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Category: Aviation

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Announces $40M Grant for New State-of-the-Art Terminal at TPA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    TAMPA, FL – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced that Tampa International Airport (TPA) will receive $40,000,000 in federal grant funding through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Terminal Program. The funding will support the construction of a new terminal, Airside D, to meet international and domestic passenger demands.

    “Tampa International Airport is an economic powerhouse for the Tampa Bay region,” said Rep. Castor. “Tampa Airport serves a growing and dynamic region including an estimated 25 million passengers a year, so it’s critical that the airport can modernize and meet the growing demand. This significant federal funding will help improve airport operations and ensure a comfortable travel experience at one of the world’s most beloved airports.”

    “We’re immensely thankful for the support and partnerships of U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and the FAA in helping to fund Tampa International Airport’s first new airside terminal in nearly 20 years,” TPA CEO Joe Lopano said. “Airside D will be critical in accommodating the tourism, population and business growth we’re experiencing in the Tampa Bay region and beyond, and we’re looking forward to breaking ground on this project later this year.”

    The grant partially funds the construction of the new 16-gate Airside D terminal, which consists of approximately nine passenger boarding bridges and an automated people mover track connecting Airside D to the main terminal.

    The Airside D project is part of the Airport’s Capital Program and is the third and final phase of TPA’s Master Plan. Phases 1 and 2 included several major projects, including the Main Terminal redevelopment, the Rental Car center, SkyConnect Automated People Mover, a roadway expansion, the Central Utility Plan, the Blue Express Curbsides, and the SkyCenter One office building.

    Castor has championed infrastructure investments in Tampa Bay neighborhoods and economic engines under the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was passed by the Democratic-led Congress and signed by President Biden. The sizable Tampa Airport grant follows a $22 million grant for Port Tampa Bay announced last week.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Nearly $12 Million For Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority For Freight Rail Modernization In North Country

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Senators Explain Project Will Greenlight Major Rail Modernization And Upgrade 14+ Miles Of Track In St. Lawrence County, Improving Safety, Efficiency, Resilience & Competitiveness Of Ogdensburg Area Railroad Built In The Early 1900s

    Funding Comes From Consolidated Rail Infrastructure And Safey Improvements Program That Senators Fought To Boost Funding For In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law

    Schumer, Gillibrand: This Fed $$ Puts Ogdensburg On Track For A Safer & More Efficient Future!

    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,709,995 to greenlight a major modernization project at the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority (OBPA) which will upgrade over 14 miles of rail, stretching across St. Lawrence County communities from Lisbon to Norwood, equipping the railroad to handle modern, industry standard 286,000-pound freight cars, improving rail safety and reliability, bolstering North Country commerce and good-paying jobs, and much more. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program.

    “The feds just greenlit major modernizations for freight rail by the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Many of the rail tracks in the Ogdensburg area are decades old and in need of major upgrades. I am proud to deliver this nearly $12 million fed investment that will help the port do more business by allowing them to more goods quickly and efficiently,” said Senator Schumer. “New modern rail infrastructure will allow for more commerce to flow in the North Country. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law continues to deliver for the North Country, and I am thrilled that the program is bringing major investment back here to St. Lawrence County.”

    “This funding will make rail across the North Country safer, more reliable, and more efficient,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to have fought to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide the funding for this project and many more across New York State and will continue fighting to improve our state’s roads, bridges, and railways.”

    “The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority is very pleased to receive substantial funding through the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI program. This funding will provide for much needed capacity improvements to the New York and Ogdensburg Railway that services, the Port of Ogdensburg and the North Country economy. These improvements will greatly increase the railroad’s competitive advantage in attracting commerce to our region. On behalf of the OBPA and North Country community we serve, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their unwavering support and commitment to growth at the OBPA,” said Steve Lawrence, Executive Director, Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. 

    According to Schumer, this longstanding North Country transportation priority will modernize over 14 miles of OBPA track operated by the New York & Ogdensburg Railway nearing the end of its useful life, stretching across the Town of Lisbon, Town of Madrid, Town of Potsdam, and Village of Norwood. Schumer explained that, currently, this stretch of OBPA rail is only equipped to handle legacy 263,000-pound rail carts, severely limiting its utility, capacity, efficiency and more. Now, thanks to this boost of federal funding, the OBPA will be able to proceed with long-sought upgrades equipping the railroad to handle a larger fleet of modern, industry-standard rail cars. 

    The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.

    Schumer and Gillibrand have long fought to support various projects for the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Last month, Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation named Breeze Airways as Ogdensburg International Airport’s new Essential Air Service carrier. Over the last two years, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured awards of $2,100,000 and $1,000,000 for the OBPA’s new 15,000 square foot childcare center. In 2016, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured over $11,000,000 to the Ogdensburg International Airport from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for their airport expansion project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Empire of pain: City of London Police foil £1m illegal pharma drug gang with two people jailed and over 1,000,000 pills seized

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    City of London Police

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Friday, October 25, 2024

    Three people have been sentenced today for their role in the large scale importation and distribution of unregulated pharmaceutical drugs into the UK from India where they were then repackaged and distributed internationally.

    The three defendants were found guilty during a 6 week trial and were sentenced today at Southwark Crown Court with the following:

    • Salman Ansari, 33, of Central Road, Wembley, was found guilty of 12 counts of possession with intent to supply drugs (Class A, B and C), one count of conspiracy to supply Class C and one count of money laundering. Salman Ansari received a six year sentence.
    • Waqas Saleem, 33, Sylvia Gardens, Wembley, was found guilty of 12 counts of possession with intent to supply drugs (classes A, B and C), one count of conspiracy to supply Class C and one count of money laundering. Waqas Saleem received a sentence of two and a half years.
    • Juhi Ansari, 32, of Central Road Wembley, was found guilty of one count of money laundering and received a suspended sentence but will be required to complete100 hours unpaid work and 25 days rehab.

    Over 730kg of drugs were seized during the operation. This included strong opioids such as tapentadol and tramadol, and benzodiazepines including zolpidem, zopiclone and nitrazepam. Both types of drugs are commonly misused for their sedation effect and can be fatal when combined. In total there were more than 1,000,000 tablets seized.

    In total, there were nine different drugs that were categorised as being Class C (zolpidem, zopiclone, nitrazepam, tramadol, etizolam, pregabalin, flubromazolam, bromazolam, alprazolam), one Class B (cannabis resin) and one Class A (tapentadol).

    Detective Constable Syed Shah, from the Serious Organised Crime Team, City of London Police said:

    “Today’s result is the culmination of numerous law enforcement agencies, working together from across the world, over a period of more than three years.

    “The illegal importation of drugs has a devastating impact on the public These drugs in particular are subject to an emerging trend of misuse due to their availability and affordability. Many of the drugs seized are unregulated products for the UK market, with the investigation team encountering counterfeited brands such as Xanax with flubromazolam where the pills dose and potency unknown. The withdrawal from drugs such as pregabalin can be more severe than opiate withdrawal and presents the user with a risk to life.

    “This investigation involved partnership working with colleagues from  UK Border Force, as well as crucial support overseas from US law enforcement, principally the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Customs and Border Patrol and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). From everyone at City of London Police, we thank you all for your hard work.

    “To those individuals which have assisted or benefitted financially from this criminal enterprise, you all now become the focus of future investigations with law enforcement targeting you in the UK and overseas.”

    Special Agent Fernando McMillan, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office said:

    “Selling and importing unapproved pharmaceutical drugs across international borders and into the United States puts the public health at risk. FDA is grateful for the partnership with the City of London and multiple law enforcement agencies to bring these criminals to justice.”

    “Maintaining vigilance and collaboration with our counterparts in the U.K. remains critical to safeguarding public health and safety, and we will continue to enhance international cooperation and enforcement strategies to combat the illegal shipment of regulated products.”

    Special Agent Michael J. Krol, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England said:

    “This pharmaceutical smuggling ring was systematically disrupted and dismantled through the hard work of law enforcement on both sides of the Atlantic working together towards the same goal: a safe supply chain the public can trust. We live in a global society and crimes do not confine themselves to one country. We must work together to tackle transnational threats to ensure a safer world for all.”

    The investigation can be traced back to October 2020 where US Customs and Border seized numerous shipments sent from the UK found to contain illicit pharmaceutical drugs. A referral was then made to the City of London Police’s Serious Organised Crime Team (SOCT). By tracing the packages being sent from the UK, SOCT were able to identify Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem being responsible for the shipment of the drugs and the location they were storing the drugs. Information sharing with US counterparts the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  led to successful warrants being executed in June 2021 in Vermont, USA, where pharmaceutical drugs were found at a property.

    By tracing the packages being sent from UK airports to JFK, officers were able to identify drop-off locations of the drugs, as well as vehicles used by Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem. This led City of London Police officers to a storage unit in Wembley.

    Following a focused and in-depth proactive investigation , Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem were arrested in July 2021and both were arrested within the storage unit for conspiracy to supply controlled drugs and money laundering.

    Contained within the storage unit were a significant quantity of large cardboard boxes which contained thousands of blister packs of what purported to be pharmaceutical grade drugs. These included Tramadol, Zopiclone, Atizolam, Xanax, Nitrazepam, Zolpidem, Pregabalin as well as what was believed to be cannabis resin. A total of 175 exhibits were seized from the storage location.

    At the same time, SOCT officers attended the Ansari home address and arrested Salman’s wife Juhi Ansari for money laundering.

    Financial investigations revealed that Salman Ansari had over 11 bank accounts in his name, with a credit turnover of £1.09m, which vastly outweighed any declared or legitimate income expressed to HMRC. Between March 2018 and September 2021, over 158 transactions were made from Salman Ansari to his wife Juhi Ansari, totalling more than £265,0000 and during the same time frame Juhi Ansari sent over £147,000 to Salman Ansari. It was also established that Salman Ansari sent Waqas Saleem over £7,000 during April 2021 and July 2021.

    Additionally, various complex money laundering techniques were utilised, where funds from illicit sales were made in various cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and USD and transferred to individuals in India. Additionally, Salman sent funds to India approximating to $62,120 (around £46,458) and similarly, Juhi Ansari sent approximately $55,050 (around £41,194) also to India.

    All defendants put in a plea of not guilty, however during the 6 week trial extensive evidence was put to the jury which outlined the global drug network that Ansari and Saleem had orchestrated. The jury were unanimous in the their verdict of guilty on all counts for all three defendants.

    City of London Police advice to the general public

    Unregulated drugs can have a devastating impact on people’s wellbeing, as without thorough testing and regulation by registered drug distributors, they can have potentially fatal results.

    Never buy any drugs or pharmaceutical medicine on the black market or online, you could be putting yourself and others at risk of serious health complications.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement: 7th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 8:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz co-chaired the seventh round of India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (7th IGC) on 25 October 2024 in New Delhi. The Delegation included Ministers of Defence, External Affairs, Commerce & Industries, Labour & Employment, Science & Technology (MoS) and Skill Development (MoS) from the Indian side and Ministers of Economic Affairs & Climate Action, Foreign Affairs, Labour & Social Affairs and Education & Research from the German side along with Parliamentary State Secretaries for Finance; Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection; and Economic Cooperation and Development from the German side, as well as senior officials from both sides.

    2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his third visit to India as Chancellor. Both leaders sincerely appreciated the renewed momentum in bilateral engagement across government, industry, civil society and academia that has played an instrumental role in advancing and deepening the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany.

    3. Both leaders emphasised the importance of the Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK), which takes place in New Delhi in parallel to the 7th IGC, in strengthening economic ties and strategic partnerships between Germany, India and the Indo-Pacific region as a whole. The decision to host the 2024 conference in India underscores India’s political weight in the Indo-Pacific and globally.

    4. Under the motto “Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability”, the 7th IGC placed particular emphasis on technology and innovation, labour and talent, migration and mobility, climate action, green and sustainable development as well as economic, defence and strategic cooperation. Both sides agree that the aforementioned domains will be the key drivers of our ever more multi-faceted partnership that spans trade, investment, defence, science, technology, innovation, sustainability, renewable energy, emerging technologies, development cooperation, culture, education, sustainable mobility, sustainable resource management, biodiversity, climate resilience and people-to-people ties.

    5. The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Inter – Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in Scientific Research and Technological Development which institutionalized the framework of Indo-German cooperation in Science & Technology, research and innovation. In this context, the 7th IGC presented an opportunity to renew the close relationship between India and Germany in this regard and to prioritize the advancement of technology and innovation as a key pillar of cooperation.

    6. During the 6th IGC, both governments had announced the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), which serves as an umbrella for bilateral formats and joint initiatives in this field. Subsequently, both sides signed the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) in December 2022 and launched the “India-Germany Vision to Enhance Cooperation in Innovation and Technology” in February 2023. Recalling the outcomes of the 6th IGC and various agreements concluded by the two sides thereafter, both governments launched the “India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap” and introduced the “Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap”, whose aim is to promote the market ramp-up of Green Hydrogen.Growing Together for Peace, Security and Stability

    7. The two leaders noted the Pact for the Future and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding shared values and principles including democracy, freedom, international peace and security and a rules-based international order in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Both governments also underscored their commitment to strengthen and reform the multilateral system including expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities, address current and future challenges and to support and preserve peace and stability across the world. The two leaders called for text-based negotiations at the IGN within a fixed timeframe.

    8. India and Germany agreed that the difficulties of the UN Security Council to effectively address regional and global crises offer a compelling reminder of the urgent need for reform. As members of the “Group of Four (G4)”, India and Germany reiterated their call for a Security Council that is efficient, effective, transparent and reflective of 21st century realities.

    9. The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war raging in Ukraine including its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. They reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with international law, consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also noted the negative impacts of the war in Ukraine with regard to global food and energy security, especially for developing and least developed countries. In the context of this war, they shared the view that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. They underscored the importance of upholding international law, and in line with the UN Charter, reiterated that all states must refrain from the threat of or use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state.

    10. The leaders expressed their shared interest in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. They unequivocally condemned the Hamas’ terror attacks on October 7, 2023 and expressed concern over the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called for the immediate release of all hostages taken by Hamas and an immediate ceasefire as well as the urgent improvement of access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza. The leaders underscored the need to prevent the conflict from escalating and spilling over in the region. In this regard, they called on all regional players to act responsibly and with restraint. Both sides also emphasized the urgent need to protect the lives of civilians and facilitate safe, timely and sustained humanitarian relief to civilians, and in this regard urged all parties to comply with international law. The leaders were also deeply concerned about the rapidly deteriorating situation in Lebanon, called for an urgent cessation of hostilities and agreed that a solution to the conflict in Gaza and in Lebanon can only be reached by diplomatic means. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 outlines the path towards a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a negotiated two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent State of Palestine, living within secure and mutually recognized borders, side by side in dignity and peace with Israel, taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns.

    11. The leaders underscored that as the world’s two largest democracies, India and the EU have a common interest in ensuring security, prosperity and sustainable development in a multi – polar world. They emphasized the importance of deepening the India-EU Strategic Partnership which would not only benefit both sides but also have a far-reaching positive impact globally. The leaders also expressed their strong support to the India-EU Trade and Technology Council that would serve as an innovative platform towards closer engagement in the critical areas of trade, trusted technologies and security. They agreed to coordinate efforts, both bilaterally and at the EU level, to take forward key connectivity initiatives including India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor in which India, Germany and EU are members as well as the EU Initiative Global Gateway.

    12. Both leaders underscored the crucial importance of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, Investment Protection Agreement and an Agreement on Geographical Indications between the European Union and India, while calling for an early conclusion of the negotiations.

    13. Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including the use of terrorist proxies and cross-border terrorism. Both sides agreed that terrorism remains a serious threat to international peace and stability. They further called for concerted action against all terrorist groups, including groups proscribed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1267 Sanctions Committee. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and financing in accordance with international law.

    14. Both leaders noted with concern the emerging threats from the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes such as unmanned aircraft systems, use of virtual assets by terrorists and terrorist entities and the misuse of information and communication technologies for radicalization. In this regard they welcomed the adoption of Delhi Declaration on Countering the use of New and Emerging Technologies for Terrorism Purposes adopted during the conduct of UNCTC meetings in India in 2022.

    15. Recognizing a shared commitment to combat terrorism and strengthen the framework for global cooperation in this regard, both leaders emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism by all countries, including in FATF. Both sides called for bringing the perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to hold regular consultations of the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism to strengthen channels for real time sharing of intelligence and coordination of counter-terrorism efforts. Both sides also committed to continued exchange of information about sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals, countering radicalism, and terrorists’ use of the internet and cross-border movement of terrorists.

    16. With a view to ensuring closer collaboration to prevent, suppress, investigate and prosecute criminals, including crime related to terrorism, India and Germany concluded the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Criminal Matters (MLAT). Both leaders agreed that the India-Germany MLAT is an important milestone in strengthening security cooperation between the two countries that will enable sharing of information and evidence, mutual capacity building and sharing of best practices between the two countries.

    17. As strategic partners with a shared interest in deepening security cooperation, both sides concluded the Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information thereby creating a legal framework for cooperation and collaboration between Indian and German entities and providing guidance on how classified information should be handled, protected and transmitted.

    18. With a view to better appreciating foreign policy perspectives in key regions across the world, both governments decided to establish an India-Germany Dialogue on West Asia and North Africa (WANA) between the respective Foreign Ministries, which would be in addition to long-standing dialogue mechanisms on Africa and East Asia. Both governments also expressed satisfaction with regular consultations on key thematic issues of mutual concern including policy planning, cyber-security, cyber issues and United Nations.

    19. Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives, including amongst think tanks and foreign and security policy experts, both governments underscored the usefulness of India-Germany Track 1.5 dialogue between Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and MEA from the Indian side and German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA), the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) and the German Federal Foreign Office. The next meeting of this dialogue format is planned for November 2024. Both governments also appreciated the launch of a Track 1.5 Dialogue on East Asia and agreed that these exchanges help both sides better align and coordinate their outreach. With a view to sustaining this momentum, both sides agreed to convene the next edition of the Track 1.5 Dialogue Mechanisms at the earliest opportunity.

    20. Both sides are committed to promoting a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific built on international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and peaceful resolution of disputes, and underpinned by effective regional institutions. Both sides reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality. The Government of India welcomed Germany’s leadership in the capacity-building pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and its commitment of up to 20 Million EUR via a competitive call for ideas under its International Climate Initiative in 2022 to strengthen the resilience of Pacific Island States against climate-related loss and damage.

    21. Germany congratulated India on its successful G20 Presidency which brought the development agenda to centre stage in G20. Both Leaders acknowledged that from initiating a platform on Compact with Africa (CwA) during the German G20 Presidency to inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s Presidency, the G20 has come a long way to ensure that the voice of the Global South is amplified. India and Germany expressed their support to the priorities set by the Brazilian G20 Presidency, especially Global Governance Reforms.Strengthening Defence and Strategic Cooperation

    22. Recognizing the shared goal of intensifying defence ties between the two countries, the Government of India welcomed the efforts of the German Federal Government to facilitate faster export clearances, including through favourable regulatory decisions such as the General Authorisation/General Licences (AGG) regime. Both sides committed to supporting strategic exports to India and encouraged co-development, co-production and joint research between the respective defence industries. Both governments appreciated the defence roundtable held in New Delhi on 24 October, to strengthen the defense industrial partnership between India and Germany.

    23. In addition to regular visits and increasing interactions between the armed forces, both sides look forward to the next High Defence Committee (HDC) meeting to be held in India next year with a view to developing defence cooperation as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany. India and Germany also agreed to finalize cooperation in peacekeeping related training between the Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK), New Delhi and its counterpart in Germany, the Bundeswehr United Nations Training Centre in Hammelburg (GAFUNTC) and looked forward to the Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin in 2025.

    24. Both sides stressed the importance of the Indo-Pacific for prosperity and security as well as for addressing global challenges. Germany will enhance its engagement with the region in line with the Federal Government’s policy guidelines for the Indo-Pacific. Both sides also highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation and of unimpeded maritime routes in accordance with International Law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, in all maritime domains including in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, both governments declared their joint intent to conclude a Memorandum of Arrangement regarding mutual logistics support and exchange between the armed forces of India and Germany to further intensify defence and security ties and to establish a basis for provision of mutual logistics support including in the Indo-Pacific theatre. With a view to deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, Germany will permanently deploy a Liaison Officer in the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) at Gurugram to monitor the marine traffic in IOR, further augmenting close cooperation in this region.

    25. Both sides welcomed Germany’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region in the field of security and defence cooperation and appreciated the successful cooperation of the Indian and German air forces during exercise TARANG SHAKTI in August 2024 as well as the port call in Goa and joint naval exercises between the German Naval Frigate “Baden-Württemberg” along with the Combat Support Ship “Frankfurt Am Main” and the Indian Navy. Germany also welcomed the port call of Indian naval ship INS TABAR to Hamburg in July 2024.

    26. Both governments agreed to intensify bilateral exchanges on security and defence issues also through enhancing research, co-development and co-production activities bilaterally, under EU mechanisms and with other partners. In this regard, both sides will support enhanced industry level cooperation in the defence sector with a specific focus on technology collaboration, manufacturing/co-production and co-development of defence platforms and equipment. Germany also welcomes India’s application for observer status in the Eurodrone Programme of OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation).Partnering for Critical and Emerging Technologies, Science and Innovation

    27. Both leaders expressed their appreciation on the successful 50 years of long standing collaboration in science and technology between the two countries and reaffirmed their support to expand it further through launching the ‘India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap’ which will serve as a guideline to the public and private sectors and research institutions of the two countries to take forward our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, start-ups, semiconductors, AI and quantum technologies, climate risk and sustainable resource management, climate change adaptation as well as agroecology Both leaders further identified space and space technologies as an important and promising area for future prosperity, development, and possible cooperation.

    28. The two leaders expressed their satisfaction at the growing exchanges between the two countries in the field of research & education and growing number of Indian students studying in Germany. Both leaders also acknowledged the flagship role of the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC) in promoting bilateral industry-academia strategic research and development partnerships. Both leaders welcomed the recent initiatives of IGSTC and signing of Joint Declaration of Intent to support 2+2 projects in the field of advanced materials. Understanding the importance of IGSTC, both leaders expressed their desire to expand and forge new partnerships anchored in shared values and driven by innovation led technology development and manufacturing.

    29. Both Leaders acknowledged the launching of the first ever basic research consortia model between the two countries namely, International Research Training Group (IRTG), jointly by Department of Science and Technology (DST) & German Research Foundation (DFG) with the involvement of first group of researchers from IISER Thiruvananthapuram and Würzburg University on Photoluminescence in Supramolecular Matrices. Underpinning science and innovation landscape, they expressed their desire to initiate an Indo-German Innovation and Incubation Exchange Programme to leverage collective expertise and capacity for fostering scientific innovation and incubation ecosystems of academic & research institutions.

    30. Both Leaders also expressed their appreciation and satisfaction over the high level of engagement as exemplified by India’s participation in mega-science facilities at Facility for Anti-Proton and Ion Research (FAIR) and Deutsche Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY) in Germany. They extended their commitment including financials to ensure timely execution of the FAIR facility. The two leaders also acknowledge the continuation of the cooperation at the synchrotron radiation facility PETRA-III and the free-electron laser facility FLASH at DESY.

    31. Both governments welcomed the steadily increasing partnerships in Higher Education which facilitate dual and joint degrees and intensify collaborative research and academic and institutional exchanges between Universities and Institutions of Higher Education. In particular, both sides expressed their appreciation and full support for the first ever Indo-German joint Masters degree programme in “Water Security & Global Change”, a joint initiative of TU Dresden, RWTH-Aachen and IIT-Madras (IITM) funded by DAAD as well as a new initiative of TU Dresden and IITM to conclude an agreement establishing a “transCampus” to deepen bilateral cooperation in teaching, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Both governments also welcomed the signing of the MoU between IIT Kharagpur and the DAAD, which will enable joint funding for Indo-German university cooperation projects. Both sides expressed their strong support for the dedicated call of the “German Indian Academic Network for Tomorrow” (GIANT) under SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) highlighting cooperation between Indian and German universities.

    32. With a view to further strengthening digital and technology partnerships between India and Germany, both governments agreed to share experience and expertise in digital public infrastructure (DPI), e.g. to explore ways in which Germany can leverage India’s expertise in DPI and the strengths of the Indian IT industry to drive innovation and digital transformation in both countries. As an important forum for exchanges on digital topics such as internet governance, tech regulations, digital transformation of economy, and emerging digital technologies, both sides welcomed the finalization of the Work Plan for 2023-24 formulated by the Indo-German Digital Dialogue (IGDD).

    33. Both sides will endeavour to leverage AI to advance the SDG, recognizing the need for an innovation-friendly, balanced, inclusive, human-centric and risk-based approach to the governance of AI. Digital solutions such as image detection and AI are playing an important role in revolutionising agriculture by assisting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, climate resilience, carbon sinks and sustainability. Both countries are running national programmes to facilitate the growth of digital agriculture and have agreed to intensify their Cooperation in Digital Agriculture, AI and IoT to foster ongoing cooperation, innovation and exchanges for modernising agriculture.

    34. Both governments underlined the strategic importance of collaboration in the field of critical and emerging technologies, innovation and skill development. Reaffirming the priorities for bilateral cooperation, as laid down in the Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap, both governments agreed to focus on collaboration in innovation, skill development and critical and emerging technologies. Forging closer linkages between the industry and academia of the two countries in key technology areas would be prioritized, in recognition of a shared commitment to ensuring an open, inclusive and secure technology architecture, built on mutual trust and respect, and reflecting shared values and democratic principles. Based on that, the two countries would achieve outcome oriented and mutually beneficial technology collaboration in identified sectors.

    35. In furthering cooperation in the field of research in disaster mitigation, tsunami warnings, coastal hazards, early warning systems, disaster risk reduction and oceanography, polar sciences, biology and biogeochemistry, geophysics and geology, both Governments welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam – Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum, and between National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and AlfredWegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung (AWI).

    36. Both Governments also welcomed the bilateral agreement in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences between National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both centres of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Max-Planck-Gesellschaft (MPG), Germany. This agreement will facilitate the exchange of scientists, including students and research staff, between the various Max Planck Institutes with ICTS and NCBS.

    37. Both Leaders noted with appreciation the collaboration between M/s New Space India Ltd and M/s GAF AG for upgrading the international ground station at Neustrelitz, Germany for the reception and processing of data from OceanSat – 3 and RISAT – 1A satellites. Partnership for a Green and Sustainable Future

    38. Both sides acknowledged the need for green, sustainable, climate resilient and inclusive development to achieve net zero emissions. Both governments aim to substantially enhance bilateral, trilateral and multilateral cooperation in climate action and sustainable development. Both sides acknowledged the progress achieved thus far under the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). This partnership, guided by shared commitments, seeks to accelerate the implementation of the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and the SDGs. In this context, both sides stressed the need to work jointly for an ambitious outcome of the upcoming UNFCCC COP29, in particular on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). Both sides will respond positively to the outcomes of COP28, including the first Global Stocktake, in light of national circumstances.

    39. Both sides appreciated the stocktaking of progress during the Ministerial meeting on the GSDP objectives. To contribute to the implementation of the GSDP, both sides are committed to regular dialogue within the existing working groups and other bilateral formats and initiatives. The next meeting of the Ministerial Mechanism shall take place at the latest within the framework of the next India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations, to conduct a stocktaking of the progress on GSDP objectives to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and SDGs. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to closely cooperate on combatting climate change and therefore expressed their intention to hold a meeting of the Indo-German Climate Working Group in the near future.

    40. Under the umbrella of the GSDP, both sides inter alia:

    a. Launched the Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap. The Leaders agreed that the Roadmap will help support India’s ambition for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen while also contributing to a swifter adoption of Green Hydrogen as a sustainable source of energy in both countries

    b. Launched the GSDP Dashboard, a publicly accessible online tool, which showcases the intensive cooperation between Germany and India under the GSDP. It gives an overview of key innovations and the broad range of experience covered by India-Germany cooperation. It facilitates stocktaking of the joint progress towards achieving GSDP objectives, and provides key information to relevant stakeholders on innovative solutions for global challenges.

    c. Signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to renew and further elevate the partnership in accordance with a shared vision to promoting in India sustainable urban mobility for all, recognizing the importance of green and sustainable urbanization for inclusive social and economic development and the strong results of the Green Urban Mobility Partnership since its establishment in 2019.

    d. Highly appreciated the achievements and vision for the future of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and agreed to intensify our cooperation within ISA.

    e. Appreciated the cooperation in the area of halting deforestation and degradation and reversing the trend by restoring forest landscapes in support of the implementation of the Rio Conventions and the SDGs.

    41. The leaders acknowledged that the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGEF), through its various activities, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the general bilateral economic relations between Germany and India, promoting economic growth, and addressing global climate change challenges.

    42. Both sides underscored the role of the 4th Global RE-INVEST Renewable Energy Investors Meet & Expo, held in September 2024 in Gandhinagar with Germany as a partner country, in bringing together key stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. Both governments recalled the ‘India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide’ which was launched during RE-INVEST as a key initiative to fast-track renewable energy investments, foster business collaborations and expand global supply chains. The platform will accelerate the expansion of renewable energy in India and worldwide through exchanges on green financing, technology and business opportunities.

    43. Both governments expressed their wish to continue to strengthen the cooperation through the Joint Working Group on Biodiversity and acknowledged that CBD COP 16 marks a crucial moment in the global effort to implement the goals of the Global Biodiversity Framework.

    44. Recalling the deliberations and outcomes of the Joint Working Group on Waste management and Circular Economy which has created opportunities by intensifying exchanges on experiences and technologies between the two countries, both sides agreed to explore the possibility of deepening cooperation within these structures, for instance, focusing future work on inter alia Solar Waste recycling. They appreciated the Indo-German environment cooperation on the effective and efficient implementation of ambitious objectives and policies in order to prevent waste, especially plastics, from entering the marine environment. India and Germany agreed to closely cooperate towards establishing a global legally binding agreement on plastic pollution.

    45. Both leaders acknowledged the progress made under the Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC), which pools mutual strengths and experiences to offer sustainable, viable and inclusive projects in third countries as per their priorities to support the achievement of SDGs and climate targets in Africa, Asia and beyond. Both sides welcomed the encouraging results of the pilot projects in Cameroon, Ghana and Malawi, and the progress made in the ongoing initiatives with Benin and Peru. In view of the successful implementation of the aforementioned initiatives, both governments have agreed to commence upscaling of the pilot projects with Cameroon (agriculture), Malawi (women entrepreneurship) and Ghana (horticulture) in 2024 and beyond. Furthermore, both sides welcomed the start of the three millet related pilot projects: two with Ethiopia and one with Madagascar. Additionally, both sides have launched the institutional mechanism to reach out to the partners, select and implement their joint initiatives on a full scale and to this end, both governments established a Joint Steering Committee and a Joint Implementation Group.

    46. The leaders reaffirmed that Gender Equality is of fundamental importance and investing in the empowerment of women and girls has a multiplier effect in implementing the 2030 Agenda. They reiterated their commitment to encourage women-led development and enhancing womens’ full, equal, effective and meaningful participation as decision-makers for addressing global challenges inclusively while noting Germany’s Feminist Foreign and Development Policies in this regard. Both sides reaffirmed their desire to strengthen Indo-German cooperation on promoting the critical role of women in green and sustainable development.

    47. In addition, both sides welcomed the milestones already achieved with respect to the existing initiatives and new commitments for financial and technical cooperation under the framework of the GSDP, as follows:

    a.New commitments in all core areas of the GSDP of more than 1 billion EUR as agreed during the negotiations on development cooperation between the Government of India and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany in September 2024, adding up to accumulated commitments of around 3.2 billion EUR since beginning of the GSDP in 2022;

    b.Under the Indo-German Renewable Energy Partnership, the cooperation focused on innovative solar energy, green hydrogen, other renewables, grid integration, storage and investments in the renewable energy sector to facilitate an energy transition and to address the need for a reliable, round the clock renewable power supply.

    c.The “Agroecology and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources” cooperation benefits the vulnerable rural population and small-scale farmers in India by fostering income, food security, climate resilience, soil health, biodiversity, forest ecosystems and water security.

    d.Both sides reiterated their intention to continue their successful collaboration on sustainable urban development.

    Building resilience through Trade and Economic collaboration

    48. Both leaders hailed the consistent high performance in terms of bilateral trade between the two countries in the recent years and encouraged stakeholders in India and Germany to further strengthen trade and investment flows. The leaders also noted the strong two-way investments between India and Germany and the positive impacts of such investments in diversifying the global supply chains. In this context, the leaders expressed confidence that the APK 2024, the bi-annual flagship forum of German Business with participation of top-level business executives from Germany, is a crucial platform to showcase the immense opportunities available in India for German businesses.

    49. Both sides underlined the long-standing presence of German businesses in India and Indian businesses in Germany and agreed to work towards deepening economic and trade linkages between the two countries. In this context, both sides welcomed the holding of the meeting of the India-Germany CEO Forum which serves as a high-level platform to engage business and industry leaders from India and Germany. They also underlined the achievements of the Indo-German Fast Track Mechanism to resolve trade and investment related issues, and are ready to continue its operation.

    50. In recognition of the importance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)/Mittelstand in economic growth and job creation, both sides acknowledged the growth in bilateral investment and the success of the ‘Make in India Mittelstand’ Programme, which supports German Mittelstand enterprises seeking to invest and do business in India. In a similar vein, both governments also recognised the key role played by start-ups in fostering innovation, and commended the German Accelerator (GA) for successfully facilitating start-ups to address the Indian market, and welcomed plans to establish its presence in India. Both sides noted that a corresponding programme to assist Indian start-ups in gaining market access in Germany could further enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.

    Strengthening Labour Markets, Mobility and People-to-People Ties

    51. As bilateral cooperation on skilled migration expands across multiple fronts, involving collaboration between federal and state governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, both sides committed to full implementation of the provisions of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA). In line with the commitments outlined in the MMPA both sides remain dedicated to promoting fair and legal labor migration. This approach is guided by international standards that ensure migrant workers are treated with dignity and respect, including fair recruitment practices, transparent visa processes, and the protection of workers’ rights. By focusing on these principles, both countries aim to facilitate the mobility of skilled workers in a manner that benefits all parties while safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring compliance with international labor standards.

    52. Building on the MMPA, the two sides concluded a JDI in the field of Employment and Labour, to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange in areas of mutual interest between the respective ministries. The German side informed that it will support a feasibility study on international reference classification, a G20 commitment undertaken by the Indian G20 presidency in 2023. Both leaders look forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of occupational diseases, rehabilitation and vocational training of workers with disabilities between the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), the Directorate General of Employment (DGE) and the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV).

    53. Both leaders noted that Indian professionals comprise over 1/4th of all blue card holders in Germany and that Indian students now represent the largest cohort of international students in Germany. Regarding this, they recognized the complementarities that exist between the requirements of skills and talents in Germany and the vast reservoir of young, educated and skilled persons in India, who can be an asset to the German labour market. The Federal Employment Agency will deepen the existing exchange with the National Skill Development Council, India (NSDC) and other similar Government agencies at national and state levels. Both sides welcomed the launch of the new national strategy of the German Federal government to promote skilled migration from India.

    54. Both leaders also expressed satisfaction on the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Skill Development and Vocational Education and Training which would leverage the strengths of India and Germany towards creating a pool of skilled workforce in India and strengthening the participation of women, especially in the areas of green skills. Both sides agreed to include elements of facilitating international mobility of labour.

    55. Both sides remain committed to the goal of expanding the teaching of the German language in India, including in secondary schools, universities and vocational education centers. They encouraged Indian and German States, culture centers and educational institutions to further promote the teaching of each other’s languages in India and Germany, including the training of language teachers. Both sides welcomed the joint efforts of the DAAD and the Goethe Institute to develop a format for the formalized training and further education of German teachers leading to a university certificate recognized in India.

    56. Both sides reaffirmed the contribution of highly skilled professionals for economic growth, noted with satisfaction the results achieved under the programme “Partnering in Business with Germany”, and renewed the JDI on advanced training of corporate executives and junior executives from India.

    57. With the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA), both sides also agreed to address irregular migration. For this purpose, both sides established a cooperation in the field of return since the entry into force of the MMPA. Both sides welcomed the progress achieved so far and underline the importance of further developing and streamlining cooperation through appropriate procedural arrangements.

    58. The leaders welcomed the growing ties between the two sides and their respective nationals. They acknowledged the wide range of Consular issues stemming from these growing ties and the need for dialogue on all matters related to Consular issues. They agreed to work towards early establishment of an appropriate format for a bilateral dialogue on various Consular, Visa and other issues affecting nationals of the other side residing in their respective territories.

    59. Both sides acknowledged the role of their youth as cultural ambassadors and catalysts for innovation and promoting people – people linkages between the two countries. In this context, both leaders stressed on the importance of youth cooperation and noted the proposal for establishing forum for youth exchanges and delegations between both sides. Both sides also agree to facilitate student exchanges on a mutual basis.

    60. Both sides noted with satisfaction the substantial work being done in the field of culture and welcomed efforts towards expanding scope of the Memorandum of Understanding on Museum Cooperation between Indian and German national museums such as the Prussian Heritage Foundation and the National Gallery of Modern Art, India.

    61. In line with the G20 New Delhi Leader’s Declaration (2023), both leaders underscored the intention to cooperate closely with regards to the restitution and protection of cultural goods and the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property at national, regional and state levels to enable its return and restitution to the country and community of origin as relevant, and called for sustained dialogue and action in that endeavour.

    62. Both Governments also appreciated substantial cultural and academic exchanges made possible via initiatives such as the establishment of Indian academic chairs at universities in Germany.

    63. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the deliberations held at the 7th IGC and reaffirmed their commitment to further expand and deepen the Indo-German Strategic Partnership. Chancellor Scholz thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm hospitality and conveyed that Germany looks forward to hosting the next IGC.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2068257) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address at Adichunchanagiri University (ACU), Karnataka

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 6:41PM by PIB Delhi

    My greetings to all of you,

    Ever since I stepped on the premises, I have been overwhelmed. Students, thousands in number, greeted me and my wife, a heavenly feeling that will impact us all our lives. Feeling blessed to have started my visit with darshan of Shri Kalabhairaveshwaraji, a great feeling, a religious entity in existence for over a thousand years. Blessings of Sri Sri Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji are divine interventions. We are filled with joy of sublimity, spirituality and religiosity. 

    I am charged to be in service of Bharat, energised than ever before.

    Indeed privileged, honoured, humbled and overwhelmed by the august presence of Shri H. D. Deve Gowdaji, a former Prime Minister who will ever be remembered as farmer Prime Minister. Farmer resides in his heart and rural development emanates from his thoughts. Even at this age, where I have the great blessed feeling of he being a member and I’m in the Chair, he has never missed an opportunity to raise issues related to farmers, the national welfare and rural development.

    It is indeed a proud moment of my life and I never imagined that I will be in the chair and we will have one of the greatest sons of Bharat in Shri H. D. Deve Gowdaji, as member of the house. A rare privilege and honour that will etch my name in history beyond anything else. His blessings for me, my family, farmers and the country are beyond words.

    I have no words to express gratitude for a noble soul like him, even when I was a student, this name resonated in my ears and I knew there was someone in Karnataka whose heart was bubbling for farmer welfare. As luck would have it, history has brought us together, only for him to bless me. 

    His Holiness Jagadguru Swami Paramananda Saraswatiji. He has not had the occasion to address for positive time but I know of him, a man of great commitment, spirituality and dedication. His presence means a lot to us. 

    Aranyaka – आरण्यक means forest,  it is the third section of Vedas but here the difference is different and the difference is, it means the body of work where some of the finest philosophical discussions have happened in the lap of mother nature.  This place is illustrative of this. 

    Swamiji, it was indeed farsighted visionary step to have an institution nestled in the verdant landscape in the foothills, an ideal aranyaka for modern day learners, philosophers, and seekers. A perfect setting for optimal exploitation of talent and unleash energy in chosen pursuits.

    When I think of such institutions that impart modern education and yet hold cultural values at the centre of it, Swamiji someone like you and the gentleman, the great seer who started it 50 years ago in mind, instantly these great men of history and civilisation are on the radar.

    The institution is seamless convergence of our cultural essence and modernity. Mahaswamiji, with your illustrious credentials in engineering and philosophy, the institutional foundations are obviously firm.

    This institution is also an exemplification as to how our Mandirs and Mutts sustain culture, and societal values. These nerve centres act as epicentres for service to the needy, challenged, vulnerable and marginalised. With 26 Shakha Mutts across the world and over 500 educational institutions under the Sri Adichunchanagiri श्री आदि चूँचना गिरी Shikshana Trust—including schools for the Blind, Deaf, and Dumb—this institution’s service to the marginalised is exemplary.  Indeed a befitting response to critics of Sanatan Dharma.

    Friends, Largely such institutions selflessly service society, we need to be on ground as some seek to engage in activities far distanced from being wholesome. Indisputably charity, assistance or such handholding needs to be with no strings attached. As a matter of fact, our civilisational ethos tells us, never speak of charity, charity is never to be claimed.

    You do it and you forget about it. But alarmingly and worrisomely some institutions have engaged in a structured manner to influence faith of the beneficiary and faith is very dear to us. When you influence the faith of the needy, the marginalised, the vulnerable, things become really very critical. For a democratic nation, this is pregnant with serious consequences.

    Such not so well intentioned designs aim to run down the spirit and essence of nationalism, our constitutionalism and effect variation in political landscape. In the process, freedom of faith gets impacted. It gets into captivity because of that allurement. We have to be very cautious about it. We need to be on guard as never before, the challenge is getting incremental.

    In the societal sector, footprint of religious institutions in times of natural calamities and other similar challenges complements governmental efforts. I need not make any other reference.

    It was demonstrated in full exemplification during COVID when both the government and such organisations acted hand in hand for the betterment of the people. 

    My young friends, you are fortunate to be living in times when Bharat is a land of Hope and Possibility; investment and opportunity. a situation that did not exist a decade ago, it is a land of investment and opportunity, being accoladed by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. You are the most vital stakeholders, you are the rock on which the future prosperity of Bharat will stand out. Our youth demographic dividend is the envy of the world and it is you who will take Bharat to a Viksit Bharat@2047. 

    Friends, my young friends, boys and girls, Bharat is no longer a nation without promise. It is a nation on the rise and rise is unstoppable. Our economy is in an upsurge mood, one of the highest GDP growth we have, we are being accoladed from all quarters. 

    The last decade has been transformative for lives of millions in the last row. The people in the last row who had lost hope. There has been revolutionary transformation for the betterment in their lives.

    Let me, my young friends, make you aware of the development. In this country, we have four new airports and one metro every year. You will be surprised, we have on a daily basis, 14 kilometres of highways and 6 kilometres of railways. These developments, these statistics indicate how fast we are going. 

    My young friends, you now enjoy a level playing field, patronage has yielded to meritocracy.

    Something which goes to your great advantage, patronage was hitting you very hard. Transparent and accountable governance are new norms, corruption is no longer a password to a job or a contract.

    A wholesome ecosystem opens for young friends that you can unleash your energy to achieve your dreams and aspirations. One thing I need to tell you is, your opportunity basket is increasing day by day. I expect you to get out of the silos.

    Some of you think the only way out is a government service, No. Look around and you’ll find when India is rising on sea, on land, in sky and space, these are opportunities for you by way of blue economy or space economy. 

    I have a word of caution for my young friends, there are elements in the country who engage extensively in dissemination of disinformation. This dissemination is very injurious to national health. You as young people have to neutralise these tendencies that do not augur well for our nationalism and I’m sure you will rise to the occasion. 

    Our sages, our saints and scriptures emanate of philosophy and inclusivity, welfare of all and that is encapsulated in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and even motto of our G20. We are a nation that can give guidance to everyone and anyone on the planet what is inclusivity.  Surely we don’t need lessons in something we have lived through for more than 5,000 years. This philosophy alone is sustainable and makes for global peace and harmony but some people have a different concept of inclusivity that is destructive of a sense of inclusivity.

    We have to be extremely cautious and careful. Discordant voices to the country need to gather the lessons from our civilisational essence.

    Friends, in today’s era you have seen more than I have seen, there is wide information exchange. There’s a power of social media in everyone’s hands. I implore you to use your education, intelligence to counter anti-national narratives and you develop a culture that you always keep your nation above everything else. No interest, personal, political or fiduciary can be superimposed on our commitment to nation or nationalism. Please bear that in mind. 

    Remember our scriptures: Janani JanmabhūmishchaSwargādapi Garīyasī. जननी जन्म/भूमिश्च, स्वर्गा/दपि गरी/यसी. Mother and Motherland are superior to heaven. I am sure, I do not need to impart lessons of nationalism to the students of this wonderful institution. You students are in a wonderful institution to be epicentre of this big change, keep always my young friends nation above everything else. Be ever wedded to nationalism. No personal or political gain should come over it. 

    As I come close to it, let me remind you of what Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who visited this university over a decade ago, he said, dream, dream, dream, dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action. This message is more relevant today than ever before. This is in action in the country, the game is on. You have to be part of it.

    Dream big, for it is through your dreams and actions that the future of Bharat will be shaped. The path ahead is full of opportunities, please grab them, seize them with courage, ambition, and a spirit of service to the nation.

    My young friends, as you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your lives, let the spirit of “Viksit Bharat” guide you towards a future filled with purpose and impact. Nurture and pursue a goal. For what is a life without a goal that is much more than earning and spending.

    Remember Swami Vivekananda’s emphasis on persistence: “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.” Never fear failure, never have fear of failure, failure is a stepping stone to success. Your brilliant idea occurs to you in your mind don’t allow it to be parked in your mind, please experiment with it, innovate.

    I want to leave you with one final thought, Viksit Bharat or Developed India is not merely a dream or a slogan, it is something a destination and we are on way to it. It is a yagna that would require Aahuti or offerings from millions of its young citizens. 

    As you move ahead in life, think what my offering to this yagna is. What is that I am doing for my country?  If you keep this in mind, if this is your North Star, the nation is going to occupy a position which it had centuries ago, number one in the world.

    Let that thought and blessings of Mahaswamiji Guide you.  Wishing you all the very best for your future endeavours. Jai Sri Gurudev! Jai Sri Gurudev!

    I am blessed as never before by the energy I have got here to motivate me, inspire me to be in the service of Bharat, home to one-sixth of humanity. 

    Thank you.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2068185) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Existing Home Sales Remain Subdued, While New Sales Push Higher

    Source: Fannie Mae

    Key Takeaways:

    • Durable goods orders declined 0.8 percent for the second consecutive month in September, according to the Census Bureau. However, the decline was due to a large pullback in aircraft orders; excluding transportation, durable goods orders rose 0.4 percent. Core capital goods orders (nondefense excluding aircraft) increased 0.5 percent. Shipments of the same category, a good proxy for business fixed investment, declined 0.3 percent.
    • Existing home sales declined 1.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) of 3.84 million in September, the slowest sales pace since 2010, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. The number of homes available on the market increased 1.5 percent to 1.39 million, marking the ninth consecutive monthly increase in this measure. The months’ supply ticked up one-tenth to 4.3, above its 2019 average of 3.9.
    • New single-family home sales rose 4.1 percent to a SAAR of 738,000 in September, the strongest pace since May 2023, according to the Census Bureau. The number of new homes available for sale remains elevated but increased just 0.4 percent in September, bringing the months’ supply down three-tenths to 7.6.
    Forecast Impact:

    Existing home sales were a bit below our expectations in September. Still, we had previously observed only a small pickup in mortgage applications as rates fell over the summer, so the subdued sales figure is in line with our thinking that there is a waning pool of potential homebuyers at current affordability levels. With mortgage rates now up more than 40 basis points since the end of September, we don’t expect a significant pickup in sales by the end of the year. However, the new home side remains a bright spot in the housing market. Considering revisions to previous months, the new sales figure was almost exactly in line with our forecast for the quarter. We view the current months’ supply of new homes for sale as sort of a goldilocks zone for continuing sales transactions; it’s high enough to encourage builders to continue to use incentives to move inventories but not so high that they’re likely to meaningfully slow construction. Still, we note that the October and November readings of both existing and new home sales are likely to be volaille given hurricane disruptions, and the recent move back up in mortgage rates could act as a headwind. Still, the outlook for new single-family starts and construction remains generally positive given a lack of existing inventories available for sale in many metros.

    Nathaniel Drake
    Economic and Strategic Research Group
    October 25, 2024

    Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic & Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current, or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Awarded the National Guard Association’s Montgomery Medal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) was awarded the Montgomery Medal from the National Guard Association of the United States (NAGUS). The Montgomery Medal recognizes individuals or organizations who provide outstanding support to the NGAUS. Senator Klobuchar is receiving the award for championing issues important to National Guardsmen and veterans, such as bolstering the “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” program, helping pass the historic PACT Act to ensure veterans exposed to toxic substances get the healthcare they need, and investments into the National Guard’s readiness and operational capabilities. At the presentation ceremony, NGAUS Minnesota Chapter President Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) 5 Brett Setterlund presented Klobuchar with the medal. Klobuchar, Minnesota National Guard Major General Shawn Manke, and CWO 5 Setterlund delivered remarks.  
    “It’s a privilege to receive the Montgomery Medal from the National Guard Association,” said Klobuchar. “The men and women of the National Guard put everything on the line when they put on the uniform, and we owe them a debt we can never fully repay. That’s why I’ve fought to provide them with the resources and support they need to keep our state and our nation safe.”
    Colonel Jamie Lindman read the following citation at the award ceremony:
    For her exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering support for the Minnesota National Guard, Senator Amy Klobuchar is awarded the Montgomery Medal. Her commitment to the welfare of Soldiers, Airmen, and their families is exemplified through her tireless advocacy and legislative achievements. Senator Klobuchar’s profound impact on the lives of National Guard members is evident in her comprehensive approach to support and promote our service. 
    She spearheaded the development of the “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” program, transforming it into a national model that provides crucial support to service members reintegrating into civilian life. Her advocacy for improving childcare access and championing PACT Act legislation to address toxic exposure demonstrates her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for military families. Senator Klobuchar’s leadership in modernizing the National Guard has been instrumental in securing advancements that enhance readiness and operational capabilities. From securing new aircraft for both the 148th Fighter Wing and 133rd Airlift Wings to advocating for infrastructure improvements at Camp Ripley Training Center, her efforts ensure the Guard remains a critical asset to our nation’s defense. Her dedication to fostering partnerships locally and globally strengthens the Guard’s capabilities and interoperability with international allies. Her support for initiatives like the State Partnership Program with Norway underscores her commitment to enhancing strategic military ties and improving readiness for joint operations. Senator Klobuchar exemplifies the values of service, leadership, and dedication and leaves an indelible mark on the Department of Defense, the National Guard Association of the United States, and the Minnesota National Guard.
    Read the full citation HERE.
    As a member of the National Guard Caucus, Senator Klobuchar is a leading advocate in the Senate for the National Guard.
    Since her election to the Senate, Klobuchar has fought to secure regular funding to extend and expand to the national level Minnesota’s pioneering Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Program. Beyond the Yellow Ribbon helps soldiers transition from military to civilian life through counseling and other services.
    In 2023, the United States Air Force announced that Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing was selected to receive eight new C-130J aircraft. Klobuchar worked across the aisle to help secure these aircraft for Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing. The 133rd also leads the nation’s longest continuous troop exchange with Norway, and our Croatia and Norway State Partnership Programs. All these partners benefit and embrace the 133rd’s tactical airlift mission.
    In 2022, provisions from Klobuchar’s Toxic Exposure Training Act to improve education and training for VA health care personnel passed as part of the bipartisan PACT Act.
    In 2019, Klobuchar introduced legislation that became law to ensure that children of Guard members and Reservists are identified as students of military families in school records. This requirement, which already applied to children of active-duty servicemembers, ensures that schools and teachers know which students have parents in the Guard and Reserves and help accommodate those needs.
    In 2017, Klobuchar introduced legislation to help reduce the cost of service for National Guard members and make a big difference for thousands of soldiers in the Minnesota National Guard by reducing the mileage that can be claimed on taxes from 100 to 50. In Minnesota, 30 percent of all National Guard members travel more than 50 miles for training and can be burdened with costly travel expenses simply for completing their required duty training each month. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing Customs unveils 10 measures to boost inbound tourism

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Beijing Customs announced 10 measures on Wednesday to facilitate inbound tourism and consumption, including streamlined transfer procedures at the city’s international airports.
    Under the new measures, arriving passengers can pre-declare luggage through apps including Mobile Customs, WeChat and Alipay before arriving in Beijing. Travelers can also access customs regulations and submit declarations through these platforms’ customs service features.
    “Seamless clearance” will be further implemented. This initiative uses technologies like preliminary machine inspections to integrate luggage checks into the regular baggage handling process.
    For international transit passengers, Beijing Customs now supports airlines offering international transit flights and mixed international-domestic routing services with direct luggage check-in, eliminating the need for multiple baggage handling.
    Departing travelers will also benefit from enhanced convenience. They can complete check-in and baggage procedures at city terminals like Caoqiao subway station, with customs providing remote luggage supervision to improve the travel experience.
    The measures also encourage both downtown and port duty-free shops to sell domestic trendy products, helping Chinese brands reach international markets.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense Official Statement on AUKUS Pillar 2 and Exercise Maritime Big Play

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The following statement can be attributed to Ms. Madeline Mortelmans who is currently performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans and Capabilities. Her office is lead for both pillars of AUKUS within the department and is in close partnership with all of the DOD stakeholders.

    “Secretary Austin has said several times in the past that our alliances and partnerships are our greatest global strategic advantage. Specifically, AUKUS presents a unique opportunity for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to foster a more capable, more combined force of the future. And in so doing, we will strengthen deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

    Through AUKUS, we are working across the full spectrum of capability development, generating requirements, co-developing new systems, deepening industrial based collaboration and ultimately delivering advanced capabilities to our forces. AUKUS Pillar 1 focuses these co-development efforts on delivering an advanced nuclear power submarine capability through the optimal pathway.

    Pillar 2 focuses on the development and delivery of emerging technology. AUKUS Pillar 2 is designed to harness the combined industrial and innovation bases of the tri-lateral partners to ensure that our forces are equipped with cutting edge interoperable military capabilities and prepared to face down aggression in whatever form it may take.

    In Pillar 2, we’re building a more capable combined joint force for the future, working across the full spectrum of capability development and we’re already delivering. This year, we’re advancing our undersea warfare capabilities by expanding our ability to launch and recover uncrewed underwater systems from torpedo tubes on current classes of British and US submarines, that will increase the range and capability of our undersea forces.

    We’re integrating the Stingray lightweight torpedo into the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, which will support our forces in being more interchangeable while providing resilience to munitions stockpiles across AUKUS nations. At the same time, we’re also implementing a fundamental shift to more closely integrate our systems and break down barriers to collaboration at every stage and in every part of our systems.

    We’ve welcomed collaboration with the International Joint Requirements Oversight Council or I-JROC, a critical collaborative forum to identify and validate joint and combined requirements. The I-JROC will ensure that we have prioritized combined and joint solutions from the very start and that the capabilities we develop under Pillar 2 address some of the most pressing challenges our forces face.

    A cornerstone of AUKUS Pillar 2 remains the opportunity to leverage the best of our defense industrial bases in combined innovation communities. This year we executed the first office innovation challenge focused on electronic warfare. We announced the winners last month and our teams are working to develop a robust two-year plan to increase the collaboration between and among our innovation centers of excellence.

    By the end of the year, we’ll have convened meetings with the Advanced Capabilities Industry Forum in each country. Engagements provide an opportunity for representatives across government and industry to exchange ideas and deepen industrial based collaboration.

    This week we’re here in Jervis Bay to observe the Maritime Big Play, which is an important demonstration of AUKUS in action. The Maritime Big Play is a series of integrated trilateral experiments and exercises aimed at enhancing capability development, improving interoperability and increasing the sophistication and scale of autonomous systems in the maritime domain. These experiments address the need to expand the reach, capability and capacity of our forces in the maritime environment through the use of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.

    Over the past several weeks, we’ve been testing and refining the ability to jointly operate uncrewed maritime systems, to share and process maritime data from all three nations, and to provide real time maritime domain awareness to support decision making. The Maritime Big Play allows AUKUS partners to practice fielding and maintaining thousands of uncrewed systems, gaining valuable experience operating in coalitions to solve realistic operational problems such as improving undersea situational awareness.

    Our work will inform AUKUS partners’ understanding of how crewed and uncrewed capabilities can be integrated to get an operational advantage, and where we can achieve cost savings and improved efficiencies in acquisition, maintenance and sustainment activities.

    Maritime Big Play isn’t just a demonstration for demonstration’s sake. It’s our goal to transition cutting edge technologies into capabilities that give our forces decisive advantage as quickly as we can. This year, Japan joined the Maritime Big Play as an observer. We look forward to deepening their participation in the coming years. All of this together underpins a more strategic approach to ensure that AUKUS and like-minded partners can operate new autonomous uncrewed systems more effectively as a coalition force from the start.

    This is only the first in our series of experiments and demonstrations. Over time, Maritime Big Play will grow and evolve to reflect the emerging technologies, new systems and new operational requirements. I want to emphasize that AUKUS is dynamic. It will grow, it will evolve as the world changes around us, and as we break down the old barriers to cooperation and inevitably discover new ones.

    AUKUS is building a foundation for deep defense industrial cooperation and delivering advanced capabilities that can and will ensure our defense forces succeed in enhancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific alongside UK and Australia partners both now and in the years ahead. Thank you.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Slingstone 24-4: 734th AMS performs disaggregated operations

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    YIGO, Guam  –  

    On Oct. 23, 2024, the 734th Air Mobility Squadron performed disaggregated operations at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, as part of Slingstone 24-4.

    For this specific operation, the 734th AMS simulated a bombing scenario that rendered their main headquarters unavailable. Their teams then had to perform their duties in a different location. This exercise allowed Airmen to test how capable they are at completing their mission in a different environment.

    “Typically, when it comes to these disaggregated ops, you are essentially practicing a scenario where your current building has been affected in some sort of fashion, it can be a chemical attack, munitions attack, something from the enemy or even a natural disaster,” said Master Sgt. Joshua L. Spierer, 734th AMS passenger services section chief. “Our role here is to have a setup base, we have our internet, our communication tools and everything needed to do our job because in this scenario we have no other area to work.”

    During the operation, the 734th AMS Airmen also made the most of the opportunity to teach their Airmen in different career fields. The team consisted of Airmen who work in aircraft maintenance, communications, aerial ports and more. Staff Sgt. Jarom Johnston, 734th AMS aircraft electrical systems craftsman, has been guiding these Airmen on how to marshal a C-17 Globemaster.

    Despite the challenges of working in a different location and continuing to be multi-capable, the 734th AMS Airmen were able to adapt and persevere.

    “Flexibility is key,” said 2nd Lt. Constance Lamkin, 734th AMS officer in charge of special planning. “Even though things haven’t gone exactly as planned, we’ve communicated across the board, perform our duties and were able to get a spot at a different location.”

    Slingstone 24-4 test the capabilities of the Airmen in the 36th Wing. For the 734th AMS, it trains them in being multi-capable while also being ready for the unexpected.

    “There’s definitely a lot of good that comes from this exercise,” Lamkin said. “When Typhoon Mawarr happened last year, we couldn’t work in the original pax terminal building because of the storm damage, but we were able to figure out what to do during that situation, and exercises such as this further prepare us for what may come.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China willing to share BDS expertise with nations

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

    China is willing to partner with other countries in sharing the development results of the Beidou navigation satellite system, or BDS, especially in exploring its potential in regional short message communication, services and international rescue efforts, a senior official of the National Development and Reform Commission said on Thursday.

    Xiang Libin, deputy minister of the NDRC, said Beidou has been recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization of the United Nations as a global standard, and that cooperation between China and the African Union as well as the League of Arab States in BDS is intensifying.

    Cooperation agreements have also been signed between China and South Africa as well as Egypt in Beidou applications, he said at the Third International Summit on BDS Applications, which is being held in Zhuzhou, Hunan province from Thursday to Friday to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of BDS.

    The applications of Beidou in key industries have expanded, with its coverage in transport, energy, natural resources and emergency exceeding 90 percent, he said.

    Beidou has been widely installed in applications for the general public, with 98 percent of smartphones and shared bikes equipped with it.

    Meanwhile, high-accuracy maps based on Beidou have covered the whole country, with daily usage exceeding hundreds of billions of times, he said.

    The country will continue to support the large-scale application of Beidou, push for deep integration of Beidou with intelligent cars, smart agriculture and the low-altitude economy, and empower sectors such as delivery services, low-altitude tourism and emergency rescue, Xiang added.

    Wang Jiangping, deputy minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, said Beidou has developed into a world-class navigation satellite system and its high-accuracy regional short message communication service has been fully proven to have the ability to serve the whole globe.

    Beidou has been widely used in communication, transport, agriculture, forestry and public security and is serving important infrastructure while also generating significant economic and social benefits, he said.

    By the end of last year, the total output of the country’s satellite navigation and location services industry had exceeded 530 billion yuan ($74.5 billion), while homegrown Beidou chips and modules have exceeded 400 billion pieces and there are a total of 1.4 billion pieces of equipment using the Beidou system, he said.

    The MIIT will continue to accelerate Beidou applications, push for market, industrial and international development of Beidou and enable it to better serve the whole world and bring benefits to all, he added.

    Aarti Holla-Maini, director at the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, said China is a central member of the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems and the Beidou navigation satellite system is expanding its applications and services to make it available to both industry and public sector users.

    Space has a crucial role to play in achieving social and economic development, she said via a video link.

    Modern society depends on satellites and data and the many services they provide and enable; this reliance is only going to grow in the future, she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s passenger jet C919 makes outstanding achievements during new stage of operation

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

    China’s passenger jet C919 makes outstanding achievements during new stage of operation

    China’s first domestically developed single-aisle passenger jet C919 has entered a new stage of multi-carrier operation. So far, 11 aircraft have been delivered, transporting more than 700,000 passenger trips, said its manufacturer on Friday.

    The commercial operation of the C919 planes has topped 13,000 flying hours, said He Dongfeng, chairman of Commercial Aircraft Corp of China, the manufacturer, during a speech at the opening ceremony of the second CATA Aviation Conference, organized by the China Air Transport Association, in Beijing.

    Meanwhile, China’s first home-developed regional passenger jet, the ARJ21, has seen its commercial operation exceed 500,000 flying hours.

    “This is an important milestone that marks further validation of the safety and reliability of the ARJ21 aircraft,” He said.

    The ARJ21 aircraft has been operating in domestic regions such as Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Inner Mongolia autonomous region and Heilongjiang province, in addition to overseas markets such as Indonesia. A total of 148 aircraft have been delivered, serving 156 cities and carrying 17 million passenger trips.

    In another development, CR929, a long-haul wide-body aircraft that is under research and development by China and Russia, is in the process of preliminary design and selection of suppliers, COMAC said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Karen Tso, CNBC

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    JIM CHALMERS:

    Growth in the Australian economy has been soft, certainly softer than we would like. But I think it’s important to remember that most of the OECD has had a negative quarter or worse in the course of the last year or so, and Australia has avoided that.

    That’s because we’ve struck a really effective balance. We’ve maintained a primary focus on fighting inflation but at the same time as we haven’t ignored the risks to growth. Growth is very flat in our economy. It would be much worse had we cut harder in the Budget.

    KAREN TSO:

    The government stimulus certainly helped avoid some of the worst of what was the downturn predicted from here. But reduced air travel was a big feature, a bit of a fad as Australians stopped turning up to some of those bands going on tour as well, which is a feature we’ve seen in other economies as well. Are interest rates now simply too high for the economy?

    CHALMERS:

    As you know from the last time that we spoke, Karen, there are good reasons why Treasurers of either political persuasion in Australia don’t give free advice to the independent Reserve Bank. They will take their decisions based on the best information that they have to hand.

    My job is to focus on what I can control – delivering 2 surpluses for the first time in almost 2 decades, showing spending restraint, finding savings in the budget. All of this is part of our strategy to put downward pressure on inflation at the same time as we help people through what has been a very difficult period.

    TSO:

    But you and I both know there is a balance between fiscal and monetary policy where you don’t want to be doing too much on the fiscal side. Are you approaching that? Is it time for monetary policy to step up?

    CHALMERS:

    I don’t see it exactly that way. The Reserve Bank Governor has herself said that the 2 surpluses that we’ve delivered – again, for the first time in some decades in Australia – that’s helping in the fight against inflation. Our fiscal strategy is helping in the fight against inflation. We’ve found savings in the budget. We’ve shown spending restraint when we’ve got upward revisions to revenue.

    We’ve made sure that where we are providing cost‑of‑living help, it’s in the most responsible way that we can. That’s because we do recognise the role for fiscal policy and for budget management in the fight against inflation. That’s our primary focus.

    But we’re doing that at the same time as we recognise there are risks to growth and we want to maintain the gains that we’ve made in the labour market in the last couple of years. There’s been a million new jobs created in the Australian economy. That’s the first time that’s happened in a single parliamentary term. We want to preserve and maintain as much of that as we can.

    TSO:

    Another big government in the region is stimulating – the Chinese government. In recent weeks we’ve seen measures from them to try and shore up property market, to move along some of the local government debt and also help with the consumer appetite for consumption. I asked the Brazilians this question, whether Chinese stimulus equalled better growth rates for Brazil, and the response was, it’s not that simple. How do you feel? Is it that simple – China grows, Australia grows too?

    CHALMERS:

    There is a relationship between Chinese growth and Australian GDP growth. The rough rule of thumb that our Treasury uses is every extra per cent of growth in China is about a quarter of a per cent for Australia. That’s the rule of thumb that has been applied in the past.

    We see the steps announced by the Chinese authorities as really positive for Australia. One of the main concerns we have about the global economy – primarily escalation in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine obviously – but a softer economy in China does have consequences for Australia and, indeed, for the global economy.

    So we are very welcoming of the steps that the authorities have announced. As it turns out, I was in Beijing when they announced some of those additional measures. We see that as a very good thing for Australia, but we still maintain some element of concern about growth in the Chinese economy.

    TSO:

    Do you think they’ll have the same thirst for Australian resources that they’ve had in the past?

    CHALMERS:

    I think the mix will change over time. We’ve got big opportunities in our resources base in Australia, not just in the Chinese market, in the global market more broadly.

    But we have seen in the iron ore price, for example, there has been some volatility. After these measures were announced by the Chinese administration there was an increase in the iron ore price. That’s obviously a good thing for our economy and our exporters and for our budget. But over time demand for different kinds of resources will shift.

    TSO:

    No shortage of politics in the room here in DC – a US election around the corner, everybody’s trying to work out what it means if it’s a Trump versus a Harris win. You’ve done some modelling on this. Just give us a sense as to what you’re thinking about the implication if potentially it is a Trump win, which seems to be the scenario that could be more disruptive of the markets.

    CHALMERS:

    Obviously 13 days from the US election there is a lot of talk here in Washington DC, as you’d expect, about the outcomes of that.

    We don’t have a dog in the fight when it comes to the outcome of the US election. That is a matter for American domestic politics, and we’ll work closely with whoever the Americans choose to lead them.

    But like every country, we have done some scenarios, some planning for the different kinds of policies that the different administrations might enact. We don’t make that public necessarily, but we do think through the various scenarios that may play out.

    We’ve made it very clear here and on other occasions as well, we don’t want to see a trade war in our region or in the global economy. We think that would be costly. But we don’t involve ourselves in the domestic political choices or policy choices that the Americans have before them.

    TSO:

    To the point around the trade issues, bilateral relations with Beijing have certainly improved, as you just pointed out you were there. And, for instance, what are we seeing now? Australian rock lobsters are back on the menu, Australian wine no longer costing $116, 218 per cent higher thanks to tariffs. So there’s clearly been more warmth in the relationship. Could that be derailed if there’s a much more hawkish tone coming out of Washington in coming weeks which puts pressure on the Australian relationship?

    CHALMERS:

    I don’t really want to speculate on that. We have made some really quite substantial progress when it comes to stabilising, what is a very critical economic relationship for Australia. The lifting of those trade restrictions on lobster and wine are examples of how our efforts have been paying off.

    But it’s a really complex relationship. It’s full of complexity. It’s full of opportunity. There are areas where we have to disagree with China, but there are areas where we can work together and stabilise that relationship. We’ve seen the benefits of that already. And that’s because we believe as a government you get more out of engaging with people than not, and that’s proven to be the right strategy.

    TSO:

    Which is a different change to the last government in some ways. And on that note, it is a sea change from the 2016–2020 era when it was a Trump administration. It was also a conservative government in Australia versus your left‑leaning Labor government. Your policies have been more aligned with Biden’s – the Inflation Reduction Act and climate change policy. So what sort of a reset could you be facing around climate change? Do you hope that there’s still a commitment from the next administration towards climate change?

    CHALMERS:

    I think the net zero transformation in the global economy is the biggest change since the Industrial Revolution. That will be the case no matter who leads one country or another country. We’re confident that there is enough enthusiasm for and commitment to the global net zero transformation around the world that that will carry on. We want to be a really important part of that.

    Our Future Made in Australia agenda, which is a bit like the Inflation Reduction Act here in the US, that’s not about retreating from the world; that’s about engaging with the world, making ourselves an indispensable part of the global net zero transformation. And that will be the case no matter who the Americans choose to lead them.

    TSO:

    You specifically have weighed in big time into energy and climate policy in recent years. As we’ve seen some data this week from the UN suggesting we’re on course for a catastrophic 3.1 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, IMF staff have also highlighted the need to mobilise quickly. We’re counting down to COP29. Do countries including Australia need to ramp up their ambition around green goals?

    CHALMERS:

    We’re plenty ambitious about emissions reduction and about the economic opportunity that lies at the very core of that.

    Here at these meetings in DC I’ll be joining the Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen, and that’s because we recognise that the environmental and emissions reduction task brings with it enormous economic opportunity for Australia – jobs and opportunities for our businesses, our workers and our investors. And so we see those 2 things as intertwined.

    Yes, there needs to be ambition from the world to avoid the worst aspects and the worst outcomes and consequences of catastrophic climate change. We believe there is a lot of goodwill, there is a lot of commitment, but we all need to do better.

    For Australia, we’ve got ambitious targets. We need to make them a reality, and we need to make sure that as part of that we grab the economic opportunities as well.

    TSO:

    How frustrated are you about the EV story? Because from a European lens we’ve got automakers with big goals that they’re having to then concede are not going to be reached. We’ve got declining appetite – and that’s not just in Europe, it’s also in the United States. Prices have been an issue, but in Australia potentially less so. Charging seems to be an issue, having the infrastructure. I can see you’ve done a tonne of things trying to stimulate demand, but it’s simply not catching on. You still don’t have the same level of interest in changing to EVs. What’s going wrong?

    CHALMERS:

    I’m not sure about that. EV take‑up has been increasing in recent years, and that is partly because of our policy agenda – our tariff cuts and our tax cuts, which are about incentivising EV take‑up, they have been working.

    But we recognise in the global market for EVs there are some issues playing out, including decisions taken here by the Americans as they relate to Chinese EVs.

    We’ll take our own decisions and we’ll make those decisions based on the best available information. But we believe in the future of EVs. I think Australians do too. And where we can help that with good policies like our tax policies right now, we’ll continue to do that.

    TSO:

    Do you think governments are going to have to start thinking about full‑blown cash for clunkers type of programs to try to get some motivation into EVs?

    CHALMERS:

    That’s not something that we’re considering. That policy has some history, as you know in Australia and around the world. It’s not something that we are contemplating.

    I think the key here is making sure that the tax arrangements are right, and we’ve made those 2 important changes to incentivise take‑up. We need to make sure we’ve got the supply so that Australian drivers, motorists, have got choices and that EVs are affordable. That’s our priority rather than some of those other options that have been put forward from time to time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wave of the future: How DASA-backed AI innovation is revolutionising maritime rescue

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Scotland-based SME Zelim has won a contract with the US Navy to deploy their innovative AI-enabled Person-in-Water detection and tracking technology, known as ZOE.

    • Zelim’s detection and tracking system uses AI to scan the water surface to find people in the water much more accurately and consistently than human eyes and current systems can
    • Low-cost and easy to integrate, the software solution can be implemented in any camera or CCTV setup
    • DASA funding has helped take the solution from concept to commercial project, which is now being used on commercial ships, offshore energy infrastructure and commercial ports
    • In 2024, Zelim was awarded a US Navy contract to deploy ZOE – their advanced AI-enabled person in water detection and tracking technology

    In 2024, Edinburgh-based SME Zelim achieved a remarkable milestone: securing a contract with the US Navy to deploy an advanced Person-in-Water detection system. This breakthrough, rooted in artificial intelligence, represents a significant leap forward in maritime rescue technology – and it all began with support from the UK’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA).

    The US Navy contract, awarded through a Phase I SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program, recognises Zelim’s cutting-edge AI-enabled detection and tracking technology. This system, known as ZOE, can scan vast stretches of ocean, identifying and tracking individuals or objects with unprecedented accuracy – even in challenging conditions that would confound human observers and current vision systems.

    How did a small Scottish company attract the attention of the US Navy? In 2022, Zelim presented the search and rescue concept to the DASA Open Call, which offered essential early-stage funding and expertise, allowing Zelim to turn their idea into reality. Zelim’s DASA project helped the SME tackle significant challenges, such as gathering person in water rescue data across a huge range of conditions and creating a comprehensive database for accurately identifying humans in water – a critical component in making the system reliable enough for real-world rescue operations.

    Andy Tipping, Co-Founder and Business Development Director explains:

    The DASA offering is unique, we had a DASA Subject Matter Expert who was always on hand to keep us on track and to make sure whatever we developed would meet defence customer needs, plus we had an Exploitation Manager working tirelessly to secure meetings with a range of MoD and Home Office end users. The result was, by the end of the project we started securing our first contracts in civilian markets, selling our AI enabled detection system to offshore energy operators and several months later our technology was selected for the US Navy SBIR programme. Being a DASA Alumni also gave credibility and it wasn’t long after the project completed that we secured our Series A investment round.

    From UK Innovation to US Navy Contract

    As soon as someone enters the water, rescuers are against the clock. This is greatly understood by Zelim founder, Sam Mayall, a seasoned mariner with a wide range of experience, from small dinghies to 40,000-ton ships. With a background in commercial shipping, Sam has experienced numerous emergencies at sea, including a tragic incident where rescuers discovered a body floating face down in the water.

    This experience ignited the desire to help improve maritime safety for sailors and equip rescuers with better tools, enhanced by AI and automation to ensure safer operations in the vast ocean and help overcome challenges such as:

    • Vastness of Oceans

      Individuals lost at sea can be difficult to spot with only their head often visible, which can be missed or confused with other ocean debris.

    • Poor Weather Conditions

      Fog, ocean spray, and darkness significantly reduce visibility, complicating the search efforts.

    • Imperfect Human Eyesight

      Human vision is fallible; fatigue and level of concentration can lead to false detections and missed rescue opportunities.

    • Reliance on Binoculars or CCTV

      During the critical period, rescuers using only binoculars or viewing camera streams may struggle to keep sight of the individual as they disappear behind waves, sea spray and other vessels

    • Parallax Effect

      The difference in movement speeds between foreground and background can confuse existing vision systems.

    Charting new waters with ZOE

    Zoe works by scanning the sea surface, sifting through the busy marine surroundings to pinpoint individuals or specific objects. These targets can then be recognised, identified, and tracked using their unique AI software.

    A key advantage of ZOE is its flexibility in accounting for the dynamic and chaotic nature of the sea, avoiding false positives from objects like buoys by analysing live daylight and thermal camera feeds for human-like patterns. Zelim spent several years compiling a comprehensive data library to ensure reliable identification, solving the last piece of the puzzle for effective ocean rescue.

    Additionally, ZOE is software-based and hardware agnostic, applicable to any camera or CCTV feed, making it ideal for commercial shipping, passenger vessels, naval ships, search and rescue aircraft and ports.

    How Zelim’s innovation can bolster search and rescue

    • Compatible with various camera systems
    • Alerts users to humans in water with 96% accuracy from 300 meters
    • Operates effectively in adverse weather and low light
    • Automatically tracks spotted individuals, preventing loss
    • Easy-to-install software managing multiple feeds, with local data processing
    • More efficient than traditional methods like binoculars and standard sensors

    Zelim’s ZOE detection solution in action

    Breaking into defence and civilian markets: What does the future hold for Zelim?

    DASA support proved invaluable for Zelim. By the end of the DASA project, Zelim had not only created a working prototype but had also begun securing their first contracts in civilian markets, including:

    • Jack-up drilling rigs in the North Sea
    • A floating wind farm off the coast of Portugal owned by Ocean Winds
    • A cruise ship

    The effectiveness of Zelim’s solution was evident during field trials, demonstrating its accuracy, measurability, and consistency. The system can achieve 96% accuracy from over 330 meters without applying optical zoom, and with optical zoom, it can spot humans in the water over a kilometre away.

    These capabilities caught the attention of defence organisations worldwide. In addition to the US Navy contract, Zelim’s technology was also deployed in a Royal Canadian Air Force search and rescue exercise in 2024, where it demonstrated its ability to find and track humans at sea with no false positives.

    The company’s growth reflects its success. Starting the DASA project with just 10 employees, Zelim has now expanded to a team of 28, with further growth anticipated as they work to fulfill the US Navy and offshore energy contracts.

    Looking ahead, Zelim plans to increase deployment of their technology on ships, major global ports, search and rescue assets, and air assets. This ambitious growth strategy underscores the far-reaching impact of DASA’s initial support – from fostering UK innovation to enhancing global maritime safety and creating economic opportunities.

    The US Navy contract stands as a testament to the power of targeted innovation support. By backing Zelim’s vision, DASA has not only contributed to advancing a innovative UK technology but has also opened doors for a British SME on the global stage, demonstrating how investment in innovation can yield significant returns for both national security and prosperity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Keynote Address by Prime Minister at the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Businesses (APK 2024)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Excellency Chancellor Scholz,

    Vice Chancellor Dr. Robert Habeck,

    Ministers of the Indian Government,

    Dr. Busch, Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business,

    Industry leaders from India, Germany, and Indo-Pacific countries,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Namaskar!

    Guten Tag!

    Friends,

    Today is a very special day.

    My friend, Chancellor Scholz, has come to India for the fourth time.

    His first visit was as a Mayor, and the next three have been during his terms as the Chancellor, which highlights his focus on India-Germany relations.

    The Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business is being held in India after a gap of 12 years.

    On one hand, a CEO forum meeting is taking place, and on the other, our navies are exercising together. German naval ships are currently on a port call in Goa. Additionally, the seventh Inter-Governmental Consultations between India and Germany will be held shortly.

    Clearly, the friendship between India and Germany is deepening at every step, on every front.

    Friends,

    This year marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.

    The next 25 years will see this partnership reach new heights.

    We have created a roadmap for India’s development over the coming 25 years.

    I am happy that at such a critical time, the German Cabinet has released the “Focus on India” document.

    The world’s two strongest democracies,

    Two of the world’s leading economies, together, we can become a force for global good, and the Focus on India document provides a blueprint for this. In this, Germany’s holistic approach and commitment to pursuing the strategic partnership are clearly evident. Especially noteworthy is the trust that Germany has expressed in the skilled workforce of India.

    Germany has decided to increase the number of visas for skilled Indians from 20,000 to 90,000 per year.

    I am confident that this will further boost Germany’s economic growth.

    Friends,

    Our bilateral trade has surpassed 30 billion dollars.

    Today, while hundreds of German companies operate in India, Indian companies are also rapidly expanding in Germany.

    India is becoming a prime center of diversification and de-risking and is emerging as a hub of global trade and manufacturing. Given this scenario, now is the most opportune time for you to make in India, and make for the world.

    Friends,

    The Asia-Pacific Conference has played an essential role in strengthening relations between the EU and the Asia-Pacific region. But I don’t see this platform as limited to trade and investment alone.

    I see it as a partnership for the Indo-Pacific region and a better future for the world. The world needs stability and sustainability, trust and transparency. These values must be emphasized on every front, whether in society or supply chains. Without them, no country or region can envision a brighter future.

    The Indo-Pacific region is very important for the future of the world. Whether it is in terms of global growth, population, or skills, the contribution and potential of this region are immense.

    This conference, therefore, holds even greater significance.

    Friends,

    The people of India value a stable polity and a predictable policy ecosystem.

    This is why, after 60 years, a government has been elected for a third consecutive term. This trust in India has been strengthened over the last decade through reform, performance, and transformative governance.

    When the common citizen of India feels this way, where else would be better for businesses and investors like you?

    Friends,

    India stands on four strong pillars: Democracy, Demography, Demand, and Data. Talent, technology, innovation, and infrastructure are the tools for India’s growth. Today, an additional great force drives all of these: the strength of Aspirational India.

    That is, the combined power of AI — Artificial Intelligence and Aspirational India — is with us. Our youth are driving Aspirational India.

    In the last century, natural resources accelerated development. In this century, human resources and innovations will propel growth. This is why India is committed to democratizing skills and technology for its youth.

    Friends,

    India is working today for the needs of the future world.

    Whether it is Mission AI,

    Our Semiconductor Mission,

    the Quantum Mission,

    Mission Green Hydrogen,

    Missions related to space technology,

    or the Digital India Mission, all of them aim to provide the best and most reliable solutions for the world. These areas offer numerous investment and collaboration opportunities for all of you.

    Friends,

    India is committed to providing every innovation with a strong platform and the best infrastructure. Our digital public infrastructure is creating endless opportunities for new startups and Industry 4.0. India is also transforming its physical infrastructure with record investments in rail, roads, airports, and ports. There are extensive opportunities here for companies from Germany and the Indo-Pacific region.

    I am pleased that India and Germany are working together on renewable energy.

    Last month, the fourth Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet was organized in Gujarat in collaboration with Germany.

    An India-Germany platform has also been launched for investing in renewable energy at the global level. I hope you will take advantage of the green hydrogen ecosystem that India is developing.

    Friends,

    This is the right time to join India’s growth story.

    When India’s dynamism meets Germany’s precision,

    When Germany’s engineering meets India’s innovation,

    When Germany’s technology combines with India’s talent, a brighter future is envisioned for the Indo-Pacific region and the world.

    Friends,

    You belong to the business world.

    Your mantra is “When we meet, we mean business.”

    But coming to India is not only about business; if you miss India’s culture, cuisine, and shopping, you will miss a lot.

    I assure you: You will be happy, and your family back home will be even happier.

    Thank you very much, and may this conference and your stay in India be both fruitful and memorable.

    Thank you.

    DISCLAIMER -This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy in The Hill: Biden admin threatens safety of key military base to appease UN activists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) penned this op-ed in The Hill questioning the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to allow the United Kingdom to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Kennedy argued that this deal jeopardizes the safety of a key base on the island of Diego Garcia and benefits the Chinese Communist Party. 

    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:

    “The importance of the base at Diego Garcia cannot be overstated. Diego Garcia is one of the only bases in the world where our military can reload submarines. The base also houses several Navy ships and long-range bomber aircraft that we use to carry out missions around the world. These key missions have made it a top target of Chinese Communist Party spies.

    “Today, we know our assets on Diego Garcia are secure because the Chagos Islands are a British territory. The United Kingdom controls the island of Diego Garcia and the surrounding water to protect our shared missions.

    “Our secure arrangement, however, just imploded. The United Kingdom announced that it will turn over control of the Chagos Islands to the island nation of Mauritius.”

    . . .

    “This decision wasn’t about righting the wrongs that the United Kingdom supposedly committed against the people of Chagos, though. Chagossians consider themselves an indigenous people. The Chagos Islands and Mauritius—which are more than 1,200 miles apart—speak different versions of Creole and have no shared pre-colonial historic ties. They are, for all practical purposes, strangers.”

    . . .

    “President Biden and Vice President Harris either truly believe that the government of Mauritius has the ability and the courage to stand up to China to ensure the security of Diego Garcia, or they withheld their objections to avoid being criticized by woke United Nations activists if they stood up for the American people’s best interests.”

    . . .

    “The American people deserve to know why President Biden and Vice President Harris allowed this irreversible deal to move forward. Congress must hold the Biden-Harris administration accountable for this short-sighted and dangerous decision. 

    “So, I repeat: Why? Why put American interests at risk? Why help the Chinese Communist Party?”

    Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO tests integration of joint high-end maritime strike capabilities

    Source: NATO

    On 24 October 2024, NATO kicked-off “Neptune Strike 2024.” This enhanced vigilance activity will take place across Europe, from the central Mediterranean and Adriatic up to the North and Baltic Seas and will run until 31 October 2024. During this period, NATO will take operational control of cutting-edge maritime warfare capabilities from numerous Allies, including multiple aircraft carriers and expeditionary strike groups that will be deployed across several operational domains.

    In total, some 20 surface vessels and submarines, along with special operations forces and numerous aircraft, are participating, with around 15.000 supporting personnel. Participating nations to this NATO deployment include Albania, Belgium, Canada, Finland, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States, a powerful demonstration of Allies’ ability to work together through NATO to deter and defend.

    Read more from Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum

    Read more from Naval Striking and Support Forces

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DIO and Royal Navy sign contract for construction project in Cornwall

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Defence Infrastructure Organisation and Royal Navy mark milestones in major project at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose.

    Representatives of RNAS Culdrose, Royal Navy Infrastructure, Kier Construction, Mott MacDonald and Defence Infrastucture Organisation inspect plans to demolish and replace the Engineering Training School. Credit: Crown Copyright

    The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the Royal Navy have concluded a contract-signing and groundbreaking ceremony for a major construction project at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall. 

    This marks the beginning of work on a £99.5 million project to replace and refurbish the 820 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) hangars, associated office buildings, and the full replacement of the Engineering Training School (ETS).  The contract was awarded to Keir Construction with Mott MacDonald as the designated Technical Services Provider.

    DIO and its contractors will deliver the project on behalf of the Royal Navy, with the first phase seeing the construction of a new air Engineering Training School, a new hangar and refurbishment of existing buildings for 820 Naval Air Squadron, the helicopter unit dedicated to protecting the Navy’s aircraft carrier strike groups. The project covers a combination of demolition, a new build within the same site footprint, and the refurbishment of existing infrastructure. 

    Sustainability will be a key feature of the project which will include integrated water-saving measures, Net Zero carbon emissions, solar photovoltaic panels, energy efficient lighting, and air source heat pumps to improve energy efficiency and contribute to carbon reduction.

    RNAS Culdrose is integral to the UK’s defence posture and is home to the Royal Navy’s anti-submarine warfare helicopter fleet. RNAS Culdrose also houses the Engineering Training School responsible for Air Engineering (AE) specialist training, delivering fully trained engineers to support Merlin helicopter operations.

    L to R: Andy Roberts of Mott MacDonald; Stu Johnson, Head of Navy Infrastructure; Cpt Stuart Irwin, Culdrose CO; Doug Lloyd of Kier Construction; and Dan Ross of DIO. Credit: Crown Copyright

    Daniel Ross, DIO Programme Director, Major Programmes and Projects, said:

    “I am delighted that we can celebrate this significant milestone at RNAS Culdrose, marking the next phase of collaboration with our suppliers and the Royal Navy. Building on the sustainable designs already delivered, the project will continue to contribute towards defence’s Net Zero targets and ultimately enhance our military capability.”

    Captain Stuart Irwin, Commanding Officer, Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose said:

    “This project marks the start of an exciting regeneration and investment in RNAS Culdrose with new, modern facilities. The Engineering Training School is at the heart of our operations to maintain the Merlin helicopter fleet. Our young people, many of whom are just at the start of their naval careers, will learn how to maintain aircraft in a high-tech and modern teaching environment.

    The refurbishment of aircraft hangars and buildings at 820 Naval Air Squadron is another significant investment. It will provide us with more suitable and sustainable places to operate Merlin Helicopter Force now, and into the future.”

    Stu Johnston, Deputy Head, Navy Infrastructure and Projects, Senior Responsible Officer, said:

    “The DIO and Navy infrastructure teams have worked closely to develop what will be hangar and training facilities fit for the 21st Century Royal Navy.  The project will reflect our wider sustainability and energy efficiency ambitions. The team has embraced a collaborative and agile approach built on years of hard work by stakeholders.”

    Doug Lloyd, Regional Director, Kier Construction, said:

    “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and the Royal Navy to deliver these new facilities.  We have a wealth of experience in delivering buildings of the highest quality across the defence estate and are proud to be creating this important enabler to the UK’s future defence capability.”

    Chris Ackerman, DIO Account Lead for Mott MacDonald, said:

    “We are really pleased to be working for DIO as their Technical Service Provider and alongside Kier, the Principal Contractor.  This project will provide a suite of modern and sustainable infrastructure for the Royal Navy in accordance with the Defence Operational Energy Strategy.”

    The project is scheduled for delivery in the spring of 2028.

    A proposed impression of the new Engineering Training School at RNAS Culdrose. Credit: Crown Copyright

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 4681, Enhanced Oversight and Accountability in Screening Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 4681 would establish a committee to advise the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on its screening, vetting, and inspection activities at airports and other ports of entry. Under the bill, the committee would make recommendations to the department to improve its policies and procedures, including training; data collection, storage, and analysis; internal oversight; and responsiveness to complaints from the public. S. 4681 would require the committee to report to the Congress annually on its activities until its termination on December 31, 2030. The bill also would permit the committee to accept and spend donations and gifts.

    S. 4681 would require DHS, within two years of enactment, to report to the Congress on a plan to improve the process for people who believe they have been wrongly identified as a threat while traveling to submit complaints to the department. The bill also would require the Department of Justice to report annually to the Congress on the consolidated terrorism watchlist, a database containing information on people known or suspected to be involved in terrorist activity. Lastly, S. 4681 would require DHS to report to the Congress annually for 11 years after enactment on the effectiveness of its enhanced screenings, which are additional security checks above what is required in airports and other ports of entry. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Deerfoot improvement project complete

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Deerfoot Trail is a vital artery for Calgary, enabling the efficient movement of people and goods. Improving this highway is essential to reduce congestion, improve safety and enhance connectivity for thousands of daily drivers. As Calgary grows, the improvements to Deerfoot Trail will better meet the needs of its growing population, helping drivers spend less time staring at tail-lights, and more time doing the things they love.

    The expansion of Deerfoot Trail as well as the new connection of Beddington Trail and the adjacent 11 Street NE is now complete, relieving many headaches for drivers. Diverting considerable commuter, industrial and airport traffic between McKnight Boulevard and Beddington Trail to this new connection will increase safety and reduce weaving northbound on Deerfoot Trail. These improvements will also address key bottlenecks between Glenmore Trail and Anderson Road/Bow Bottom Trail, helping people get where they need to go more efficiently.

    “It’s great to see provincial construction wrap up on this critical road for Calgary drivers. I’d like to thank the contractors for building a wider, more efficient Deerfoot and also thank Calgarians for their patience during construction. This project will benefit so many families that commute everyday and is another example of how we’re making life better for Albertans.”

    Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors

    Work on this section of Deerfoot Trail began in Spring 2023 and includes connecting 11 Street NE to westbound Beddington Trail and northbound Deerfoot Trail. Upgrades also included adding a fourth continuous lane to Deerfoot Trail in each direction from Airport Trail to Beddington Trail.

    The suite of Deerfoot Trail improvements began in 2022 with work on 64 Avenue, which was competed in 2023. The Beddington Trail and 11 Street project is the second key segment to be completed. The totality of work on Deerfoot Trail includes increased capacity on ramps, additional lanes, reconfiguring exits and intersections and twinning a bridge. Improvements to Deerfoot Trail are being completed in distinct projects, prioritizing the most congested areas. It is estimated that the remaining Deerfoot Trail improvements will be complete by fall 2027. This important work will enhance safety and save time for drivers.

    “I am thrilled the province has chosen to invest in one of our most critical transportation corridors. This investment will enhance the efficiency and safety in the movement of goods and people for all road users. We look forward to continuing our collaborative partnership with the provincial government on future enhancements that will contribute to a more effective and safer transportation network for our city.”

    Andre Chabot, Ward 10 councillor, City of Calgary

    “We are excited to have an improved Deerfoot Trail and completed Beddington Trail NW and 11 Street NE enhancing access to YYC Calgary International Airport for our guests and commercial partners by reducing traffic congestion, providing alternative routes, growing connectivity and boosting economic and logistics efficiency.”

    Chris Dinsdale, president and CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority

    Quick facts

    • Aecon Transportation West Ltd. completed the construction of the Beddington Trail and 11 Street NE connector for $19 million.
    • Other improvements will increase capacity for current and future traffic volumes and include:
    • Deerfoot Trail and 64 Avenue NE – Began in fall 2022; completed in summer 2023.
    • McKnight Boulevard. – Aecon Transportation West began work in spring 2023 anticipated completion in Fall 2025.
    • Bow Bottom Trail/Anderson Road, Southland Drive and Glenmore Trail work – Aecon Infrastructure Management started work in spring 2023; anticipated completion in fall 2027.
    • 16 Avenue NE – Aecon Transportation West began work in Spring 2024; anticipated completion in Fall 2025.
    • Ivor Strong Bridge twinning – Aecon Infrastructure Management continues progress; anticipated completion in fall 2027.
    • Budget 2024 allocated $523.8 million for these upgrades.
    • Deerfoot Trail is a major north-south freeway in Calgary and has been in operation since the 1970s; up to about 180,000 vehicles travel this road, daily.
    • When the entire suite of improvements on Deerfoot Trail is completed, motorists can expect about:
      • 15 per cent faster morning rush hour commutes
      • 22 per cent faster evening rush hour commutes
      • 900,000 hours saved annually on the Deerfoot Trail
      • An economic boost of about $23 million, annually

    Related information

    • Deerfoot Trail Improvements

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Obernolte, Rep. Panetta laud FAA’s approval of powered lift aircraft

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), who together co-chair the bipartisan Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Caucus, applaud the decision by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a final rule for powered lift operations. The Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) provides a comprehensive framework for certifying the initial cadre of powered-lift instructors and pilots, a major step forward for the growing AAM industry.  

    “I commend the decision by the FAA to approve powered lift as a new category of civil aircraft, the first in over 80 years, and their continued efforts to promote innovation in America’s aviation industry,” said Rep. Obernolte. “This rule will allow these aircraft to provide services such as air taxi, cargo delivery, and an array of other operations within the United States. The possibilities of powered lift operations are transformative, and this rule allows industry to provide these services by creating an operational system for advanced air mobility.” 

    “With the proper federal regulatory framework, Advanced Air Mobility has the potential to revolutionize how we move people and goods throughout our country,” said Rep. Panetta.  “The Federal Aviation Administration’s final rule is a significant step forward in allowing powered lift aircraft to be integrated into our airspace and allow these operations to take flight.  I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work to advocate for the future of aviation and the innovation in California’s 19thCongressional District powering these exciting aircraft.”   

    Due to the concerted efforts of Rep. Obernolte, Rep. Panetta, members of theAAM Caucus, and FAA Administrator Whitaker, powered lift will be the first completely new category of civil aircraft since helicopters were introduced in the 1940s. The rule makes changes to existing regulations, establishes an SFAR for instructor and pilot certification and training, applies helicopter operating requirements to some phases of flight, adopts a performance-based approach to certain operating rules, and allows powered-lift pilot training with a single set of flight controls instead of two.

    What They’re Saying: 

    •  “Supernal is pleased to see the FAA finalize the rulemaking for pilot training and operations for the AAM industry, while adopting a more flexible approach to requirements such as dual controls” said Jaiwon Shin, CEO of Supernal. “We look forward to continued collaboration with the FAA and Congress to position the US as a global leader in this exciting new industry.”  
    • “We applaud the FAA on the release of the SFAR ahead of schedule as it represents a tremendous milestone for our country and the eVTOL industry. Now, Archer has a clear roadmap to pioneer eVTOL here in the U.S. Our team is full speed ahead in our ongoing partnership with the FAA as we work towards commercialization as soon as possible,” said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer.  
    • “The regulation published will ensure the U.S. continues to play a global leadership role in the development and adoption of clean flight,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby. “Delivering ahead of schedule is a testament to the dedication, coordination and hard work of the rulemaking team.” 
    • “Advanced air mobility promises to change the very definition of on-demand aviation worldwide,” National Business Aviation Association President and CEO Ed Bolen said. “Given the speed at which the technology is developing, it is critical that all stakeholders have clear, official guidance for AAM operations. We commend the FAA for providing that guidance with the publication of this new rule.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: High-Altitude ER-2 Flights Get Down-to-Earth Data

    Source: NASA

    Operating at altitudes above 99% of the Earth’s atmosphere, NASA’s ER-2 aircraft is the agency’s highest-flying airborne science platform. With its unique ability to observe from as high as 65,000 feet, the ER-2 aircraft is often a platform for Earth science that facilitates new and crucial information about our planet, especially when the plane is part of collaborative and multidisciplinary projects.
    “We’re deploying instruments and people everywhere from dry lakebeds in the desert to coastal oceans and from the stratosphere to marine layer clouds just above the surface,” said Kirk Knobelspiesse, an atmospheric scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.  “We live on a changing planet, and it is through collaborative projects that we can observe and understand those changes.”
    One mission that recently benefitted from the ER-2’s unique capabilities is the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem Postlaunch Airborne eXperiment (PACE-PAX) project. The PACE-PAX mission uses the ER-2’s capabilities to confirm data collected from the PACE satellite, which launched in February 2024.
    The PACE observatory is making novel measurements of the ocean, atmosphere, and land surfaces, noted Knobelspiesse, the mission scientist for PACE-PAX. This mission is all about checking the accuracy of those new satellite measurements.

    “The ER-2 is the ideal platform for PACE-PAX because it’s about the closest we can get to putting instruments in orbit without actually doing so,” Knobelspiesse said.
    The collaborative project includes a diverse team of researchers from across NASA, plus the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Netherlands Institute for Space Research (SRON), the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, the Naval Postgraduate School, and other institutions.
    Similarly, the Geological Earth Mapping eXperiment (GEMx) science mission is using the ER-2 over multiple years to collect observations of critical mineral resources across the Western United States.
    “Flying at this altitude means the GEMx mission can acquire wide swaths of data with every overflight,” said Kevin Reath, NASA’s associate project manager for the GEMx mission, a collaboration between the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and NASA.

    The GEMx team collects visible, shortwave infrared, and thermal infrared data using instruments installed onboard the ER-2. Combining these instruments with the aircraft’s capability to fly at high altitudes bears promising results.
    “The dataset being produced is the largest airborne surface mineralogy dataset captured in a single NASA campaign,” Reath said. “These data could help inform federal, tribal, state, and community leaders to make decisions that protect or develop our environment.”
    Learn more about the ER-2 aircraft.
    Learn more about the PACE-PAX mission.
    Learn more about the GEMx mission.
    Learn more about NASA’s Airborne Science Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Defense Official Statement on AUKUS Pillar 2 and Exercise Maritime Big Play

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The following statement can be attributed to Ms. Madeline Mortelmans who is currently performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans and Capabilities. Her office is lead for both pillars of AUKUS within the department and is in close partnership with all of the DOD stakeholders.

    “Secretary Austin has said several times in the past that our alliances and partnerships are our greatest global strategic advantage. Specifically, AUKUS presents a unique opportunity for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to foster a more capable, more combined force of the future. And in so doing, we will strengthen deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

    Through AUKUS, we are working across the full spectrum of capability development, generating requirements, co-developing new systems, deepening industrial based collaboration and ultimately delivering advanced capabilities to our forces. AUKUS Pillar 1 focuses these co-development efforts on delivering an advanced nuclear power submarine capability through the optimal pathway.

    Pillar 2 focuses on the development and delivery of emerging technology. AUKUS Pillar 2 is designed to harness the combined industrial and innovation bases of the tri-lateral partners to ensure that our forces are equipped with cutting edge interoperable military capabilities and prepared to face down aggression in whatever form it may take.

    In Pillar 2, we’re building a more capable combined joint force for the future, working across the full spectrum of capability development and we’re already delivering. This year, we’re advancing our undersea warfare capabilities by expanding our ability to launch and recover uncrewed underwater systems from torpedo tubes on current classes of British and US submarines, that will increase the range and capability of our undersea forces.

    We’re integrating the Stingray lightweight torpedo into the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, which will support our forces in being more interchangeable while providing resilience to munitions stockpiles across AUKUS nations. At the same time, we’re also implementing a fundamental shift to more closely integrate our systems and break down barriers to collaboration at every stage and in every part of our systems.

    We’ve welcomed collaboration with the International Joint Requirements Oversight Council or I-JROC, a critical collaborative forum to identify and validate joint and combined requirements. The I-JROC will ensure that we have prioritized combined and joint solutions from the very start and that the capabilities we develop under Pillar 2 address some of the most pressing challenges our forces face.

    A cornerstone of AUKUS Pillar 2 remains the opportunity to leverage the best of our defense industrial bases in combined innovation communities. This year we executed the first office innovation challenge focused on electronic warfare. We announced the winners last month and our teams are working to develop a robust two-year plan to increase the collaboration between and among our innovation centers of excellence.

    By the end of the year, we’ll have convened meetings with the Advanced Capabilities Industry Forum in each country. Engagements provide an opportunity for representatives across government and industry to exchange ideas and deepen industrial based collaboration.

    This week we’re here in Jervis Bay to observe the Maritime Big Play, which is an important demonstration of AUKUS in action. The Maritime Big Play is a series of integrated trilateral experiments and exercises aimed at enhancing capability development, improving interoperability and increasing the sophistication and scale of autonomous systems in the maritime domain. These experiments address the need to expand the reach, capability and capacity of our forces in the maritime environment through the use of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.

    Over the past several weeks, we’ve been testing and refining the ability to jointly operate uncrewed maritime systems, to share and process maritime data from all three nations, and to provide real time maritime domain awareness to support decision making. The Maritime Big Play allows AUKUS partners to practice fielding and maintaining thousands of uncrewed systems, gaining valuable experience operating in coalitions to solve realistic operational problems such as improving undersea situational awareness.

    Our work will inform AUKUS partners’ understanding of how crewed and uncrewed capabilities can be integrated to get an operational advantage, and where we can achieve cost savings and improved efficiencies in acquisition, maintenance and sustainment activities.

    Maritime Big Play isn’t just a demonstration for demonstration’s sake. It’s our goal to transition cutting edge technologies into capabilities that give our forces decisive advantage as quickly as we can. This year, Japan joined the Maritime Big Play as an observer. We look forward to deepening their participation in the coming years. All of this together underpins a more strategic approach to ensure that AUKUS and like-minded partners can operate new autonomous uncrewed systems more effectively as a coalition force from the start.

    This is only the first in our series of experiments and demonstrations. Over time, Maritime Big Play will grow and evolve to reflect the emerging technologies, new systems and new operational requirements. I want to emphasize that AUKUS is dynamic. It will grow, it will evolve as the world changes around us, and as we break down the old barriers to cooperation and inevitably discover new ones.

    AUKUS is building a foundation for deep defense industrial cooperation and delivering advanced capabilities that can and will ensure our defense forces succeed in enhancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific alongside UK and Australia partners both now and in the years ahead. Thank you.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State for Northern Ireland speech at the British-Irish Chamber of Commerce

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech by Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

    Location:
    Dublin, Republic of Ireland
    Delivered on:
    (Speaker’s notes, may differ from delivered version)

    Good afternoon. It’s a great pleasure to be with you all today.

    Go raibh míle maith agaibh.

    I would like to extend my thanks to John McGrane and Paul Lynam for your very kind invitation and sharing my congratulations to Marie Doyle on her recent appointment as President of this wonderful organisation.

    Now, many people in Britain might assume that the British-Irish Chamber of Commerce has a long and distinguished history. It is certainly distinguished but it’s not very long, having been founded only in 2011. But it feels to me and I’m sure to you much older, such is the strength of the ties that bind our two countries together.

    Two countries that share so much… in terms of history, culture, ideas, politics and friendships.

    And it is a story that runs like a thread through these islands and through the lives of so many of our families, including my own: on my side, it was an Ulster Scot from Fermanagh who took that journey that millions made across the Atlantic to Ohio from where my mother came and, on my wife’s side, Irish Catholics from  Mayo and Kilkenny and Cork, her grandfather was born in Monkstown.

    And talking of families, you may be aware that I come from a family best known for politics. What you may be less aware of is that two of my great grandfathers were Victorian entrepreneurs.

    One – Peter Eadie – designed and made ring travellers for the textile industry working out of the upstairs of a terraced house in Galashiels, in Scotland.

    The other – John Benn – was very good at drawing and decided to found a furniture trade magazine which, with great prescience – given the posts that his son, grandson and great grandson – that’s me – all went on to hold, he decided to call it “ The Cabinet Maker.“ You couldn’t make it up.

    Both of those grandfathers entered politics as elected councillors as they put their business minds, industriousness and civic virtues at the service of the public.

    So, if I may say so, it is in that spirit of innovation and constructive endeavour that I address you today.

    Now the history of these islands has not always been benign. Over the centuries there have been terrible wrongs, great violence, revolution, bitterness but in recent years – reconciliation and progress in ways that would have seemed impossible in the past.

    It was a great pleasure last night to see the play Agreement at the Gate Theatre, which so powerfully depicts the events leading up to that miraculous Good Friday in 1998. That agreement eventually resulted in something – I must be frank – I never thought I would see in my lifetime. I grew up watching reporting of the Troubles on the television, reading about it in the papers, and to witness a unionist and a nationalist sitting side by side in government together – that truly was the impossible made possible. And today Northern Ireland is a very different place. 

    Why? 

    Because of the courageous political leadership shown in the play last night and many others showed.

    We must never lose sight of how far we have come across these shared islands since then. I want to say very clearly and directly: The Government’s commitment to the Good Friday Agreement – in letter and in spirit – is absolute. And that our support for the European Convention on Human Rights, which underpins the Agreement, and to the rule of law is unwavering.

    My priority as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland – above all else – is to support political stability and economic growth. 

    And critical to that stability and critical to that growth in Northern Ireland is a healthy and constructive relationship between the Irish and UK governments.

    And from day one, this new Government has been absolutely determined to seize the opportunity to restore trust, friendship and collaboration between our two countries. And as Paul just set out, the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach have made their joint commitment to this reset,  which will be underpinned by annual summits, in addition to the existing Strand 3 institutions.

    You’ve heard about the visits the British ministers have made and colleagues from here over to Westminster, and all of those are practical expressions of that commitment to a new and better relationship. 

    And talking of new relationships, the restoration of the Executive and Assembly in February was a hugely important moment for Northern Ireland – after too many years in which devolved government was not functioning. And it is vital that we now do all we can to ensure that this stability endures.

    Stable and devolved government and political representation at Stormont matters above all for the people of Northern Ireland  – they need a government and an Assembly that work for them.

    But it also matters enormously for businesses right across Ireland, the United Kingdom and beyond. What do businesses and potential investors say they want? Stability. Political stability. 

    I am really impressed by the partnership that Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly have forged and the Executive now has a Programme for Government and a Fiscal Sustainability Plan.

    And Northern Ireland has a great opportunity to make the most of its unique access to both the British and the European markets to help the economy to grow and to create jobs.

    And that is what you do as the British Irish Chamber in promoting trade, prosperity and progress across these islands.

    Now we are still having to manage the consequences of the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, in a way that does not unnecessarily inhibit trade and commerce across the Irish Sea. That is why this Government is absolutely committed to fully implementing the Windsor Framework, pragmatically and in good faith.

    It is not without its challenges – I think that is probably the understatement of the year – but it is necessary. And there is a much bigger prize in sight.

    The Government is committed to improving the UK’s trading relationship with the EU, including through the negotiation of a sanitary and phyto-sanitary agreement which would have the potential to dramatically smooth the movement of food, animals and plants across the Irish Sea.

    One of the joys of my job is that everywhere I go in Northern Ireland I see talent, ingenuity and enterprise.

    I see world class businesses operating in the life sciences, high-tech engineering, making composite aircraft wings and building the buses of the future – electric and hydrogen – services and film and television, education.

    I am really struck that all these firms have seen something in Northern Ireland and its people.

    And my message to investors is simply this.

    Come, look, see, believe, invest in Northern Ireland.

    Just look at the opportunities for the UK and Irish Governments to work collaboratively on areas and projects to help improve growth in Northern Ireland, in the Republic of Ireland including in its border regions.

    Areas which are summed up by the four pillars which will form the basis of the annual leaders’ summits.

    We need this collaboration not only because it is in our mutual economic interest, but because in these very uncertain times, we face shared challenges which our shared values and our shared commitment to democracy and the rule of law, will help us to face up to.

    What do we need to do?

    We need to ensure stability in an unstable world.

    We need to build economic growth.

    We need to make sure we have the infrastructure to enable that growth and attract that investment.

    We have got to invest in skills. 

    We’ve got to make the transition to net zero – what a fantastic opportunity for businesses if you just think about changing the way we heat our homes. There are a lot of heat pumps that will have to be built and installed, and we together on these islands should be making them.

    Building new energy infrastructure which will be required to power those heat pumps and the electric buses, cooperating on energy resilience – not least given the huge potential across these islands for more wind power – and the investment in Northern Ireland from GB Energy, the UK’s new publicly owned, clean energy company, which in turn will support the Shared Electricity Market.

    At the same time, we only have to look around us to see the risks from conflict, climate change and the loss of biodiversity. Biodiversity is not a like-to-have, it is the very stuff on which human existence is based.  

    If you pause for a moment and look around you, every single thing we see is a gift from what is on the surface of the earth and beneath it. The genius of the human mind is that we have taken those gifts and look at what we have built. Look at what we have created, look at what we have fashioned.  

    And given the increasingly uncertain geopolitics of the world, it also makes sense for the UK and Ireland to collaborate on confronting the threats we face, whether in relation to cyber security, terrorism, organised crime or the threat from Russia and other states.

    And in doing all of this, the sense I get from the vast majority of people is they would like us to move forward and to try and build a better future that we can jointly embrace.

    So let us be bold, let us get on with it and let us take inspiration from those who 26 years ago truly made the impossible possible. 

    Finally, why do the relationships that I have spoken about matter so much?

    They are clearly important economically, but they are also about something else – it’s about building alliances so we can deal with the risks and take advantage of the opportunities.

    All of these are powerful reasons why we should work together closely.

    Ireland and the United Kingdom.

    Two proud nations with everything to gain from a close partnership, for as the great W B Yeats reminded us:

    “There are no strangers here. Only friends you haven’t yet met.”

     Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department and Department of Transportation Launch Broad Public Inquiry into the State of Competition in Air Travel

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Agencies Seek Information on Consolidation, Anticompetitive Conduct and a Wide Range of Issues Impacting the Availability and Affordability of Air Travel Options

    The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division and Department of Transportation (DOT) today jointly announced a broad public inquiry into the state of competition in air travel. The agencies are seeking public information on consolidation, anticompetitive conduct and a wide range of issues affecting the availability and affordability of air travel options. The topics covered in the agencies’ joint Request for Information (RFI) include previous airline mergers, exclusionary conduct, airport access, aircraft manufacturing, airline ticket sales, pricing and rewards practices and the experiences of aviation workers.

    “Competition in air travel is a vehicle for better quality, better fares and better choices for Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “With this inquiry, we hope to learn more from the businesses and travelers at the center of this essential industry. Their feedback will ensure the Justice Department can continue to build on its historic efforts to protect competition in air travel.”

    “Americans count on air travel to visit loved ones, explore their country and get business done,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Good service and fair prices depend on ensuring that there is real competition, which is especially challenging for the many American communities that have lost service amid airline consolidation. Our goal with this inquiry is to identify and remove barriers to competition so that more Americans can access the opportunities that come with good, affordable air service.”

    The agencies jointly issued the RFI requesting public comments explaining how the air travel industry has been impacted by consolidation and anticompetitive practices and identifying ways to address any harms to competition. Key topics in the RFI include:

    • General state of competition in the aviation sector and its effects on passengers, workers and jobs, regions and local communities and economic growth.
    • Airline consolidation and the effects of previous mergers, common ownership, joint ventures, international alliances, structural advantages, exclusionary conduct and other anticompetitive practices.
    • Airport access and its impact on airlines and their ability to enter and fairly compete in different areas of the country and the world.
    • Aircraft manufacturing and the impact of consolidation and anticompetitive practices on new aircraft manufacture and sale, aircraft leases or secondary markets for used aircraft.
    • Air transportation sales channels, pricing and airline rewards programs and the impact on the availability, access and affordability of air travel.
    • Labor market issues and the effects of consolidation and anticompetitive practices in other parts of the aviation industry on pilots, in-flight crews, ground crews, airport services, union contracts and/or travel agents or other vendors of travel services.

    The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov, no later than Dec. 23. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov. All market participants are invited to provide comments in response to this RFI, including passengers, consumer advocates, pilots, in-flight and ground crews, airport authorities, employers, airlines, private and charter aircraft operators, travel agents, trade groups, industry analysts, purchasers of corporate travel services and other entities that provide or rely upon air travel services.

    The Antitrust Division has previously taken action to protect competition in the passenger air travel industry, including its successful lawsuits to block the proposed merger of JetBlue and Spirit Airlines and to unwind the anticompetitive Northeast Alliance between JetBlue and American Airlines.

    DOT has taken historic action to improve airline passenger rights and oversight of the airline industry. Most recently, prior to the close of the Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines merger, DOT secured binding, enforceable public-interest protections aimed at preventing harms to the traveling public, rural communities and smaller airline competitors. DOT has issued new rules requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds when owed and protecting against costly surprise airline junk fees. DOT has also secured enforceable guarantees from airlines to provide food, lodging and other support when they strand passengers. Finally, since 2021, DOT has gotten nearly $4 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to passengers and issued nearly $225 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection and civil rights violations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Law Enforcement, & Elected Leaders Talk New Tools to Fight Spokane’s Fentanyl Epidemic

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    10.24.24
    Cantwell, Law Enforcement, & Elected Leaders Talk New Tools to Fight Spokane’s Fentanyl Epidemic
    Spokane Fire Station 1 is busiest in the state & responds to triple the typical number of calls, driven largely by drug overdoses; Bill intro’d by Cantwell – and endorsed by SPD chief and Spokane sheriff – could help halt the flow of fentanyl into Spokane
    SPOKANE, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown, Spokane Police Department Chief Kevin Hall, Spokane County Commissioner Chris Jordan, and Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels for a press conference focused on new legislation introduced by Sen. Cantwell — the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act — that would empower local law enforcement with new tools to halt the flow of fentanyl into the region.
    The press conference was held at Spokane Fire Station 1, which is the busiest fire station in the state. The station currently responds to around 6,300 calls per year – more than triple the norm for a comparable station.
    “We want people to know that these resources are worth fighting for,” Sen. Cantwell said. “Congress [must] put more focus onto this. We think that if we all work with these resources at the federal and state level and at the local level — and give local law enforcement and our first responders more tools — it will help.”
    Sen. Cantwell’s new bill would crack down on smugglers using the U.S. transportation network to traffic illicit synthetic drugs, like fentanyl. The bill would create first-ever inspection strategies to stop drug smuggling by commercial aircraft, railroads, vehicles and ships. The legislation would also boost state, local, and tribal local law enforcement resources, deploy K9s and next generation non-intrusive detection technologies, and increase inspections at ports of entry.
    The Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act has been endorsed by both SPD Chief Kevin Hall and Sheriff Nowels, along with numerous elected officials and law enforcement leaders from across the State of Washington.
    Photos of today’s press conference are HERE; video is HERE; and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington Rail Systems to Receive $115M in Infrastructure Upgrades

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    10.24.24

    Washington Rail Systems to Receive $115M in Infrastructure Upgrades

    Nine projects awarded include $37.7M for RR that moves Eastern WA wheat, $26.3M for Port of Kalama rail expansion to load grain exports faster; Awards also go to projects in Tacoma, Moses Lake, Chewelah, Rainier, Ferry County, and Puget Sound Rail Corridor

    SPOKANE, WA – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Patty Murray (D-WA), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced nine major investments in Washington state’s rail system infrastructure, totaling $115,577,598.

    The improvements will boost railroad capacity all across the state, helping move freight and agricultural products quickly and more safely between our communities and on to international markets.

    The grants come from the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) received $37,700,000 million for final design and construction of rehabilitation of the Palouse River & Coulee City Railroad (PCC). This is in addition to a $72.8 million CRISI grant for the railroad project that WSDOT received last year.

    “Wheat farmers in the state rely heavily on the Washington State Grain Train to help export 90 percent of the product they grow. This funding will replace lightweight, 100-year-old, worn rail with 34 miles of upgraded heavyweight track to accommodate heavy railcars, allowing train speeds to double, helping farmers get their goods to market more efficiently,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “Washington state growers need fast and reliable transportation systems to get their products to market, especially if they want to compete in tough international markets—this is critical for our wheat growers and this major federal investment will help ensure Washington state farmers have the kind of infrastructure they need to succeed,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    This PCC project is part of a multi-phase effort to improve the railroad system so it can handle heavier, faster rail cars and better withstand extreme weather conditions. Grant funding will help replace light-weight worn rail and rotten railroad ties, as well as rebuild dilapidated roadway crossings and surface tracks. Federal funds will cover 65% of the total project cost.

    The PCC serves a critical part of the wheat supply chain in Eastern Washington. This project will help ensure rural Eastern Washington agricultural products remain competitive in the global marketplace, by helping products reach customers faster. Rehabilitation of this freight corridor is important to maintain the region’s economic viability. By keeping rail shipments available and competitive, this project will reduce road maintenance, enhance economic development, improve the environment, and bring long-term jobs to rural communities.

    The Port of Kalama received $26,323,386 for a rail expansion project.

    “The Port of Kalama is already one of the largest grain export terminals on the West Coast. This funding will increase the port’s grain terminal efficiency by 25-30 percent meaning that farmers not just from Washington, but as far east as Wisconsin, can get their products to market faster,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “These new replacement tracks are going to help the Port of Kalama transport even more goods, including grain, from rail to ship, faster than ever by allowing it to store empty trains at the port,” said Sen. Murray. “This is going to be a real boost for trade in the region, and it is exactly what the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law looks like at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project will replace rail tracks at the Port of Kalama in Washington. The replacement tracks will support storage of two loaded and two empty trains simultaneously at the port. The project is expected to increase loading efficiency in the direct loading of grain from rail to ship by up to 30 percent. The Port of Kalama will contribute a 20 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    The St. Paul & Pacific Northwest Railroad Company received $23,469,151 to improve track along the railroad’s main line in northeast Washington.

    “The St. Paul & Pacific Northwest railroad transports two million tons of lumber and other goods annually across Eastern Washington. With this funding, the railroad will upgrade and rehabilitate over 80 miles of mainline track, speeding products to market more safely and reliably,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This funding is going to help update outdated rail infrastructure that Washington state businesses and consumers rely on—this means safer, more efficient rails while creating good paying jobs,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project on this line between Chewelah, WA and Columbia Gardens, British Columbia, will replace approximately 18 miles (in two sections) of older jointed rail with 136 lb. continuous welded rail and install approximately 85,000 new concrete and steel rail ties along the entire line. This will upgrade the line to meet FRA Class 3 classification requirements, which improves safety and reliability. St. Paul & Pacific Northwest will contribute a 21 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to Sec. Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    The Columbia Basin Railroad Company, which operates between Moses Lake and Connell in central Washington, received $11,552,000 to rehabilitate approximately 10 miles of their railroad line.

    “The Columbia Basin Railroad serves over 50 businesses and is a lifeline for Washington farmers and exporters across Grant, Lincoln, Spokane, Adams, and Whitman counties. This funding will facilitate critically needed track repairs which will enable increased freight capacity and operating speeds,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “When it comes to the rails our trains travel every day—and which connect companies and communities across Washington state with crucial goods, services, and opportunities—it is important we have safe, reliable tracks,” said Sen. Murray. “By helping to replace some 8,000 cross ties, and 10 miles of rail, this funding will help us make sure the tracks serving the Columbia Basin are in tip top shape and will safely increase operating speeds and capacity. This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project will replace approximately ten miles of rail and approximately 8,000 cross ties on the Columbia Basin Railroad. This will enhance safety and improve system performance as the project will return the line to a state of good repair, increase operating speeds, and allow for increased capacity to move freight, benefitting over 50 customers served by the Columbia Basin Railroad. Columbia Basin Railroad will contribute a 20 percent match.

    Tacoma Rail received $8,316,000 to replace the engines of four old locomotive with new Tier 4 diesel electric engines that will reduce harmful NOx emissions by about 90 percent. This is in addition to $4.095 million the railroad received last year to replace two high-polluting diesel electric switcher locomotives with two zero-emission battery-electric switcher locomotives. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    “With this grant funding, Tacoma Rail will replace the engines of four old locomotives with new clear diesel electric engines. This will reduce emissions by 200 tons per year and reduce fuel consumption by more than 18,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually. A significant step in contributing to the region’s climate action goals and reducing shipping costs for farmers,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This investment will help ensure we reduce carbon emissions while still moving freights as quickly and efficiently as possible—and creating good-paying jobs in the process,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—helping us build a stronger clean energy economy while upgrading our national infrastructure.”

    Tier 0 project locomotives are equipped with diesel engines that were built between 1973 and 1992 – before the first federal EPA emission standards for locomotives were developed in 1997. The new engines will eliminate the consumption of more than 18,000 gallons of diesel fuel a year, which is expected to reduce up to 200 short tons of greenhouse gas emissions. These new locomotives will help the City of Tacoma and Port of Tacoma achieve local, county, regional, and state air quality and climate goals.

    WSDOT’s Puget Sound Rail Corridor Improvement Project received $6,451,894.25 to improve safety and help prevent winter weather delays. 

    “The Puget Sound Rail Corridor Improvement Project will upgrade rail switches between Everett and Vancouver, lowering maintenance costs and reducing weather delays for the two million passengers that ride Amtrak and Sound Transit each year,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “I’m pleased to see this funding come back to Washington state to help keep trains running through our Puget Sound Corridor quickly, smoothly, and safely. Steps to tackle issues like eliminating gaps and preventing ice and snow build up are crucial to keep our tracks open and trains running full steam ahead—which is why this funding is so important. This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century,” said Sen. Murray.

    The proposed project will eliminate potentially dangerous gaps between rails and install electrically powered heaters on turnouts to prevent ice and snow buildup. This will enhance resilience, safety, and performance. The Washington State Department of Transportation and BNSF will contribute a 50 percent match.

    Rainier Rail received $1,765,167 to improve four bridges in Western Washington, including the Minnesota St. Bridge in Rainier, WA.

    “Rainier Rail provides important transportation connections for goods including aircraft materials and animal feed moving through western Washington. This project will improve their track capacity and replace aging rail ties to ensure they can continue serving customers in our state,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This investment will help modernize existing infrastructure so that Rainier Rail can accommodate more freight, getting more goods to where they need to go more quickly,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The bridge improvements include replacement of structural components, increasing clearance on the Minnesota St. Bridge, installing larger rail to accommodate 286,000 lb. railcars, and replacing aging rail ties. The project will create a safer, more resilient, and environmentally sustainable rail network in the region as it will address safety concerns, environmental preservation, capacity limitations, climate resilience, and supply chain efficiency. Rainier Rail will contribute a 21 percent match.

    A portion of two other grants announced today will fund rail upgrades in Washington state.

    OmniTRAX received $50,570,400 to replace of railroad ties on four OmniTRAX-owned short lines across four states – including a line in Ferry County.

    “Kettle Falls Railroad is a strategic rail asset in Ferry County, supporting millions of dollars in economic activity in Washington state. This funding will install new ties along nearly 30 miles of rail enabling freight to move more reliably and efficiently in Northeast Washington,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This funding will help deliver timely infrastructure updates in Washington state—meaning safer, more efficient, and more resilient railways,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    OmniTRAX will install 24,513 ties on approximately 29.9 miles of the KFR San Poil Subdivision near Danville, Washington. The line connects Kettle Falls to Grand Forks, Canada. The project will harden rail assets and update infrastructure, which will benefit rail users served by the short lines. OmniTRAX will contribute a 20 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to Sec. Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    Watco Companies received $19,843,062 to replace diesel locomotives with battery electric, zero emission locomotives at their facilities, including the Packaging Corporation of America in Washington.

    “With this funding we are replacing old diesel locomotives with clean battery electric, zero emission locomotives—that helps us cut down on harmful emissions and unhealthy pollution from diesel,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—helping us build a stronger clean energy economy while upgrading our national infrastructure.”

    The U.S. Department of Transportation is providing $2.477 billion in CRISI grants to 122 projects across the nation this year.

    Sen. Cantwell secured $5 billion over 5 years for the CRISI program in her Surface Transportation Investment Act which was included in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, tripling annual funding for the program.

    The funding for the CRISI program comes from a mixture of annual appropriations and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—as Senate Appropriations Chair, Sen. Murray authors the annual appropriations bills and, as then Assistant Majority Leader, she played a critical role in passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Sen. Murray secured a total of $2.97 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration in the fiscal year 2024 government funding bill she negotiated and passed into law and set aside $100,000,000 specifically for the competitive CRISI grants.

    Sen. Murray also passed into law major reforms and oversight provisions to address the rail safety deficiencies identified in the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment, providing a $27.3 million increase for FRA’s safety and operations budget for rail safety inspectors in the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding bills. Murray also included language directing specific research requirements for: (1) wayside detection technology, operational alert thresholds, and rail carrier response protocols to inform and verify the technologies capabilities and establish industry-wide standards; and (2) long-train operational safety to evaluate equipment safety standards for brake systems and wheel performance to inform the development of continuous component monitoring. Sen. Murray also increased funding for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) emergency preparedness grants to $46.825 million and required the agency to conduct research to improve the survivability of placards identifying hazardous materials on trains. Sen. Murray is currently negotiating and working to pass into law Fiscal Year 2025 funding bills and the Senate funding bill Sen. Murray passed out of committee builds on these efforts to improve rail safety and strengthen rail safety funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Lands $10M for Concourse Upgrades at Rhode Island T.F. Green Airport

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    PROVIDENCE, RI – Attention passengers in the terminal, Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) is getting some new interior upgrades and gates.
    In an effort to improve operational efficiency, deliver a unified and modern design, and enhance passenger flow and comfort for the traveling public, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) has been awarded $10 million in federal funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to advance renovations and technology upgrades at T.F. Green International Airport.
    This federal grant funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) FAA’s Airport Terminals Program. Established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (Public Law 117–58), the Airport Terminals Program provides competitive grants for airport terminal development projects to address aging infrastructure at airports nationwide.
    The federal funding will help modernize PVD’s aging airport terminal infrastructure to sustain current and future air traffic and passenger demands, drive competition, and enhance environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.  Terminal improvement projects will include backup power and water upgrades to maintain public safety and minimize travel disruptions.  Additional improvements include upgrades to common interior areas, the expansion of seating capacity, traveler experience enhancements, and renovating the interior space in the concourse to introduce a “sense of place” by bringing elements of local architecture inside the terminal.
    This funding will also improve ADA accessibility across all areas of the terminal, and upgrade mechanical systems to meet energy efficiency and smart building goals. Terminal improvements will also accommodate additional increased passenger traffic, to allow for continued growth and competition.
    “Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport is an economic engine and the gateway to the Ocean State for many visitors.  Upgrading the concourse will ensure the airport continues to offer a world-class experience for all and can continue to support a high-volume of traffic,” said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee. “This is a forward-looking investment in a crucial piece of public infrastructure.  It will strengthen not just the airport, but local businesses, tourism, and our economy as well and help accommodate future growth.”
    “Thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more investments are on the way to keep improving one of the best, most user-friendly airports in the country,” said Whitehouse.  “This federal funding will make the terminal more comfortable so that residents and visitors flying out of T.F. Green can enjoy a better overall experience.”
    “T.F. Green Airport is a vital hub for travel, commerce and tourism,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “This federal funding will help modernize the airport, enhance the traveler experience and boost the local economy.”
    “T.F. Green International Airport is key part of how Rhode Islanders and our visitors experience memorable moments in our state. It’s where we welcome loved ones when they return from a trip and where we send off our community’s heroes when they travel to D.C. for their Honor Flight,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “Today’s $10 million investment in our public infrastructure will help modernize our airport experience.”
    “Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport conveys the first, best impression for business and leisure travelers visiting our state and plays a vital role in helping maintain and expand Rhode Island’s hospitality and travel economy,” said Iftikhar Ahmad, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. “Thanks to the support of Senator Reed and all in our Congressional delegation, we can continue to put our state’s best face forward, improving airport access and efficiency while also elevating the passenger experience.”
    “In the more than thirty years since the construction of the Bruce Sundlun Terminal, Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport has truly helped transform and maintain our local economy,” said Jonathan N. Savage, Rhode Island Airport Corporation Board Chair. “This federal investment will provide critical funding for our efforts to modernize our airport terminal to be ready for the next three decades. We are truly grateful for our Congressional delegation’s continued support for Rhode Island’s aviation economy.”
    PVD’s original terminal was constructed in 1993 to support 2.4 million annual enplanements.  Now the airport is on track to exceed that by 1 million passengers over the next five years.  Recently announced agreements with several airlines are slated to bring hundreds of new jobs to the airport and connect PVD to even more domestic and international destinations.
    As PVD operations continue to expand and passenger numbers increase, RIAC seeks funding to reconfigure its terminal to meet this demand.
    In addition to advocacy from the state’s federal delegation, Governor Dan McKee and the Providence and Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau also supported federal funding to renovate the 30-year-old terminal and allow Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport to serve the community’s growing needs.
    For the past several years, RIAC has been preparing for this new era of growth for PVD through the planning and design of the Terminal Reconfiguration project, which aims to ensure the over 30-year-old terminal presents the first and best impression of its state to incoming visitors.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government funds helicopter replacements

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is investing in eight new emergency helicopters to replace some of New Zealand’s ageing air ambulance fleet, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello and ACC Minister Matt Doocey announced today. 

    “Our air ambulance helicopters play a vital role in saving lives around New Zealand,” Casey Costello says. “This is particularly true for those living in remote, rural or regional areas. 

    “The replacement helicopters, which will be both new and second-hand, will be bought or leased and deployed to parts of the country where they are most needed.

    “As well as improved safety, the new helicopters will provide more reliable service, a better capacity to respond in bad weather conditions with new Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability, reduced maintenance costs, greater fuel efficiency and better operational performance.”

    An additional $14.7 million is being invested in the year to July 2025, $8.2 million by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and $6.5 million by ACC, to enable New Zealand’s air ambulance helicopter service providers to replace ageing helicopters with newer aircraft.

    “New Zealand’s air ambulance fleet needs upgrading, so it’s exciting to announce this investment in a critically needed service,” says Mr Doocey.

    “The helicopter fleet enables paramedics, doctors and nurses to provide treatment while patients are transported to an appropriate hospital or healthcare facility. This reduces the impacts of illness or injury from delayed care.”

    In the last three years, air ambulance use has increased by 21 percent, with the total fleet flying 13,026 hours in the year to October 2023, an average of more than 35 hours every day.

    New Zealand’s emergency air ambulance helicopter services are currently provided by Northern Rescue Helicopter Limited (for Auckland and Northland), Central Air Ambulance Rescue Limited (for the Central North Island) and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (for the South Island). These service providers own or lease the helicopters.

    Health NZ and ACC are working with the sector to redesign the aeromedical operating model to make the best use of air ambulance resources, including moving to longer term contract arrangements with providers.

    “The first replacement helicopter is already in operation, with the next one due to arrive in New Zealand at the end of the year. I look forward to seeing the upgraded fleet being fully deployed,” Ms Costello says.

    “This long weekend is also the time to remind people to be careful on the roads and to thank everyone working to keep New Zealanders safe including our air and road ambulance crews and emergency responders.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi returns to Beijing after attending 16th BRICS Summit

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 24 — Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Beijing on Thursday night after attending the 16th BRICS Summit.

    Xi’s entourage, including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and foreign minister, returned by the same flight.

    Before Xi left Kazan, Russian officials saw him off at the airport.

    MIL OSI China News –