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Category: Aviation

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Leading for Iowa as Chair of Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will be the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit in the 119th Congress.
    This important subset of the Senate Agriculture Committee oversees rural development loan and grant programs, renewable energy, and farm loan programs. As subcommittee chair, Senator Ernst will lead discussions on essential resources for farmers, biofuel producers, and rural communities while continuing to advocate for Iowans as Congress works on a Farm Bill.
    “I’m thrilled to be Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit this Congress,” said Senator Ernst. “From building certainty and clarity into biofuel policies to creating a Farm Bill that delivers real results for those who feed and fuel our world, Iowans and the issues that matter to them will always have a seat at the table under my leadership. I look forward to working on solutions to support Iowa and American agriculture.”
    Mark Jensen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Farm Credit Services of America
    “Farm Credit Services of America proudly congratulates Senator Joni Ernst on her appointment as Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit. Senator Ernst’s unwavering dedication to the vitality and prosperity of rural communities across America is truly commendable. Senator Ernst is poised to steer the discussion and shape legislation to strengthen our agriculture sector, foster innovation, and drive economic success to ensure our rural communities continue to thrive. We stand in support and are committed to collaborating with Senator Ernst and her subcommittee to fulfill the Farm Credit System mission of providing reliable and consistent credit and financial services, today and for the future.”
    Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association
    “Senator Ernst has been a fierce advocate for agriculture and biofuels, prioritizing Iowa farmers and keeping the U.S. a dominant energy leader. IRFA members look forward to working with the Senator as chair of the subcommittee while she continues to champion higher biofuel blends and opening up new markets for farmers at home and abroad. Expanding the production and use of biofuels is the single best tool we have to enhance rural economies.”
    Brent Swart, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Spencer
    “We are supportive of Senator Ernst’s chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit. We are confident that the Senator will advocate for policies that create access to the tools and resources Iowa farmers and rural communities need to thrive. We look forward to continue working with her to position soybean growers for success.”
    Iowa Farm Bureau
    “The Iowa Farm Bureau applauds Senator Ernst’s leadership on these important issues to our farmers and rural communities.  Her work has been vital to the continued success of agriculture in Iowa and across the country, and we appreciate the commitment she has to rural America.”
    Background:
    Ernst works tirelessly on behalf of Iowa farmers and producers.
    Within the subcommittee’s jurisdiction, she is a leading advocate for homegrown, Iowa biofuels. Ernst has fought to expand the availability of upgraded fuel infrastructure, which is essential to bringing consumers higher blends of renewable fuel like E15 and B20. She has also made biofuels an important component of domestic energy security through her work to accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel.
    Ernst has taken action to ensure rural Iowa has access to essential resources for everything from propane storage to child care. She has also been on the front lines of helping Iowa farmers get the resources they need to recover from natural disasters and will keep working to find new markets for our producers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins America’s Newsroom on Fox Business to Discuss Wichita, KS Plane Crash: Now Is a Time for Faith

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined America’s Newsroom on Fox Business to discuss the terrible tragedy of the collision between an American Airlines plane traveling from Wichita, Kansas, and a military helicopter. Senator Marshall offered his condolences to the loved ones of the victims and discussed the failures leading up to the horrific collision. Senator Marshall will continue to demand answers and accountability. 
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include: 
    On failures leading up to horrific accident:
    “Typically, there’s one person monitoring the helicopters and one person monitoring the commercial jets. I think this goes way beyond that. There’s a ceiling for all helicopters at 200 feet. So why was that particular helicopter above 200 feet? Why didn’t air traffic control pick that up? Why are we allowing these type of helicopters into the busiest airport runway in the nation? It just makes no sense to any type of Americans. It’s a common sense issue. I’m calling on them, on the military to stop. I don’t want your helicopters where my people are landing. I think it’s that simple. And then we need to talk about transponders. Why are we letting military aircraft into this airspace without transponders that communicate with commercial jets if they don’t want to use transponders and stay out of this busy airspace? I think there’s a confluence of problems. Lastly, I appreciate President Trump’s just radical transparency and taking accountability here.”
    On ensuring the highest focus on FAA safety and competence:
    “I think that all of us want people with the highest training and abilities to do these really tough jobs. I want my pilot to be the best pilot. I want their position based upon their merit, based upon their mental capacity. I’ve sat there in some of these air traffic control places, and I think it was a tougher job. I’m a physician. I think their job was harder than [mine]. Moment after moment, hour after hour, it takes a very special person to do these jobs. I would add the president hired, I believe, over 100 of these air traffic controllers last week, realizing that there’s a problem, and I appreciate him raising the bar for what we expect there out of these air traffic controllers.”
    On grieving Kansans:
    “I’m a physician. This is typically anger and denial happening right now. I think we’re circling the wagons. We’ve been through this before. Kansas has 1955 we lost 75 people to a tornado. 1970 Wichita State football team had a horrific crash that claimed the lives of 31 young people as well. So we’re circling the wagons. You know, this is a time for faith. Our hearts are broken, but they’re broken together. I know this community of Wichita. I spoke to them, to Mayor Wu this morning, and she’s bringing this community together, and we’re just all on our knees today, humbled, just so humbled and grateful for the life and the country God has given us. But we also understand that this I don’t think this accident should have happened. I think it could have been prevented.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: January 31st, 2025 Heinrich, Sheehy Introduce Bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025 to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfire.
    “I have worked for years to expand the operations of Very Large Air Tankers that have proven absolutely essential to firefighters battling large wildfires in New Mexico, Los Angeles, and across the West. This includes securing more than $15 million to upgrade the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base in Albuquerque so that it can support and refuel the most effective firefighting planes that make the most difference for firefighters on the ground by dropping larger loads of fire retardant on blazes,” said Heinrich. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Sheehy on this bipartisan legislation that will help aerial wildfire firefighting contractors continue purchasing excess equipment from the military to support their heavy aircraft. I will never stop fighting to deliver the resources New Mexico needs to effectively respond to wildfires.”
    “As a former Navy SEAL and the only aerial firefighter in the Senate, I understand government’s most solemn duty is to keep the American people safe. Combatting the threat of catastrophic wildfires is a year-round mission, and we must ensure our aerial wildfire suppression fleet has the resources needed to protect our communities. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to help our brave first responders fight wildfires better, faster, and stronger by streamlining wildland firefighting efforts and removing outdated bureaucratic obstacles to getting the job done,” said Sheehy.
    The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act amends the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale of excess aircraft and parts by the Department of Defense for wildfire suppression. The bill will help the U.S. better suppress wildfires year-round by facilitating the acquisition of military excess aircraft, sold at fair market value, for the aerial wildfire suppression fleet. Additionally, the sale of parts will help the U.S. maintain its existing aerial firefighting aircraft fleet.
    The bill reauthorizes the Secretary of Defense’s authority to sell excess Department of Defense aircraft and aircraft parts, which are acceptable for commercial sale, to persons or entities that contract with the government for the delivery of fire retardant or water by air to suppress wildfires, as long as the aircraft and parts are used only for wildfire suppression. The initial authority expired in 2005 and was reauthorized from 2012 to 2017 before lapsing again.
    Read more on the bill here.
    Heinrich’s Support for Aerial Firefighting
    Heinrich has long worked to expand and improve aerial firefighting operations in New Mexico to more effectively fight wildfires. In 2022, Heinrich secured more than $15 million to upgrade the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque. Those upgrades were completed in 2024 – a major milestone that makes it possible to support and refuel Very Large Air Tanker planes that can drop large volumes of fire retardant on blazes.
    In an op-ed published in the Albuquerque Journal, Col. Mike Power, Kirtland Air Force Base Installation Commander, highlighted the importance of these newly completed upgrades at the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base that will help the U.S. Forest Service fight wildfires in New Mexico more efficiently and effectively.  one of only two bases in the United States with that capability.
    “This base upgrade, where now up to 30 Forest Service professionals work to lead the fight against wildfires, includes the larger ramp space for a stronger, more efficient capability to fight wildfires in New Mexico year-round. It now also houses a retardant tank farm,” said Col. Power in the op-ed. “What does that mean to the average New Mexican? It means 75,000 gallons of retardant available at one time, and cuts response time to a fire in half. Ours is one of only two bases in the United States with that capability.”
    Heinrich’s Continued Leadership on Wildfire Recovery
    Heinrich remains focused on delivering the resources New Mexico needs to effectively respond to wildfires and prevent future devastating blazes by restoring the health and resilience of our forests and watersheds.
    Heinrich is keeping up the effort to do right by the New Mexico families whose lives were upended by the 2022 Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. As communities continue to rebuild, Heinrich will keep working to deliver for every person impacted by that fire and the floods that followed.
    Heinrich, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) successfully secured an additional $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire within the Continuing Resolution that Congress passed in December.
    The Continuing Resolution also extended the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office to March 14, 2025. The lawmakers are continuing to call for the passage of their Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation they introduced last year to extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office through the end of 2027.
    The New Mexico Congressional Delegation has now secured a total of $5.45 billion in federal resources to help New Mexicans recover and rebuild since the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.
    In November, Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández announced that President Biden’s disaster supplemental request included transfer authority for $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández also sent a letter urging the FEMA Director of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office and the FEMA Director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office to address concerns from New Mexicans about the process for receiving compensationfrom the Claims Office and help families get the relief and compensation needed to recover.
    Additional information on Heinrich’s leadership on Hermit’’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Response and Recovery can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Secretary Nominee Commits to Defending Active Duty Force, Advancing “Iron Dome” Missile Defense Initiative

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    01.31.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), yesterday received commitments from Daniel Driscoll, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Secretary of the Army, to support President Trump’s “Peace Through Strength” policies and kill any proposal that would dramatically cut the Army’s active duty force. In his questioning during Driscoll’s confirmation hearing, Sen. Sullivan noted that the Obama administration cut more than 35,000 active duty troop in its second term, with detrimental consequences to military readiness. At the time, Sullivan and his congressional delegation colleagues successfully fought off attempts by the Obama administration to eliminate the 5,000-soldier 4-25 Infantry Brigade Combat Team (ABN) at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson (JBER), which became the cornerstone of the current 11th Airborne Division in Alaska.
    Driscoll, an Army veteran, committed to working with the Senator on implementing President Trump’s “Iron Dome” executive order and Sen. Sullivan’s forthcoming legislation to build a multi-layered missile defense system protecting the entire country. Driscoll also committed to coming up to Alaska and meeting with Alaska’s soldiers, including members of the 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Ft. Greely.
    [embedded content]
    DAN SULLIVAN: Ten years ago, I was in this position. I was a brand-new U.S. senator. I’d been here for a month, and the Obama administration announced as part of its gutting of our U.S. military that they were going to cut 40,000 active duty Army troops, including the 4-25 at JBER in Alaska, the only airborne brigade combat team in the entire Indo-Pacific. Strategic national security suicide, in my view. I was a brand new senator. I fought that with everything I had. I put a hold on the chief of staff for the Army’s confirmation. I put a hold on the secretary of the Army’s confirmation for several weeks, until we got the Army to see the light. Okay. Obama ended up cutting 35,000 troops, and he kept the 4-25 in Alaska, 5,000 Airborne Army troopers, which became the cornerstone of the 11th Airborne Division as we built up the Army in Alaska. Are you aware that the Army now has two active duty airborne divisions?
    DAN DRISCOLL: I am, Senator.
    DS: The 82nd, which we all love, but the 11th Airborne Division, which is in Alaska, the Arctic Angels. You aware of that?
    DD: I am, Senator.
    DS: Great. Imagine my surprise. There’s been some articles, recent articles in the paper saying certain leaders in policy roles in the Trump Pentagon have had past ideas in the debate about shifting resources to the Indo-Pacific, which I support, but past ideas on how we can do that. One was a report, an idea from a report from 2021 that would deactivate four Stryker brigade combat teams, six infantry brigade combat teams, two National Guard aviation brigades. More than 10 percent of the Army’s active duty combat power. If this idea ever saw its head in the Pentagon from a non-Senate confirmed DAS, I need your commitment to me and this committee right now that you would kill it.
    DD: Senator, I commit, if confirmed, to fight as hard as I can for the Army. As I said to your colleague, the Army is at its lowest staffing since World War II.
    DS: Right. And do you think cutting 12 brigade combat teams worth of combat power is a good idea?
    DD: Without knowing the specifics, senator…
    DS: Well, come on. I need your answer to say no. Do you think cutting 12 brigade combat—this is Obama 2.0, right? Do you think cutting 12 brigade combat teams from the Army would implement President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s policies of peace through strength?
    DD: No.
    DS: No it wouldn’t. Do you think it would deter XI Jinping and Vladimir Putin if this idea—and maybe this idea has been discarded by this DAS who’s there right now—cutting 12 brigade combat teams would help with deterrence?
    DD: No.
    DS: I don’t think so either. Well, thank you on that because it was very disturbing when I read that. I’m glad you agree with me that we’re not doing Obama 2.0. We’re doing Reagan and Trump 1 2.0. Peace through strength, and ideas of gutting the Army’s active duty force—that’s what I fought when I came here. If there’s anyone who’s trying to do that, we’ll fight it. I’ll fight it. Okay. Let me go to another question. In addition to the 11th  Airborne Division in Alaska, we have the 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Fort Greely. A lot of people don’t know this, but the cornerstone of missile defense for America is in Alaska, and it’s led by the U.S. Army. The President put out his Iron Dome executive order recently for layered missile defense. I fully support that. Will you work with me and this committee, Senator Cramer. We’re going to be introducing legislation to bolster what the President’s trying to do. But a lot of it will involve the Army. A lot of people don’t know that. The 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Fort Greely, they like to call themselves the “300 protecting the 300 million,” because they protect the whole country. Will you commit to working with this committee and me on bolstering our missile defenses, particularly as it relates to Fort Greely and our brave soldiers, who are doing a great job defending our nation, and come to Alaska with me to see them and the 11th Airborne Division?
    DD: It would be an honor, Senator. As we talked about in your office, I was stationed with 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York.
    DS: Where there’s no mountains.
    DD: When you get there, you assume the 10th Mountain Division would have mountains around. I think the highest elevation on the entire base is 50 feet. So I would be honored, Senator.
    DS: Great. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests Nearly $14 Million to Advance Technologies that Transform Carbon Emissions into Valuable Products

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $13.7 million in federal funding for four projects that will advance large-scale conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into environmentally responsible and economically valuable products. With funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects will help develop conversion technologies that feasibly produce crucial fuels, building materials, and other carbon-based products from captured carbon emissions. 

    “Chemicals production and petroleum refining industries are vital for the U.S. economy and our nation’s energy security, but are also responsible for significant carbon emissions,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “DOE’s investments in carbon conversion technology will support new economic opportunities and job creation, while providing lower-emissions carbon product alternatives for these industries at the same time.” 

    The selected projects will support two areas of focus: (1) engineering-scale testing of electrochemical systems for converting carbon dioxide emissions into value-added products, such as engineering polymer/resin precursors, specialty chemicals, and commodity chemicals; and (2) feasibility studies that examine retrofitting refineries and petrochemical facilities for carbon conversion:

    • Dioxide Materials Inc. (Boca Raton, Florida) plans to scale technology for the production of low-greenhouse gas ethanol and mevalonic acid via a combination of electrolysis and bioprocessing. 
       
    • Terraforma Carbon LLC (State College, Pennsylvania) aims to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of carbon capture and conversion to methanol by modeling a retrofit of Shell’s Norco refinery in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana using molten salt-based capture technology.
       
    • Thiozen Inc. (Pasadena, California) plans to explore the use of a hydrogen sulfide reforming technology to produce low-cost and low-emissions methanol.
       
    • Twelve Benefit Corp. (Berkeley, California) seeks to accelerate the production of low-carbon chemicals and syngas through rapid research, development, and deployment of its CO2 electrolyzers.

    DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), under the purview of FECM, will manage the selected projects. A detailed list of the selected projects can be found here.

    These projects support the goals of DOE’s Clean Fuels and Products Energy Earthshot, which aims to meet projected 2050 net-zero emissions demands for 100% of aviation fuel; 50% of maritime, rail and off-road fuel; and 50% of carbon-based chemicals by using sustainable carbon resources.

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Flight Tests Wildland Fire Tech Ahead of Demo

    Source: NASA

    NASA is collaborating with the wildfire community to provide tools for some of the most challenging aspects of firefighting – particularly aerial nighttime operations.  
    In the future, agencies could more efficiently use drones, both remotely piloted and fully autonomous, to help fight wildfires. NASA recently tested technologies with teams across the country that will enable aircraft – including small drones and helicopters outfitted with autonomous technology for remote piloting – to monitor and fight wildfires 24 hours a day, even during low-visibility conditions. 
    Current aerial firefighting operations are limited to times when aircraft have clear visibility – otherwise, pilots run the risk of flying into terrain or colliding with other aircraft. NASA-developed airspace management technology will enable drones and remotely piloted aircraft to operate at night, expanding the window of time responders have to aerially suppress fires.
    “We’re aiming to provide new tools – including airspace management technologies – for 24-hour drone operations for wildfire response,” said Min Xue, project manager of the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project within NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. “This testing will provide valuable data to inform how we mature this technology for eventual use in the field.” 
    Over the past year, ACERO researchers developed a portable airspace management system (PAMS) drone pilots can use to safely send aircraft into wildfire response operations when operating drones from remote control systems or ground control stations.  
    Each PAMS, roughly the size of a carry-on suitcase, is outfitted with a computer for airspace management, a radio for sharing information among PAMS units, and an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast receiver for picking up nearby air traffic – all encased in a durable and portable container. 
    NASA software on the PAMS allows drone pilots to avoid airborne collisions while remotely operating aircraft by monitoring and sharing flight plans with other aircraft in the network. The system also provides basic fire location and weather information. A drone equipped with a communication device acts as an airborne communication relay for the ground-based PAMS units, enabling them to communicate with each other without relying on the internet.  

    To test the PAMS units’ ability to share and display vital information, NASA researchers placed three units in different locations outside each other’s line of sight at a hangar at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley. Researchers stationed at each unit entered a flight plan into their system and observed that each unit successfully shared flight plans with the others through a mesh radio network. 
    Next, researchers worked with team members in Virginia to test an aerial communications radio relay capability. 
    Researchers outfitted a long-range vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a camera, computer, a mesh radio, and an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast receiver for air traffic information. The team flew the aircraft and two smaller drones at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, purposely operating them outside each other’s line of sight.  
    The mesh radio network aboard the larger drone successfully connected with the small drones and multiple radio units on the ground. 

    NASA researchers then tested the PAMS units’ ability to coordinate through an aerial communications relay to simulate what it could be like in the field.  
    At Monterey Bay Academy Airport in Watsonville, California, engineers flew a winged drone with vertical takeoff and landing capability by Overwatch Aero, establishing a communications relay to three different PAMS units. Next, the team flew two smaller drones nearby.  
    Researchers tested the PAMS units’ ability to receive communications from the Overwatch aircraft and share information with other PAMS units. Pilots purposely submitted flight plans that would conflict with each other and intentionally flew the drones outside preapproved flight plans. 
    The PAMS units successfully alerted pilots to conflicting flight plans and operations outside preapproved zones. They also shared aircraft location with each other and displayed weather updates and simulated fire location data. 
    The test demonstrated the potential for using PAM units in wildfire operations.  
    “This testing is a significant step towards improving aerial coordination during a wildfire,” Xue said. “These technologies will improve wildfire operations, reduce the impacts of large wildfires, and save more lives,” Xue said.  
    This year, the team will perform a flight evaluation to further mature these wildfire technologies. Ultimately, the project aims to transfer this technology to the firefighting community community. 
    This work is led by the ACERO project under NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate and supports the agency’s Advanced Air Mobility mission.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Discusses Wichita, KS Plane Crash on Morning in America: It’s a tough day for Kansas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Morning in America on NewsNation to discuss the horrific collision of an American Airlines passenger plane from Wichita, Kansas with a military helicopter on Wednesday evening. Senator Marshall offered his deep condolences to the families of the victims and all those impacted. 
    Senator Marshall shared some of the major concerns and operational pitfalls that led to this horrific accident, and emphasized the need for a full investigation of what went wrong.
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:
    “It’s a tough day for Kansas. We lost 67 people – it just feels like a gut punch, and we’re just lifting those families up in prayer, trying to surround them with our love. We’re all mourning with them, and it’s a tough day.”
    “I think we’re just all in shock. At least half of these families are from Wichita…This is a flight I’ve taken multiple times, and it would be unusual for me to get on that plane and not recognize some of the people in there. But regardless… We’re humbled. We’re just praying for God’s grace on these, on all these families. They got a tough, tough day ahead of them. Just trust me, it’s a tough day.”
    On the operational errors: 
    “I appreciate President Trump’s transparency. I really, really do – that the American people deserve to be leveled with. You know, there was a couple huge concerns. Why are we letting military aircraft in this airspace? This is the busiest runway in America. Why are we letting them there in the first place? And then their transponders don’t communicate with commercial planes.”
    “If you’re going to be an airspace where there’s commercial airplanes – very busy, you need to have a transponder that works… This helicopter should have never been above 200 feet. The collision occurred at 350. So all the helicopters have a ceiling of 200 feet – why was he up there? Why was air traffic control not yelling and screaming at him – or her – as well? So I do think this should have never happened, and just is so sad.”
    “I think air traffic control could have helped prevent this situation as well, and we’re waiting for that full review. We know that sometimes they only have one person handling this. Usually they have one person handling just the helicopter, and if they had that one person focused on the helicopters, again, I think they’d have been yelling and screaming, ‘What are you doing above 200 feet?’”
    On the need for urgent reform within Air Traffic Control and the FAA: 
    “I think we need to revisit everything. And if they’re going to increase the flights, then we need to have more air traffic control.”
    “Last week, President Trump hired over 100 more of these air traffic controllers. So he’s trying to address this problem up front, you know, and he was trying to reverse this trend in less safety, within the air traffic control, and more within the FAA, I would say.”
    “I have empathy, and I appreciate President Trump’s upfront communication here. There’s no more helicopters allowed in this airspace at DCA as well right now. This is the first accident – it’s been 15 or 20 years – the first major accident as well…But regardless, my prayers today for the family and for addressing the situation, and hope it never happens again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Hospitals overwhelmed in DR Congo, food running out: Goma faces ‘devastation’

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    After days of intense fighting, the humanitarian situation in Goma, capital of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has reached alarming levels – with humanitarian needs now massive and response capacities severely strained. 

    The World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Thursday that food supplies are running dangerously low, as water and electricity outages exacerbate the crisis.

    The seizure and closure of Goma’s airport by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has further interfered with aid delivery, while the blocking of roads and lake transport restrictions have left thousands stranded.

    The rebel group has taken control of most of Goma since entering the city on Monday in the biggest escalation of a decades-long conflict springing from the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsis, and a continuing struggle for control of rich mineral resources in the region among a plethora of armed groups.

    Fleeing by boat

    Families attempting to flee the violence across Lake Kivu are resorting to unsafe makeshift boats, putting their lives at risk.

    At the same time, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reports that humanitarian workers have been unable to leave their shelters in Goma for over 24 hours due to the insecurity, severely affecting emergency response efforts.

    Tom Fletcher, the emergency relief chief, has allocated $17 million from the UN’s Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) to support lifesaving assistance – yet access to those in need remains uncertain.   

    Hospitals overwhelmed

    Medical facilities in Goma – and second city Bukavu to the south – are overwhelmed, with over 2,000 injuries reported since the beginning of January, including many from gunshot wounds. Hospitals lack adequate medical supplies, fuel and staff to manage the growing influx of patients.

    The World Health Organization (WHO), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) are urgently working to bolster healthcare services, but with supply chains disrupted and facilities at capacity, response efforts are severely strained.

    Additionally, health authorities warn of an increasing risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera, measles and mpox, due to mass displacement, unsafe water sources and inadequate sanitation.

    Escalating insecurity in North Kivu

    In the village of Kiziba, on the outskirts of Goma, civilians are reporting armed men in military uniforms carrying out widespread looting, extortion and sexual violence, according to Radio Okapi, the station run by UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, MONUSCO.

    Meanwhile, Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General Spokesperson reported that other armed groups in the east, including Zaïre and the CODECO militias, have increased attacks against the population in Djugu territory in the past month, robbing civilians.

    At least six people have been killed since last weekend and as a result, many have stopped using roads in the area, which also prevents them from going to their fields or to markets.

    Reports indicate that some roads have reopened, but mass displacement continues, with at least 700,000 people now internally displaced within North Kivu and South Kivu.

    Peacekeepers’ response

    Peacekeepers with (MONUSCO) have launched the second phase of an operation called Horizon of Peace in Djugu territory, aiming to contain an escalation of violence by armed groups, according to Mr. Dujarric.

    MONUSCO peacekeepers have stepped up patrols on several roads in the territory to support the free movement of people and goods.

    Calls for international action 

    Bruno Lemarquis, the UN’s Humanitarian Coordinator for DR Congo, has issued a strong plea for immediate international support. “I call on the international community to step up its support in the face of a worsening humanitarian crisis,” he stated.

    Emergency food agency WFP has reiterated its readiness to resume food distributions as soon as security conditions permit, but without immediate access, thousands remain at risk of starvation and disease.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: President’s Cabinet

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Q: Why does the nation’s chief executive have a team of advisors known as the President’s Cabinet?

    A: During the Constitutional Convention in 1787, delegates hashed out how to organize the executive branch and whether the president would act independently or collaborate with a council of ministers. One proposal suggested a council comprised of the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Ultimately, the delegates vested theexecutive power in a single person: the President of the United States. However, they also included constitutional guardrails unique to our system of checks and balances, granting the power of “advise and consent” to the Senate on appointments and treaties. So, while the president’s “Cabinet” is not spelled out in the Constitution, Article II, Section 2, clause 1 authorizes the president “may require the Opinion … of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Officers.” In other words, the president has the power to surround himself with a team of people to carry out the laws of the land.

    President George Washington created the first Cabinet and nominated four individuals for Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of State, Secretary of War and Attorney General. Washington met regularly with his Cabinet to discuss core functions of the new federal government: money supply, diplomacy, defense, enforcement of laws and administration of justice. His successors followed this precedent to surround themselves with trusted advisors to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.” The Cabinet has expanded over the years, most recently with creation of the Department of Homeland Security post-9/11. Today, the Cabinet includes the Vice President and heads of 15 executive departments, including the U.S. Attorney General; Secretaries of Agriculture; Commerce; Defense; Education; Energy; Health and Human Services; Homeland Security; Housing and Urban Development; Interior; Labor; State; Treasury; Transportation; and, Veterans Affairs. Also serving in Cabinet-level positions are the Administrators of the Environmental Protection Agency and Small Business Administration; Directors of the Central Intelligence Agency; National Intelligence; and, Office of Management and Budget; U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations; and the U.S. Trade Representative. Since the 113th Congress, Cabinet nominees are confirmed by a simple majority in the U.S. Senate. If approved, nominees are sworn in before beginning their duties.

    Q: What is the Senate’s role in the confirmation process?

    A: The Constitution gives the president and the Senate shared authority to make appointments to high-level positions in the federal government, including the federal judiciary and the president’s Cabinet. History shows the Senate extends deference to presidents selecting advisors to help them carry out the operations of the executive branch of government. In the 19th century, the Senate revised its rules to require the referral of nominations to the appropriate committees. A century later, Senate committees held public hearings and questioned nominees in person. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee in the 119th Congress, I’ve led confirmation hearings for President Trump’s nominees to serve as the Attorney General and the Director of the FBI. From my assignments on the Senate Agriculture, Finance and Budget Committees, I’ve participated in confirmation hearings for the Secretaries of Agriculture, Treasury, Health and Human Services and Director of the Office of Management and Budget. It’s my policy to wait until after these hearings conclude to make my final decision on the nomination. The Senate’s “advise and consent” authority is one tool to keep check on the executive branch and has factored into the rejection or withdrawl of Cabinet nominees for centuries. At the same time, the Senate has a compelling interest not to impede the continuity of government from one administration to the next. It’s critical to the functioning of government to have these high-level officials in place. For Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama, 84 percent of Cabinet secretaries nominated before Inauguration Day received quick Senate approval, an average of 2.4 days. After passing background checks, answering questions in writing, in private meetings and under the Senate microscope in public confirmation hearings and being referred favorably by the committees of jurisdiction, the president’s nominees deserve a timely vote in the U.S. Senate. The devastating collision on Jan. 29 over the Potomac River – the worst aviation crash in America in a quarter century – underscores the urgency to get the president’s team in place.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seattle Woman Sentenced for Assaulting Flight Attendant on Phoenix-Bound Flight

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Aliyah Robyn Stalder, 24, of Seattle, Washington, was sentenced last week to three years of probation by United States Magistrate Judge Alison S. Bachus for assaulting a flight attendant while on board a commercial flight. During her term of probation, Stalder will not be permitted to travel by commercial aircraft without prior approval and must pay a $5,000 civil penalty imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration. Stalder was also ordered to pay over $8,000 in restitution for her actions. Stalder pleaded guilty on November 14, 2024, to Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding on an Aircraft.

    On February 9, 2023, Stalder boarded a commercial flight from Seattle to Phoenix. During the flight, Stalder attempted to open multiple cabin doors and ultimately had to be restrained by members of the flight crew and other passengers. During the struggle to restrain Stalder, she assaulted one of the flight attendants.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Phoenix Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-24-00031-PHX-ASB
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-011_Stalder

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Culver City Man Agrees to Plead Guilty to Recklessly Crashing Drone into Super Scooper Firefighting Aircraft During Palisades Fire

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Culver City man agreed to plead guilty to recklessly operating a drone that crashed into and damaged a Super Scooper firefighting aircraft fighting the Palisades Fire earlier this month, the Justice Department announced today.

    Peter Tripp Akemann, 56, has agreed to plead guilty to one count of unsafe operation of an unmanned aircraft. This morning federal prosecutors filed a criminal information charging Akemann with the misdemeanor offense that carries a prison sentence of up to one year in federal prison.

    In a plea agreement also filed this morning, Akemann agreed to plead guilty to the criminal offense and admitted to his reckless and illegal conduct in flying the drone that posed an imminent safety hazard to the Super Scooper crew. As a result of the drone collision, the firefighting aircraft was taken out of service for a period of time and was not able to continue its firefighting mission. As part of the plea agreement, Akemann agreed to pay full restitution to the Government of Quebec, which supplied the plane, and an aircraft repair company that repaired the plane. Akemann also agreed to complete 150 hours of community service in support of the 2025 Southern California wildfire relief effort.

    “This defendant recklessly flew an aircraft into airspace where first responders were risking their lives in an attempt to protect lives and property,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “This damage caused to the Super Scooper is a stark reminder that flying drones during times of emergency poses an extreme threat to personnel trying to help people and compromises the overall ability of police and fire to conduct operations. As this case demonstrates, we will track down drone operators who violate the law and interfere with the critical work of our first responders.”

    “Lack of common sense and ignorance of your duty as a drone pilot will not shield you from criminal charges,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Please respect the law, respect the FAA’s rules and respect our firefighters and the residents they are protecting by keeping your drone at home during wildfires.”

    Akemann is expected to make his initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. 

    According to the plea agreement, while the wildfire was burning in and around Pacific Palisades on January 9, Akemann drove to the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and parked his vehicle on the top floor of the parking structure. He then launched a drone and flew it towards Pacific Palisades to observe damage caused by the Palisades Fire.

    Akemann flew the drone at least 2,500 meters (more than 1.5 miles) toward the fire and lost sight of the drone. As Akemann was flying the drone, it collided with a Government of Quebec Super Scooper carrying two crewmembers attempting to fight the blaze. The impact caused an approximately 3-inch-by-6-inch hole in the left wing. After landing, maintenance personnel identified the damage and took the aircraft out of service for repairs.

    At the time of the collision, the Federal Aviation Administration had issued temporary flight restrictions that prohibited drone operations near the Los Angeles County wildfires that erupted earlier this month.

    As a result of the collision, the Government of Quebec and an aircraft repair company incurred costs of at least $65,169 to repair the plane.

    The FBI investigated this matter. The Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Los Angeles Fire Department, and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) provided substantial assistance.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Kedar S. Bhatia and Ian V. Yanniello of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Metro presents first map in Chinese

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Metro

    The Moscow Metro has unveiled a new Chinese-language metro map that makes navigation easier for tourists from China. The names of metro stations, the Moscow Central Circle, the Moscow Central Circle and other key transport facilities have been translated in collaboration with native speakers, ensuring linguistic accuracy and compliance with Chinese grammar rules.

    Moscow metro – Moscow Metro.

    To help Chinese visitors better understand station announcements, the names have been phonetically adapted to resemble their Russian counterparts. For example:

    米金诺 (Mǐ jīn nuò / Mi din nuo) – sounds like Mitino station 珀梁卡 (Pò liáng kǎ / Po lyang ka) – corresponds to Polyanka station

    The translation used the Palladium system, a specialized method for transcribing Chinese words into Russian.

    A unique Chinese-language subway map has been placed in the first and last carriages of the Chinese New Year theme train currently running on Line 3. Passengers can also get a mini version of the map for free at over 30 Live Chat information counters, and an electronic version is available for download.

    Many tourists from China come to Moscow. To make their travel around the city more convenient, we have developed a metro map in Chinese with translations of all metro stations, the Moscow Central Circle and Moscow City Ring Road, as well as key transport hubs – airports and railway stations. Improving passenger comfort remains our priority at the initiative of Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport.

    Moscow is also developing environmentally friendly transport, inspired by China’s experience

    Moscow’s ground transportation system is following global trends by introducing environmentally friendly electric buses following China’s example. Last year, innovative electric bus routes were introduced for the first time in 15 districts of the city.

    Since 2022, Moscow has been receiving electric buses with electric interior heating, and in 2024 they will arrive in an updated design. Each electric bus reduces CO₂ emissions into the atmosphere by more than 60 tons per year. Currently, the operation of electric bus routes is provided by 11 Mosgortrans bus depots, which support about 350 charging stations installed throughout the city.

    Moscow also actively exchanges experience with its Chinese colleagues. As part of international cooperation, last fall Mosgortrans hosted a delegation from the Hebei Transport Professional Technical Institute (HTVTI, China) at the Mitino electric bus depot. During the visit, Chinese specialists were able to see first-hand the work and unique features of Moscow’s public electric transport.

    Cooperation with our Chinese colleagues allows us not only to adopt advanced experience in the field of transport technologies and urban mobility, but also to share our own innovations, promoting the development of environmentally friendly transport in both China and Russia. Thanks to such international partnerships, Moscow is confidently moving towards its goal – the creation of a sustainable transport system that meets the challenges of the future.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government going further and faster to bring growth to Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    • English
    • Cymraeg

    The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales.

    HM Treasury

    Working people and businesses across Wales are to benefit from reforms to drive investment and get Britain building. The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales and deliver on the UK Government’s Plan for Change. 

    Below sets out specific benefits for Wales as a result of the Chancellor’s decisions today (29 January).

    Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone 

    • Having confirmed funding for the Investment Zones programme at Autumn Budget, the government can now confirm that the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone (IZ) will focus on advanced manufacturing.
    • There are major international businesses in the region including JCB and Airbus, which the IZ will support, as well as the wider advanced manufacturing supply chain in the region. At present the IZ is expected to generate £1bn of private investment, creating up to 6000 new high quality jobs.
    • The IZ’s interventions will be focused around sites in: 
      • Deeside and Deeside industrial estate which houses Tata Steel and Toyota; 
      • Hawarden Airport, where Airbus are based; 
      • Llay Industrial Estate – which houses a number of key aerospace businesses; and 
      • Wrexham Industrial Estate – which houses a wide range of advanced manufacturing business, including JCB. 

    Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    • The UK government is investing £63m into the Advanced Fuels Fund in 2025-26 and has today set out the details of how it will deliver a Revenue Certainty Mechanism to encourage investment into this growing industry. These measures will encourage more investors to back production in the UK, bringing good, high-skilled jobs to areas like South Wales.

    Inactivity Trailblazers

    • Getting more people back into work is crucial if we want a dynamic economy, and it is good for jobless people too. Over nine million people are inactive, of which a record 2.8 million people are out of work due to long-term sickness. The outdated employment support system is ill equipped to respond to this growing challenge.
    • We have committed £240m of investment towards 16 trailblazers including one for every MCA and one in Wales to tackle the root causes of inactivity, eight of which will be used to support the Youth Guarantee, the remaining eight will be focused on tackling health-related inactivity.
    • The Inactivity trailblazers will be delivered across Wales.

    National Wealth Fund Support

    • The government remains committed to working in close partnership with the Welsh Government through the National Wealth Fund to maximise investment opportunities to deliver growth in all corners of the UK.

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:

    I’m delighted that we are moving forward with the Investment Zone for Wrexham and Flintshire with £160 million from the UK Government to drive economic growth in advanced manufacturing.

    In December I met leaders from the advanced manufacturing sector at Toyota in Deeside and visited two hugely successful supply chain businesses. I saw the huge potential for growth and for building on the talent and expertise that already exists in this part of Wales.

    This Investment Zone will super-charge economic growth, create up to 6000 new jobs and generate £1bn of private investment which will have a transformational impact for people living and working in northeast Wales.

    The Chancellor is also reviewing the Treasury’s investment guidance in the Green Book to ensure it is being used to provide objective, transparent advice on public investment across the country, reporting at Phase 2 of the Spending Review.

    Pushing forwards with strategic infrastructure and investment across all four corners of the UK is key to delivering the UK Government’s Growth Mission. Bringing the productivity of major cities to the national average would deliver an extra £33bn in economic output, and measures set out today extend beyond this to kickstart a decade of national renewal.

    This is just the start, and further regional growth announcements will follow through the year. The government is hardwiring plans for regional growth into the Spending Review, and into plans for infrastructure, investment and the industrial strategy. The UK Government is also working with the Welsh Government to ensure the benefits of growth can be felt across Wales, including by partnering on the Industrial Strategy to support Wales’s considerable sectoral strengths.

    Tim Knowles, Founder and Managing Director of FI Real Estate Management, said: 

    As an investor in Wrexham for almost 20 years, we’re delighted to see the announcement that Wrexham and Flintshire will receive Advanced Manufacturing Investment Zone status, with three of our schemes on Wrexham Industrial Estate – Wrexham 1M, Wrexham 152, and Bridgeway Centre – forming part of the designated zone.

    Across these sites, we’ll be investing £115m to create new, high-quality industrial accommodation, supporting the creation of over 1,000 new jobs and delivering an estimated economic value of £1.2bn in Wrexham over the next 10 years.

    This is a significant milestone for North Wales, and we look forward to working in partnership with stakeholders to leverage this opportunity for strategic investment in the area, helping to supercharge the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.

    In collaboration with local authorities and wider stakeholders, we need to ensure that we capitalise on all the opportunities this moment brings. We’ve long recognised the potential for North Wales to become a thriving hub for innovation, and we’re excited that our developments can play an important part in this next chapter.

    Mark Turner, JCB’s Chief Operating Officer said:

    JCB has been a prominent feature of the industrial and economic landscape in Wrexham and Flintshire for over 45 years. Innovation is the lifeblood of our business and we welcome the creation of an Investment Zone in North Wales and hope that it will attract many other businesses to the area. As an advanced manufacturer of precision engineering components, JCB Transmissions looks forward to other advanced manufacturing businesses coming to the area. This could go a long way towards building the supply chain resilience of existing manufacturing businesses in the area, such as JCB.

    We place a lot of values on skills in our business and we look forward to the Investment Zone positively supporting skills development in the future. JCB continues to invest in our business in Wrexham and today’s IZ announcement bodes well for the economic development of the area in the future.

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    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kansas Delegation Releases Statement Following the Wichita Flight Crash

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    “Our prayers are with the families and friends of those affected by the tragic plane crash that occurred in our nation’s capital. South central Kansas is a close community, and it’s likely that many of us directly or indirectly know people who were on Flight 5342 on Jan. 29. This is a sad day for Kansans and our nation, and this community, steeped in aviation and manufacturing history, will feel the pain of this catastrophe for years to come. We are grateful for the first responders and rescue crews who worked through the night. Our focus now is supporting the family and friends of those who perished, including the crew and military personnel, and then getting answers for the grieving individuals who have lost a loved one and making sure this doesn’t happen again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: The weird psychology of airports

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steve Taylor, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Leeds Beckett University

    LightField Studios/Shutterstock

    Many of us have witnessed unusual and even anti-social behaviour at an airport or on a flight. These may range from benign acts such as sleeping on the floor or doing yoga in front of the flight information display system to serious incidents like early morning drunken arguments or even trying to open the aeroplane doors mid-flight.

    These more sinister problems appear to have worsened over recent years, with increasing air rage incidents and flight diversions. Such incidents have led to calls to reduce or even ban the sale of alcohol at airports and on planes. RyanAir, for example, has called for a two-drink limit at airport bars to stop drunken incidents on planes.

    But what is it about airports that make us behave differently? Let’s take a look at the psychology.

    Many holidaymakers feel that the adventure begins at the airport, putting them in a different frame of mind to normal. They are eager to begin their one or two weeks’ of relaxed hedonism with a flourish.

    Others, however, are anxious about flying, which may make them act out of character or take refuge in alcohol. The noise and crowds of airports doesn’t help either. As the field of environmental psychology has demonstrated, human beings are very sensitive to our immediate surroundings, and can easily become “overloaded” by stressors such as crowds and noise.

    Stress and anxiety produce irritability, both on a temporary and ongoing basis. People who are generally anxious are more prone to anger. And a temporary anxious mood often triggers angry outbursts.

    In my view, we also need to look at the airport from a psychogeographic perspective. Psychogeography studies the effect of places on people’s emotions and behaviour, particularly urban environments.

    In Celtic cultures, there is a concept of special “thin places” – often sacred groves or forests – where the veil between the material and spiritual world is thin. In thin places, we are between two realms, neither fully in one place nor another.

    In the modern technological world, airports can also be seen as “thin places”. They are liminal zones where boundaries fade. On a literal level, national borders dissolve. Once we pass through security, we enter a no man’s land, between countries. The concept of place becomes hazy.

    In a similar way, time becomes a hazy concept at airports. About to step on a plane, we are in a liminal space between two time zones, about to leap forward in time, or even head back into the past. Some flights across the US – such as Atlanta to Alabama – land earlier than departure time, as they cross time zones. Being able to manage our time gives us a sense of control over our lives. Losing this may be another source of anxiety.

    In another sense, airports are a zone of absence, where the present moment is unwelcome. Everyone’s attention turns towards the future, to their flights and the adventures ahead of them when they arrive at their destination. This intense future focus often brings frustration, especially if flights are delayed.

    Personal boundaries also become fluid. As well as anti-social behaviour, airports may play host to pro-social behaviour, where strangers share their travel and holiday plans, speaking with unusual intimacy. In no man’s land, normal social inhibitions don’t apply. And alcohol can further lubricate this social cohesion.

    Due to the haziness of time and place, airports create a sense of disorientation. We define ourselves in terms of time and place. We know who we are in relation to our daily routines and our familiar environments. We also define ourselves in terms of nationality. Without such markers, we may feel adrift. Whether caused by psychological or environmental factors, and even if only temporary, disorientation can have detrimental effects.

    Liberating effects

    On the plus side, all of this may have a liberating effect for some of us. As I point out in my book Time Expansion Experiences, we normally view time as an enemy that steals the moments of our lives and oppresses us with deadlines. So to step outside time sometimes feels like being let out of prison.

    The same applies to identity. A sense of identity is important to our psychological health, but can become constricting. Like actors who are stuck playing the same character in a soap opera week after week, we enjoy the security of our roles but long to test and stretch ourselves with new challenges. So to step outside our normal routines and environments feels invigorating. Ideally, the freedom that begins at the airport continues throughout our foreign adventures.

    Ultimately, whether we feel anxious or liberated, we may end up acting out of character.

    In line with the theories of psychologist Sigmund Freud, this could be interpreted as a shift from our normal civilised ego to the primitive, instinctive part of the psyche, which Freud called the id. According to Freud, the id is the site of our desires and drives, our emotion and aggression, and it demands instant gratification. The id is normally held in check by the ego, but is always liable to break through, especially when our inhibitions are loosened by alcohol or drugs.

    Outside normal restraints, some holidaymakers allow their id to express itself as soon as they pass through security. And once they become intoxicated, the id is completely dominant, and liable to cause mayhem.

    Banning alcohol from airports may sound draconian. But given that there are so many factors that encourage anti-social behaviour, it is difficult to think of any other solution. In a situation when boundaries break down, leading to possible chaos, a legal boundary may be the only hope.

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

    – ref. The weird psychology of airports – https://theconversation.com/the-weird-psychology-of-airports-248357

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Alert: Low-level helicopter flights to image geology over Wyoming and Colorado

    Source: US Geological Survey

    RESTON, Va. — Low-level helicopter flights are planned over areas of Wyoming and northern Colorado to image geology using airborne geophysical technology. 

    Data collection for this survey area will be conducted starting in February 2025 for approximately three months, weather and flight restriction permitting. Surveying is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025.

    Flights will cover areas within Albany, Carbon, Converse, Laramie, and Platte counties in Wyoming as well as Jackson, Larimer, and Routt counties in Colorado. 

    The flights will be based out of various Wyoming airports. Flights and landing areas could shift with little to no warning to other parts of the survey area as necessary to minimize ferrying distances and avoid adverse flying conditions.

    The purpose of the airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey is to provide images of subsurface electrical resistivity that expand the fundamental knowledge of geology underpinning an area from the Cheyenne Belt in Wyoming through to the Black Hills in South Dakota. These flights are a part of a two-year airborne data collection project, expected to finish in 2026.  

    The helicopter will fly along pre-planned flight paths relatively low to the ground at about 100 to 200 feet (30-60 meters) above the land surface. The ground clearance will be increased as needed and will comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Flight lines will be flown along lines of variable orientation and spacing with a typical approximate spacing of 6,500 ft (2,000 m).

    A sensor that resembles a large hula-hoop will be towed beneath the helicopter to measure small electromagnetic signals that can be used to map geologic features. 

    None of the instruments carried beneath or on the aircraft pose a health risk to people, animals, or plant life. No photography or video data will be collected. The data collected will be made freely available to the public on ScienceBase, typically within one year of flight completion. The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. The survey company works with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. 

    The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only. Surveys do not occur over densely populated areas and the helicopter will not directly overfly buildings at low altitude. 

    The survey is funded by the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative and is designed to meet needs related to mineral resource assessments, regional geologic framework and mapping studies, as well as water resource investigations and surficial mapping studies. The AEM survey is focused on characterizing several major mineral systems, including critical minerals associated with mafic magmatic, volcanogenic seafloor, and porphyry systems.  

    The new geophysical data will be processed to develop high-resolution three-dimensional representations of near-surface geology from the surface to depths up to 1,500 ft (roughly 500 meters) below the surface. The 3D models and maps derived from this project are important for improving our understanding of critical mineral resource potential, water resources, groundwater pathways near legacy mining areas, parameters for infrastructure and land use planning. 

    The survey fits into a broader effort by the USGS, the Wyoming State Geological Survey, the Colorado Geological Survey, and other partners – including private companies, academics and state and federal agencies – to modernize our understanding of the Nation’s fundamental geologic framework and knowledge of mineral resources. This effort is known as the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, and it includes airborne geophysical surveys like this one, geochemical reconnaissance surveys, topographic mapping using LiDAR technology, hyperspectral surveys, and geologic mapping projects. 

    The USGS has contracted Fugro and Xcalibur Smart Mapping to collect data. 

    Read the full project announcement for this survey in our newsroom here. 

    To learn more about USGS mineral-resource and commodity information, please visit our website and follow us on X. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Trump’s suggestion to ‘clean out’ Gaza sent shockwaves through the Middle East

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sam Phelps, Commissioning Editor, International Affairs

    This article was first published as World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK. Click here to receive this newsletter every Thursday, direct to your inbox.

    Hundreds of thousands of civilians returned to the northern Gaza Strip this week after checkpoints were reopened in line with the ceasefire agreement. Many will have found their homes destroyed after months of heavy fighting and bombardment – something the new US president, Donald Trump, has pointed out.

    In an exchange with reporters last weekend, Trump said: “I’m looking at the whole Gaza Strip right now and it’s a mess, it’s a real mess.” He then went on to suggest Palestinians there should be “evacuated” to Egypt and Jordan where “they could maybe live in peace for a change”. “You’re talking about a million and a half people … we just clean out that whole thing,” he continued.

    Trump is seemingly no stranger to airing whatever thoughts come into his head. At his inauguration he claimed – without providing evidence – that “China is operating the Panama canal”. And he has since called Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine “ridiculous”. But even by these standards, his suggestion to evict Gazans from their land is brash to say the least.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    As Karin Aggestam of Lund University reports, Trump’s proposal has been met with disbelief across the Middle East. It has been widely criticised throughout the region as a potential “second Nakba” – referring to the displacement of Palestinians after Israel’s unilateral declaration of statehood in 1948.



    Read more:
    Donald Trump’s suggestion of ‘clearing out’ Gaza adds another risk to an already fragile ceasefire

    The proposal has also been rejected outright by Egypt and Jordan. Egypt’s ministry of foreign affairs released a statement on Sunday objecting to any forced displacement of Palestinians. And Jordan’s minister of foreign affairs, Ayman Safadi, said his country was committed to “ensuring that Palestinians remain on their land”. The Arab League regional bloc has accused Trump of advocating ethnic cleansing.

    Aggestam says it’s not yet certain if moving Palestinians out of Gaza will become an official US policy position, or whether it is yet another example of Trump speaking his mind. But, in her view, Trump’s latest pronouncement will further complicate the already fragile ceasefire.

    The idea of relocating Palestinians to other countries has thrilled Israel’s extreme ultra-nationalist parties. The Israeli finance minister and leader of the Religious Zionist party, Bezalel Smotrich, and the former national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, have both previously encouraged the return of Israeli settlers to the Gaza Strip.

    Ben Gvir, who recently resigned from his ministerial position in protest at the Gaza ceasefire, asserted in October that “encouraging emigration” of Palestinian residents of Gaza would be the “most ethical” solution to the conflict.

    According to Leonie Fleischmann of City, University of London, the pair share an anti-Arab ideology and a messianic belief in the Jewish people’s right to what they call “Greater Israel”. This refers to a Jewish state that would also include the West Bank, which they referred to as “Judea and Samaria”, as well as Gaza and part of Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

    As Fleischmann explains, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip were the sites of many key events in biblical times and were the home of a number of Israelite kingdoms. In the Bible, God even promises this land to the descendants of Abraham – the Jewish people. This, Fleischmann writes, is the reason behind Smotrich and Ben Gvir’s belief that the Jewish people have the God-given right to settle the whole of Greater Israel.



    Read more:
    The growing influence of Israel’s ultranationalist settler movement

    This is not a position held by the majority of Israelis. But Israel’s ultra-nationalists wield considerable political power, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government dependent on their support to remain in power. Indeed, days after Trump suggested clearing out Gaza, Smotrich spoke of turning it into an actionable policy.

    Speaking with reporters on Monday, he said: “There is nothing to be excited about the weak opposition of Egypt and Jordan to the plan. We saw yesterday how Trump [imposed his will on] Colombia to deport immigrants despite its opposition. When he wants it, it happens.”

    The events Smotrich was referring to in Colombia were certainly extraordinary. Outraged at the repatriation of Colombian migrants in military planes, Colombian president Gustavo Petro refused to allow the flights to land.

    Trump immediately vowed tariffs on Colombian goods and sanctions on government officials, which drew a furious social media response out of Petro and the start of a (very brief) trade war. But within a few hours, Petro had backed down and Colombia announced it would start receiving migrants, including on US military aircraft.

    The White House hailed the agreement as a victory for Trump’s hardline immigration strategy. However, according to Amalendu Misra of Lancaster University, Trump’s punishing tariff threats and foul rhetoric toward illegal immigrants may only damage the power and position of the US in the region.

    His willingness to wage a trade war with countries in Latin America could encourage others to speed up their search for alternative trade partners. And, worse still, he may even push them towards closer relations with governments and ideologies that are inimical to US interests, writes Misra.



    Read more:
    Trump’s method for repatriating migrants risks undermining US interests in Latin America

    Choppy waters ahead

    Back in the Middle East, the ceasefire in Gaza has offered the region a break from war. This has included a pledge by Houthi militants in Yemen not to attack commercial ships travelling through the Red Sea.

    These attacks have halved the number of ships passing through the Suez Canal, a crucial route for goods moving between Asia and Europe, with many diverting around the southern tip of Africa.

    This route adds thousands of miles to the journey, so supply chains have had to deal with higher shipping costs, product delivery delays and increased carbon emissions. In the view of Gokcay Balci, a logistics expert at Leeds University, this disruption is likely to continue.

    The situation in the Red Sea remains unpredictable, he writes. The leader of the Houthis, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, said on Monday that the group was “ready to return to escalation again alongside our brothers, the fighters in Palestine”, and warned: “We have our finger on the trigger.” Shipping companies have, unsurprisingly, announced that they will continue to prioritise alternative routes.

    The Houthis seem unconvinced that the ceasefire in Gaza will hold. But, at least for now, it is providing civilians with some much-needed respite after more than a year of relentless violence.



    Read more:
    Red Sea crisis: supply chain issues set to continue despite Gaza ceasefire

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get our updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. How Trump’s suggestion to ‘clean out’ Gaza sent shockwaves through the Middle East – https://theconversation.com/how-trumps-suggestion-to-clean-out-gaza-sent-shockwaves-through-the-middle-east-248461

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: From motorcycles to C919 jets — China’s travel rush evolution

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

    GUANGZHOU, Jan. 31 — After completing his final delivery, truck driver Zhou Qiang boarded flight CZ8233 back home for Spring Festival celebrations, eager to experience his maiden trip on China’s domestically developed C919 aircraft.

    Once aboard the plane, he could not resist snapping photos to share with his family later. “The seats are very comfortable with plenty of legroom. I can even cross my legs,” Zhou said. The flight from the southern city of Guangzhou to Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, cut his travel time from at least seven hours by train to just two and a half hours this year.

    China is currently in the midst of its annual 40-day Spring Festival travel rush, known as chunyun, a period that sees hundreds of millions of people traveling for family reunions.

    As the country’s airlines of China Eastern, Air China and China Southern have added the C919 aircraft to their fleets, this homegrown aircraft model has been involved in chunyun — with 16 such jets in service this year.

    The Civil Aviation Administration of China has forecast that the number of air passengers during this year’s chunyun is likely to exceed 90 million, potentially setting a new record.

    “Unlike in the past, when many braved the cold by traveling home on motorcycles, more and more fellows now choose high-speed trains or planes,” Zhou noted.

    Until about a decade ago, the sight of migrant workers riding motorcycles from the economic hub of the Pearl River Delta to labor-export regions like Guangxi, Guizhou, Yunnan and Sichuan was an iconic phenomenon during chunyun.

    Huang Xiaoyan and her husband were among them, enduring a grueling 30-hour journey on two wheels from Foshan, Guangdong Province, to their rural home in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

    “It was freezing, especially when it rained. The road was slippery and very risky,” recalled Huang, who works in the plastic manufacturing industry.

    Guangdong’s official figures show that such motorcycle brigades had peaked at 1.1 million trips during the Spring Festival travel season of 2013, before declining in 2014. This decline coincided with the launch of high-speed rail lines connecting Guangdong with regions like Guizhou and Guangxi.

    This year, railways are expected to handle over 510 million passenger trips, averaging 12.75 million daily — a 5.5-percent increase from 2024, while road trips are forecast to reach 7.2 billion.

    Huang said growth in the incomes of migrant workers has resulted in fewer being willing to endure the hardship and danger of riding motorcycles home. Over the past three years, she and her brother have driven home in his car.

    “Almost no one I know rides motorcycles home now,” Huang added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – Without electricity and water: Catholic parish in Goma welcomes 2000 displaced people

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “The greatest danger for the population of Goma is the so-called ‘Wazalendo’ militiamen,” local church observers told Fides about the situation in the capital of the Congolese province of North Kivu, which has fallen into the hands of the M23 rebel movement supported by the Rwandan army.The so-called “Wazalendo” are members of pro-government militias who are fighting alongside the regular army against the advance of the M23. While most of the regular soldiers surrendered after the capture of Goma or turned themselves over to the MONUSCO Blue Helmets, the “Wazalendo” militiamen went into hiding.”The Wazalendo are breaking into the homes of ordinary people in search of food, which is a problem for everyone given the shortage of supplies. If they do not find anything to loot, they threaten to take their children away. And it is easy to imagine what they can do to women and girls,” the observers report. “M23 members and Rwandans are trying to restore order. At the moment, there are reports of occasional shootings near the airport.””The humanitarian situation in Goma remains difficult because there is no electricity and no water pumped and filtered from Lake Kivu. Without electricity, the pumps and sewage treatment plants do not work. The most difficult conditions are for the displaced people (an estimated one million internally displaced people live in Goma). In the parish of Saint Francis Xavier in Ndosho, a suburb on the outskirts of the city, around 2,000 displaced people live without water and in precarious conditions; in addition, there are around 1,600 people housed in the nearby school,” the observers report. Meanwhile, the rebels are slowly advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. “The M23 units are 115 km from the city, but are advancing slowly as they still suffer heavy losses,” the sources said. “In recent days, ambulances have been travelling between Goma and Rwanda to bring the remains of the soldiers who fell on the streets of the city to their families and to ensure a dignified burial, as otherwise they would have ended up in mass graves that are currently being dug.In addition, it is slowly getting hot in Goma and this is another reason why it is urgent to bury the bodies lying on the streets.” “In Bukavu, the situation remains calm for the moment after the withdrawal of foreign aid workers (see Fides, 30/1/2025), but people live in uncertainty,” the observers concluded. Meanwhile, Burundian soldiers have also been sent by the government in Bujumbura to support the Congolese forces. On the political level, yesterday, January 30, Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, held a press conference in Goma, where he reiterated his will to march to Kinshasa to overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi. The British Embassy in Kinshasa, meanwhile, issued a communiqué in English and French condemning the occupation of Goma by the M23 rebel movement and the Rwandan army, and threatening a possible cessation of UK support to Rwanda if hostilities do not cease. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 31/1/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov held a session on the use of artificial intelligence to enhance the combat capabilities of weapons and control systems

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Denis Manturov, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Deputy Minister of Defense Alexey Krivoruchko and representatives of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of Russia, members of the board of the military-industrial complex, heads of military command bodies, representatives of defense industry enterprises and the People’s Defense Industry Complex at a session on the use of artificial intelligence to increase the combat capabilities of weapons and control systems

    January 31, 2025

    Denis Manturov, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Deputy Minister of Defense Alexey Krivoruchko at a session on the use of artificial intelligence to enhance the combat capabilities of weapons and control systems

    January 31, 2025

    Denis Manturov and Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Military Innovation Technopolis (VIT) “ERA”

    January 31, 2025

    Denis Manturov and Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Military Innovation Technopolis (VIT) “ERA”

    January 31, 2025

    Samples of unmanned aircraft systems for intercepting air targets

    January 31, 2025

    Samples of unmanned aircraft systems for intercepting air targets

    January 31, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Denis Manturov, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Deputy Minister of Defense Alexey Krivoruchko and representatives of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of Russia, members of the board of the military-industrial complex, heads of military command bodies, representatives of defense industry enterprises and the People’s Defense Industry Complex at a session on the use of artificial intelligence to increase the combat capabilities of weapons and control systems

    A strategic session was held at the Military Innovation Technopolis (VIT) “Era” under the leadership of First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov.

    The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, Deputy Minister of Defense Alexey Krivoruchko, representatives of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Digital Development, members of the board of the Military-Industrial Commission, heads of military command bodies, representatives of enterprises of the defense industry complex and the national defense industry complex.

    During the meeting, issues of the influence of artificial intelligence on increasing the combat effectiveness of units in combat zones and increasing the combat capabilities of weapons, equipment, and control systems were considered.

    “All leading countries of the world are aware of the growing role of artificial intelligence technologies, big data processing and cloud computing, having included their development among their strategic priorities. In fact, we can talk about another race of technological competition, comparable to the arms race and space exploration programs. Russia as a whole is following in the wake of global trends. Russian companies are developing technological products, including large language models, computer vision, machine learning, based on neural network tools. Most of the existing and planned developments have dual-use potential. Our task is to use them in solving applied military problems,” Denis Manturov noted.

    Artificial intelligence is used for automatic processing and analysis of intelligence data, can improve information support for combat operations, increase the ability to predict threats and the course of conflict development. Digital technologies are the basis for the mass introduction of robotic systems and swarm interaction of unmanned aerial vehicles.

    “Artificial intelligence is a breakthrough and fast technology that is important for both civilian and military needs. In the coming years, we will increase the volume of funding for AI research. We plan to accumulate these resources within the framework of a single AI research program. It is planned to allocate 5% of the state budget for funding scientific research in the field of AI and 15% of the state budget for funding research in other areas, but with the mandatory use of AI tools. Consolidation of these resources in the field of AI and training of specialists are extremely important for achieving technological sovereignty and other goals set by the President of Russia,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    “It is also important to use the capabilities of AI analytics for a deep analysis of the conflict in Ukraine and further training of domestic intelligent systems,” Denis Manturov emphasized.

    The session participants discussed the formation of information and computing systems for the trusted use of elements of artificial intelligence for military purposes, as well as the experience of transitioning to a new generation of drones on neuroprocessors.

    An exhibition of new samples and technologies developed by residents of innovative scientific and technological centers and innovative development funds of the Russian Federation was opened for the participants of the strategic session. A number of samples using AI technologies were selected by the Main Directorate for Innovative Development of the Ministry of Defense of Russia together with the People’s Front for use in the special military operation zone.

    In particular, control modules for receiving video images, analyzing, capturing and automatically tracking targets, semi-autonomous underwater robotic systems (RTS) for reconnaissance, technical control of underwater objects, delivery and manipulation of cargo in difficult underwater conditions, unified consoles for simultaneous control of a group of RTS (several unmanned boats, ground-based RTS or a swarm of UAVs) were presented.

    Manufacturers also presented universal flight controller control units based on technical vision. In particular, in complex electronic environments, these devices retain full functionality of video analytics and allow you to hit a target when you lose control of the drone or return to the base on your own.

    In addition, the participants of the strategic session considered unmanned aircraft systems for intercepting air targets. Interceptor control systems with artificial intelligence allow for automatic detection and capture of targets for subsequent neutralization with a net, special pellets or kinetic damage.

    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 –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales to present advanced defence and aerospace innovations at Aero India 2025, reinforcing its ‘Make in India’ commitment

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales to present advanced defence and aerospace innovations at Aero India 2025, reinforcing its ‘Make in India’ commitment

    31 Jan 2025

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    • Thales will be present at Aero India 2025 (3.3 in Hall B) to exhibit its cutting-edge capabilities across defence and aerospace.
    • In support of the modernisation and indigenisation ambitions of the Indian armed forces, Thales will reinforce its commitment to “Make in India for India and for the world”, as well as the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
    • Thales HR representatives will be available on 13 and 14 February at the stand to engage with engineers and discuss various career opportunities at the company’s engineering centres in Bangalore and Noida

    Thales will showcase its cutting-edge technologies across the defence and aerospace sectors at the 15thedition of Aero India 2025, India’s flagship air show, highlighting the Group’s commitment to ‘Make in India for India and for the world’, aligned with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.

    Empowering India’s defence and aerospace capabilities at Aero India 2025

    Thales offers a comprehensive array of capabilities and services designed to support the Indian armed forces in attaining operational excellence. At Aero India 2025, Thales will showcase its latest capabilities- across air, land and naval defence as well as space, cyber and digital – that are tailored for modern and future needs of the forces.

    Thales provides state-of-the-art equipment on board fighter aircrafts, including the RBE2 AESA radar, the Spectra electronic warfare suite, optronics, the communication, navigation and identification suite (CNI), key cockpit display systems and a logistics support component. The Thales stand at Aero India 2025 will have a dedicated section on these capabilities.

    Thales will also highlight its combat-proven airborne optronics, including TALIOS (Targeting Long-range Identification Optronic System) pod, the 2-in-1 system that delivers unmatched image quality, and the InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) system. Also on display will be Thales’s air defence solutions such as the Lightweight Multi-role Missile (LMM), the STARStreak missile and ForceShield, alongside air surveillance capabilities such as the GM 200 MM/A radar and the SkyView air command and control system.

    For the first time in India, Thales will showcase its innovation in avionics through the FlytX suite for helicopters, in advanced aeronautics navigation systems such as TopAxyz, TopShield and TopStar M. Connectivity solutions such as SYNAPS-A, the airborne member of the SYNAPS software-defined radio family designed to support battlespace digitisation, Modem 21 Air Compact, and the NextW@ve TRA 6030 radio, will also be brought to Aero India this year.

    As a leader in the fast-growing market of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Thales will provide an overview of its portfolio of drone solutions, including its EagleShield drone countermeasures (an integrated nano, micro, mini and small drone countermeasures solution to protect and secure civil and military sites); the PARADE system that provides 360° protection of people, properties and activities, optimised for micro and mini UAS, ranging from 100g to 25kg; and Gamekeeper (a holographic radar that allows detection, tracking and classification of unlimited targets simultaneously including micro and mini drones), in addition to its safe and efficient UTM (Unmanned Traffic Management) system for cooperative and non-cooperative drones, to be unveiled for the first time in India.

    Thales will also present its LGR 68 and LGR 70 Laser Guided Rockets that come with laser guidance precision, are jamming-proof and are extremely precise for guiding ammunition to target.

    As part of its underwater solutions for efficient Maritime Security Operations, Thales will feature its Sonoflash sonobuoy, an anti-submarine warfare system that allows the detection, classification and localisation of submarines. It will also showcase the AirMaster C radar- the latest addition to its Air Master range of airborne surveillance radars -that is highly adaptable and can be integrated into both manned and unmanned airborne platforms.

    Thales presents AI systems we can trust at Aero India 2025

    Thales is a major AI player in these complex environments. The company is Europe’s top patent applicant in the field and devotes a lot of effort to research on AI, both in-house and through academic and industry partnerships. The Group, a major player in trusted AI, provides armed forces with greater efficiency in data analysis and decision-making, while taking into account the specific constraints, such as cybersecurity, embeddability and frugality, associated with critical environments. You will be able to see how Thales embarked IA on its solutions such as Talios or AirMaster C radar.

    Expanding its team in India – hiring at Aero India 2025

    Thales is expanding its team in India and seeking engineers in hardware, software and systems for its engineering centres in Bengaluru and Noida. Thales HR executives will be present during the public days of the show on 13 and 14 February 2025 to meet engineers and share various possible career opportunities available.

    “As India progresses towards its Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, Thales is proud to be a trusted partner in the nation’s ambitious journey. We remain committed to ‘Make in India’ and are advancing our roadmap by strengthening our local teams, collaborations and bringing advanced defence and aerospace technologies to the country. We look forward to continue equipping the Indian armed forces with the next generation of innovative and effective solutions to support their strategic defence ambitions. Aero India 2025 will serve as a key platform for us to present our flagship capabilities and engage with the authorities, forces and our industry partners.” said Pascale Sourisse, President & CEO, Thales International.

    For more details on Thales’s presence at the Aero India 2025, please visit this webpage.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialized in three business domains: Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4bn.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cybersecurity & Digital Identity markets. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cybersecurity & Digital Identity business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Contribution of contrails to global warming – E-002574/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While non-CO2 effects from aviation are short-lived pollutant, it is estimated that they warm the climate at least as much as long-lived CO2 from aviation.

    Based on the precautionary principle and in accordance with Article 14(5) of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) Directive[1], the Commission implements a Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) mechanism of the non-CO2 aviation effects.

    Based on the adopted rules, aircraft operators should monitor the non-CO2 aviation effects as of 1 January 2025, enabling the calculation of a CO2 equivalent per flight.

    Airlines are required to report non-CO2 aviation effects annually. In 2025 and 2026, reporting may include all routes but is mandatory only for routes within the European Economic Area (EEA), and routes from EEA departing to Switzerland or to the United-Kingdom. From 2027 onwards, the MRV will extend to all flights departing from or arriving at EEA.

    The implementation of the MRV and Commission research initiatives enhance knowledge on non-CO2, informing effective avoidance strategies.

    Contrail avoidance by flight altitude adjustments is possible[2]. However, open questions need to be solved prior to an operational implementation of contrail avoidance in air traffic management.

    In addition to the European measures under the EU ETS, the Commission is ready to work with international partners, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation, to take further action on mitigating non-CO2 in the short-term .

    ReFuelEU Aviation and the uptake of SAF (e.g. Power-to-Liquid) could allow to reduce emissions that contribute to non-CO2 climate impact. The Commission explores ways to improve jet fuel composition in Europe, to reduce aromatics and sulphur levels .

    • [1] EU ETS Directive https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/87/oj
    • [2] For example: R Sausen et al, 2023, Can we successfully avoid persistent contrails by small altitude adjustments of flights in the real world?: https://elib.dlr.de/195244/1/avoiding%20contrails%20preprint%20230517.pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Myanmar: Four years after coup, world must demand accountability for atrocity crimes

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The international community must take urgent action to ensure accountability for atrocities in Myanmar, 46 organizations said today ahead of the four-year anniversary of the 1 February 2021 military coup.

    This year represents a turning point for accountability in Myanmar. While the military remains in control, they are losing ground in many areas. Amid rapidly evolving patterns of hostilities and changing political dynamics, renewed efforts must push for justice and ensure a future built on a lasting culture of respect for human rights.

    Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s military junta has killed more than 6,000 people, arbitrarily detained more than 20,000, and renewed judicial executions. More than 3.5 million people are internally displaced. Human rights groups have documented the military’s torture and other ill-treatment of detainees, indiscriminate attacks, and the denial of humanitarian aid, which may amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes.

    Myanmar’s military junta has carried out widespread and systematic attacks against the civilian population nationwide, bombing schools, hospitals, and religious buildings with total impunity. Armed groups fighting the military have also committed human rights violations. While some have pledged to hold perpetrators accountable, it remains to be seen whether these efforts are genuine and can meet international standards.

    Last year, 2024, also marked the worst year of violence against the Rohingya community since 2017, with men, women, and children dying in bombings while being trapped in the middle of the armed conflict between the Myanmar military and the armed group the Arakan Army in Rakhine State.

    At the same time, Myanmar’s military has lost an unprecedented amount of territory across the country to a loose coalition of ethnic armed groups, which have captured two regional commands, high-ranking military officers, dozens of towns, and border crossings. These groups have also been implicated in human rights abuses.

    In areas controlled by ethnic armed groups or overseen by the National Unity Government—formed by democratically elected lawmakers and officials ousted in the 2021 coup—local structures of governance and civil society are emerging. These include schools, hospitals, administrative offices, prisons, police stations, and courts.

    Our undersigned organizations call on all parties to the armed conflict in Myanmar to comply with international humanitarian law and engage with international justice mechanisms, including the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. All countries, including regional actors in ASEAN and neighbouring states, must increase pressure on the junta by blocking arms shipments, suspending aviation fuel shipments and supporting international justice mechanisms, including by prosecuting or extraditing any suspected perpetrators. ASEAN must move beyond its failed Five-Point Consensus and take decisive action to hold the junta accountable. We also urge the international community to commit to a coordinated, long-term international justice strategy.

    Globally, some highly anticipated international justice efforts are moving forward. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor requested an arrest warrant for Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for the crimes against humanity of deportation and persecution of the Rohingya committed in Myanmar and in part in Bangladesh between August and December 2017. Requests targeting other senior military officials are expected.

    If these requests are granted, authorities in ICC member states must urgently comply with an arrest warrant for a suspect present within their jurisdiction and hand the person over to the ICC to face their accusers in a fair trial for alleged crimes under international law. The international community must deny safe haven to those accused of serious crimes by ensuring their immediate arrest and transfer to the ICC. The world must not allow perpetrators to evade international justice.

    While the present arrest warrant request is a welcome step, it remains limited in scope, location, and time and does not cover any alleged crimes after the 2021 coup. The ICC Prosecutor should demonstrate further progress in his investigation, including considering crimes under international law committed after 2017 and in the four years since the coup. The UN Security Council and Member States of the ICC must refer the full situation in all of Myanmar to the ICC to ensure justice for all victims.

    Governments, donors, and international agencies should support and pursue a wide variety of accountability efforts, including universal jurisdiction,and the potential creation of ‘hybrid’ or similar tailored justice mechanisms. The international community must also impose a global arms embargo, suspend jet fuel exports, and engage with all relevant national stakeholders, including civil society and those most affected by crimes.

    The UN Human Rights Council resolution from April 2024 stressed the need for “close and timely cooperation” between the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, a body established by the UN Human Rights Council to collect and preserve evidence of atrocity crimes in Myanmar for future prosecutions, and “any future investigations or proceedings by national, regional or international courts or tribunals, including by the International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice.”

    It also requested the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to maintain a focus on accountability regarding international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law and submit a future report on ways to “fulfil the aspirations of the people of Myanmar for human rights protection, accountability, democracy, and a civilian government.”

    Myanmar will be discussed at the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session from 24 February to 4 April 2025. UN member states must use this opportunity to take a bold and innovative approach on Myanmar and adopt a resolution aimed at breaking the cycle of impunity for atrocity crimes. The international community must also amplify the voices of survivors, activists and the people of Myanmar who continue to resist oppression at great personal risk.

    Myanmar’s human rights crisis did not begin with the coup. Decades of oppression have led to this moment. Ending impunity requires bold and adapted solutions and long-term political and financial commitment. The world must act now.

    —

    1. #Sisters2Sisters
    2. Ah Nah Podcast – Conversations with Myanmar
    3. Amnesty International
    4. Arakan Rohingya National Organisation
    5. Arakan Rohingya National Union
    6. Assistance Association for Myanmar-based Independent Journalists
    7. Athan – Freedom of Expression Activist Organization
    8. Blood Money Campaign
    9. Burma Action Ireland
    10. Burma Campaign UK
    11. Burma Civil War Museum
    12. Burma Human Rights Network
    13. Burma War Crimes Investigation
    14. Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
    15. CAN-Myanmar
    16. Center for Ah Nyar Studies
    17. Chin Human Rights Organization
    18. Community Rebuilding Center
    19. Defend Myanmar Democracy
    20. EarthRights International
    21. Fortify Rights
    22. Free Rohingya Coalition 
    23. Global Myanmar Spring Revolution
    24. Human Rights Foundation of Monland
    25. Independent Myanmar Journalists Association
    26. Kaladan Press Network
    27. Karen Human Rights Group
    28. Karenni Human Rights Group
    29. Mayu Region Human Rights Documentation Center
    30. Mother’s Embrace
    31. Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organization in Malaysia
    32. New Myanmar Foundation
    33. Odhikar
    34. Progressive Muslim Youth Association
    35. Political Prisoners Network – Myanmar
    36. Refugee Women for Peace and Justice
    37. Refugees International
    38. Rohingya Human Rights Initiative
    39. Rohingya Student League
    40. Rohingya Student Network
    41. Rohingya Student Union
    42. Rohingya Youth for Legal Action
    43. RW Welfare Society
    44. Sitt Nyein Pann Foundation
    45. Women Organization of Political Prisoners
    46. Youth Congress Rohingya
       

    MIL OSI NGO –

    February 1, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Myanmar: Four years after coup, world must demand accountability for atrocity crimes

    Source: Amnesty International

    The international community must take urgent action to ensure accountability for atrocities in Myanmar, 46 organizations said today ahead of the four-year anniversary of the 1 February 2021 military coup.

    This year represents a turning point for accountability in Myanmar. While the military remains in control, they are losing ground in many areas. Amid rapidly evolving patterns of hostilities and changing political dynamics, renewed efforts must push for justice and ensure a future built on a lasting culture of respect for human rights.

    Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s military junta has killed more than 6,000 people, arbitrarily detained more than 20,000, and renewed judicial executions. More than 3.5 million people are internally displaced. Human rights groups have documented the military’s torture and other ill-treatment of detainees, indiscriminate attacks, and the denial of humanitarian aid, which may amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes.

    Myanmar’s military junta has carried out widespread and systematic attacks against the civilian population nationwide, bombing schools, hospitals, and religious buildings with total impunity. Armed groups fighting the military have also committed human rights violations. While some have pledged to hold perpetrators accountable, it remains to be seen whether these efforts are genuine and can meet international standards.

    Last year, 2024, also marked the worst year of violence against the Rohingya community since 2017, with men, women, and children dying in bombings while being trapped in the middle of the armed conflict between the Myanmar military and the armed group the Arakan Army in Rakhine State.

    At the same time, Myanmar’s military has lost an unprecedented amount of territory across the country to a loose coalition of ethnic armed groups, which have captured two regional commands, high-ranking military officers, dozens of towns, and border crossings. These groups have also been implicated in human rights abuses.

    In areas controlled by ethnic armed groups or overseen by the National Unity Government—formed by democratically elected lawmakers and officials ousted in the 2021 coup—local structures of governance and civil society are emerging. These include schools, hospitals, administrative offices, prisons, police stations, and courts.

    Our undersigned organizations call on all parties to the armed conflict in Myanmar to comply with international humanitarian law and engage with international justice mechanisms, including the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. All countries, including regional actors in ASEAN and neighbouring states, must increase pressure on the junta by blocking arms shipments, suspending aviation fuel shipments and supporting international justice mechanisms, including by prosecuting or extraditing any suspected perpetrators. ASEAN must move beyond its failed Five-Point Consensus and take decisive action to hold the junta accountable. We also urge the international community to commit to a coordinated, long-term international justice strategy.

    Globally, some highly anticipated international justice efforts are moving forward. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor requested an arrest warrant for Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for the crimes against humanity of deportation and persecution of the Rohingya committed in Myanmar and in part in Bangladesh between August and December 2017. Requests targeting other senior military officials are expected.

    If these requests are granted, authorities in ICC member states must urgently comply with an arrest warrant for a suspect present within their jurisdiction and hand the person over to the ICC to face their accusers in a fair trial for alleged crimes under international law. The international community must deny safe haven to those accused of serious crimes by ensuring their immediate arrest and transfer to the ICC. The world must not allow perpetrators to evade international justice.

    While the present arrest warrant request is a welcome step, it remains limited in scope, location, and time and does not cover any alleged crimes after the 2021 coup. The ICC Prosecutor should demonstrate further progress in his investigation, including considering crimes under international law committed after 2017 and in the four years since the coup. The UN Security Council and Member States of the ICC must refer the full situation in all of Myanmar to the ICC to ensure justice for all victims.

    Governments, donors, and international agencies should support and pursue a wide variety of accountability efforts, including universal jurisdiction, and the potential creation of ‘hybrid’ or similar tailored justice mechanisms. The international community must also impose a global arms embargo, suspend jet fuel exports, and engage with all relevant national stakeholders, including civil society and those most affected by crimes.

    The UN Human Rights Council resolution from April 2024 stressed the need for “close and timely cooperation” between the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, a body established by the UN Human Rights Council to collect and preserve evidence of atrocity crimes in Myanmar for future prosecutions, and “any future investigations or proceedings by national, regional or international courts or tribunals, including by the International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice.”

    It also requested the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to maintain a focus on accountability regarding international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law and submit a future report on ways to “fulfil the aspirations of the people of Myanmar for human rights protection, accountability, democracy, and a civilian government.”

    Myanmar will be discussed at the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session from 24 February to 4 April 2025. UN member states must use this opportunity to take a bold and innovative approach on Myanmar and adopt a resolution aimed at breaking the cycle of impunity for atrocity crimes. The international community must also amplify the voices of survivors, activists and the people of Myanmar who continue to resist oppression at great personal risk.

    Myanmar’s human rights crisis did not begin with the coup. Decades of oppression have led to this moment. Ending impunity requires bold and adapted solutions and long-term political and financial commitment. The world must act now.

    #Sisters2Sisters
    Ah Nah Podcast – Conversations with Myanmar
    Amnesty International
    Arakan Rohingya National Organisation
    Arakan Rohingya National Union
    Assistance Association for Myanmar-based Independent Journalists
    Athan – Freedom of Expression Activist Organization
    Blood Money Campaign
    Burma Action Ireland
    Burma Campaign UK
    Burma Civil War Museum
    Burma Human Rights Network
    Burma War Crimes Investigation
    Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
    CAN-Myanmar
    Center for Ah Nyar Studies
    Chin Human Rights Organization
    Community Rebuilding Center
    Defend Myanmar Democracy
    EarthRights International
    Fortify Rights
    Free Rohingya Coalition
    Global Myanmar Spring Revolution
    Human Rights Foundation of Monland
    Independent Myanmar Journalists Association
    Kaladan Press Network
    Karen Human Rights Group
    Karenni Human Rights Group
    Mayu Region Human Rights Documentation Center
    Mother’s Embrace
    Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organization in Malaysia
    New Myanmar Foundation
    Odhikar
    Progressive Muslim Youth Association
    Political Prisoners Network – Myanmar
    Refugee Women for Peace and Justice
    Refugees International
    Rohingya Human Rights Initiative
    Rohingya Student League
    Rohingya Student Network
    Rohingya Student Union
    Rohingya Youth for Legal Action
    RW Welfare Society
    Sitt Nyein Pann Foundation
    Women Organization of Political Prisoners
    Youth Congress Rohingya.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Lufttransport RW AS selected as operator for new helicopters – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    31 JANUARY 2025 – Norwegian company Lufttransport RW AS wins contract to fly five AW189-type helicopters from manufacturer Leonardo, with departures from Sola and Florø. Milestone Aviation Group is the registered owner of the helicopters.

    Equinor has awarded Tromsø-based Lufttransport RW AS the assignment of operating five new helicopters from manufacturer Leonardo. They will be used to transport passengers on the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) from Sola and Florø.

    The five new helicopters are type AW189 aircraft, which are part of a new generation of helicopters that will be operating on the NCS.

    More helicopter types on the NCS

    Last year, Equinor signed agreements to procure 15 new helicopters, aimed at reducing reliance on the single model currently in use. In addition to the five helicopters from Leonardo, Bell will deliver 10 Bell 525 helicopters starting from 2026.

    “The safety of our employees who travel by helicopter is our utmost priority. New helicopters will make helicopter traffic more robust. Safe, predictable and efficient transportation is crucial to safely maintain a high activity level on the NCS for many years to come,” says Ørjan Kvelvane, Equinor’s senior vice president Operation and Maintenance in Exploration & Production Norway (EPN).

    Extensive experience

    The contract with Norwegian company Lufttransport is the first operator agreement after the new helicopters were ordered, also for the purpose of supplementing the current Sikorsky S-92.

    Lufttransport has extensive experience in dealing with challenging Norwegian conditions, their safety record is good and both the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority and Equinor have deemed the company qualified to carry out offshore flights. The company will also conduct search and rescue operations for Equinor starting in early 2026, under a contract awarded one year ago.

    Newer, tried and true type of helicopter

    “Lufttransport is the operator with most experience with Leonardo helicopters in Norway, which is an advantage as we introduce these new helicopters,” Kvelvane says.

    The AW189 helicopters from Leonardo represent a newer type of helicopter with thoroughly tested technology and excellent safety. This particular helicopter type is used throughout the offshore industry worldwide. The AW189 also features good passenger comfort, noise reduction and lower emissions, in addition to good support systems for the pilots.

    The two first helicopters will arrive in Norway in spring 2025, and will gradually commence operations over the course of the summer and autumn. The remaining three helicopters will be delivered and put to use in 2026.

    Assuming ownership

    Equinor has also entered into an agreement with Milestone Aviation Group, the global leader in helicopter leasing. The company will assume ownership of the AW189 helicopters when they are handed over by Leonardo.

    “Through this agreement, we’ve secured long-term rights to manage these helicopters ourselves, and the contract with Lufttransport gives us a third operator for shuttle services on the NCS, alongside CHC and Bristow. We’ve managed to put a set of innovative agreements in place to ensure that we have good technical solutions that provide more robust operations,” says Mette Ottøy, Equinor’s senior vice president supply chain management.

    The fixed agreement with Lufttransport has a duration of around seven years, with options totalling six years. The total value of the contract, including options, is estimated at around seven billion Norwegian kroner.

    The agreement with Milestone has an estimated total value of just over two billion Norwegian kroner for a contract duration of up to 20 years.

    Union involvement

    The trade unions in Equinor, including the safety delegate service, have been involved in the process and take a positive view of the helicopter type that has been selected. They made the following joint statement:

    “These helicopters have the quality and characteristics that we want on the NCS. These new helicopter types have been developed with focus on safety, improved comfort, less noise and less vibration.”

    Facts

    • Equinor has an extensive aviation program and transports offshore employees to installations on the NCS. Round-trip journeys to/from the NCS amount to 160,000 flights per year, or more than 24,000 annual flying hours.
    • Over the next few years, Equinor will receive ten new Bell525 helicopters, and five Leonardo AW189s.
    • The first two helicopters will be delivered from Leonardo in the first quarter of 2025. Then, in 2026, Leonardo will deliver three and Bell will deliver four helicopters. The remaining six helicopters from Bell will be delivered during the period from 2027-2030.
    • AW189 and Bell525 are both super medium-type helicopters, with 16 passenger seats available. The helicopters will be equipped for the conditions they will face and the stringent requirements in force on the NCS.
    • Leonardo AW189 is manufactured by the Italian conglomerate Leonardo, which also manufactures the AW139. Equinor will use the AW139 for search and rescue starting from 2026, also with Lufttransport as operator. Both are well-known helicopter types in the global offshore industry.
    • Since 2016, Equinor has used Sikorsky S-92 helicopters for personnel transport and search and rescue services on the NCS (since moving away from the EC225).

    Who is allowed to conduct helicopter assignments on the NCS?

    • Companies that operate SAR and/or passenger flights on the NCS must be approved by the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority.
    • In order to fly for Equinor, the company must be qualified via a rigorous process including a review of the entire company – including operational, technical, organisational and resource factors.
    • A qualification takes place over several stages and an extensive period. A start-up verification must be performed before the contract is initiated.
    • For assignments on the NCS, Equinor qualifies new helicopter types that are already in use in the offshore sector. Other factors such as environmental considerations and experience from various types of use come in addition.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Need for mission readiness to drive maintenance expenditure on in-service military platforms in Asia-Pacific in 2025, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Need for mission readiness to drive maintenance expenditure on in-service military platforms in Asia-Pacific in 2025, says GlobalData

    Posted in Aerospace, Defense & Security

    The evolving nature of warfare and threat perceptions in the Asia-Pacific region has increased the demand for robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) practices substantially. Disciplined MRO practices ensure higher operational availability rates of military platforms such as fixed-wing aircrafts, helicopters, naval vessels, and land vehicles. Against this backdrop, the cumulative maintenance cost burden of the military platform fleet of Asia-Pacific countries is estimated to be about $44 billion in 2025, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s dashboard on Annual Maintenance Cost (part of the Fleet Size database) reveals that, with 28% share of the total addressable market (TAM), the Asia-Pacific region will provide most number of opportunities for maintenance service providers throughout this decade. Within Asia-Pacific, China, India, and Japan are the top three countries with highest maintenance cost burden owing to their large fleet of in-service defense platforms as of January 2025.

    Harsh Deshmukh, Aerospace & Defense Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The governments in the Asia-Pacific region have the highest maintenance cost burden on the Military Land Vehicles segment, which is estimated to be about $15 billion for 2025. This cost is further aggravated due to the large inventory of aging Soviet-origin main battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, and tactical trucks. Leading Asia-Pacific companies catering to this market segment include China North Industries Group Corp Ltd (Norinco), Dongfeng Motor Corporation Ltd, Poly Technologies, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, and LIG NEX1 Co.”

    The annual maintenance cost burden on Asia-Pacific’s Military Fixed Wing Aircraft fleets is estimated to be about $13 billion for 2025. As countries in the region try to address the perennial issues related to the low availability rate of their Fixed Wing Aircraft fleet, significant opportunities exist for global primes and subcontractors.

    Deshmukh concludes: “Growing tension and territorial disputes across the Asia-Pacific, especially in the South China Sea, will not just drive the countries to procure new defense platforms but will also compel policymakers to pay more attention to the maintenance of their in-service fleet. India, China, and Pakistan have seen several border skirmishes in recent years, which have necessitated the respective governments to increase their spending on maintenance activities. The efforts made towards the improvement of the defense readiness levels by these countries will continue to pave the way for maintenance contracts to both domestic and international companies with relevant product portfolios.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 28-2025: Reminder to remain vigilant during Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Season (BMSB)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    31 January 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including Master Consolidators, vessel masters, freight forwarders, treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers and principal agents—associated with shipping or importing goods from BMSB target risk or native risk countries.

    Seasonal Reminder

    Hitchhiker pests can arrive in Australia on aircraft or vessels, cargo and containers,…

    MIL OSI News –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University

    On Wednesday night US time, a passenger jet and US Army helicopter collided at a low altitude near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and crashed into the the Potomac River.

    A total of 60 passengers – including US and Russian champion figure skaters – and four crew were on board the American Airlines flight AA5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Three military personnel were in the chopper, which was conducting a routine training flight. Authorities say no one on board either aircraft survived.

    This crash comes just over a month after a passenger jet crashed in South Korea – possibly as a result of a bird strike – killing all but two of the 181 people on board. The two incidents have focused attention on aviation safety around the world.

    In the case of the most recent tragedy in the US, technology exists that is designed to help pilots avoid midair collisions with other aircraft. It is known as the Traffic Collision Avoidance System – or TCAS.

    So how does it work? And why might it have failed to prevent disaster in this case?

    What is a TCAS?

    A TCAS is an aircraft safety system that monitors the airspace around a plane for other aircraft equipped with transponders. These are devices that listen for and respond to incoming electronic signals.

    The system – also sometimes referred to as an ACAS (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) – operates independently of an external air traffic control system. Its purpose is to alert pilots immediately to nearby aircraft and potential midair collisions.

    Since the technology was developed in 1974, it has undergone a number of advances.

    The first generation technology, known as TCAS I, monitors what’s around an aircraft. It provides information on the bearing and altitude of any nearby aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, it generates what’s known as a “Traffic Advisory” – or TA. When a TA is issued, the pilot is notified of the threat, but must themselves determine the best evasive action to take.

    The second generation technology, known as TCAS II, goes a step further: it provides a pilot with specific instructions on how to avoid a collision with a nearby aircraft or conflict with traffic, either by descending, climbing, turning or adjusting their speed.

    These newer systems are also able to communicate with each other. This ensures the advice given to each aircraft is coordinated.

    Any aircraft used for commercial purposes must be equipped with a TCAS in accordance with international regulations under what’s known as the Chicago Convention. There are specific provisions under the convention for noncommercial aircraft.

    Military helicopters are not subject to the provisions of the Chicago Convention (although they are subject to domestic laws and regulations). And there are reports the military helicopter did not have a TCAS system on board.

    Limitations of TCAS at low altitudes

    Regardless of whether the military helicopter involved in the crash was fitted with a TCAS, the technology still has limitations. In particular, it is inhibited at altitudes below roughly 300 metres.

    The last recorded altitude of American Airlines flight AA5342 was roughly 90 metres. The last recorded altitude of the US military helicopter that collided with the plane was roughly 60 metres.

    It is not an accident that a TCAS is inhibited at low altitudes. In fact, this is part of the design of the technology.

    This is primarily because the system relies on radio altimeter data, which measures altitude and becomes less accurate near the ground. This could potentially result in unreliable collision-avoidance instructions.

    Another issue is that an aircraft at such a low altitude cannot descend any further to avoid a collision.

    The site of several near misses

    Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Commercial, military and private aircraft share very limited airspace and corridors.

    It has been the site of several near misses in recent years.

    For example, in April 2024, a commercial plane pilot coming into land had to take evasive action to avoid a helicopter that was roughly 100 metres beneath it. In an incident report, the pilot said:

    We never received a warning of the traffic from (air traffic control) so we were unaware it was there.

    Many people, including Democratic US senator Tim Kaine, pointed to this near miss as evidence of why a plan to allow more flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport should not proceed. Despite this, the plan was approved the following month.

    All of this will undoubtedly be examined as part of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into this disaster.

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

    – ref. Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington? – https://theconversation.com/planes-have-high-tech-systems-to-stop-midair-crashes-so-what-went-wrong-in-washington-248744

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

    One of United States President Donald Trump’s more startling claims since taking office for his second term – and there have been many – is his insistence that the US will take control of Greenland.

    Both prior to taking office and since, Trump has spoken about a desire for the US to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory that is part of Denmark. This revives a proposal he floated in 2019, and is now being advanced with serious intent.

    Trump’s interest in Greenland is framed around US security. The island is strategically located in the GIUK (Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom) Gap. The gap gained prominence during the Cold War as an area where Soviet nuclear submarines could operate in the Atlantic Ocean proximate to the US and its NATO partners. Denmark’s limited naval capacity meant these Soviet submarine incursions were uncontested.

    Washington has always appreciated the strategic significance of Greenland. It was used during the second world war as a US military staging point due to its relative safety from the European theatre of war and its capacity as a stopover for aircraft to refuel.

    Later, during the Cold War, the Thule US Airbase was constructed on its northwest coast, later becoming the Pituffik Space Base.

    Trump is particularly concerned about Russian and Chinese ships operating offshore near Greenland in the Arctic Ocean, and with ensuring US access to rare earth minerals on the island.

    All of these are legitimate US security and strategic interests. It is often forgotten that the US is an Arctic nation by virtue of Alaska, and Greenland is adjacent to North America.

    However, Greenland is not terra nullius ripe for American colonisation. It is recognised as Danish territory. Any dispute over a Danish claim to the island was resolved by an international court in 1933, and since that time Denmark has overseen Greenlandic affairs without challenge. Any suggestion Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland is contested has no foundation.

    While Denmark has been a colonial power, there has been an active process underway to grant the 57,000 Greenlanders increased autonomy from Copenhagen. Home rule has been granted, a legislature has been created, and a road map exists for self-determination that may eventually see the emergence of an independent Greenland.

    Seeking to honour the responsibility Copenhagen feels for ushering Greenlanders through this process, Denmark has made clear that Greenland is not for sale.

    The most breathtaking aspect of Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions has been the refusal to rule out the US using economic or military means to acquire it.

    This ignores the fact that Greenland is part of Denmark (a NATO member) and that indigenous Greenlanders possess a right of self-determination. Moreover, any use of US military force to take Greenland would be in violation of both the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty on which NATO is founded and the 1945 United Nations Charter.

    Respect for territorial integrity was one of foundations on which the UN Charter was built. The intention of the UN’s founders during the San Francisco Conference was to ensure military force could not be used to acquire territory through an act of aggression resulting in the annexation of territory.

    Article 2 of the charter reflects this core principle. Its violation has repeatedly been seen as an egregious breach of international law. Iraq’s 1990 invasion and annexation of Kuwait and Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine are examples of the international community uniting to condemn blatant uses of military force for territorial gain.

    Other than Denmark, its Scandinavian neighbours and some NATO members, Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions have been met with diplomatic silence. What is taking place behind closed doors and in the foreign ministries of US allies and partners can only be imagined.

    For Australia, this raises fundamental issues regarding the US alliance. Would Australia be prepared to stand beside the US if it used its economic and military might to acquire Greenland?

    Australia has a bipartisan position of both supporting the American alliance and the “rules-based” international order on which the UN is based. AUKUS is founded on these assumptions. Any US economic or military aggression over Greenland may force Australia into making a choice between America or the rule of law.

    Donald Rothwell receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise – https://theconversation.com/trump-says-he-wants-to-take-greenland-international-law-says-otherwise-248682

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 31, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

    One of United States President Donald Trump’s more startling claims since taking office for his second term – and there have been many – is his insistence that the US will take control of Greenland.

    Both prior to taking office and since, Trump has spoken about a desire for the US to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory that is part of Denmark. This revives a proposal he floated in 2019, and is now being advanced with serious intent.

    Trump’s interest in Greenland is framed around US security. The island is strategically located in the GIUK (Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom) Gap. The gap gained prominence during the Cold War as an area where Soviet nuclear submarines could operate in the Atlantic Ocean proximate to the US and its NATO partners. Denmark’s limited naval capacity meant these Soviet submarine incursions were uncontested.

    Washington has always appreciated the strategic significance of Greenland. It was used during the second world war as a US military staging point due to its relative safety from the European theatre of war and its capacity as a stopover for aircraft to refuel.

    Later, during the Cold War, the Thule US Airbase was constructed on its northwest coast, later becoming the Pituffik Space Base.

    Trump is particularly concerned about Russian and Chinese ships operating offshore near Greenland in the Arctic Ocean, and with ensuring US access to rare earth minerals on the island.

    All of these are legitimate US security and strategic interests. It is often forgotten that the US is an Arctic nation by virtue of Alaska, and Greenland is adjacent to North America.

    However, Greenland is not terra nullius ripe for American colonisation. It is recognised as Danish territory. Any dispute over a Danish claim to the island was resolved by an international court in 1933, and since that time Denmark has overseen Greenlandic affairs without challenge. Any suggestion Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland is contested has no foundation.

    While Denmark has been a colonial power, there has been an active process underway to grant the 57,000 Greenlanders increased autonomy from Copenhagen. Home rule has been granted, a legislature has been created, and a road map exists for self-determination that may eventually see the emergence of an independent Greenland.

    Seeking to honour the responsibility Copenhagen feels for ushering Greenlanders through this process, Denmark has made clear that Greenland is not for sale.

    The most breathtaking aspect of Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions has been the refusal to rule out the US using economic or military means to acquire it.

    This ignores the fact that Greenland is part of Denmark (a NATO member) and that indigenous Greenlanders possess a right of self-determination. Moreover, any use of US military force to take Greenland would be in violation of both the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty on which NATO is founded and the 1945 United Nations Charter.

    Respect for territorial integrity was one of foundations on which the UN Charter was built. The intention of the UN’s founders during the San Francisco Conference was to ensure military force could not be used to acquire territory through an act of aggression resulting in the annexation of territory.

    Article 2 of the charter reflects this core principle. Its violation has repeatedly been seen as an egregious breach of international law. Iraq’s 1990 invasion and annexation of Kuwait and Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine are examples of the international community uniting to condemn blatant uses of military force for territorial gain.

    Other than Denmark, its Scandinavian neighbours and some NATO members, Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions have been met with diplomatic silence. What is taking place behind closed doors and in the foreign ministries of US allies and partners can only be imagined.

    For Australia, this raises fundamental issues regarding the US alliance. Would Australia be prepared to stand beside the US if it used its economic and military might to acquire Greenland?

    Australia has a bipartisan position of both supporting the American alliance and the “rules-based” international order on which the UN is based. AUKUS is founded on these assumptions. Any US economic or military aggression over Greenland may force Australia into making a choice between America or the rule of law.

    The Conversation

    Donald Rothwell receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise – https://theconversation.com/trump-says-he-wants-to-take-greenland-international-law-says-otherwise-248682

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 31, 2025
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