishment of multiple defence hubs and increased collaboration with global players, many of whom have already shared or expressed willingness to share critical technologies with Indian counterparts.

    In FY 2024–25, India exported a wide array of defence items—including ammunition, weapons, systems/subsystems, and components—to nearly 80 countries, according to data from the Ministry of Defence.

    The government has now set an ambitious target of achieving annual defence exports of Rs.50,000 crore by 2029, aiming to bolster India’s footprint in the global defence market.

    Market sentiment around the defence sector has also been buoyant. The Nifty India Defence Index has surged by over 30% in the past three months, reflecting rising investor confidence. The recent escalation in tensions with Pakistan, coupled with the effective performance of indigenously developed defence systems, has further reinforced the strategic and commercial value of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

    (With ANI inputs)

  • President Murmu briefed on Operation Sindoor, lauds armed forces for counter-terror success

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, along with the three service chiefs — Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi — called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday to brief her on ‘Operation Sindoor’.

    As the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the President was apprised of the details and outcomes of the operation, which was launched in response to the brutal killing of 26 people by terrorists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.

    “General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, along with General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, and Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, called on President Droupadi Murmu and briefed her about Operation Sindoor. The President commended the valour and the dedication of the Armed Forces that made India’s response to terrorism a sterling success,” Rashtrapati Bhavan posted on X.

    President Murmu lauded the courage and efforts of the armed forces and described the operation as a “matter of national pride.”

    The President was given a comprehensive account of these developments during the briefing.

    The strikes were conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack; however, in a quick response, the Indian government suspended the Indus Water Treaty signed in the year 1960 between both countries following the CCS (Cabinet Committee on Security) meeting a day after the attack.

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing brave air warriors and soldiers at the Adampur Air Base on Tuesday, praised the Indian Armed Forces for their valour and precision during Operation Sindoor.

    PM Modi said India paused military action only after Pakistan’s request and warned of strong retaliation if terrorism recurs. He praised the Armed Forces for their precision strikes, restraint, and coordination, calling it a reflection of India’s growing military and technological strength.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH continues to follow up on suspected closure of private healthcare facilities

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH continues to follow up on suspected closure of private healthcare facilities 
    As announced on May 2, the Government set up an inter-departmental dedicated team to follow up on the incident. The team comprises representatives from the Security Bureau, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, the Hong Kong Police Force, the DH and the Consumer Council.
     
    The DH has set up a telephone hotline, email and a WhatsApp account since May 3 for public enquiries on related issues. As at 5pm today, a total of 149 enquiries were received. Most of the enquiries were related to vaccines for children or other age groups. One enquiry about laboratory services has been received.

    Laboratory reports
    ——————— 
    For the sake of prudence, the DH is also reaching out to local registered professionals operating medical laboratories and radiological imaging services, inviting them to contact the DH for assistance if they are unable to deliver any laboratory reports to referring doctors from the private healthcare facilities in question.
     
    Anyone who has received laboratory or diagnostic radiological imaging services through the private healthcare facilities in question and has not yet been able to obtain the report from their doctor may call the DH hotline (2125 1188), which operates from 9am to 5pm daily, or send an email to dhhelpdesk_2501@dh.gov.hk 
    Childhood immunisation
    —————————
    Public enquiries
    —————— 
    The DH has compiled a series of Frequently Asked Questions from recently received enquiries and uploaded them to the DH’s     website 
    The DH will continue to join hands with other members of the inter-departmental dedicated team to follow up on the incident and take appropriate actions, with a view to handling all cases as soon as possible and provide assistance to those affected by the incident.
    Issued at HKT 18:25

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Treatment and prevention of breast cancer

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Nixie Lam and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (May 14):

    Question:

    According to government information, breast cancer is the most common cancer among females in Hong Kong, and new cases of breast cancer accounted for 28.6 per cent of all new cancer cases among females in 2022. Among them, HER2 (i.e. human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) low-expression metastatic breast cancer (HER2-low breast cancer) poses a great threat to the lives of patients as it is highly malignant and prone to relapse and metastasis. It is learnt that with advancement in medical technology, the classification of testing results of HER2 has been updated from two (i.e. “positive” and ‘negative’) to three categories (i.e. with the addition of “low-expression”) in the medical guidelines of various places so as to provide precision treatment for patients with HER2 breast cancer. However, there are views pointing out that the existing HER2 testing reports of the Hospital Authority (HA) have not indicated the category of low-expression, nor has HA provided the relevant education to patients, rendering them unable to know their actual condition in a timely manner and thereby missing the golden period of early treatment. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether it knows if HA will expeditiously review the classification of the existing HER2 testing reports to clearly indicate the testing result of low expression of HER2, while at the same time providing the relevant patient education, so as to ensure that they fully understand the clinical findings, thereby expeditiously receiving the appropriate treatment protocol; if HA will, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that;

    (2) whether it knows if HA will consider including drugs targeting HER2-low breast cancer into the safety net for application by patients suffering from that cancer and streamlining the vetting and approval process, so as to enhance the efficiency of vetting and approval of safety net drugs; if HA will, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (3) whether the Government has currently formulated public education programmes for different groups of people to raise their awareness of breast cancer screening, including whether it has provided systematic online information and promoted on social media platforms; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    The Government attaches great importance to cancer prevention and control work. In 2001, the Government established the Cancer Coordinating Committee to formulate strategies on cancer prevention and control, and to steer the direction of work covering cancer prevention and screening, surveillance, research and treatment, etc.

    The Government promulgated the Hong Kong Cancer Strategy (Cancer Strategy) in 2019 with a view to reducing the cancer burden of the local population and improving the quality of life and survivorship of cancer patients through setting work priorities and directions. The directions laid down in the Cancer Strategy include reducing risk factors leading to cancer and providing evidence-based screening, seeking early detection and diagnosis, offering timely and effective treatment, strengthening survivorship support to cancer survivors, providing palliative and end-of-life care, investing in technology, enhancing the collaboration among relevant bureaux, government departments, the Hospital Authority (HA), community organisations and civil society, as well as enhancing surveillance and research capabilities. The goal is to better prevent and control various cancers through these directions.

    As for breast cancer screening, based on the recommendations of the Cancer Expert Working Group on Cancer Prevention and Screening under the Cancer Coordinating Committee, the Government adopts a risk-based approach for breast cancer screening and launched the Phase I of the Breast Cancer Screening Pilot Programme (BCSPP) in 2021. In collaboration with non-governmental organisations through a public-private partnership, the Government is now preparing for the Phase II of the BCSPP to provide subsidised breast cancer screening services to women being categorised as high risk of developing breast cancer (viz. carriers of certain germline mutations and/or presence of strong family history of breast cancer/ovarian cancer). The Phase II programme is expected to be launched around the second quarter of 2025. Relevant details will be announced in due course. 

    The reply, in consultation with the Department of Health (DH), the Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission) and the HA, to the question raised by the Hon Nixie Lam is as follows:

    (1) According to the data from the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, there were a total of 5 182 new cases of female breast cancer in 2022, of which 1 002 were Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) positive cases.

    At present, the HER2 test performed by the HA consists of immunochemistry (IHC) and genetic testing (in situ hybridisation (ISH)). IHC testing results are scored as follows:

    (i) 0 (no staining, or ≤10 per cent of tumor cells show faint or weak membrane staining);
    (ii) 1+ (>10 per cent of tumor cells show faint/barely visible incomplete membrane staining);
    (iii) 2+ (>10 per cent of tumor cells show weak to moderate complete membrane staining (circumferential staining), or ≤10 per cent of tumor cells show strong complete membrane staining); or
    (iv) 3+ (>10 per cent of tumor cells show strong complete membrane staining).

    HER2 immunostaining scores of 0 and 1+ are interpreted as negative for HER2 testing, a score of 2+ as inconclusive, and a score of 3+ as positive. If the HER2 test result is inconclusive (i.e. the immunostaining score is 2+), the hospital will further perform HER2 gene in situ hybridisation testing for the patient to confirm whether there is an amplification of the HER2 gene. If the relevant test shows amplification, the patient’s HER2 test result will be classified as positive; whereas if there is no amplification, it will be classified as negative.

         “HER2 low-expression” mentioned in the question refers to patients with a HER2 immunostaining score of IHC 1+ or a score of IHC 2+ with no amplification shown in in situ hybridisation testing. The HER2 Interpretation Guidelines (a set of international guidelines) were updated in September 2023. Although the new guidelines do not officially classify “HER2 low-expression” as a separate category, it is recommended that an annotation describing the result of “HER2 low-expression” (i.e. IHC 1+ or IHC 2+/ISH with no amplification) be included in the test report to enable physicians to better identify patients who may be suitable for a specific targeted therapy. The “multidisciplinary teams” for breast cancer at the oncology centres of the HA, consisting of oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, advanced practice nurses, etc, are discussing the implementation arrangements for the updated guidelines and will reach a consensus as soon as possible to implement the major updates under the Interpretation Guidelines in a gradual manner, while planning to add annotations to the test reports to explain the results of “HER2 low-expression”. Currently, clinicians will determine, based on the test reports, whether patients are IHC 1+ or IHC 2+ with no ISH gene amplification, thereby providing patients with optimal follow-up.

    (2) As the major provider of publicly-funded public healthcare services, the HA attaches great importance to providing optimal treatment for all patients (including cancer patients) while ensuring patients have equitable access to cost-effective drugs of proven safety and efficacy under the highly subsidised public healthcare system.

    The HA has a mechanism in place to regularly evaluate new drugs as well as to review existing drugs on the HA Drug Formulary (HADF) and the coverage of the safety net (including the Samaritan Fund and Community Care Fund Medical Assistance Programmes). In assessing applications for new drugs to be included in the HADF and the coverage of the safety net, the HA follows an evidence-based approach, having regard to the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness, etc, of the drugs and other relevant considerations, including international recommendations and practices as well as views of professionals and patient groups, etc.

    The HA will pay close attention to the latest scientific and clinical evidence of drugs suitable for treatment of various types of cancer (including “HER2 low -expression” breast cancer), with a view to providing cost-effective drugs of proven safety and efficacy as well as continuous optimal care to patients.

    To shorten the lead time for introducing suitable new drugs to the HADF, the HA has simplified the application process for inclusion of new drugs in the HADF since the end of 2024. Clinicians and pharmaceutical companies can submit new drug applications directly to the Drug Advisory Committee. The frequency of prioritisation exercise for including new drugs in the safety net will also increase from twice a year to four times a year. With the implementation of the above new mechanisms, the HA has been actively optimising the procedures for introducing new drugs into the HADF, with the objective of reducing the time required for introducing new drugs with proven efficacy into the HADF or the coverage of the safety net by half, from the original 10 months to five months; and from 18 months to nine months respectively, so as to enable patients to have access to new drugs as soon as possible, and to obtain the subsidies under the safety net to alleviate the burden of drug expenses.

    Besides, the Government and the HA will press ahead with the implementation of the fees and charges reform for public healthcare announced at the end of March this year, which aims to guide the public to make optimal use of healthcare resources through three aspects, namely reforming the subsidisation structure, reducing wastage and abuse, and enhancing healthcare protection. It also seeks to strengthen the healthcare protection on all fronts for patients who are “poor, acute, serious, critical”. Such measures include enhancing the protection in terms of drugs and medical devices for critically ill patients (including cancer patients) through accelerating the introduction of more effective innovative drugs and medical devices to the HADF and the coverage of the safety net, with a view to ensuring that the limited healthcare resources can be directed in a more targeted manner to assist those patients most in need. This will thereby enhance the sustainability of the healthcare system and enable it to serve as a safety net for all.

    (3) The DH has all along been promoting a healthy lifestyle, including avoidance of smoking and alcohol, healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintenance of a healthy body weight, as the primary strategy for preventing cancer and common non-communicable diseases.

    The DH has all along attached importance to the public education of women’s cancer (including breast cancer) and has been promoting breast cancer prevention and screening through various channels and media such as television, radio, websites, printed materials, newspapers, social media, online publicity and media interviews. Educational leaflets have been produced in many ethnic minority languages by the DH for ethnic minorities to comprehend the health information on breast cancer prevention and screening. In addition, the Cancer Online Resource Hub was launched in 2020 to provide the public with accurate and reliable health information relating to cancer.

    Meanwhile, the District Health Centres (DHCs)/District Health Centre Expresses (DHCEs) under the PHC Commission in all districts across the city are actively assisting members of the public in formulating individualised Life Course Preventive Care Plan based on factors such as one’s gender, age and family history. Life Course Preventive Care Plan is an evidence-based comprehensive health strategy that emphasises on prevention and personalised needs and provides guidance on the health needs of citizens across different stages of life. DHCs/DHCEs may also provide members of the public with information related to breast cancer prevention and other women health education services according to their needs. 

    Starting from January 24, 2025, women’s health services under the DH have been progressively integrated into the district health network of the PHC Commission, with the service points named Women Wellness Satellites (WWS). DHCs/DHCEs will identify women in need through basic health assessment and individual counselling, and arrange for them to receive women’s health services at WWSs. WWSs will offer health assessment and counselling tailored to women’s health conditions, breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings according to individual needs, as well as health education activities including talks on breast cancer prevention.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Re-domiciliation regime introduced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government welcomed the passage of the Companies (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 2024 by the Legislative Council today to introduce a company re-domiciliation regime in Hong Kong.

     

    The amendment ordinance will take effect on May 23, and the company re-domiciliation regime will be open for application starting from the same day.

     

    Non-Hong Kong-incorporated companies that fulfil the requirements on company background, integrity, member and creditor protection, solvency and so on may apply to re-domicile to Hong Kong while maintaining their legal identity as a body corporate and ensuring business continuity.

     

    The property, rights, obligations and liabilities as well as the relevant contractual and legal processes of the companies would not be affected during the process. If the company’s actual similar profits are also taxed in Hong Kong after re-domiciliation, the Government will offer unilateral tax credits for elimination of double taxation.

     

    In general, re-domiciled companies will be regarded as companies incorporated in Hong Kong. They have the same rights as any Hong Kong-incorporated companies of their kind in the city, and will be required to comply with the relevant requirements under the Companies Ordinance.

     

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said that the amendment ordinance puts in place a simple and accessible mechanism for company re-domiciliation.

     

    “It addresses the demand of companies incorporated elsewhere with major business in Hong Kong for re-domiciliation, and is conducive to our efforts in proactively attracting enterprises and investment, thereby generating business for local professional services sectors as well as increasing investment and job opportunities.”

     

    On May 23, the Companies Registry will set up a new thematic section on its website to provide the application details and relevant information. The Integrated Companies Registry Information System will also be enhanced to process applications.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Applications for new niches to open

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    More than 16,000 new extendable niches at three columbaria in Fanling, Eastern District and Sha Tin will open for applications from May 19, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department announced today.

     

    Wo Hop Shek Columbarium Phase VI in Fanling will provide 4,000 standard niches and 50 large niches, while Cape Collinson-San Ha Columbarium in Eastern District and Shek Mun Columbarium in Sha Tin will each provide 6,000 standard niches and 50 large niches for application.

     

    The department said applicants should only file one application form to apply for either a large or standard niche for the same deceased person.

     

    Applicants have to fill in the particulars of at least three deceased people when applying for a large niche. For a standard niche, applicants must fill in at least one deceased person’s details.

     

    The department will allocate the niches by open drawing of lots and computer random balloting, and it expects to conduct the exercise in the third quarter of this year.

     

    Starting May 19, application forms can be downloaded from the department’s website.

     

    Additionally, application forms can be obtained from the department’s Hong Kong or Kowloon Cemeteries & Crematoria Offices, District Environmental Hygiene Offices, the Home Affairs Department’s Home Affairs Enquiry Centres, or by fax via hotline 2841 9111.

     

    Applications can also be made online from the same day.

     

    The application deadline is June 18.

     

    A free talk will be held at 10.30am on May 24 at Yuen Chau Kok Community Hall in Sha Tin to provide the public with more information on the coming public niche allocation, green burial facilities/services and more.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: The main theme of the EEF-2025 is “The Far East – cooperation for peace and prosperity”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The main theme of the Eastern Economic Forum 2025, which will take place on September 3–6 in Vladivostok, will be “The Far East – Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity.” The organizer of the EEF is the Roscongress Foundation.

    “The Eastern Economic Forum is an opportunity to discuss economic, political and social issues not only in Russia but also throughout the world. This is the most important platform for developing cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. The main theme of the forum this year is “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity”. Without cooperation, without mutually beneficial partnership, development is impossible. Unfortunately, we see what is happening in the modern world: unfounded political ambitions of some neighboring countries harm business interaction, humanitarian and scientific areas. But Russia is still open to cooperation. Preferential regimes are in effect in the Far East. Foreign investors have become residents of the territories of advanced development, the free port of Vladivostok. Now we are creating a new shell – an international territory of advanced development, which will give domestic and foreign partners mutually beneficial opportunities to strengthen the economies of our countries. Another area of interaction is the Northern Sea Route, the shortest transport corridor between Europe and the Far East. We will discuss these and other topics at the forum,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.

    The main theme reflects the fundamental principles on which the Eastern Economic Forum is based, noted Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia and Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the preparation and holding of the EEF.

    “The anniversary, tenth Eastern Economic Forum will be held in 2025. Over the years, the EEF has established itself as an authoritative platform for the formation of models of mutually beneficial partnership in the Asia-Pacific region. The main theme of the upcoming forum reflects the value of equal international dialogue and peaceful coexistence as the foundations of sustainable development. At the same time, the special role of the EEF is to harmonize global economic trends with the tasks of socio-economic growth of the Russian Far East. I am confident that the forum will once again become an effective platform for developing solutions in key strategic areas that will become the basis for the prosperity of the macro-region,” Anton Kobyakov emphasized.

    The Eastern Economic Forum 2025 will be held on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University.

    The Roscongress Foundation is a socially oriented non-financial development institution and a major organizer of national and international congress, exhibition, business, public, youth, sporting, and cultural events, created in accordance with the decision of the President of Russia.

    The Foundation was established in 2007 to promote the development of economic potential, advance national interests and strengthen Russia’s image. The Foundation comprehensively studies, analyses, formulates and covers issues on the Russian and global economic agenda. Provides administration and facilitates the promotion of business projects and the attraction of investments, promotes the development of social entrepreneurship and charitable projects.

    The Foundation’s events bring together participants from 209 countries and territories, more than 15,000 media representatives work annually at Roscongress venues, and more than 5,000 experts in Russia and abroad are involved in analytical and expert work.

    The Foundation interacts with UN structures and other international organizations. It develops multi-format cooperation with 212 foreign economic partners, associations of industrialists and entrepreneurs, financial, trade and business associations in 86 countries of the world, with 293 Russian public organizations, federal and regional executive and legislative bodies of the Russian Federation.

    Official telegram channels of the Roscongress Foundation: in Russian – T.Ta/Roscongress, in English – T.Ta/Roscongress, in Spanish – T.Ta/RoscongressP, in Arabic – T.Ta/Roscongressarabik. Official website and information and analytical system of the Roscongress Foundation: Roscongress.

    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 –

  • NHRC launches two-week online internship programme on human rights

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has commenced its much-anticipated two-week Online Short-Term Internship (OSTI) Programme aimed at equipping young minds with a deeper understanding of human rights promotion and protection in the country.

    Out of a competitive pool of 1,795 applicants, 80 university-level students from varied academic backgrounds across 21 States and Union Territories have been selected to participate in the internship, the Commission announced in an official statement on Wednesday.

    Inaugurating the programme, NHRC Secretary General Bharat Lal addressed the interns, emphasizing the importance of youth as torchbearers of India’s 5,000-year-old civilisational values of empathy, compassion, and justice. He encouraged the students to serve as ambassadors of justice, equality, and dignity, and to utilise this learning opportunity to explore India’s constitutional framework and the essence of human dignity.

    Highlighting the rationale behind the online format, Bharat Lal explained that the initiative aims to widen the Commission’s outreach by enabling students from remote and far-flung regions to access quality education on human rights without the logistical challenges of travel and accommodation in Delhi.

    He also provided an overview of the evolution of human rights in India, including constitutional provisions, the pivotal role of the Supreme Court, and NHRC’s own functioning and commitment to humanitarian values deeply embedded in India’s cultural heritage.

    NHRC Joint Secretary Samir Kumar presented a detailed outline of the internship curriculum, which comprises expert lectures, group and individual competitions such as book reviews, declamations, and research presentations. The programme also includes virtual tours of institutions like Tihar Jail to provide practical exposure to real-life human rights scenarios.

  • BEL’s Akashteer air defence system proves its mettle amid conflict

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s AI-driven, fully automated ‘Akashteer’ air defence system, developed indigenously by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), has demonstrated exceptional performance during recent drone attacks from Pakistan, effectively neutralising aerial threats the moment they breached Indian airspace, the company said in a statement on Wednesday.
     
    According to BEL, the advanced platform successfully intercepted multiple threats, including drones, missiles, micro UAVs, and loitering munitions, establishing itself as a globally competitive and operationally ready defence asset.
     
    In an official statement on Wednesday, BEL lauded the system’s performance, noting that it had exceeded operational expectations and significantly bolstered India’s air defence capabilities during the ongoing conflict.
     
    “BEL is proud to announce that our in-house designed and manufactured air defence system, Akashteer, has proved its mettle on the battlefield. Ground-based defence systems integrated with Akashteer made it hell for Pakistan’s air adventures,” the Navratna Defence PSU said in a post on X.
     
    “The system performed beyond users’ expectations, providing robust air defence to India during the current conflict. Akashteer ensures a seamless and unified air situational picture accessible to even the lowest operational units of Army Air Defence, thereby enhancing situational awareness across the force,” it added.
     
    The Akashteer system was developed under a ₹1,982 crore contract signed in March 2023. It integrates surveillance assets, radar systems, and command units into a unified network, providing real-time situational awareness to the Indian Army’s air defence units.
     
    The system enables effective monitoring of low-level airspace over battle zones and ensures precise control over ground-based air defence weapon systems.
     
    Akashteer played a critical role during the recent conflict that followed India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The system successfully neutralised multiple drone and missile attacks launched by Pakistan.
     
    “Akashteer empowers frontline units by enabling dynamic engagement decisions and preventing friendly-fire incidents,” BEL added.
     
    The system also exemplifies India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology, aligning with the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
     
    – ANI

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Joint Summary of the Working Visit by H

    Source: ASEAN

    At the invitation of the Government of New Zealand, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, paid a working visit to Wellington and Auckland, from 11 to 14 May 2025.
     
    During the visit, the Secretary-General engaged with a broad range of New Zealand Government representatives across the four themes of the ASEAN–New Zealand relationship, namely Peace, Prosperity, People and Planet, including the Right Honourable Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, the Right Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, the Hon Minister of Defence Judith Collins KC, the Hon Erica Stanford Minister of Education, the Hon Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr. Shane Reti, and the Hon Minister of Climate Change Simon Watts.
     
    The Secretary-General also engaged with other Government Officials, the business community, including the ASEAN-New Zealand Business Council, student representatives, academia, think tanks and the media.
     
    Across these engagements, both sides discussed the significance of the enduring partnership between ASEAN and New Zealand over the past five decades. Both sides emphasised the importance of upholding and strengthening ASEAN Centrality in the Indo-Pacific and the rules-based regional architecture, of strengthening the East Asia Summit as the premier Leaders-led strategic forum in the region, and the importance of practical cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
     
    The working visit underscored the significance of 2025 as an important milestone in the ASEAN–New Zealand relationship, marking 50 years of dialogue relations. Both sides look forward to the ASEAN–New Zealand Commemorative Leaders’ Summit in Kuala Lumpur, in October 2025, and welcome progress towards establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership this year, that is substantive, meaningful, and mutually beneficial.
     
    Finally, both sides welcomed the complete implementation of the current ASEAN–New Zealand Plan of Action and looked forward to developing a new 2026–2030 Plan of Action that contributes to the peace, stability and prosperity of our region

    The post Joint Summary of the Working Visit by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, to New Zealand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Summary of the Working Visit by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, to New Zealand

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    At the invitation of the Government of New Zealand, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, paid a working visit to Wellington and Auckland, from 11 to 14 May 2025.
     
    During the visit, the Secretary-General engaged with a broad range of New Zealand Government representatives across the four themes of the ASEAN–New Zealand relationship, namely Peace, Prosperity, People and Planet, including the Right Honourable Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, the Right Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, the Hon Minister of Defence Judith Collins KC, the Hon Erica Stanford Minister of Education, the Hon Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr. Shane Reti, and the Hon Minister of Climate Change Simon Watts.
     
    The Secretary-General also engaged with other Government Officials, the business community, including the ASEAN-New Zealand Business Council, student representatives, academia, think tanks and the media.
     
    Across these engagements, both sides discussed the significance of the enduring partnership between ASEAN and New Zealand over the past five decades. Both sides emphasised the importance of upholding and strengthening ASEAN Centrality in the Indo-Pacific and the rules-based regional architecture, of strengthening the East Asia Summit as the premier Leaders-led strategic forum in the region, and the importance of practical cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
     
    The working visit underscored the significance of 2025 as an important milestone in the ASEAN–New Zealand relationship, marking 50 years of dialogue relations. Both sides look forward to the ASEAN–New Zealand Commemorative Leaders’ Summit in Kuala Lumpur, in October 2025, and welcome progress towards establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership this year, that is substantive, meaningful, and mutually beneficial.
     
    Finally, both sides welcomed the complete implementation of the current ASEAN–New Zealand Plan of Action and looked forward to developing a new 2026–2030 Plan of Action that contributes to the peace, stability and prosperity of our region

    The post Joint Summary of the Working Visit by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, to New Zealand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –