NewzIntel.com

Category: Aviation

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods in Chicago

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CHICAGO — Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, today announced an expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”)—a key component of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy—to include the economic centers in downtown Chicago and the entire rail system operated by the Chicago Transit Authority, including all train lines operating in every neighborhood from every part of the city.

    The PSN program is a federally funded, nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  Until today, the PSN program was deployed in seven Chicago neighborhoods on the West and South sides of the city.  The expansion announced today will implement the program in parts of three police districts in downtown financial zones that represent the economic engines of the city and region, as well as on the CTA trains that bring residents and visitors to those areas from every neighborhood of Chicago and from the city’s two international airports.  Today’s announcement represents the first time anywhere in the country that the program will be deployed on mass transit.

    The PSN expansion was announced by U.S. Attorney Boutros and members of the PSN Chicago Task Force, including the Chicago Police Department.  Substantial assistance to the PSN program is provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

    “Downtown Chicago is the capital of the region’s economy and the cultural and civic heart of the Midwest, where interstate commerce runs strong,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros, who was sworn in as the United States Attorney on April 7, 2025.  “Many billions of dollars of revenue, taxes, and investments are anchored in our city’s financial districts, and when violence and criminal activity cause our residents, businesses, and tourists not to feel safe to live, invest, and shop in Chicago, everyone suffers, whether at the federal, state, or local level. By investing PSN resources in our urban economic centers and the public transit system that feeds into them, we will help foster a downtown that is both safe and friendly to economic vitality for everyone.  This initiative could not happen without a deep collaboration and shared commitment between the Department of Justice and our PSN partners to dedicate the resources necessary to support the downtown economic zones and the many millions of people who annually visit them, as well as the scores of businesses both large and small who serve them.”

    “Partnership and collaboration with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners are vital in reducing violence and making Chicago safer for all,” said Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling.  “Project Safe Neighborhoods reflects this spirit of collaboration and serves as an important tool in addressing crime in one of the busiest areas of our city.  The expansion of this program builds on the progress CPD is making in combating crime citywide.”

    “This new investment of federal resources is critically needed to address the threat that crime—including organized retail theft, carjacking, and armed robberies—pose to the heart of Chicago’s economy and to the transportation systems that tens of thousands of Chicagoans use to travel to and from the downtown,” said Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart.  “For years, my office has devoted significant resources to aggressively combat crime throughout downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile, and the surrounding areas, and we welcome the much-needed expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods to these areas.”

    “ATF is proud to work with our federal, state, and local partners on the expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said ATF Chicago Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Amon.  “By combining resources and expertise, we are proactively taking steps to disrupt violent crime in key transit and economic areas to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors.”

    “The FBI remains steadfast in our dogged pursuit of eliminating violent crime,” said FBI Chicago Special Agent-in-Charge Douglas S. DePodesta. “We continue to be thankful for the powerful collaboration between our many law enforcement and prosecutorial partners in this fight.  Our combined efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to ensure that anyone who seeks to endanger our community will be held accountable.”

    Originally launched in 2001, PSN is an evidence-based program that focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders, and partners with local prevention and reentry programs to pursue lasting reductions in crime.  PSN follows four key design elements: focused and strategic enforcement; prevention and intervention; accountability; and community engagement.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with its Chicago PSN Task Force partners to assist with applying for and obtaining federal PSN grants to support anti-violence strategies in Chicago.  By designating the downtown economic centers and CTA trains as PSN Enforcement Zones, PSN funds can now be deployed in various ways to help reduce violent crime in those areas, including:

    • Aggressively prosecuting violent offenders.

    • Hiring law enforcement personnel.

    • Paying certain overtime costs for law enforcement officers and others working downtown and aboard CTA trains.

    • Purchasing equipment to assist with violent crime reduction efforts.

    • Supporting multi-jurisdictional task forces.

    • Providing training and technical assistance under the national PSN program.

    • Expanding messaging to deter violence, including signage aboard CTA trains.

    The enforcement efforts in the newly designated PSN Enforcement Zones will focus on the investigation and prosecution of individuals and organized groups who engage in illegal firearm possession, drug trafficking, robberies, carjackings, and other violent offenses.  For violent offenders arrested downtown or aboard CTA trains, criminal prosecutors will bring appropriate charges to achieve maximum deterrence and will seek pretrial detention and substantial prison sentences for defendants who pose a danger to the community.

    In addition to all of the CTA rail lines in every neighborhood in Chicago, the newly designated PSN Enforcement Zone, depicted on this map (reproduced below), extends from Division Street on the Near North Side, between Lake Michigan and La Salle Drive (e.g., Magnificent Mile and Oak Street shopping corridors, Navy Pier, Loop, and Millennium Park), to I-55 between Clark Street and Lake Michigan on the Near South Side (e.g., Museum Campus and McCormick Place), and extends west to Ogden and Ashland Avenues, between Grand Avenue and I-290 (e.g., Fulton Market and West Loop business corridors).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SASC Chairman Roger Wicker Releases Defense Reconciliation Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today unveiled legislative text of the reconciliation bill’s defense portion. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees developed this legislation in close coordination with the White House and Department of Defense to modernize America’s military, secure the border, and strengthen national security.
    Chairman Wicker released the following statement after the release of the bill text:
    “This bill is a landmark down payment toward the modernization of our military and our defense capabilities. It represents a generational upgrade for our national security with historic funding for Golden Dome, American manufacturing, innovative unmanned technology, and new shipbuilding efforts,” Chairman Wicker said. “It would not have been possible without the peace-through-strength leadership of President Trump, Chairman Rogers, and Secretary Hegseth. This is about building the future of American defense, and ultimately deterring war. In combination with significant legislative reforms through the NDAA process, this bill will fundamentally change the Pentagon and help us maintain peace and prosperity for Americans.” 
    House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-AL.) released the following statement alongside Chairman Wicker:
    “The House and Senate Armed Services Committees are committed to implementing President Trump’s Peace through Strength agenda with a generational investment in our national defense. Chairman Wicker and I have worked closely together to identify how we can best modernize our military, regrow our defense industrial base, and build a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force. Now that the Senate will soon take up the One Big, Beautiful Bill, I’m eager to continue our forward momentum and get this to the President’s desk as soon as possible.”
    The full text is available here. 
    A legislative overview is available here.
    Legislation Highlights:
    $9B to improve servicemember quality of life, including housing modernization, childcare and education improvements, and health care.
    $29B for shipbuilding to expand the maritime industrial base, build 13 Battle Force ships, and rapidly grow an unmanned fleet.
    $25B for Golden Dome to maintain space superiority, develop space-based missile intercept, and accelerate existing missile defense efforts.
    $23B to re-stock crucial munitions, rebuid U.S. supply chains for critical minerals, and expand advanced manufacturing capacity.
    $16B to scale production of innovative low-cost and next-gen weapons like drones, counter-drone tech, cheap munitions, and artificial intelligence.
    $400M to accelerate the DOD audit through artificial intelligence and improve cybersecurity.
    $9B to expand the fighter fleet and accelerate next-gen air superiority programs.
    $15B to accelerate nuclear modernization programs and fix infrastructure.
    $12B to equip INDOPACOM commander with necesary capabilities and rebuild our Pacific infrastructure.
    $16B to improve readiness, including through modernization of depots, additional spare parts for aircraft, and expanded naval maintenance.
    $3.3B to expand military border support mission through Trump term.
    Background:
    In December 2024, Chairman Wicker introduced the FORGED Act, a comprehensive legislative proposal to reform Pentagon efficiency. The bill is designed to fundamentally change the way the Pentagon does business by getting better weapons to our troops faster and maximizing taxpayer dollars.
    Since taking the gavel as Chairman, Senator Wicker has laid out a significant defense investment plan aimed at rebuilding our military for generations to come. The plan encompasses several critical areas including rebuilding the arsenal of democracy, proliferating integrated air and missile defense, modernizing infrastructure, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fish & Game reforms to modernise organisation

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Reforms to modernise and strengthen Fish & Game New Zealand will improve the national management of hunting and fishing resources and advocacy, while maintaining local control over local fishing and hunting rules, Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager has announced. 

    “I want to make it as easy as possible for Kiwis to go hunting and fishing in New Zealand. This long overdue reform to Fish & Game will refocus the organisation on its core job of managing our sport fishing and game bird resources and implement a more professional approach to national decision making,” Mr Meager says.

    “It is important to our economy that Fish & Game is a well-functioning, highly effective and efficient organisation. Licence holders are estimated to spend up to $138 million every year, and our hunting and fishing resources are the envy of the world, drawing in tourists from across the globe. 

    “Previous reviews have made clear current legislation is not fit for purpose, resulting in internal dysfunction, wasted revenue on duplicated activities and staff, variable governance practices, disconnect from licence holders and local advocacy which has overstepped the mark. These long-standing issues must be addressed.”

    The reforms will make several key changes, including:

    • Clarifying the roles and responsibilities so that regional Fish & Game councils focus on delivering hunting and fishing opportunities on the ground, with the New Zealand Council responsible for administrative tasks and policies.
    • Shifting to a nationalised fee collection system to reduce double handling of licence fees and ensuring funding follows the demand on the resource.
    • Making more licence holders eligible to vote and stand in Fish & Game elections and requiring councillors to comply with professional standards.
    • Requiring Fish & Game councils to better consider the interests of other stakeholders such as farmers and the aviation sector in decision-making.
    • Requiring a national policy around advocacy and restricting court proceedings to within that policy.

    A stand-alone Fish & Game Act will be created, to better recognise the organisation’s contribution to helping New Zealanders hunt and fish.

    “Sports fishing and game bird hunting are well-established traditions and important recreational pastimes for Kiwis. They have positive impacts on our regional economies and create wider benefits for tourism, wellbeing and our environment – making it even more crucial its regulator is modern and credible”, Mr Meager says.

    Legislation will be introduced this year, and the Select Committee will provide an opportunity for stakeholders and the public to provide feedback on the proposals.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on the 83rd Anniversary of the Battle of Midway

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    class=”has-text-align-left”>Today marks the 83rd anniversary of America’s seminal victory at the Battle of Midway—a watershed moment in World War II that set the Allied Forces on the path to ultimate triumph over forces of evil.
    After the shocking attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Imperial Japan surged across the Pacific—dealing Allied forces a series of defeats from the fall of the Philippines, to the capture of Hong Kong and Singapore, to devastating air raids over Australia.  With the U.S. Navy still reeling from the surprise attack, Japan’s ruthless push for regional dominance seemed unstoppable. 
    By the summer of 1942, Japan set its sights on Midway Island—a tiny American outpost with massive strategic value, just over 1,000 miles from Hawaii.  The Japanese plan was clear: lure what remained of the battered U.S. Pacific Fleet out of Pearl Harbor, destroy it, and capture Midway, from where they would launch further offensives across the Pacific.
    President Franklin D. Roosevelt knew our Armed Forces had to act decisively.  He tasked Admiral Chester Nimitz, a submariner and newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet, with launching a full-scale effort to restore the Navy’s remaining ships to fighting condition.  With vital intelligence from American codebreakers, the Allies stayed one step ahead, anticipating the major elements of Japan’s strategy.
    At dawn on June 4, 1942, the U.S. Navy struck back.  Despite facing a larger enemy force and suffering heavy losses, the U.S. fleet under the command of Admirals Jack Fletcher and Raymond Spruance fought with unmatched resolve.  In the course of twenty-four hours, they sank four Japanese aircraft carriers, destroyed a heavy cruiser, and crushed Japanese hopes of advancing deeper into the eastern Pacific—paving the way for our Nation’s acceptance of Japan’s unconditional surrender and the end of World War II in 1945.
    Today, former enemies stand united as allies.  The United States and Japan have forged an enduring partnership built on the shared values of freedom, sovereignty, and an abiding commitment to peace across the Indo-Pacific.  Together, we are advancing the causes of safety, security, prosperity, and liberty—all while confronting threats from China and North Korea.
    The epic Battle of Midway stands to this day as a glorious reminder that, even in the face of long odds, perilous danger, and tremendous uncertainty, no challenge is too great for the strength of the American spirit.  As our Nation commemorates this legendary battle, we honor the grit of our servicemen, we pay tribute to the sacrifice of our veterans, and we vow to carry forward the legacy of the fallen heroes who secured victory over tyranny in the Pacific 80 years ago.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA, ISRO Research Aboard Fourth Private Astronaut Mission to Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) are collaborating to launch scientific investigations aboard Axiom Mission 4, the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. These studies include examining muscle regeneration, growth of sprouts and edible microalgae, survival of tiny aquatic organisms, and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity.
    The mission is targeted to launch no earlier than Tuesday, June 10, aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    During long-duration spaceflights, astronauts lose muscle mass, and their muscle cells’ regenerative ability declines. Researchers suspect this may happen because microgravity interferes with metabolism in mitochondria, tiny structures within cells that produce energy. The Myogenesis-ISRO investigation uses muscle stem cell cultures to examine the muscle repair process and test chemicals known to support mitochondrial function. Results could lead to interventions that maintain muscle health during long-duration space missions, help people on Earth with age-related muscle loss and muscle-wasting diseases, and assist athletes and people recovering from surgery.

    The Sprouts-ISRO investigation looks at the germination and growth in microgravity of seeds from greengram and fenugreek, nutritious plants commonly eaten on the Indian subcontinent. Bioactive compounds in fenugreek seeds also have therapeutic properties, and the leaves contain essential vitamins and minerals. Learning more about how space affects the genetics, nutritional content, and other characteristics over multiple generations of plants could inform the development of ways for future missions to reliably produce plants as a food source. 

    Space Microalgae-ISRO studies how microgravity affects microalgae growth and genetics. Highly digestible microalgae species packed with nutrients could be a food source on future space missions. These organisms also grow quickly, produce energy and oxygen, and consume carbon dioxide, traits that could be employed in life support and fuel systems on spacecraft and in certain scenarios on Earth.  

    Tardigrades are tiny aquatic organisms that can tolerate extreme conditions on Earth. Voyager Tardigrade-ISRO tests the survival of a strain of tardigrades in the harsh conditions of space, including cosmic radiation and ultra-low temperatures, which kill most life forms. Researchers plan to revive dormant tardigrades, count the number of eggs laid and hatched during the mission, and compare the gene expression patterns of populations in space and on the ground. Results could help identify what makes these organisms able to survive extreme conditions and support development of technology to protect astronauts on future missions and those in harsh environments on Earth. 

    Research shows that humans interact with touchscreen devices differently in space. Voyager Displays – ISRO examines how spaceflight affects interactions with electronic displays such as pointing tasks, gaze fixation, and rapid eye movements along with how these interactions affect the user’s feelings of stress or wellbeing. Results could support improved design of control devices for spacecraft and habitats on future space missions as well as for aviation and other uses on Earth.
    Download high-resolution photos and videos of the research mentioned in this article.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Unearths TSA Corruption: Sitting US Senator’s Husband Received Blanket Exemption from National Security Review After Traveling with Known or Suspected Terrorist

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Unearths TSA Corruption: Sitting US Senator’s Husband Received Blanket Exemption from National Security Review After Traveling with Known or Suspected Terrorist

    lass=”text-align-center”>New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s Husband Traveled with a Known or Suspected Terrorist Three Times in A Single Year 
    WASHINGTON —Today, the Department of Homeland Security revealed evidence detailing the politicization of TSA’s watchlisting program under the Biden administration

     Discovered documents, correspondence, and timelines clearly highlight the Biden’s inconsistent application of Silent Partners Quiet Skies and watchlisting programs, circumventing security policies to benefit politically aligned friends and family at the expense of the American people

     
    This includes William “Billy” Shaheen, spouse of fellow democrat and sitting U

    S

    New Hampshire Senator, Jeane Shaheen, while surveilling political opponents like Tulsi Gabbard months after

      
    After Senator Shaheen directly lobbied the former Administrator, Pekoske gave repeated, explicit direction to exclude Shaheen from the Silent Partner Quiet Skies list

    Pekoske granted Billy Shaheen a blanket Silent Partners Quiet Skies exemption despite Shaheen flying with a Known or Suspected Terrorist on three occasions

     
    All the while, Tulsi Gabbard, and many other Americans, were placed on the Silent Partners’ Quiet Skies list with little to no visibility, awareness, explanation, or oversight

      
    Billy Shaheen was hardly the only high-profile individual that was placed on this exclusion list

    This list also included members of foreign royal families, political elites, professional athletes, and journalists

     Shaheen’s blanket exemption has since been revoked

     
    “It is clear that this program was used as a political rolodex of the Biden Administration—weaponized against its political foes and to benefit their well-heeled friends,” said Secretary Kristi Noem

    “This program should have been about the equal application of security, instead it was corrupted to be about political targeting

    Trump Administration will restore the integrity, privacy, and equal application of the law for all Americans, including aviation screening

    ” 
    For far too long, this program has yielded little to no measurable security impact and lay at the expense of the American traveler

     
    A timeline of events:
    • 07/20/2023: William “Billy” Shaheen was a TSA Random Selectee on his flights from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS, Flight #1) to Washington-Reagan International Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to BOS (Flight #2)

    Billy Shaheen was flagged for the first time as Co-Traveler with a Known or Suspected Terrorist (KST)

    • Shortly after Billy Shaheen’s travel, Senator Shaheen’s office made an inquiry to TSA about the Senator’s husband receiving enhanced screening on these two flights

    • 10/18/2023: Shaheen was flagged a second time as a Co-Traveler of a KST

    • It was after this flight that Senator Shaheen made a second inquiry to TSA, via a meeting with then Administrator Pekoske, about her husband being on a watchlist

    TSA did not disclose any information on watchlisting

    • 10/20/2023: Shaheen was then approved by then Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis Nykamp (she departed TSA in March 2025), acting on then TSA Administrator Pekoske’s Authority, to be added to the Secure Flight Exclusion List

    • This means that Shaheen was excluded from any future TSA Random Selectee designation, and Rules-based Selectee designation, such as Quiet Skies, Association Based Rule Selectee designation, or Silent Partner Selectee designation

    • 10/24/2023: TSA Legislative Affairs communicates with then Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis Nykamp, and refers to the action taken by Nykamp and/or Pekoske to add Shaheen to the Secure Flight Exclusion List

    • Follow on communication provide instructions to TSA Security Operations to ensure the exclusion is accurately captured in the passenger’s boarding pass status

    • Billy Shaheen stayed on the Secure Flight Exclusion List for 18 months until current TSA leadership removed him

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Aircraft noise around Schiphol – P-002158/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002158/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dirk Gotink (PPE)

    With a view to reducing aircraft noise around Schiphol, the Netherlands has followed the ‘balanced approach’ procedure. In view of this:

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that setting spatial, environmental and noise limits on the operation of national airports is a responsibility of the Member States, one which requires them to carefully balance economic and environmental interests?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that the sole purpose of the mandatory European ‘balanced approach’ procedure when it comes to noise-related operating restrictions is to ensure that national assessments are carried out with the requisite due diligence, in particular to properly substantiate the inevitability or added value of a proposed operating restriction in the light of a noise-related target determined at national level?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider that the Dutch Government has carefully followed the ‘balanced approach’ procedure with regard to Schiphol Airport, and does it also take the view that the Dutch Government has therefore adopted a balanced package of measures to reduce noise levels for people and homes by 20 %?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Torres Highlights Federal Aviation Administration Safety and Staffing Crisis During FY26 Budget Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    June 04, 2025

     Videos of hearing can be found here.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35), whose district includes Ontario International Airport (ONT), pressed Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau during the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) FY26 budget oversight hearing. Torres raised urgent concerns about ongoing aviation safety lapses, chronic staffing shortages, and recent personnel cuts led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under Elon Musk, that threaten the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system — and put local travelers and workers at risk.

    “Ontario International is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country and a vital economic hub for the Inland Empire and beyond,” said Congresswoman Torres. “Our airspace depends on vigilance, coordination, and a skilled workforce. But with air traffic controllers overworked, oversight slipping, and DOGE gutting critical FAA personnel, we’re gambling with lives. We can’t wait for another tragedy to act. The FAA must confront these vulnerabilities now—or risk unraveling the safest aviation system in the world.”

    Torres cited a troubling rise in near-miss incidents and recent ground collisions, underscoring the urgent need for effective safety oversight and fully staffed operations at airports like ONT. She questioned whether the FAA is doing enough to monitor controller fatigue and stabilize the workforce amid mass retirements and a historically thin staffing pipeline—extending beyond controllers to include engineers, maintenance crews, and other essential personnel responsible for operating and maintaining critical safety infrastructure.

    During questioning, Torres demanded clear answers on whether FAA controllers at major airports are working excessive hours, if fatigue risk assessments have been conducted, and whether workforce cuts driven by DOGE would compromise safety.

    She also pressed the FAA to provide a comprehensive workforce recovery plan prioritizing recruitment, retention, training, and wellness support for frontline personnel — critical to handling ONT’s expanding air traffic and maintaining public confidence in air travel.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: G7 Foreign Ministers Declaration on Maritime Security and Prosperity

    Source: United States Department of State (3)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    G7 Foreign Ministers Declaration on Maritime Security and Prosperity

    Media Note

    March 14, 2025

    The text of the following statement was released by the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union.

    Begin Text:

    1. We, the Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, reaffirm the G7’s steadfast commitment to contribute towards a free, open, and secure maritime domain based on the rule of law that strengthens international security, fosters economic prosperity, and ensures the sustainable use of marine resources.
    2. Maritime security and prosperity are fundamental to global stability, economic resilience, and the well-being of all nations, and the conservation and sustainable use of ocean ecosystems is essential to all life on Earth. Over 80% of global trade is transported by sea, and 97% of global data flows through submarine cables. Disruptions to maritime routes pose a direct threat to international food security, critical minerals, energy security, global supply chains, and economic stability. We express deep concern over the growing risks to maritime security, including strategic contestation, threats to freedom of navigation and overflight, and illicit shipping activities. State behaviour in these areas has increased the risk of conflict and environmental damage, and imperils all nations’ prosperity and living standards, especially for the world’s poorest.
    3. We recognize the role of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the legal framework for governing all activities in the oceans and the seas.
    4. We recall the G7 Statements on Maritime Security adopted in Lübeck (2015) and Hiroshima (2016). We welcome related work presently underway through other G7 ministerial tracks and working groups, on a range of issues including securing undersea cable networks and combating abandoned fishing gear. We welcome, as well, G7 work relating to transnational organized crime and terrorism that touches on the maritime domain, including in relation to piracy and armed robbery at sea, trafficking in persons, and strengthening the maritime law enforcement capabilities of coastal states. We acknowledge the importance of regional maritime security frameworks, to support coastal states to address collectively threats to their maritime security. We welcome existing initiatives, such as the G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea (G7++ FoGG, that Canada chairs this year), which has been, the primary forum for dialogue among G7 members and partners on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Emerging Threat on Safe Seas and Freedom of Navigation and Overflight

    1. Enhancing Stability: We underscore the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight and other internationally lawful uses of the high seas and the exclusive economic zones as well as to the related rights and freedoms in other maritime zones, including the rights of innocent passage, transit passage and archipelagic sea lanes passage, as provided for under international law. We share a growing concern at recent, unjustifiable efforts to restrict such freedom and to expand jurisdiction through use of force and other forms of coercion, including across the Taiwan Strait, and in the South China Sea, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea. We condemn China’s illicit, provocative, coercive and dangerous actions that seek unilaterally to alter the status quo in such a way as to risk undermining the stability of regions, including through land reclamations, and building of outposts, as well as their use for military purpose. In areas pending final delimitation, we underline the importance of coastal states refraining from unilateral actions that cause permanent physical change to the marine environment insofar as such actions jeopardize or hamper the reaching of the final agreement, as well as the importance of making every effort to enter into provisional arrangements of a practical nature, in those areas. We condemn, as well, dangerous vessel maneuvers, the indiscriminate attacks against commercial vessels and other maritime actions that undermine maritime order based on the rule of law and international law. We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties. We reaffirm that our basic policies on Taiwan remain unchanged and emphasize the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as indispensable to international security and prosperity. We welcome the resumption of exports from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. Freedom of navigation for commercial shipping in the Black Sea must be upheld.
    2. Attempts to Change the Status Quo by Force: We oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo, in particular by force or coercion including in the East and South China Seas. We undertake to implement means through which to track systematically and report on attempts to change the status quo by force and by the establishment of new geographical facts, including through coercive and dangerous actions on the oceans and seas that might threaten regional and international peace and security.
    3. Protecting Critical Maritime and Undersea Infrastructure: We are seized of the fact that vital energy and telecommunications infrastructure under the oceans and seas connects our economies and is vital to our prosperity. We recall the G7 Joint Statement on Cable Connectivity for Secure and Resilient Digital Communications Networks (2024) and the New York Joint Statement on the Security and Resilience of Undersea Cables in a Globally Digitalized World (2024). We share a growing concern that undersea communications cables, subsea interconnectors and other critical undersea infrastructure have been subject to critical damage through sabotage, poor seamanship or irresponsible behaviour which have resulted in potential internet or energy disruption in affected regions, delays in global data transmission, or compromised sensitive communications. We will enhance our cooperation with industry mitigate risks, reduce bottlenecks to operational tasks while strengthening repair capacities in order to improve the overall resilience of critical undersea and maritime infrastructure. In this respect, we welcome the EU Action Plan on Cable Security adopted in February 2025 by the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
    4. Maritime Crime: Maritime crime, including piracy, armed robbery at sea, maritime arms trafficking and sanctions evasion, human trafficking, illegal drug trafficking and Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated (IUU) Fishing, continues to impede maritime security, freedom of navigation, and our economy and prosperity. We have been working together to tackle these maritime crimes, but maritime illegal activities have extended into new areas, to become an urgent issue to be addressed. We welcome the G7 Action Plan to combat migrant smuggling adopted under Italy’s 2024 G7 Presidency.
    5. Protecting Freedom of Trade: In the past year, indiscriminate Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have endangered maritime security of vessels and their crews, disturbed international trade, and exposed neighboring countries to environmental hazards. Enabled by Iran’s military, financial, and intelligence support, these illegal attacks have also contributed to increased tension in the Middle East and Yemen, with severe repercussions on the intra-Yemeni peace process. The vessel “Galaxy Leader” seized by the Houthis must be released immediately. We appreciate the efforts of all those countries that have engaged to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, protecting crucial shipping lanes and helping to restore regular flows of trade through the Suez Canal connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In this regard, we commend the efforts of EU’s maritime operation “Aspides” and U.S.-led operation “Prosperity Guardian”.

    Safe Shipping and Supply Chain Security

    1. Curtailing Unsafe and Illicit Shipping Practices: The rise of unsafe and illicit shipping practices, including fraudulent registration and registries, poses a significant threat to global trade and environmental sustainability. We are concerned that unsafe and illicit shipping imposes heavy costs on industry, governments and citizens. Russia’s ability to earn revenue has been sustained through its extensive effort to circumvent the G7+ oil price cap policy through its shadow fleet of often older, underinsured, and poorly maintained ships that routinely disable their automatic identification systems or engage in “spoofing” to avoid detection and circumvent international safety, environmental, and liability rules and standards. North Korea continues to pursue its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and evade sanctions, particularly through its illicit maritime activities, including prohibited ship to-ship transfers of petroleum and other UN-banned commodities. Through G7 coordination, we have exposed North Korea uses of “dark” vessels – those that engage in illicit activity – to circumvent United Nations Security Council mandated sanctions. Russia and North Korea are strengthening their economic relations including through maritime routes, such as the reported transfer of petroleum products from Russia to North Korea Unregulated, “dark” vessels undertake IUU fishing, destroying marine habitats and depleting fish stocks, with negative impacts for biodiversity and food security. Unregulated, inadequately insured “dark” vessels also pose a high risk of maritime accidents, including in fragile ecosystems such as the Arctic and Antarctic. We commit to strengthen our coordination, amongst the G7 and with other partners, to prevent the use of unregistered or fraudulently registered, uninsured and substandard vessels engaged in sanctions evasion, arms transfers, illegal fishing and illicit trade. We encourage relevant International Organizations to improve maritime domain awareness by expanding satellite-based vessel tracking and establishing comprehensive data records of the movement of individual ships and of ship-to-ship transfers, as a means of identifying and tracking illicit maritime activities. We are also committed to capacity building of the countries in the region in law enforcement and Maritime Domain Awareness.
    2. Shadow Fleet Task Force: We invite members of the Nordic-Baltic 8 (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden), and possibly others, to join participating G7 members in a Shadow Fleet Task Force to enhance monitoring and detection and to otherwise constrain the use of shadow fleets engaged in illegal, unsafe or environmentally perilous activities, building on the work of others active in this area. The Task Force will constitute a response by the participating States to the call by the International Maritime Organization in its Resolution A.1192(33) of 6 December 2023 for Members States and all relevant stakeholders to promote actions to prevent illegal operations in the maritime sector by shadow fleets and their flag states, including illegal operations for the purposes of circumventing sanctions, evading compliance with safety or environmental regulations, avoiding insurance costs, or engaging in other illegal activities.
    3. Enhancing Maritime Supply Chain Resilience and Energy and Food Security: Maritime supply chains will continue to underpin the global economy, but these face a variety of threats, both present and future, stemming from both geopolitical tensions and environmental factors. Maritime disruptions raise consumer costs, increase transit times, and can reduce demand in importing countries, which in turn means lower revenues and diminished competitiveness for producers in exporting countries. Such vulnerabilities in maritime transport can undermine energy and food security, particularly for developing nations reliant on stable shipping routes, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). We welcome maritime initiatives involving and supported by G7 partners intended to promote energy and food security, such as the Grain from Ukraine scheme, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We invite cooperation with the African Union (pursuant to Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050) and other relevant International Organizations to identify best practices for enhancing maritime supply chain resilience and for safeguarding energy and food security, including in times of geopolitical crisis.
    4. Promoting Safe and Resilient Ports and Strategic Waterways: Port ownership and operational control matter to national security, as foreign control or influence over critical port infrastructure can create vulnerabilities in trade, in defense and security, and in economic stability. Port resilience is also crucial to economic stability and global trade and yet ports face growing risks from environmental degradation, extreme weather events and geopolitical conflicts. Strengthening port security and modernizing infrastructure are essential to maintaining safe and efficient maritime trade. Ensuring that the ownership and management of strategic waterways and key maritime choke points are not vulnerable to undue influence by potential adversaries is also essential to national security. We underscore the importance of scrutiny of ownership structures and port management and resilience within our own national jurisdictions, including with regard to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) systems, to ensure that adversaries do not gain leverage over supply chains, military operations, or the flow of strategic resources. We will work with partners and with relevant International Organizations to encourage robust cybersecurity standards for port ICT infrastructure, to increase resilience against malicious cyber incidents on maritime logistical networks, to reduce monopolistic power over key supply chain nodes, to promote secure and transparent port ownership, to limit unsolicited or undue foreign influence over critical infrastructures and strategic waterways, and to otherwise encourage greater focus on such potential vulnerabilities.
    5. Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) at sea poses a significant hazard to the marine environment, to the safety of fishermen and other users of the maritime space, and to various marine economic activities. We commit to enhancing diplomatic efforts and to exchanging best practices among national authorities, relevant international and regional organizations, and relevant industry sectors to accelerate the clean-up of UXO from the seas and ocean.

    Sustainable Stewardship of Maritime Resources

    1. Strengthen Enforcement Against IUU Fishing: IUU fishing is a major contributor to declining fish stocks and to marine habitat destruction. It may account for a third of all fishing activity worldwide, at a cost to the global economy of more than US$23 billion per year and with negative consequences for fisheries as an enduring economic asset, including for developing countries. We welcome the Canadian-led Dark Vessel Detection System in Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, the Philippines, and members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and would see value in replicating the model to support other partners whose fisheries are under threat from IUU fishing. We recognize that data sharing and transparency play a key role in this fight by exposing bad actors and that technological advances can support a robust Monitoring, Control and Surveillance and enforcement landscape. We encourage further progress in addressing IUU fishing, working with and through relevant International Organizations to establish and strengthen rules to sustainably manage fish stocks on the high seas and to improve the enforcement of these measures, including through the further development of detection technologies, aircraft patrols and high seas boarding and inspection of vessels, building upon the 2022 G7 Ocean Deal.
    2. We welcome the Third UN Ocean Conference, in Nice, France, from 9 to 13 June 2025.

    PARTNERSHIPS

    1. This G7 Maritime Security and Prosperity Declaration provides a framework for cooperation with non-G7 Partners, including countries hosting major ports, large merchant fleets, or extensive flag registries as well as relevant regional and International Organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization and ASEAN. We would welcome robust cooperation with Partners to take forward the goals set out in this Declaration, consistent with the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, under the efforts of the G7 countries, including a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific region, to build a free and open maritime order based on the rule of law, and of commitment to the sustainable development of the world’s maritime spaces.
    2. We welcome the cooperation on Coast Guard Functions, including the Global Coast Guard Forum hosted by Italy in 2025, as well as the Arctic Coast Guard Forum, which could also support the objectives of this Declaration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia has been working on creating drones that ‘call home’, go undercover and start fires. Here’s how they work

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Marcel Plichta, PhD Candidate in the School of International Relations, University of St Andrews

    Russia launched its largest single drone attack of the war against Ukraine’s cities on June 1. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that they faced 472 unmanned one-way attack (OWA) drones overnight.

    The record may not stand for long. The prior record was on May 26, when Moscow launched some 355 drones. The day before Russia had set a record with 298 Shaheds, which itself surpassed the May 18 tally.

    Russia’s enormous OWA drone attacks came as a surprise to politicians and the general public, but it’s the culmination of years of work by the Russia military. Initially purchased from Iran, Russia began building factories in 2023 to assemble and then manufacture Shaheds (Iranian-designed unmanned drones) in Russia. Greater control over production gave Russia the opportunity to expand the number of Shaheds quickly.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    It also helps them gradually upgrade their drones. Investigations into downed Shaheds show that Russia has been coating the drones in carbon, which resists detection by radar by absorbing incoming waves instead of reflecting them back. They have also been adding SIM cards to transmit data back to Russia through mobile networks.

    Shaheds also had their warheads upgraded. On May 20 the Ukrainian media reported that Shaheds were using newer incendiary and fragmentation warheads which start fires and spread large volumes of shrapnel respectively to increase their effectiveness.

    Russia hit Kyiv with its biggest ever drone strike a few days ago.

    These upgrades were simple in order to keep the cost of the drone, its major advantage over a missile, under control. These drones are both inexpensive and long-range.

    This means that an attacker such as Russia can launch hundreds every month at targets across Ukraine with little concern about how many are lost along the way. Meanwhile, the defender is stuck figuring out how to shoot all incoming drones down at a reasonable cost indefinitely.

    The problem is made even more complicated by the fact that air defence systems are sorely needed at the front line to shoot down hostile aircraft, making it a difficult trade-off.

    Adding to the problem is the recent production of decoy Shaheds. While they carry no warhead and pose little threat by themselves, Ukrainian air defence cannot always tell the decoy from the real thing and still need to shoot them down. In late May, Ukrainian officials told the media that up to 40% of incoming Shaheds were decoys.

    Consequently, Russia’s 472-drone attack reflects all of Russia’s innovations so far. These have improved the number of drones that survive, increased lethality, while using decoys alongside armed drones to ensure as many as possible reach their target.

    What are the challenges for Ukraine?

    Ukraine shoots most incoming Shaheds down. Even the 472-drone attack still had 382 claimed interceptions, a rate of 81%. However, the relatively high interception rate disguises the Shahed’s benefits for Russia.

    Shaheds are cheap by military standards, so launching constant attacks is a disproportionate burden for Ukrainian air defence units. Kyiv has mobilised an enormous amount of resources to protect its cities, from mobile units in trucks to counter-Shahed drones that function like a cheaper anti-aircraft missile.

    That said, these systems often have short ranges, which means that the savings per interception are somewhat offset by the need to maintain many hundreds of systems across a country as large as Ukraine. Ukraine also has the option of trying to strike Russia’s Shahed factories, which they have attempted a few times.

    Despite Ukraine’s evolving air defence, Russia still sees military benefits to constant Shahed attacks. In a study I contributed to last year, we found that Russia’s initial OWA drone strategy in 2022 and 2023 did little to force Ukraine to negotiate an end to the war on terms favourable to Russia.

    That may still be the case now, but the volume of drones and the high tempo of attacks means that Russian strategy could well be aimed at systematically exhausting Ukrainian air defence.

    As Ukraine grapples with unpredictable US military support, Kyiv is more vulnerable to running out of ammunition for its more advanced air defence systems. This means that constant Shahed attacks make it more difficult for Ukraine to stop incoming missiles, which carry much larger warheads.

    Ukraine’s drone strike this week.

    Of course, Ukraine has its own versions of the Shahed, which it uses to routinely launch strikes against Russian military and oil facilities. Less is known about Ukraine’s OWA drones, but they often use many similar features to Shaheds such as satellite navigation.



    Read more:
    Ukraine ‘spiderweb’ drone strike fails to register at peace talks as both sides dig in for the long haul

    For Russia’s Vladimir Putin, using Shaheds is not all about military benefit. Politically, he has increasingly used Shahed attacks to project a sense of power to his domestic audiences. On May 9, Russia paraded Shaheds through Moscow’s streets as part of its annual Victory Day celebrations, which had not been done in years past.

    Ukraine has begun employing its own OWA drones as part of the “Spiderweb” operation to attack military and oil infrastructure across Russia.

    Russia’s 472-drone attack is unlikely to remain its largest attack for long. Putin has shown a determination to expand the scale and tempo of its drone campaign and resist Ukaine’s calls for a permanent “ceasefire in the sky”, but this week Ukraine’s drone strategy has shown that prolonging the drone war can also have serious and unexpected effects for Moscow.

    So long as the conflict continues, Ukraine’s defenders will find themselves facing more, and better, drones aimed at their cities. But increasingly it looks like Russia must worry about Ukraine’s drone capabilities too.

    Marcel Plichta works for Grey Dynamics Ltd. as an intelligence instructor.

    – ref. Russia has been working on creating drones that ‘call home’, go undercover and start fires. Here’s how they work – https://theconversation.com/russia-has-been-working-on-creating-drones-that-call-home-go-undercover-and-start-fires-heres-how-they-work-257699

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens call for an end to complicity at Red Line for Gaza protest 

    Source: Scottish Greens

    04 Jun 2025 External Affairs

    The Labour government is on the wrong side of history and it has Palestinian blood on its hands

    More in External Affairs

    Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman joined protesters outside the UK Government offices in Edinburgh as part of the Red Line for Gaza demonstration, calling for an immediate end to arms sales to Israel and demanding accountability for the UK’s role in the ongoing violence against Palestinians.

    The protest coincides with Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza, with catastrophic impacts on civilians.

    The UK Government is currently facing a judicial review in the High Court challenging their continued supply of F-35 parts in arms exports used by Israel. Despite mounting evidence the Government lawyer’s have argued no violation of the duty to prevent genocide “can occur unless and until there is actually a genocide”.

    European countries such as Spain, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium and Italy have suspended arms sales to Israel, however, the UK Government continues to fight the case as aircraft continue to bomb Gaza.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “Gaza has been turned into rubble – hospitals, schools, homes – all destroyed. Over 90% of housing has been wiped out. Families are being displaced and forced into camps with no food, water or shelter. This is not just a humanitarian crisis – it’s a moral catastrophe and the UK Government is helping it happen. The UK Government is complicit.

    “It’s shameful that the UK refuses to act. Instead of standing up for peace, the Prime Minister came to Scotland to announce more money for war. Keir Starmer’s expects yet more UK tax money to feed the war machine and his government’s denial of genocide shows he’s more interested in retaining power than defending human rights. This Labour government is on the wrong side of history and it has Palestinian blood on its hands.

    “The UK Government is currently defending its position in a high court case, claiming there’s “no evidence” of genocide or intentional targeting of civilians in Gaza. It doesn’t require much thought to reject that argument outright: this genocide is being live-streamed for all to see. We’ve all seen the videos. We’ve seen the bodies. The world knows what’s happening in Gaza – the destruction, the killing of women and children. For the UK Government to say there’s no evidence is not only dishonest – it’s dangerous.

    “The Scottish Greens know that genuine security doesn’t come at the end of a gun or aftermath of a bomb. It comes from investing in healthcare, affordable housing and a green economy built on sustainability and compassion.

    “We have consistently called for an immediate end to arms sales to Israel, full transparency over any UK or indeed Scottish Government funding linked to Israeli military production, an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, recognition of the State of Palestine, and Israel’s suspension from international bodies, including the United Nations, until compliance with international law is restored.

    “Together, outside the UK Government offices, we gathered in protest but we also gathered in hope. Hope for the Palestinian people and hope for humanity.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour: The changing landscape and talent development initiatives for Malaysia’s financial sector

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    It is a privilege to stand before you at this conferment ceremony, where we celebrate the achievements of more than 600 individuals who demonstrated dedication and outstanding achievement in banking. We are also honouring the conferment of Honorary Fellowship to Governor Eli, and paying tribute to the lifetime achievement of Tan Sri Azman Hashim, Fellow Chartered Banker (FCB), both outstanding individuals who have made immense contributions and shown commitment to excellence, which we can all strive to emulate.

    About a month ago, we welcomed our regional partners for the ASEAN meetings. We had the opportunity to engage deeply on the region’s most pressing challenges, namely the uncertainty from the US tariff announcements, the acceleration of digital transformation and the urgency of promoting sustainability practices.

    These challenges underscore the critical need for the financial sector to adapt and evolve in response to an ever-changing landscape. To navigate these complexities, continuous investments in talent are not merely an option but a necessity. By equipping our workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge, we empower them to transform challenges into opportunities and drive our economy forward. The knowledge, devotion and tenacity that have brought all conferees together today are the essential foundations that will propel Malaysia to greater heights.

    Global trade uncertainty, digitalisation and sustainability will shape the financial sector landscape in Malaysia

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Our banking sector has been no stranger to formidable challenges. Yet, in recent years, we have been faced with transformative forces that could redefine the landscape of banking. Allow me to expand on three pivotal areas which I mentioned earlier: economic uncertainty, digital transformation and sustainability, and their implications on the banking sector workforce.

    As I speak, global trade uncertainty continues to persist, arising from a growing push for greater protectionism and a shift away from globalised supply chains. As a small open economy, the escalation in trade tensions and global policy uncertainties will affect Malaysia. However, we are facing this from a position of strength. Our economy will continue to grow, anchored by continued household spending and steady expansion in investment activities. Externally, resilient underlying demand for E&E goods and a sustained momentum of tourism activity can cushion the impact of tariffs on our exports. Malaysia’s diversified product and export markets further underscore our resilience against external shocks.

    These shifts in economic outlook remind us that the global landscape is ever-changing, underscoring the need for resilience and adaptability in the face of these headwinds.

    On this, the banking sector plays a critical role in allocating capital efficiently to support economic growth and transformation. We have demonstrated robust expertise in traditional areas such as retail segments (mortgages and personal finance), as well as other mature corporate industries. However, as the financial landscape evolves, new opportunities are emerging that remain underexplored, offering potential for growth and innovation. Financing of trading activities such as shipping, aviation or aerospace, investments in data centres, and other high-growth industries, represent untapped avenues that could contribute meaningfully to our economic development. By broadening their focus and addressing these gaps, the banking sector can better position businesses to compete effectively on a global stage.

    In the wake of global trade uncertainties, the banking sector’s role in supporting domestic businesses becomes more pronounced. Banks must collaborate with industry players to identify new opportunities, leveraging on both financial expertise and industry insights. A workforce adept at risk management, market analysis and client advisory enables banks to offer innovative financial solutions to help businesses stay ahead.

    The next transformative force is the increasing pace of technological breakthroughs, a trend underpinned by the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI), data and automation. The Malaysian banking sector has increasingly leveraged AI and automation for risk management, fraud detection and complex analysis to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen security. The use of AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants has also allowed customers to benefit from enhanced and personalised customer experiences, often without the need to visit a bank branch.

    While technology has clear benefits for the financial sector, it needs to be adopted responsibly, balancing efficiency with risk management. Senior leaders in the banking sector have themselves expressed increasing concerns about new vulnerabilities introduced from AI adoption, such as cybersecurity, legal uncertainty related to operations, difficulties in controlling outcome accuracy and prejudice from model bias.1 The banking sector’s shift to leverage technology, in particular AI, to remain competitive must be underpinned by strong governance frameworks, stringent data privacy protections and the highest ethical standards across the workforce. To ensure responsible adoption of AI, banks need to develop an understanding of both the opportunities and risks associated with AI, and invest in training programmes to enhance AI awareness, create an organisation-wide culture of responsible AI adoption and help employees recognise potential risks.

    Let’s now turn to the third critical area: sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance considerations. This year’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme on sustainability underscores the region’s commitment to equitable growth and environmental stewardship.

    At our meeting in Milan earlier this month, the ASEAN+3 finance ministers and central bank governors reaffirmed our commitment to collaborate on transition finance, disaster risk financing, and climate resilience. The meeting also recognised the need to channel greater capital flows into green and sustainable projects, including large-scale regional initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) being pursued as part of our chairing of ASEAN this year. A report by AMRO highlighted that Southeast Asia will require over USD200 billion annually in climate-related investments to achieve its net-zero targets.

    As we delve into this important area, it is evident that these are not just environmental imperatives, but instead, a strategic priority area across the region. Therefore, the banking sector must integrate ESG factors into their core operations and decision-making. Banks play a pivotal role in channelling financial solutions and capital towards projects that are not only economically viable, but also environmentally and socially responsible. For example, the increasing importance of blended finance as a key lever in scaling up climate-aligned and impact-driven investment will require bankers to build skills that go beyond standard credit risk assessment. This shift requires a banking sector workforce which is well-equipped with the right knowledge and expertise to be able to not only reduce credit risk for lenders, but also contribute meaningfully to advancing sustainability priorities and meeting ambitious climate goals. 

    Significant efforts have been undertaken by talent affiliates, while more can be done by the industry to collectively upskill the workforce

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Malaysia has invested significantly in developing talent in our financial sector. Over the years, we have developed a comprehensive ecosystem of talent affiliates providing training, certification and future-looking guidance on the skills needed by the financial sector. On this, I would like to take a moment to applaud the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB), Islamic Banking and Finance Institute Malaysia (IBFIM) and Asian Institute of Insurance (AII) for their commitment in driving the development and encouraging the implementation of the Financial Sector Future Skills Framework (FSF) since its launch in July 2024. I also wish to highlight the important role played by financial institutions to further complement these efforts through their respective learning and development academies.

    While the financial services industry benefits from a good talent development ecosystem, more collective actions are needed to future-proof the workforce. In an era of rapid transformation, the question remains: Is the industry investing enough in talent to meet evolving business needs and remain competitive?

    With the FSF as a common dictionary on skills critical for the future, I call on the banking sector to accelerate efforts to foster knowledge acquisition in areas that are relevant to address both current industry challenges and needs, as well as emerging trends to prepare professionals for future opportunities. This includes building a deep understanding of the unique financial requirements of sectors that will catapult the growth of the Malaysian economy, and in tandem, enhancing technical skills in credit risk assessment for these sectors to ensure financing decisions are made sustainably. Additionally, training should also focus towards building capacity to address regional financing demands, particularly in infrastructure financing and blended financing, to support the long-term economic growth of the region. By equipping banking professionals with advanced capabilities and specialised expertise, the financial sector can proactively respond to emerging opportunities, ensuring its readiness to meet evolving economic challenges and contribute to Malaysia’s regional competitiveness.

    Equally important is the need to continuously nurture ethical and principled bankers who uphold the highest standards of integrity. In a rapidly changing financial landscape, the foundation of trust and accountability is indispensable for ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability and resilience. AICB, alongside industry leaders, must emphasise the development of bankers who embody professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to responsible practices.

    In closing, I would like to once again congratulate all conferees today. Your individual commitment to self development and dedication towards embodying the values of integrity, professionalism and expertise will collectively elevate the banking sector. Your achievement today is setting a benchmark for the industry and will hopefully inspire many others to follow in your footsteps.

    To Governor Eli, today’s honorary conferment recognises your exemplary leadership, transformative contribution and excellence within our profession. Through his previous role in the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), Governor Eli advanced research and discussions on regional and international finance, and has been recognised as one of the top-performing central bank governors globally in his current role. As a former professor and director at the Asia School of Business (ASB), Governor Eli has also significantly contributed towards strengthening central banking education through the development of the Master’s in Central Banking course.

    To Tan Sri Azman Hashim, the Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting honour to an industry heavyweight whose visionary contributions have profoundly shaped and advanced the Malaysian banking sector.

    Malaysia’s financial system is renowned for its resilience, innovation and sound governance. But the true strength behind this success is our people. I end with a simple quote from Jack Welch, the CEO of General Electric for more than twenty years, ‘The most important job you have is growing your people’.

    Thank you, and I wish all of you a fruitful journey ahead.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Unearths TSA Corruption: Sitting US Senator’s Husband Received Blanket Exemption from National Security Review After Traveling with Known or Suspected Terrorist

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s Husband Traveled with a Known or Suspected Terrorist Three Times in A Single Year 

    WASHINGTON —Today, the Department of Homeland Security revealed evidence detailing the politicization of TSA’s watchlisting program under the Biden administration. Discovered documents, correspondence, and timelines clearly highlight the Biden’s inconsistent application of Silent Partners Quiet Skies and watchlisting programs, circumventing security policies to benefit politically aligned friends and family at the expense of the American people. 

    This includes William “Billy” Shaheen, spouse of fellow democrat and sitting U.S. New Hampshire Senator, Jeane Shaheen, while surveilling political opponents like Tulsi Gabbard months after.  

    After Senator Shaheen directly lobbied the former Administrator, Pekoske gave repeated, explicit direction to exclude Shaheen from the Silent Partner Quiet Skies list. Pekoske granted Billy Shaheen a blanket Silent Partners Quiet Skies exemption despite Shaheen flying with a Known or Suspected Terrorist on three occasions. 

    All the while, Tulsi Gabbard, and many other Americans, were placed on the Silent Partners’ Quiet Skies list with little to no visibility, awareness, explanation, or oversight.  

    Billy Shaheen was hardly the only high-profile individual that was placed on this exclusion list. This list also included members of foreign royal families, political elites, professional athletes, and journalists. Shaheen’s blanket exemption has since been revoked. 

    “It is clear that this program was used as a political rolodex of the Biden Administration—weaponized against its political foes and to benefit their well-heeled friends,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “This program should have been about the equal application of security, instead it was corrupted to be about political targeting. Trump Administration will restore the integrity, privacy, and equal application of the law for all Americans, including aviation screening.” 

    For far too long, this program has yielded little to no measurable security impact and lay at the expense of the American traveler. 

    A timeline of events:

    • 07/20/2023: William “Billy” Shaheen was a TSA Random Selectee on his flights from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS, Flight #1) to Washington-Reagan International Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to BOS (Flight #2). Billy Shaheen was flagged for the first time as Co-Traveler with a Known or Suspected Terrorist (KST).

    • Shortly after Billy Shaheen’s travel, Senator Shaheen’s office made an inquiry to TSA about the Senator’s husband receiving enhanced screening on these two flights.

    • 10/18/2023: Shaheen was flagged a second time as a Co-Traveler of a KST.

    • It was after this flight that Senator Shaheen made a second inquiry to TSA, via a meeting with then Administrator Pekoske, about her husband being on a watchlist. TSA did not disclose any information on watchlisting.

    • 10/20/2023: Shaheen was then approved by then Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis Nykamp (she departed TSA in March 2025), acting on then TSA Administrator Pekoske’s Authority, to be added to the Secure Flight Exclusion List.

    • This means that Shaheen was excluded from any future TSA Random Selectee designation, and Rules-based Selectee designation, such as Quiet Skies, Association Based Rule Selectee designation, or Silent Partner Selectee designation.

    • 10/24/2023: TSA Legislative Affairs communicates with then Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis Nykamp, and refers to the action taken by Nykamp and/or Pekoske to add Shaheen to the Secure Flight Exclusion List.

    • Follow on communication provide instructions to TSA Security Operations to ensure the exclusion is accurately captured in the passenger’s boarding pass status.

    • Billy Shaheen stayed on the Secure Flight Exclusion List for 18 months until current TSA leadership removed him.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales Unveils State-of-the-Art Inflight Entertainment & Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales Unveils State-of-the-Art Inflight Entertainment & Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru

    • The new lab, dedicated to development of Inflight Entertainment (IFE) solutions and advanced tools for support and services to airlines, reinforces India’s strategic position as an innovation hub for Thales.
    • Our engineers at Thales in India will design, develop, and test innovative solutions to support the needs of Indian airlines and global customers.
    • Aligned with Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, the facility will significantly contribute to localisation of R&D activities along with job creation in India.

    Thales today unveiled a state-of-the-art Inflight Entertainment (IFE) and Services lab at its Engineering Competence Centre (ECC) in Bengaluru. Aligned with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, this lab will serve as a hub for the design, development, and testing of next-generation IFE systems. The lab is equipped with advanced tools to support and serve airlines in India and around the world.

    The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Honourable Minister of Industries, Government of Karnataka, Shri MB Patil, Consul General of France in Bengaluru Mr Marc Lamy, executives from Air India, Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry, along with Olivier Flous, Senior Vice President, Engineering and Digital Transformation, and Francois Colonna, Director Engineering Competence Centre, Bengaluru from Thales, among other dignitaries.

    Thales’s Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru is a key force driving the development of advanced aerospace and defence solutions. With the addition of the new IFE and Services lab, Thales is further expanding its R&D capabilities in India supporting the country’s journey to become a global innovation hub for civil aviation. This state-of-the-art facility replicates an aircraft equipped with an IFE system, allowing for comprehensive testing and an immersive customer experience review. The lab is a hub for software design, development, and rigorous testing crucial for secured aircraft data deployment, alongside meticulous hardware inspection and testing.

    Commenting on the inauguration, Hon’ble Minister Shri MB Patil said, “Today’s inauguration of Thales’s Inflight Entertainment and Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre reinforces Bengaluru’s position as a global innovation hub. It’s a testament to Karnataka’s robust aerospace and defence ecosystem. Thales’s footprint in India, particularly here in Bengaluru, is already substantial and has been contributing significantly towards the growth of aerospace, defence and cybersecurity & digital identity for years. Their Engineering Competence Centre has become an integral part of the local industry. Many congratulations to the Thales team for this significant milestone that will strengthen the aviation sector not just within Karnataka, but across the nation.”

    Mr Marc Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru, said, “Thales is a name synonymous with French excellence, a global leader at the forefront of advanced technologies. The inauguration of this IFE (Inflight Entertainment) and services lab is a moment of immense pride, reflecting the vibrant spirit of innovation and partnership that defines both our nations, France and India. This perfectly embodies the spirit of the upcoming year 2026 designated by President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the ‘Indo-French Year of Innovation’.”

    Olivier Flous, Senior Vice President, Engineering & Digital Transformation, Thales, said, “The inauguration of our new lab dedicated to Inflight Entertainment solutions and support and services for airlines marks a significant step towards enhancing both the passenger experience and operational efficiency of carriers. This new facility at our Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru underscores our commitment to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, developing future-ready aviation technologies in India, for India, and for the world. We look forward to continue leveraging our global technological expertise and India’s vast talent pool to foster a robust local civil aviation ecosystem.”

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Gurugram, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cyber & Digital business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs. Thales significantly contributes to the growth of India’s aviation sector. Thales provides avionics and IFE systems for many Indian civil aircraft. It also provides solutions to enhance airport security and is working on an advanced UTM system for drone operations. The Group has also established an MRO facility in Gurugram to provide comprehensive avionics maintenance and repair services to Indian airlines.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University

    The iconoclastic American general Douglas Macarthur once said that “wars are never won in the past”.

    That sentiment certainly seemed to ring true following Ukraine’s recent audacious attack on Russia’s strategic bomber fleet, using small, cheap drones housed in wooden pods and transported near Russian airfields in trucks.

    The synchronised operation targeted Russian Air Force planes as far away as Irkutsk – more than 5,000 kilometres from Ukraine. Early reports suggest around a third of Russia’s long-range bombers were either destroyed or badly damaged. Russian military bloggers have put the estimated losses lower, but agree the attack was catastrophic for the Russian Air Force, which has struggled to adapt to Ukrainian tactics.

    This particular attack was reportedly 18 months in the making. To keep it secret was an extraordinary feat. Notably, Kyiv did not inform the United States that the attack was in the offing. The Ukrainians judged – perhaps understandably – that sharing intelligence on their plans could have alerted the Kremlin in relatively short order.

    Ukraine’s success once again demonstrates that its armed forces and intelligence services are the modern masters of battlefield innovation and operational security.

    Finding new solutions

    Western military planners have been carefully studying Ukraine’s successes ever since its forces managed to blunt Russia’s initial onslaught deep into its territory in early 2022, and then launched a stunning counteroffensive that drove the Russian invaders back towards their original starting positions.

    There have been other lessons, too, about how the apparently weak can stand up to the strong. These include:

    • attacks on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s vanity project, the Kerch Bridge, linking the Russian mainland to occupied Crimea (the last assault occurred just days ago)

    • the relentless targeting of Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure with drones

    • attacks against targets in Moscow to remind the Russian populace about the war, and

    • its incursion into the Kursk region, which saw Ukrainian forces capture around 1,000 square kilometres of Russian territory.

    On each occasion, Western defence analysts have questioned the wisdom of Kyiv’s moves.

    Why invade Russia using your best troops when Moscow’s forces continue laying waste to cities in Ukraine?

    Why hit Russia’s energy infrastructure if it doesn’t markedly impede the battlefield mobility of Russian forces?

    And why attack symbolic targets like bridges when it could provoke Putin into dangerous “escalation”?

    The answer to this is the key to effective innovation during wartime. Ukraine’s defence and security planners have interpreted their missions – and their best possible outcomes – far more accurately than conventional wisdom would have thought.

    Above all, they have focused on winning the war they are in, rather than those of the past. This means:

    • using technological advancements to force the Russians to change their tactics

    • shaping the information environment to promote their narratives and keep vital Western aid flowing, and

    • deploying surprise attacks not just as ways to boost public morale, but also to impose disproportionate costs on the Russian state.

    The impact of Ukraine’s drone attack

    In doing so, Ukraine has had an eye for strategic effects. As the smaller nation reliant on international support, this has been the only logical choice.

    Putin has been prepared to commit a virtually inexhaustible supply of expendable cannon fodder to continue his country’s war ad infinitum. Russia has typically won its wars this way – by attrition – albeit at a tremendous human and material cost.

    That said, Ukraine’s most recent surprise attack does not change the overall contours of the war. The only person with the ability to end it is Putin himself.

    That’s why Ukraine is putting as much pressure as possible on his regime, as well as domestic and international perceptions of it. It is key to Ukraine’s theory of victory.

    This is also why the latest drone attack is so significant. Russia needs its long-range bomber fleet, not just to fire conventional cruise missiles at Ukrainian civilian and infrastructure targets, but as aerial delivery systems for its strategic nuclear arsenal.

    The destruction of even a small portion of Russia’s deterrence capability has the potential to affect its nuclear strategy. It has increasingly relied on this strategy to threaten the West.

    A second impact of the attack is psychological. The drone attacks are more likely to enrage Putin than bring him to the bargaining table. However, they reinforce to the Russian military that there are few places – even on its own soil – that its air force can act with operational impunity.

    The surprise attacks also provide a shot in the arm domestically, reminding Ukrainians they remain very much in the fight.

    Finally, the drone attacks send a signal to Western leaders. US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, for instance, have gone to great lengths to tell the world that Ukraine is weak and has “no cards”. This action shows Kyiv does indeed have some powerful cards to play.

    That may, of course, backfire: after all, Trump is acutely sensitive to being made to look a fool. He may look unkindly at resuming military aid to Ukraine after being shown up for saying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be forced to capitulate without US support.

    But Trump’s own hubris has already done that for him. His regular claims that a peace deal is just weeks away have gone beyond wishful thinking and are now monotonous.

    Unsurprisingly, Trump’s reluctance to put anything approaching serious pressure on Putin has merely incentivised the Russian leader to string the process along.

    Indeed, Putin’s insistence on a maximalist victory, requiring Ukrainian demobilisation and disarmament without any security guarantees for Kyiv, is not diplomacy at all. It is merely the reiteration of the same unworkable demands he has made since even before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

    However, Ukraine’s ability to smuggle drones undetected onto an opponent’s territory, and then unleash them all together, will pose headaches for Ukraine’s friends, as well as its enemies.

    That’s because it makes domestic intelligence and policing part of any effective defence posture. It is a contingency democracies will have to plan for, just as much as authoritarian regimes, who are also learning from Ukraine’s lessons.

    In other words, while the attack has shown up Russia’s domestic security services for failing to uncover the plan, Western security elites, as well as authoritarian ones, will now be wondering whether their own security apparatuses would be up to the job.

    The drone strikes will also likely lead to questions about how useful it is to invest in high-end and extraordinarily expensive weapons systems when they can be vulnerable. The Security Service of Ukraine estimates the damage cost Russia US$7 billion (A$10.9 billion). Ukraine’s drones, by comparison, cost a couple of thousand dollars each.

    At the very least, coming up with a suitable response to those challenges will require significant thought and effort. But as Ukraine has repeatedly shown us, you can’t win wars in the past.

    Matthew Sussex has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Atlantic Council, the Fulbright Foundation, the Carnegie Foundation, the Lowy Institute and various Australian government departments and agencies.

    – ref. The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past – https://theconversation.com/the-secret-to-ukraines-battlefield-successes-against-russia-it-knows-wars-are-never-won-in-the-past-258172

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF hands over activities in Marib and Taiz city to local authorities

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Sana’a/Amsterdam- After years of providing critical medical care in conflict-affected Marib and Taiz city, Yemen, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has completed the handover of medical activities to the local authorities.

    Since 2019, MSF has worked in Marib with local and health authorities to provide free and high-quality healthcare, and to deliver essential care to displaced and migrant communities in the hygiene fund clinic and supported the Governorate Health Office at Al-Ramsa clinic. Throughout 2024, MSF provided 32,000 outpatient and 2,640 antenatal consultations, admitted 420 children to the outpatient therapeutic feeding centre, and provided 6,000 vaccines. 

    Taiz city went through a dire health crisis, with conflict and economic collapse leaving people with limited access to care. Since 2021, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has supported the mother and child healthcare ward at Al-Jomhouri hospital, and helped respond to widespread healthcare needs. During 2024, MSF provided 22,580 antenatal and 5,835 postnatal consultations, admitted 4,214 patients to the maternity ward, 1,558 babies to the neonatal department, and assisted 8,879 deliveries.  

    In both projects, MSF also responded to cholera and measles outbreaks, as well as delivered essential items to the people who had been displaced by floods.

    “I deeply respect and admire the resilience of the Yemeni people during these tough and challenging times. Supporting people in need, especially women and children, was a profound responsibility. We are grateful to have served these communities and remain committed to supporting the access to healthcare across our remaining projects in the country,” says Tila Muhammad, MSF head of mission based in Sana’a.

    MSF remains actively present in ten governorates across Yemen, continuing to provide trauma care, maternal and paediatric services, and emergency medical support in regions facing acute humanitarian and health crises.

    “In a time when humanitarian access is more precarious than ever, MSF urges all stakeholders to protect medical infrastructure and ensure safe, unhindered access to healthcare for those in need.” says Muhammad.  

    Years of conflict have decimated public infrastructure, with millions of people lacking access to clean water, food, and medical care. The recent destruction of Sana’a airport and the Hodeidah port, which are critical entry points for humanitarian supplies and staff traveling in and out of Yemen, will be devastating to Yemeni people, who are already suffering from a massive humanitarian crisis.

    MSF has been working in Yemen since 1986 and has maintained a continuous presence in the country since 2007. Our work is guided solely by medical needs and carried out independently of political, economic, or religious agendas. This independence is made possible by our funding— of which 98 per cent comes from private donors, allowing us to assess needs freely, access communities, and directly deliver the aid we provide.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • Tharoor-led delegation reaches Washington to push India’s anti-terror message

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation, led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday for the final leg of its diplomatic outreach tour aimed at building global consensus against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

    The delegation was received at the airport by Indian Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra.

    Over the next two days, the delegation will engage with U.S. lawmakers, officials from the Trump administration, policy think tanks, media representatives, and key decision-makers to present India’s position on terrorism and highlight the objectives of Operation Sindoor.

    In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in the U.S. said: “An all party delegation led by Shashi Tharoor arrives in Washington D.C. Over the next two days the delegation will be meeting members of the US Congress and administration, think tanks, media and policymakers to brief them on Operation Sindoor and India’s strong stand against terrorism.”

    The U.S. visit follows successful outreach in Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil, and marks the final stop in the delegation’s global campaign.

    Apart from Tharoor, the delegation includes Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Shambhavi Choudhary, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha MP Sarfaraz Ahmad, Telugu Desam Party MP G.M. Harish Balayogi, BJP MPs Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, and Tejasvi Surya, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora, and Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

    Earlier in Brazil, Tharoor emphasized the significance of the U.S. leg of the tour as a platform to counter misinformation and competing narratives.

    “Washington is a particularly interesting case because it is a large country, a superpower with enormous influence in the world, and there are many crosscurrents of information, misinformation, and other narratives circulating,” Tharoor told IANS.

    He underlined the need for international solidarity against terrorism. “We’re looking for solidarity in our struggle against terrorism. What is very clear in these countries is that some of these issues they understand, some they don’t fully understand. And the natural instinct in many countries is to say — why not have a dialogue? But it’s very difficult to have a dialogue with people who are pointing a gun at your head, who are sending terrorists across your border. That becomes a problem,” he said

    Reflecting on the tour so far, Tharoor said: “For us, in these countries, understanding our position and leaving with a sense of solidarity was important – and that we have done.”

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yemen’s Houthis Claim Responsibility for ‘Missile’ Attack on Israeli Airport

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SANAA, June 4 (Xinhua) — Yemen’s Houthi movement said on Tuesday it launched a “hypersonic ballistic missile” at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, adding that the attack disrupted airport operations and sent “millions of Israelis” into shelters.

    “The operation has achieved its objective,” Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saria said in a statement carried by al-Masirah television, vowing to continue the attacks unless what he called “Israeli aggression” ceased and the blockade of Gaza was lifted.

    The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have launched a series of strikes on Israel since November 2023 in solidarity with the Palestinians amid the war in Gaza.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said air raid sirens sounded in parts of central and northern Israel after a rocket was launched from Yemen, but it said the rocket was successfully intercepted.

    Israel’s Magen David Adom National Medical Service said there were no reports of casualties.

    Flights at Ben Gurion International Airport have been suspended, airport authorities said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • IPL 2025: RCB to celebrate maiden title with CM meet, open-top bus parade and festivities at Chinnaswamy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are all set for a grand celebration after clinching their first-ever IPL title following a thrilling six-run victory over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

    The team is scheduled to arrive at Bengaluru’s HAL airport at 1:30 pm, followed by a meeting with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha between 4 and 5 pm. Shortly after, at around 5 pm, RCB’s victory parade will commence, proceeding from Vidhana Soudha to M. Chinnaswamy stadium on an open-top bus, allowing fans across the city to join in the celebrations.

    The celebrations will continue at Chinnaswamy stadium from 6 pm onwards, where fans and players will come together to mark the historic triumph.

    Before this landmark win, RCB had faced heartbreak in all three of their previous IPL finals. However, at the Narendra Modi Stadium on June 3, Virat Kohli top-scored with a crucial 43 runs off 35 balls, helping RCB post a competitive total of 190/9.

    In response, Krunal Pandya led a disciplined bowling effort with figures of 2/17 from four overs, restricting Punjab Kings to 184/7 and sealing the victory.

    With this triumph, Kohli, donning the iconic No. 18 jersey, and RCB finally lifted the elusive IPL trophy in their 18th season. The victory sparked celebrations among over 91,000 fans at the stadium and millions more in Bengaluru and worldwide.

    (With agency input)

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 3rd, 2025 Heinrich, Vasquez Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act Heads to White House

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), announced that their Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025, legislation to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfire, passed the U.S. House of Representatives. This is the first bill passed by Vasquez in the House this Congress. Heinrich announced passage of the bill in the U.S. Senate in April. The legislation now heads to the White House to be signed into law.

    This news comes on the heels of Heinrich’s announcement today that he successfully secured the continued operation of the Interagency Dispatch Centers in Albuquerque and Silver City, which help get resources – like airtankers from Kirtland Air Force Base — to where they’re needed to help protect New Mexicans during wildfires, floods, and other emergencies. 

    The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.).

    Alongside Heinrich and Vasquez, the legislation is led by U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) and U.S. Representatives Jake Ellzey (R-Texas) and Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.). Alongside Luján and Stansbury, the legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Risch (R-Idaho), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.).

    “I’m pleased that my Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act passed both chambers of Congress and is headed to the White House to be signed into law,” said Heinrich. “I urge the president to immediately sign the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act, which is urgently needed to expand the operations of Very Large Air Tankers that have proven absolutely essential to firefighters battling large wildfires in New Mexico and across the West. I will never stop fighting to deliver the resources that our communities need to effectively respond to wildfires.”

    “In the West — and especially in New Mexico — wildfire season never really ends. Getting this bill through the House is a big step toward making sure our communities have the tools they need to stay safe,” said Vasquez. “This legislation strengthens our aerial firefighting fleet and supports critical partners like Albuquerque’s 10 Tanker. I look forward to President Trump signing my bipartisan bill into law.”

    “Wildfires have ravaged New Mexico and Western states in recent years, making the need to boost wildfire suppression more urgent than ever,” said Luján. “The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act will strengthen our aerial wildfire suppression fleet, help our firefighters respond faster, and better protect our communities. I’m proud to see this bipartisan legislation head to the president’s desk and soon become law.”

    “Deeply proud to help get this bipartisan, bicameral bill to help address wildfires across the finish line in Congress,” said Stansbury. “New Mexico is on the frontlines and we are working every day to ensure our firefighters and first responders have the resources they need.”

    “This year is the most dangerous and expensive wildfire year in history, and the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act will give wildland firefighters the tools they need to protect communities and save lives. Eliminating bureaucratic obstacles to fight wildfires more quickly and aggressively is America First common sense, and I appreciate my colleagues in the House and Senate for their support. I look forward to seeing this bipartisan bill cross the finish line so we can better support the brave first responders on the front lines fighting wildfires across the country,” said Sheehy.

    “In Arizona and across the West, wildfires are more frequent, more intense, and no longer confined to a single season. Our response capabilities need to reflect that new reality,” said Kelly. “Strengthening our aerial firefighting fleet by making more aircraft and parts available is a smart, proven way to help firefighters respond faster and keep communities safe. I’m excited to see this bipartisan effort to support our firefighters heading to the President’s desk to be signed into law.”

    “As catastrophic wildfires devastate communities across the country, we need to be smarter and more resourceful in our approach to wildfire suppression,” said Padilla. “Californians saw firsthand the power of our aerial wildfire suppression fleet in putting out the Los Angeles fires as quickly as possible. Shoring up aerial firefighting fleets by allowing the Defense Department to sell excess aircraft parts is a lifesaving, commonsense priority — and I urge President Trump to swiftly sign this bipartisan bill into law.”

    The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act amends the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale of excess aircraft and parts by the Department of Defense for wildfire suppression. The bill will help the U.S. better suppress wildfires year-round by facilitating the acquisition of military excess aircraft, sold at fair market value, for the aerial wildfire suppression fleet. Additionally, the sale of parts will help the U.S. maintain its existing aerial firefighting aircraft fleet.

    The bill reauthorizes the Secretary of Defense’s authority to sell excess Department of Defense aircraft and aircraft parts, which are acceptable for commercial sale, to persons or entities that contract with the government for the delivery of fire retardant or water by air to suppress wildfires, as long as the aircraft and parts are used only for wildfire suppression. The initial authority expired in 2005 and was reauthorized from 2012 to 2017 before lapsing again.

    “10 Tanker Air Carrier supports and thanks the bipartisan efforts of Sen. Heinrich and Sen. Sheehy to help the many operators involved with aerial firefighting to purchase at fair market value excess, retired military spare parts, particularly desperately needed engines and brakes. This commonsense approach will ensure that our aging fleet will remain available to the United States to battle the devastating wildland fires of today and well into the future. We are pleased that the Department of Defense and the Air Force also support the national security mission of companies like ours,” said Joel Kerley, President and CEO of 10 Tanker Air Carrier.

    “Firehawk Helicopters is encouraged by the passing of the Aerial Firefighting and Enhancement Act and would like to thank Rep. Newhouse, Rep. Carbajal, Sen. Tim Sheehy and Sen. Martin Heinrich for leading the efforts in seeing this bill passed. Since 20017 the aerial firefighting community has lost access to a critical aircraft and parts supply source. Taxpayers have lost hundreds of millions of dollars as valuable aircraft and aircraft parts were no longer made available for commercial sale. The law will save these critical aircraft and parts from being scrapped. By making these aircraft and parts available for commercial sale again, the taxpayers will reap the maximum return on their original investment, but more importantly, see these aircraft and parts utilized in a second life that prioritizes the protection of the public from the growing threat of devastating wildfires,” said Bart Brainerd, CEO Firehawk Helicopters.

    Read more on the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Drones empower China’s medical emergency systems

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

    Shen Jun (C), vice president of Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, receives emergency blood supply delivered by a drone during a simulated test flight at the hospital’s Binhai branch in Tianjin, north China, May 21, 2025. (Xinhua)

    China is rapidly integrating drone technology into its medical emergency systems, with breakthroughs in multiple cities demonstrating enhanced efficiency in critical care logistics.

    North China’s Tianjin Municipality launched its first medical drone route in late May, marked by a successful simulated emergency blood supply test flight. The flight connected a blood station at the Binhai New Area and the Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital’s Binhai branch.

    “The drone route creates an emergency blood lifeline for patients in critical conditions,” said Shen Jun, vice president of the hospital.

    Carrying a 5kg payload, the drone is equipped with a temperature-controlled medical box that allows for temperature, location and flight status monitoring in real-time. Its efficient point-to-point delivery avoids delays caused by road traffic, saving precious time for emergency treatment.

    Amid the rapid growth of China’s low-altitude economy, low-altitude medical services, as a niche sector, are expanding their applications, driving an unprecedented transformation in healthcare.

    In November 2024, the National Healthcare Security Administration added “air medical transport” to the national medical service price catalog, mandating standardized pricing in the country’s provincial areas by the end of May this year. Commercial health insurance providers are also encouraged to explore coverage for these services. The guideline has accelerated the adoption of low-altitude aircraft in medical applications.

    Bolstered by technology and policy support, Chinese provinces like Zhejiang, Guangdong and Fujian are actively exploring the application of drones in their medical systems, transporting test samples, blood, emergency supplies and medicine, which are crucial for saving critical treatment times.

    In the city of Zigong, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, drones have become a routine part of medical services.

    According to the municipal health commission, the city has opened 25 low-altitude routes linking 28 sites for medical transport. As of May 27, drones had completed 5,270 flights for medical use.

    The drones are automated, cloud-controlled models built for urban operations. Cruising at 72km per hour with an 18-km range, they operate 70 percent to 80 percent faster than ground transport.

    “Usually, it takes at least 30 to 40 minutes from the hospital branch of Bancang to the headquarters by ground transportation. Drones cut this to 11 minutes,” said Huang Yuting, transport manager at Zigong First People’s Hospital, referring to a case in which a drone delivered a drug for emergency use last August.

    Hao Jihui, president of Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital, said the low-altitude transport system breaks geographical barriers, enhances emergency response, and significantly improves medical resource efficiency by cutting costs and transportation times.

    “We’ll expand drone applications to enhance cross-regional medical resource allocation and meet multi-level health service demands,” Hao added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Meets with FAA Administrator Nominee Bryan Bedford

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    June 03, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator and Ranking Member of the Senate’s Aviation Safety Subcommittee Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with Federal Aviation Administrator nominee Bryan Bedford to discuss how he plans to address the aviation safety crisis if confirmed. During their meeting, Duckworth reiterated her strong opposition toward any further reduction in force at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and toward any effort to weaken the 1,500-hour rule and jeopardize the safety of the flying public in the wake of the deadly DCA midair collision and the spike in close calls across the country, among other things.

    “In the wake of the deadly DCA crash, surge in near misses and air traffic controller shortage, our nation needs a strong leader at FAA who will reject complacency and work vigorously to address this dire aviation safety crisis and protect the flying public,” said Duckworth. “I made clear to Mr. Bedford how critical it is for the next FAA Administrator to safeguard the 1,500-hour rule, as well as how mass staff reductions at FAA would be detrimental to the agency’s ability to improve aviation safety and risk mitigation. I also stressed the urgent need for FAA to take not only immediate, but also long-term action to modernize our air traffic control systems—something I’ve been sounding the alarm on for years—and discussed with Mr. Bedford the importance of FAA continuing enhanced oversight over Boeing. I look forward to hearing more from Mr. Bedford at his confirmation hearing.”

    For years—long before the deadly DCA crash—Duckworth has been sounding the alarm that we must make critical aviation safety investments immediately to prevent all-too-often near-misses from becoming catastrophic tragedies. Last Congress, Duckworth chaired two CST Aviation Subcommittee hearings—one last December and the other a year prior—to address our aviation industry’s chilling surge in near-deadly close calls and underscore the urgent need to improve air traffic control systems to protect the flying public.

    As our nation continues to experience an air traffic controller shortage amid multiple near-misses, midair collisions and communication outages, Duckworth has underscored how critical it is that the FAA does not sacrifice effectiveness in favor of efficiency by lowering its longstanding high standards that new controllers must meet. Two weeks after the horrific DCA aircraft collision that killed 67 passengers and crew, the Trump Administration began firing hundreds of FAA employees. In April, Duckworth sent a letter to FAA Acting Administrator Rocheleau on the reasoning behind these cuts to the workforce.

    Last year, Duckworth helped author the landmark bipartisan FAA reauthorization that was signed into law to extend the FAA’s funding and authorities through Fiscal Year 2028. The reauthorization included several of her provisions to safeguard the 1,500-hour rule, improve consumer safety, expand the aviation workforce and enhance protections for travelers with disabilities.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government to protect and enhance Milford Sound Piopiotahi

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will invest $15.2 million into upgrading infrastructure and enhancing conservation at Milford Sound Piopiotahi to sustainably grow tourism while also protecting the jewel in our conservation crown.

    The first tranche of decisions from the Milford Opportunities Project, announced today, also provide certainty to operators by confirming that cruise ships will continue to access the fjord, and Milford Aerodrome will be retained.

    “This iconic UNESCO World Heritage site in Fiordland attracts more than a million visitors a year and pumps about $200 million into the regional economy, creating jobs and boosting incomes,” Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

    “For Ngāi Tahu, Piopiotahi holds special significance as the final masterpiece of atua and land-shaper Tū Te Rakiwhānoa.

    “Visitors accessing the fjord via Milford Road will soon enjoy new and enhanced short stops, including an alpine nature walk in Gertrude Valley. Little Tahiti landfill will also be cleaned up and flood protection at Cleddau River will be improved.

    “There will be improved amenities, including much-needed new facilities at Deepwater Basin where we are replacing the recreational boat ramp.”

    Funding for the improvements will come from the International Visitor Levy ($8.2 million) and the Department of Conservation’s capital works programme ($7m).

    Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said Milford Sound Piopiotahi had a key role to play in helping the country’s tourism sector bounce back from the Covid hangover.

    “We are supporting the local economy and providing certainty for operators by enabling cruise ships and aircraft to continue to access the fjord, rejecting a previous proposal to ban this.

    “We know Milford Sound Piopiotahi, Mitre Peak Rahotū, the bush, the sea and the wildlife play an integral part in capturing the hearts and minds of millions of tourists dreaming of a visit to this wilderness area.”

    Mr Potaka said the next tranche of work would involve the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai engaging with Ngāi Tahu, and stakeholders such as local government and the tourism industry on further initiatives.

    “These include collaborating on investment opportunities along Milford corridor, developing a multi-year investment plan for the area, and considering improved planning tools, such as a Special Amenities Area within Fiordland National Park.”

    Note for editor

    The Milford Opportunities Project feasibility business case, supporting reports and Cabinet paper are available on the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/milford-opportunities

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary of Defense Visits Sembawang Naval Installation, May 30, 2025 [Image 3 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

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    SINGAPORE (May 30, 2025) Yeoman 2nd Class Ayana Blake, center, assigned to Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, shakes hands with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth after physical fitness training aboard the foc’sle of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), May 30, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

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  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian airfields could derail Russia’s war efforts

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By James Horncastle, Assistant Professor and Edward and Emily McWhinney Professor in International Relations, Simon Fraser University

    The drone attacks by Ukrainian Operation Spider’s Web forces on Russian airfields have called into question Russia’s supposed military strength.

    Russian authorities have acknowledged damage from the June 1 attacks — an unusual admission that suggests the strikes were probably effective, given Russia’s usual pattern of downplaying or denying the success of Ukrainian operations.

    The operation’s most significant target was the Belaya air base, north of Mongolia. Belaya, like the other bases targeted, is a critical component in the Russian Air Force’s strategic strike capabilities because it houses planes capable of long-range nuclear and conventional strikes.

    It’s also in Irkutsk, approximately 4,500 kilometres from the front lines in Ukraine.



    Read more:
    Ukraine drone strikes on Russian airbase reveal any country is vulnerable to the same kind of attack

    Ukraine’s ability to successfully strike Belaya — an attempted strike at the even more distant Ukrainka air base failed — probably won’t have much of a military impact on the war. But along with successful attacks on other Russian airfields and the strike at the Kerch Bridge in Crimea, Operation Spider Web’s successes could play a strategic role in the conflict.

    These attacks could shift what has become increasingly negative media coverage and public perception about Ukraine’s chances in the war over the last year. In a war of attrition, which the conflict in Ukraine has become, establishing a belief in victory is a pre-condition for success.

    Explosions hit the Kerch Bridge in Russia on June 3, 2025. (The Independent)

    Increased pessimism

    Policymakers and pundits, instead of recognizing their expectations of a Ukrainian victory in 2023 were unrealistic, have often declared that the war is unwinnable for Ukraine.

    This perspective was even more prevalent following United States President Donald Trump’s resumption of power in January 2025. In the Oval Office spat Trump had with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in late February, he declared Ukraine did not “have the cards” to defeat Russia.

    This turned out to be false. Ukraine’s army may possess significantly less military hardware and fewer soldiers than Russia’s, but war is often a continuation of politics. Politically, Russia faces several issues that could derail its war efforts.

    Russian vulnerabilities

    Russia’s military capabilities are important to Russian nationalists, who make up Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s core constituency. Russian military forces have advanced along nearly all fronts in Ukraine over the last year.

    These advances, however, have largely been insignificant. Furthermore, they have emphasized Russia’s military weakness, which is an ongoing affront to Russian nationalists.

    Not only have Russian military advances over the last year not changed the war in a strictly military sense, but the pace of advance has been incredibly slow. Over the last year, Russian forces have captured 5,107 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory. This territory represents less than one per cent of Ukraine’s pre-war territory.

    In exchange for what amounts to negligible gains, Russian armed forces have suffered significant casualties.

    Both Russia and Ukraine carefully guard the number of casualties their forces have suffered in the war. The British Ministry of Defence, however, estimates that Russia will have suffered more than a million casualties in the war by the end of this month. The Russian casualty rate is also accelerating, with an estimated 160,000 casualties in the first four months of 2025.

    Russia attempts to compensate for this battlefield devastation in two ways.

    First, it’s isolated Ukraine by manipulating Trump’s desire for political wins and business deals. Russia, in appearing to seek an end to the conflict while offering no concessions, has stoked tensions between Zelenskyy and Trump, where there was little love lost between the two to begin with.

    Second, Russia has increased its attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. Large-scale bombing does little to help Russia on the battlefield. The attacks, in fact, put its forces at a disadvantage by redirecting munitions from military targets.

    Attacks on civilians

    The attacks on civilian infrastructure, however, are more about instilling fear in the Ukrainian population and demonstrating American impotence to a Russian audience.

    Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cities also highlight Russia’s trump card: nuclear weapons. Russia, and specifically former Russian president Dimitry Medvedev, has repeatedly threatened nuclear war in an attempt to dissuade Ukraine’s supporters.

    By bombing Ukrainian cities, albeit with conventional munitions, Russia seeks to demonstrate its ability to deploy even more destructive weapons should the situation call for it.

    These Russian military missteps, combined with a Russian economy that is structurally unsound, means that Russia’s war effort is increasingly fragile.

    Weakening Asian alliances

    Ukraine’s attack on Belaya also signals Russian weakness to its nominal allies in Asia.

    Since the start of hostilities, Russia has relied on the tacit consent of China. This support has taken the form of China purchasing Russian crude oil to maintain the Russian economy and Chinese citizens unofficially fighting for Russia.

    Belaya has been a vital element of Russia’s deterrence strategy in Asia, which has come to rely more heavily on the Russian strategic nuclear threat. The inability of Russia to protect one of its key strategic assets from a Ukrainian drone attack, combined with the weakness of Russian conventional forces in Ukraine, erodes its ability to position itself as a key ally to China.

    In fact, some Russian authorities continue to view China as a major threat.

    At the same time, Operation Spider’s Web gives hope to the Ukrainian people. It may also cause Trump — who prefers to back winners — to ponder whether it’s Putin, not Zelenskyy, who lacks the cards to win the war.

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

    – ref. Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian airfields could derail Russia’s war efforts – https://theconversation.com/ukraines-drone-attacks-on-russian-airfields-could-derail-russias-war-efforts-258049

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Applauds Senate Passage of the ACES Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the Senate unanimously passed Congressman August Pfluger’s (TX-11) bipartisan, bicameral Aviator Cancer Examination Study (ACES) Act, seeking to lower military aviation cancer rates after it passed through the U.S. House of Representatives last month.

    “I am thrilled that the Senate acted with urgency and passed the ACES Act today, which is my top priority in Congress. The ACES Act is in honor of my dear friend and former fighter pilot, Colonel Shurtleff, who recently lost his life in a second battle he never anticipated having to fight. Furthermore, the ACES Act is more than just a bill—it’s a lifeline for those who have already given so much for our freedom, and it’s a message to every pilot who has ever put on the uniform to protect our skies that we will fight to protect them in return. I look forward to moving this through the House once more and joining my colleagues at the White House to witness President Trump sign this vital bill into law,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Background:

    Pilots and aircrews have been found to have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and melanoma, with possible links to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and testicular cancer.

    Earlier this year, Congressman Pfluger, a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, introduced the ACES Act alongside Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), a U.S. Navy Veteran, in the House. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK), both veterans and members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The ACES Act was introduced in the 117th and 118th Congresses. 

    The ACES Act directs the Secretary of the VA to study cancer incidences and mortality rates among aviators and aircrews who served in the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This legislation is critical as it would improve our understanding of the link between military service and cancer risks among Veteran aviators. By better understanding the correlation between aviator service and cancer, we can better assist our military and provide more adequate care for our veterans.

    In March, Rep. Pfluger participated in the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs legislative hearing on several bills, including Rep. Pfluger’s ACES Act. Additionally, Rep. Pfluger’s good friend and fellow fighter pilot, Colonel Andy “Pablo” Shurtleff, appeared as a witness to the committee to share his story and explain the need and urgency for the ACES Act. Colonel Shurtleff was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer as a result of his service, and recently lost his life in this second battle he never anticipated having to fight. This bill is dedicated to his life and service.

    Last month, the ACES Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 376-5. Colonel Shurtleff was able to witness this legislation pass through the House before his passing, and Rep. Pfluger intends to get this legislation across the finish line and signed into law in his honor. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal-Backed Bipartisan Bill to Expand Aerial Firefighting Fleet Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) released the statement below following House passage of the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act. Earlier this year, Carbajal joined Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Jake Ellzey (R-TX-06), and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) in introducing this legislation to improve our nation’s aerial firefighting capabilities through expanded use of excess military aircrafts and parts. The legislation will now go to the President’s desk to be signed into law. 

    “As wildfires continue to threaten communities across the Western U.S., we must expand the resources available to fire departments,” said Rep. Carbajal. “This bipartisan legislation will boost our firefighting aircraft fleet and ensure first responders have the air support they need to combat severe fires.”

    “This legislation is a huge step in mitigating the impacts of wildfires and gives our firefighters the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Utilizing the Department of Defense’s excess aircraft gives aerial firefighters an upper hand while leveraging the assets we already have at our disposal. I thank Senator Sheehy from Montana for his leadership as we send this legislation to the president’s desk.”

    “This year is the most dangerous and expensive wildfire year in history, and the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act will give wildland firefighters the tools they need to protect communities and save lives. Eliminating bureaucratic obstacles to fight wildfires more quickly and aggressively is America First common sense, and I appreciate my colleagues in the House and Senate for their support. I look forward to seeing this bipartisan bill cross the finish line so we can better support the brave first responders on the front lines fighting wildfires across the country,” said Sen. Sheehy (R-MT).

    “10 Tanker Air Carrier supports and thanks the bipartisan efforts of Congress to help the many operators involved with aerial firefighting to purchase at fair market value excess, retired military spare parts, particularly desperately needed engines and brakes. This commonsense approach will ensure that our aging fleet will remain available to the United States to battle the devastating wildland fires of today and well into the future.  We are pleased that the Department of Defense and the Air Force also support the national security mission of companies like ours,” said Joel Kerley, President and CEO of 10 Tanker Air Carrier.

    “Billings Flying Service is grateful to Rep. Carbajal and Rep. Newhouse for their leadership in introducing the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025. As an operator providing aerial wildfire suppression services across the United States, maintaining BFS fleet readiness is ever so critical to our mission. This Act opens up direct access to U.S. Armed Forces surplus parts, allowing operators to keep their aircraft in the air and deployed on life-saving missions. We are proud of the advancements Congress has made in protecting the sustainment of aerial wildfire resources, and we look forward to the Aerial Firefighter Enhancement Act becoming law,” said Bridger Blain, President of Billings Flying Service.

    “Firehawk Helicopters is encouraged by the passing of the Aerial Firefighting and Enhancement Act and would like to thank Rep. Newhouse, Rep. Carbajal, Sen. Tim Sheehy and Sen. Martin Heinrich for leading the efforts in seeing this bill passed. Since 20017 the aerial firefighting community has lost access to a critical aircraft and parts supply source. Taxpayers have lost hundreds of millions of dollars as valuable aircraft and aircraft parts were no longer made available for commercial sale.  The law will save these critical aircraft and parts from being scrapped. By making these aircraft and parts available for commercial sale again, the taxpayers will reap the maximum return on their original investment, but more importantly, see these aircraft and parts utilized in a second life that prioritizes the protection of the public from the growing threat of devastating wildfires,” said Bart Brainerd, CEO Firehawk Helicopters.

    This bipartisan bill aims to improve our country’s ability to combat wildfires year-round by enabling the use of military surplus aircrafts, sold at fair market value, for the aerial firefighting fleet. Additionally, the sale of aircraft parts will help maintain the current fleet of firefighting aircrafts.

    The bill reauthorizes the Secretary of Defense to sell excess Department of Defense aircrafts and parts, which are deemed suitable for commercial sale, to individuals or entities contracted by the government for the aerial delivery of fire retardants or water to fight wildfires, provided the aircraft and parts are used solely for wildfire suppression. The original authority expired in 2005, was reauthorized from 2012 to 2017, and has since lapsed again.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: The government has taken special control of key projects to replace foreign software

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The government has defined a list of key projects to replace foreign software with domestic analogues. These projects will be under special control. This was discussed at a meeting of Deputy Prime Minister – Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko with heads of industrial competence centers within the framework of the conference “CIPR-2025”.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that these projects have been given flagship status – they are of strategic importance for the country’s technological independence, especially in industry and the military-industrial complex.

    The criteria for selecting flagship projects include the criticality of the development for the industry, the possibility of using the software in the critical information infrastructure (CII), the implementation of the project in the interests of the military-industrial complex, as well as the implementation of PLM systems, i.e. integrated solutions for the design and production of complex equipment.

    It was noted that the flagship projects include a unified information environment for managing the product life cycle commissioned by the Roscosmos state corporation. The development will integrate all stages of product creation into a single system and optimize the processes of developing and manufacturing rocket and space technology. Another initiative is an information system for manufacturing aircraft technology commissioned by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). It will replace foreign software, will allow for the transfer of control over all stages of the product life cycle to digital technology, and will improve the efficiency of R&D work.

    “Within the framework of the ICC, advanced technological solutions are being created to strengthen Russia’s sovereignty. Today, our main focus is on the development of heavy software. First of all, we are talking about the implementation of product lifecycle management systems. These comprehensive solutions allow for the effective management of all stages – from design to serial production – in key industries: aircraft and shipbuilding, automobile and rocket and space industries. It is fundamentally important that all projects – both those financed by grants and corporate initiatives – are implemented within the established deadlines and successfully implemented in production processes. In this case, the priority is not the source of funding, but the achievement of measurable practical results,” said Dmitry Grigorenko.

    He also recalled that the ICCs have already demonstrated efficiency and high results. During the meeting, the most widely replicated ICC projects were highlighted – such initiatives demonstrated the highest sales revenue. Among them are the field design platforms commissioned by JSC Rosgeo. The revenue of its developer amounted to about 340% of the grant. Over 150% of the grant was returned in the form of tax deductions. Another successfully replicated development is the Ujin platform for the development of smart homes and digitalization of housing and communal services. The revenue from its sale amounted to about 60% of the grant, over 42% of the grant was returned in the form of taxes.

    In total, there are currently about 200 projects in progress to replace foreign software with Russian developments. They are being implemented both with government grant support and through the developer companies’ own investments.

    The initiatives are divided into two stages of implementation. The first wave, which started in 2022, includes about 150 projects, of which over 40% have been fully completed to date: these are 59 projects implemented using the participants’ own funds, as well as 7 grant projects.

    In May of this year, the second wave was launched, which included another 49 projects: 17 with state funding and 32 with company funds.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 1: Alberta wildfire update (June 3, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gevo Promotes Lindsay Fitzgerald to Chief Advocacy and Communications Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ENGLEWOOD, Colo., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO) announced today the promotion of Lindsay Fitzgerald to Chief Advocacy and Communications Officer, effective immediately.

    In this expanded leadership role, Ms. Fitzgerald will focus on advancing Gevo’s mission to strengthen American energy and food security by unlocking the full value of U.S. agriculture and rural communities. She continues to drive policy advocacy and public communications that support cost-effective, American-made hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals, while building free-market solutions for carbon abatement and economic growth. Her efforts help bolster U.S. agriculture as the most sustainable in the world, while opening new markets for farmers, innovators, and domestic manufacturing.

    “Lindsay’s leadership is about moving business forward,” said Dr. Patrick R. Gruber, Chief Executive Officer of Gevo. “She understands that real-world solutions require practical policies and clear messaging. Her work supports energy independence, job creation, and market-based carbon strategies that align with American interests.”

    Since joining Gevo in 2021, Ms. Fitzgerald has held key leadership roles, including Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Vice President of Government Relations. Her nearly 20 years of experience span the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Clean Fuels Alliance America, and Renewable Energy Group, where she built and led successful policy strategies to support clean fuels, rural jobs, and domestic energy production. Ms. Fitzgerald also serves as Chair of the Low Carbon Fuels Coalition, where she advocates for market-driven fuel policies that enable private-sector innovation across state and federal jurisdictions.

    With this promotion, Gevo reinforces its commitment to delivering real value through energy innovation, carbon abatement that works for business, and American-grown resources.

    About Gevo

    Gevo is a next-generation diversified energy company committed to fueling America’s future with cost-effective, drop-in fuels that contribute to energy security, abate carbon, and strengthen rural communities to drive economic growth. Gevo’s innovative technology can be used to make a variety of renewable products, including synthetic aviation fuel (“SAF”), motor fuels, chemicals, and other materials that provide U.S.-made solutions. By investing in the backbone of rural America, Gevo’s business model includes developing, financing, and operating production facilities that create jobs and revitalize communities. Gevo owns and operates one of the largest dairy-based renewable natural gas (“RNG”) facilities in the United States, turning by-products into clean, reliable energy. Gevo also operates an ethanol plant with an adjacent carbon capture and sequestration (“CCS”) facility, further solidifying America’s leadership in energy innovation. Additionally, Gevo owns the world’s first production facility for specialty alcohol-to-jet (“ATJ”) fuels and chemicals. Gevo’s market-driven “pay for performance” approach regarding carbon and other sustainability attributes, helps ensure value is delivered to our local economy. Through its Verity subsidiary, Gevo provides transparency, accountability, and efficiency in tracking, measuring and verifying various attributes throughout the supply chain. By strengthening rural economies, Gevo is working to secure a self-sufficient future and to make sure value is brought to the market.

    For more information, see www.gevo.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements relate to a variety of matters, without limitation, including the promotion of Lindsay Fitzgerald, and other statements that are not purely statements of historical fact. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Gevo and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Gevo undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Gevo believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Gevo in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Gevo for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission by Gevo.

    Media Contact
    Heather L. Manuel
    VP, Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships
    PR@gevo.com

    IR Contact
    Eric Frey
    VP, Finance & Strategy
    IR@Gevo.com

    The MIL Network –