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Category: Aviation

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese checkpoints see surge in tourist flow over May Day holiday

    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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Cities with border checkpoints in China saw a significant increase in the number of foreign tourists crossing the border during the International Labor Day holiday, largely due to the relaxation of visa policies and improved services at checkpoints, according to the National Immigration Administration.

    From April 30 to May 3, foreign nationals passed through Beijing checkpoints 69,000 times, an increase of 52.1 percent year-on-year. The main purposes for entering the country were tourism, visiting relatives, and business trips.

    On May 2, an international flight from Paris landed at Beijing Capital International Airport. When an elderly couple was confused while completing their paperwork at the passport control hall, immigration officer Cui Zhongqing helped them through border control by explaining the rules in French. Cui Zhongqing speaks several foreign languages.

    At the main checkpoints of the Chinese capital, including the international airports of Beijing Capital and Daxing, highly qualified specialists like Cui Zhuqing provide more than 100 consultations per shift in foreign languages. Special corridors have been set up for the elderly, the sick, the disabled and pregnant women, and temporary entry permits and other procedures are processed through a “single window”.

    “It’s now much easier to get a temporary entry permit. You don’t even have to stand in line again. It’s as fast as riding the metro,” a Russian tourist shared.

    The southern Chinese city of Guangzhou recorded more than 154,000 entries and exits from May 1 to 3, up 23 percent year-on-year. “During peak hours, all 34 checkpoint windows were operating at full capacity to ensure travelers could pass through the inspection safely and efficiently,” said Lin Shunyue, an immigration officer at Baiyun Port.

    With the opening of the third phase of the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Guangzhou or Canton Fair), it was a busy period at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. At the arrivals hall, police officers worked with an AI-based consultation system to assist passengers at the designated corridor for exhibitors.

    “After the second phase, we went to Hong Kong, and now we are back for the third. The visa-free regime makes this process very convenient,” the Polish businessman noted.

    The immigration office at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in southwest China’s Sichuan Province operated around the clock during the five-day holiday, allowing overseas arrivals to clear the immigration process immediately upon arrival.

    Thanks to the visa-free entry policy, the Spanish tourist was able to fully enjoy the local attractions, see pandas and taste Sichuan cuisine. “The unique charm of the city, the developed air network and efficient passport control made the trip to Chengdu unforgettable for me,” she said.

    According to the local border control department of Sichuan Province, as of May 3, 160,000 visa-free entries, more than 23,000 transit passengers taking advantage of the 24- or 240-hour visa-free stay rules, and more than 51,000 transit passengers passing through without border control have been registered through Chengdu checkpoints this year.

    China’s National Immigration Administration reported on May 6 that foreign nationals entered China 1.12 million times during the holiday period, up 43.1 percent from a year earlier.

    According to the above-mentioned department, it is especially noteworthy that over 380 thousand of these visits involved people entering China without a visa, which is 72.7 percent more than in the same period last year.

    China currently provides one-way visa-free entry to citizens of 38 countries. In addition, the visa-free transit period for passport holders of 54 countries was extended to 240 hours in December 2024. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Young Chinese inventor among top 10 innovators for 2025 EPO prize

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

    A young Chinese inventor and her collaboration partner have been named among the top 10 innovators of the Young Inventors Prize 2025, standing out from more than 450 candidates, the European Patent Office (EPO) announced on Tuesday.

    Chinese inventor Wen Roujia and Alisha Fredriksson co-founded a startup to develop a retrofittable carbon capture system to help shipowners cut emissions without needing to replace their fleets.

    “We bind the CO2 in solid form using calcium-based materials, making storage as simple as carrying cargo. No specialized equipment, no extreme conditions, just a stable, scalable way to reduce emissions at sea,” explained Wen.

    Aimed at individuals aged 30 and under, the EPO said that the Young Inventors Prize showcases the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and recognizes the remarkable young people paving the way to a more sustainable future.

    According to the EPO, the top 10 innovators for this year’s prize span five continents. They contribute to multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provide solutions in areas such as e-waste, rare earth element recovery, aviation, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, carbon capture, food security, and environmental protection. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Low-altitude tourism takes off on China’s tropical island

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

    A tourist enjoys paragliding in Lingshui Li Autonomous County, south China’s Hainan Province, May 3, 2025.  (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

    A helicopter was slowly ascending, offering a breathtaking view of the vast blue ocean below and the stunning tropical coastal city of Sanya in south China’s Hainan.

    Sat in the cabin of the helicopter was He Jixu, a tourist from southwest China’s Sichuan Province. It was the first time he had enjoyed a helicopter ride over the resort city, an unforgettable highlight of his trip.

    “Seeing the ocean from the sky is an entirely different experience. The view is incredibly expansive, the scenery is more breathtaking, and it feels so unique,” he said.

    For tourists, the charm of the island now extends beyond its signature sea and beaches. From helicopter tours and paragliding, to skydiving and hot air balloon rides, a thrilling array of aerial adventures has enriched tourists’ experiences.

    At Sanya Tarhe skydiving base, the largest of its kind in Hainan, the lobby bustled with visitors from across the country. Some awaited their turn with eager anticipation, while others returned excitedly after their skydiving.

    “The moment I jumped out, my heart raced. But when calm returned, I enjoyed the sight of the glittering sea and the endless blue sky, and felt completely at peace,” said Wang Xiaoling, a tourist from north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. For Wang, skydiving is not just a thrilling adventure, but also a gateway to a whole new world.

    “I love exploring different places and having diverse experiences. This skydiving attempt is also about challenging myself to become braver,” she added. 

    Zhang Enming, general manager of Sanya Tarhe Skydiving Club, said the base offered several skydiving packages, with prices ranging from 3,999 yuan (about 550 U.S. dollars) for fixed-wing aircraft to 6,999 yuan and 8,699 yuan for helicopter-based experiences.

    During the May Day holiday, the number of skydiving bookings surged, with daily traffic increasing by about 70 percent compared to usual.

    Low-altitude tourism, a burgeoning sector, offers a unique perspective and experience for tourists, and is especially appealing to young people, said Zhang. The base served over 10,000 customers last year, and the number in the first quarter of this year has reached 6,000.

    As China’s only tropical island province, Hainan enjoys a significant advantage in developing low-altitude tourism, with over 300 days of flyable weather each year.

    Hainan’s low-altitude tourism market mainly focuses on aerial sightseeing and skydiving. According to the Hainan Provincial Development and Reform Commission, in 2024, Hainan recorded 209,800 takeoffs and landings for aerial sightseeing and 14,900 for skydiving, accounting for 48 percent and 44 percent of the national totals, respectively. 

    Flight hours for aerial sightseeing and skydiving reached 11,200 and 3,600 hours, respectively, representing 28 percent and 31 percent of national totals, with both categories ranking first in China.

    Policy support has played a key role in the sector’s growth. China has included low-altitude economy in the government work report for two consecutive years, vigorously promoting its development.

    As an innovative application of the low-altitude economy, low-altitude tourism has injected new vitality into tourism while revealing the sector’s enormous market potential.

    Many local governments have also taken proactive steps to develop low-altitude tourism. In July 2024, Guangzhou introduced a series of measures to support low-altitude tourism and aerial sports development. In January 2025, Shanghai successfully tested its first low-altitude passenger route directly connecting to a hotel, enriching the city’s tourism offerings in the area.

    A three-year plan on the development of low-altitude economy in Hainan from 2024 to 2026 proposes expanding low-altitude aircraft tourism scenarios. It supports cities and counties along Hainan’s round-the-island highway to open low-altitude tourism routes using helicopters, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, and flying cars, enhancing the diversity of low-altitude tourism.

    “With the government’s strong support for the low-altitude economy, we’re highly confident about the future of skydiving and the entire low-altitude tourism sector,” Zhang said.

    Chen Yao, director of a Hainan-based tourism development research institute, said in the future Hainan will develop low-altitude tourism along the round-the-island highway, creating multi-dimensional, immersive and innovative tourism products.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: A Glimpse of a Meatball

    Source: NASA

    The NASA “meatball” logo, mounted on the Flight Research Building at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, peeks through tree leaves in this June 10, 2016, photo. Built in the 1940s, the Flight Research Building, also known as the NASA Glenn Hangar, is a facility large enough to hold numerous aircraft of various sizes. It has been home to many unique and innovative aircraft over the years.
    Take a virtual tour of the Hangar.
    Image credit: NASA/Bridget Caswell

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Yemen, Sudan, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (7 May 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stephanie Tremblay, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General’s Travel
    Yemen
    Sudan
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Ukraine
    Haiti
    Security Council
    Science, Technology and Innovation Forum

    SECRETARY-GENERAL’S TRAVEL
    The Secretary-General is Denmark today, where tomorrow he will chair the meeting of the Chief Executives Board of the United Nations which brings together the heads of the UN system. 
    Earlier today, the Secretary-General met with Ms. Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Denmark. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation with and support for the United Nations, including for its role as host of UN agencies as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council.
    The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation, as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. 
    Prior to meeting the Prime Minister, the Secretary-General toured UN City, the compound in Copenhagen that houses United Nations offices in the Danish capital. During a townhall meeting, the Secretary-General congratulated the staff for the work they are doing. 
    This evening, the Secretary-General and the heads of the United Nations system are attending a welcome diner hosted by the King and Queen of Denmark.

    YEMEN
    The UN welcomes the announcement made by the Sultanate of Oman regarding an agreement between the United States and the Houthis in Yemen on 6 May, and commend Oman for its efforts in this regard.
    The UN had consistently called for restraint and de-escalation in and around Yemen and the wider region. We also have called for an immediate cessation of Houthi attacks against merchant and commercial vessels in line with relevant Security Council resolutions. We reaffirm the need for all to respect the rights and obligations relating to maritime navigation in accordance with international law. We remain committed to supporting the Yemeni parties to reach a negotiated political settlement to end the conflict.
    The UN encourages all parties to engage constructively with UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg to this end.

    SUDAN
    Moving to Sudan, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, expressed deep concern over the ongoing drone strikes in Port Sudan, which is a hub for our humanitarian operations and key entry point for aid.
    Mr. Fletcher stressed that international humanitarian law must be respected and that constant care must be taken to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure.
    Flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Services – or UNHAS – to and from Port Sudan have been suspended since May 4th. The World Food Programme, which manages UNHAS, says it will resume air operations as soon as conditions allow.
    These disruptions are impacting the movement of humanitarian personnel into Sudan and onward to other parts of the country, further straining the delivery of urgently needed assistance. Meanwhile, OCHA reports that drone attacks have also affected the states of Kassala and River Nile. Earlier this week in Kassala, strikes near the airport displaced about 2,900 people and led to the temporary suspension or relocation of some aid activities.
    Meanwhile, River Nile State is still facing a power blackout following a drone strike on the transformer station in Atbara on April 25th. The outage is contributing to growing fuel and bread shortages and long queues at petrol stations and bakeries.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Turning to the situation in Gaza, our colleagues from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warn that the situation there is growing worse by the day. Yet we and our partners are committed to staying and delivering to help alleviate the suffering of the people exhausted by many months of fighting.
    Attacks on schools sheltering displaced people continue to be reported, leading to casualties. Yesterday in Deir al Balah, an UNRWA school in Al Bureij camp was hit twice in several hours, with dozens of people reportedly killed, including women and children. Another school in Gaza city sheltering displaced people was also struck yesterday, with reports that 20 people were killed.
    Across Gaza, community kitchens serving hot meals continue to shut down, as they use up their last remaining supplies. As of yesterday, one in every three community kitchens supported by the UN and our partners in Gaza has closed.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4A1_sSsDPg

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Through Operation Sindoor, India used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil: Raksha Mantri

    Source: Government of India

    Through Operation Sindoor, India used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil: Raksha Mantri

    “Armed Forces scripted history by acting with precision, precaution and compassion to destroy terror camps in Pakistan & PoK”

    Shri Rajnath Singh virtually dedicates 50 infrastructure projects of BRO to the nation

    The projects in eight border States/UTs, constructed at a total cost of Rs 1,879 crore, to enhance connectivity, strengthen national security & promote economic prosperity

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:50PM by PIB Delhi

    “Through Operation Sindoor, India has used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil, and the Armed Forces scripted history by acting with precision, precaution & compassion to destroy the camps used to train terrorists in Pakistan and PoK,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the 66thRaising Day event of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt on May 07, 2025. Raksha Mantri asserted that, as per the plan, the targets were destroyed and no civilian population was harmed. He commended the Armed Forces by giving a befitting reply under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    “The whole world has witnessed what our Armed Forces have done today. The action was carried out very thoughtfully and in a measured manner. It was limited only to the camps and other infrastructure used for training terrorists, with the aim of breaking their morale. I congratulate the Armed Forces on behalf of the whole country. I also congratulate Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for providing complete support to the forces,” added Shri Rajnath Singh.

    The event also witnessed the virtual dedication of 50 strategically-significant infrastructure projects of BRO – 30 bridges, 17 roads and three other works – to the nation by Raksha Mantri. These projects, constructed at a total cost of Rs 1,879 crore, are spread across six border States and two Union Territories – Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, West Bengal & Rajasthan – reinforcing India’s security, connectivity and development in remote regions. In the last two years alone, BRO has completed a record 161 infrastructure projects worth Rs 5,600 crore, including 111 projects last year.  In the last four years, BRO has completed 456 infrastructure projects with a total expenditure of Rs 13,743 crore.

    Shri Rajnath Singh exuded confidence that the projects e-inaugurated today will enhance connectivity, strengthen national security and promote economic prosperity of all these regions. “These projects will enhance defence preparedness and boost transportation, tourism & economic activity in these areas. These are not just infrastructure assets; they are pathways to a brighter future,” he added.

    Underlining the strategic importance of BRO’s work, Raksha Mantri stated that modern defence capability depends not just on weaponry but also on the infrastructure that supports it. “You can have the fastest tank or the most advanced aircraft, but if they can’t reach where they are needed on time, they serve no purpose. BRO plays a critical role in making sure our military is always ready and well-positioned,” he said, commending BRO Karmayogis who work behind the scenes and contribute to national security.

    Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised on the need to build new generation infrastructure for the Armed Forces in view of the current geopolitical scenario. BRO must ensure that the preparations are at war-level, he said.

    Raksha Mantri reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensure border area development, making special mention of Sela Tunnel which has become a symbol of this resolve to enhance connectivity in strategically-important areas. He highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to revitalise border villages, stating that initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme under which the Government is increasing connectivity by building about 35 kilometers of roads every day.

    In his address, Director General Border Roads (DGBR) Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan highlighted the growing national importance of BRO, stating that the organisation has emerged as the agency of choice for key central ministries for executing infrastructure projects in the most challenging terrains. He reaffirmed the BRO’s commitment to the well-being and dignity of its workforce, including GREF personnel and Casual Paid Labourers.

    Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs Shri Kiran Rijiju, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, PP/DoPT, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh, Chief of the Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence were present at the venue.

    Himachal Pradesh Governor Shri Shiv Pratap Shukla, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, Rajasthan Governor Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu, Mizoram Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma, Jammu & Kashmir Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor Ladakh Brig. (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) joined the event virtually.

    ******

    VK/Savvy/KB

    (Release ID: 2127561) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Myanmar: Life-saving education funding must be restored following USAID cuts

    Source: Amnesty International

    The United States and other governments must urgently find funding for education programmes in Myanmar that were a lifeline for students, teachers and families in the war-torn country, Amnesty International said today, as it warned of a “lost generation” if no action is taken.

    Testimony from teachers and students gathered by Amnesty International showed the impact on Myanmar students of US President Donald Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, which included the termination of more than US$70 million in funding for education programmes in Myanmar, according to those involved in the efforts.

    “The battering of Myanmar’s education sector since the 2021 military coup has robbed millions of young people of opportunities. These US cuts to education programmes now make the prospect of a lost generation increasingly likely,” said Joe Freeman, Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher.

    “But it is not too late to fill this vacuum in Myanmar students’ education. Governments and universities in the US and beyond must find a way to enable them to continue their studies and prevent them being sent back to a conflict zone, where they are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment; aerial and ground attacks on their communities; and forced conscription into a military that routinely resorts to human rights abuses as a strategy of war.”

    The US-funded education programmes, enacted after the coup, supported Myanmar students studying at Southeast Asian universities; online higher education initiatives; and basic education services for children in ethnic, remote and rural communities.

    They were a rare bright spot in an ever-deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where to date more than 6,000 civilians have been killed and more than 20,000 detained. In 2025, nearly 20 million people are expected to need humanitarian assistance.

    A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing nearly 4,000 people and destroying hospitals, homes, monasteries and at least 1,000 schools, has only exacerbated these needs. It will also create additional hurdles for students seeking an education after more than four years of armed conflict in the country.

    “The US cuts to foreign aid made a bad situation worse. The Trump administration must reverse course and not abandon Myanmar students working to fulfill their dreams under extremely challenging circumstances. But if the US continues to fail Myanmar’s young people, other governments, universities and donors must step up and help,” Joe Freeman said.

    Myanmar education sector in turmoil

    After the Myanmar military seized power on 1 February 2021, teachers and students walked out of schools in protest, entering a parallel education system under the deposed civilian government with new schools built from scratch, using existing buildings such as people’s homes and carried out online.

    The military responded by arresting teachers and attacking schools with air strikes, as armed conflict intensified across the country, especially in places where schools in areas outside of military control were functioning. The overall situation led to a sharp decline in enrolment rates, limited access to functioning schools and a shortage in materials for teaching. Against this backdrop the US-funded education programmes carried out vital work to fill the void while also helping shield students, teachers and parents from human rights abuses.

    Since late last year, Amnesty International has conducted remote and in-person interviews with more than 50 people involved in education across Myanmar from Chin, Rakhine, Kayah and Karenni States, as well as Magwe, Sagaing and Mandalay Regions and individuals living in exile.  They include students, teachers, education officials, parents and survivors of air strikes on schools. All stressed the vital importance of education for the future of the country, despite the constant disruptions in providing it.

    One teacher told Amnesty International: “Even when I’m teaching, I’m always on edge, especially when I hear aircraft overhead. There have been moments when I’ve heard the sound of artillery while teaching, which is deeply unsettling.”

    Another said: “The main goal now is to prevent any disruption to the children’s learning, so schools have been reopened wherever possible. However, the quality of education isn’t as high as it was before the coup, mainly because of the constant need to relocate due to safety concerns. Teachers and students often have to flee both day and night, which disrupts the learning process.”

    Among the most recent interviewees were recipients of a US-funded initiative called the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Program (DISP). Launched in 2024, this USD45 million USAID-funded programme aimed to support 1,000 students from Myanmar to study in universities online and across Southeast Asia in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.

    But it became an early and very public victim of President Trump’s attacks on anything related to diversity, equity and inclusion. One of his first announcements as president was to cancel the program, singling it out again in his joint remarks to Congress in March.

    “While the US administration has falsely portrayed this programme as a prime example of wasteful spending, it is anything but. The students we spoke to describe the programme as providing a safe haven to them in times of war back home and of reinvigorating their dreams,” Joe Freeman said.

    Miranda, 18, was in high school when the coup happened, and like other students participated in protests. Her family later fled to eastern Myanmar, where she witnessed gunfights and bombings, eventually crossing over into Thailand to seek shelter.

    “When I got the [DISP] scholarship it was like a golden chance for me to start my new life again,” said Miranda, who was pursuing a degree in tourism management in the Philippines.

    She had only finished her first semester when the programme was cancelled, making her one of hundreds across the region without support.

    “If we have to go back to our country … we will be lost again.”

    Oakley, a student from central Myanmar, faces similar challenges. But when he received the DISP scholarship, it gave him hope of a better future.

    “I have experienced a lot of bomb explosions, a lot of war around my village. That is really devastating,” he told Amnesty International. “I believed that this was my life-changing opportunity. I feel shocked and so hopeless.”

    Students like Miranda and Oakley fear going back to Myanmar, where they could be arrested for supporting anti-coup protests or be among Myanmar’s many victims of air strikes.

    “Even though we want to go back to Myanmar, we cannot,” Oakley said. “The situation in Myanmar is not safe anymore.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says China, Russia find right path of state-to-state interactions between neighboring major countries

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

    Xi says China, Russia find right path of state-to-state interactions between neighboring major countries

    Chinese President Xi Jinping inspects the guard of honor during a grand welcome ceremony at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MOSCOW, May 7 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said here Wednesday that China and Russia have found a right path of state-to-state interactions between neighboring major countries.

    He made the remarks in a written statement upon his arrival in Moscow for a state visit to the country and attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War.

    Xi noted that the two sides, as good neighbors that cannot be moved away, true friends who share weal and woe, and good partners of mutual achievement, have forged a spirit of strategic coordination for a new era, which features permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation.

    The independent, mature and resilient bilateral relationship, Xi said, not only brings great benefits to the two peoples, but also makes important contributions to maintaining global strategic stability and promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, he noted.

    China and Russia, both major countries of the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council, will join hands to safeguard the victorious outcome of World War II, firmly safeguard the UN-centered international system and the international order underpinned by international law, resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics, practice true multilateralism, and promote the building of a more just and equitable global governance system, Xi said.

    The Chinese president also said that during the visit he will have in-depth communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin on bilateral relations, practical cooperation as well as major international and regional issues of common concern, which will inject strong impetus into the development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.

    Noting that he will attend Russia’s May 9th Victory Day celebrations again after a decade, Xi said he looks forward to working with leaders of other countries and the Russian people to deeply commemorate the martyrs who heroically sacrificed their lives for the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, and send out a strong voice of the times to safeguard international fairness and justice.

    Xi’s plane was escorted by Russian Air Force aircraft after it entered the country’s airspace.

    When Xi arrived at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, he was warmly welcomed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova and other senior government officials.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping is warmly welcomed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova and other senior government officials at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Members of an honor guard line up at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Members of a military band are pictured at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Members of an honor guard are pictured at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/7/2025 Blackburn, Welch Introduce Bill to Safeguard Rideshare Passengers’ Privacy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the Safe and Private Rides Act, which would require transportation network companies (TNCs) to notify passengers when their driver has a video recording device in the car and give passengers the opportunity to opt out of riding with a driver with a dashcam, preventing rideshare drivers from violating passengers’ privacy:
    “Passengers shouldn’t have to sacrifice their right to privacy the moment they step into a rideshare vehicle, and they deserve to know when they are being recorded,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Safe and Private Rides Act would increase transparency and ensure that both driver safety and passenger privacy are protected as more Americans take advantage of these services.”
    “Millions of people around the country rely on rideshare services for transportation every day, whether it’s to the doctor, work, or the airport. Folks using rideshare services deserve to have peace of mind about their digital privacy during a ride, which includes knowing if they will be filmed before calling a ride,” said Senator Welch. “Our bipartisan Safe and Private Rides Act gives passengers using rideshare services straightforward privacy protections by allowing the option to opt out of a rideshare using video recording devices that record passengers.”
    BACKGROUND
    Americans are increasingly using rideshare services as a form of transportation, and U.S. ridesharing profits are expected to generate $54 billion annually by 2027.
    In many American cities, rideshare drivers have expressed feeling uncomfortable and unsafe while driving and have turned to technology and dashcams to add a layer of safety. These dashcams, while beneficial for the driver, could present privacy concerns for passengers. In the past, some rideshare drivers have recorded their passengers and subsequently released the footage online, in a blatant violation of privacy. Passengers should ultimately have a right to know that they are being recorded and to opt out of riding in cars that utilize recording devices if they so choose.
    Rideshare companies have become a source of convenience and accessibility, and they are an example of American innovation. As they grow, their drivers should be able to use technology to protect themselves, and passengers should be able to make decisions to preserve their privacy.
    THE SAFE AND PRIVATE RIDES ACT
    The Safe and Private Rides Act would increase transparency by giving passengers choice while preserving the driver’s safety.
    Specifically, the Safe and Private Rides Act would: 
    Require TNCs to notify passengers when their driver has a video recording device in the car;
    Require TNCs to give passengers the opportunity to opt out of riding with a driver with a recording device in the car; and 
    Grant the Federal Trade Commission the authority to enforce these transparency requirements.
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister to set out vision for ‘defence dividend’ in a changed world

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister to set out vision for ‘defence dividend’ in a changed world

    As the nation marks VE Day, remembering the triumph of our values and the sacrifices made to secure them eight decades ago, the Prime Minister will share his vision for working people, once again, to feel the benefit of Britain stepping up.

    • As the nation marks VE Day, PM will deliver keynote speech at the London Defence Conference
    • He is expected to say that the benefits of boosting defence investment in a changing world must be felt directly in the pockets of working people
    • Seizing on the conference theme of Alliances, he will set out how state, businesses and society must join hands on security and prosperity
    • He will also unveil a £563 million contract for Rolls-Royce, becoming the latest investment in Britain’s first class engine building industry

    As the nation marks VE Day, remembering the triumph of our values and the sacrifices made to secure them eight decades ago, the Prime Minister will share his vision for working people, once again, to feel the benefit of Britain stepping up.

    Delivering the keynote speech at the London Defence Conference this morning, he will describe the government’s task to seize upon the ‘defence dividend’ presented by our increased investment in defence, in order to create jobs, wealth and opportunity in every corner of the country.

    In doing so he will highlight how the government’s boost to defence spending – the highest since the Cold War – will not only provide safety and security for the United Kingdom, but also cement the UK’s status as a defence industrial leader, with more high skilled jobs for people proud to keep our country safe.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to say:

    Our task now is to seize the defence dividend – felt directly in the pockets of working people, rebuilding our industrial base and creating the jobs of the future.

    A national effort. A time for the state, business and society to join hands, in pursuit of the security of the nation and the prosperity of its people.

    An investment in peace, but also an investment in British pride and the British people to build a nation that, once again, lives up to the promises made to the generation who fought for our values, our freedom and our security.

    The Prime Minister will use his speech to deliver a tribute to the bravery of the veterans who secured victory 80 years ago and the remarkable men and women who carry the vital task of protecting our security today. It follows a street party on Downing Street on Monday where the Prime Minister welcomed Second World War veterans and cadets from across the country, and comes ahead of his attendance at the service at Westminster Abbey this afternoon.

    He will say:

    Britain’s victory was not just a victory for Britain. It was a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil, for the light of our values – in a world that tried to put them out.

    Now, as you know, there are people who would happily do likewise today. Our values and security are confronted on a daily basis. We must use this moment to deliver security and renewal for our country.

    At the Conference the Prime Minister will address policymakers, military figures, defence firms and academics from around the world.

    In the face of global instability, he will reflect on how the conference theme ‘Alliances’ should mean not only our iron-clad commitment to NATO and Western Values but also an opportunity to double down on efforts to work hand-in-hand with business and society to make the UK better off and more secure.

    He will announce the latest significant investment in British expertise with a £563 million contract for Rolls-Royce for the maintenance of Britain’s fleet of Typhoon fighter jets. The work to maintain 130 Typhoon engines will take place at Rolls-Royce’s sites, supporting hundreds of jobs in Bristol and beyond.

    The announcement supports the government’s priority of continuing the UK’s great tradition of building the ships, missiles, artillery, vehicles, aircraft and more that keeps us safe – cementing the British defence industry’s place as the engine of national renewal.

    It comes less than a week after the Prime Minister hailed the RAF’s new UK-made StormShroud drones. The groundbreaking new technology will make the RAF’s world-class combat aircraft more survivable and more lethal by delivering high-tech signal jammers to disrupt enemy radar at long ranges, protecting our aircraft and pilots.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Requests Probe Into Justice Department Use Of Aircraft For Personal Or Political Purposes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 07, 2025
    Request for a GAO review comes amid public reporting of Kash Patel’s repeated travel on government aircraft that raises questions about proper reimbursement and oversight compliance
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today requested a review of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) use of government-owned aircraft by senior executives, in light of concerns about compliance with federal regulations that restrict nonmission-related travel and require reimbursement for personal or political use.
    In a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), Durbin began by asserting his request, writing: “I write to request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a comprehensive review of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) use of government-owned aircraft by senior executives.”
    Durbin continued by outlining policies and procedures for executive air travel, writing: “Multiple components within DOJ—including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and United States Marshals Service (USMS)—own, lease, and operate a fleet of aircraft primarily to support mission-critical DOJ operations such as counterterrorism, criminal surveillance, and interdiction of illicit drug trafficking. While use of government aircraft for nonmission-related needs is generally prohibited by federal regulations, such aircraft can be made available regardless of the trip’s purpose for ‘required use travel,’ which is travel that ‘requires use of a [g]overnment aircraft to meet bona fide communications needs (e.g., 24-hour secure communications), security requirements (e.g., highly unusual circumstances that present a clear and present danger), or exceptional scheduling requirements… of an executive agency.’ The President has typically designated two executives within DOJ as ‘required use’ travelers—the Attorney General and the FBI Director—due to their need for special protective security measures and secure communications while in flight. However, federal guidance requires that such travelers reimburse the government for any travel that is for political or personal reasons.”
    Durbin then cited recent reporting that FBI Director Kash Patel’s recent travel raises compliance questions, writing: “Some of these flights appear to coincide with official business,  but it is not clear whether all travel was mission-related or personal in nature. Nonetheless, this reporting underscores the need for clarity on whether DOJ executives—including the FBI Director—are complying with applicable regulations and reimbursement requirements for nonmission-related travel and whether DOJ has sufficient internal controls to track and enforce those obligations.”
    Durbin concluded with a request to update its 2013 report into the matter, writing: “Given these developments, I request that GAO review the circumstances in which DOJ aircraft are being used to transport executives for nonmission purposes, including the costs of these flights… This review is critical to ensuring the appropriate use of taxpayer resources and maintaining public trust in DOJ’s operations and use of taxpayer dollars.”
    For a PDF of the letter to GAO, click here.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China and Russia have found the right way for large neighboring countries to coexist – Xi Jinping

    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

    Moscow, May 7 /Xinhua/ — China and Russia have found the right path for coexistence between large neighboring countries, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in the Russian capital on Wednesday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement in a written speech published upon his arrival in Moscow on a state visit and to attend events marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    The Chinese leader noted that China and Russia are inseparable good neighbors, true friends who endure adversity together, and reliable partners who contribute to each other’s success. The two sides have formed the spirit of Chinese-Russian strategic interaction in the new era, which is characterized by eternal good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic interaction and cooperation for mutual benefit and common gain, Xi Jinping stated.

    According to the Chinese President, independent, mature and strong China-Russia relations not only bring great benefits to the peoples of the two countries, but also make an important contribution to maintaining global strategic stability and building an equal and orderly multipolar world.

    This year, the Chinese leader recalled, marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.

    China and Russia, as important major countries in the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council, will uphold the victory in World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law, resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics, adhere to genuine multilateralism, and promote the building of a more just and reasonable global governance system, Xi Jinping said.

    The Chinese President also announced that during his state visit to Russia, he will hold in-depth communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin on bilateral relations and practical cooperation, as well as on significant international and regional issues of mutual interest. This, he said, will give a powerful impetus to the development of Chinese-Russian relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction in the new era.

    Recalling that a decade later he will again attend the Victory Day celebrations in Russia on May 9, Xi Jinping said that he hopes to honor with deep feeling the memory of the heroes who died in the struggle for victory in the World Anti-Fascist War together with the leaders of many countries and the Russian people, and to act as a powerful voice of the times in defense of international honesty and justice.

    After Xi Jinping’s plane entered Russian airspace, it was escorted by Russian Air Force aircraft.

    Upon arrival of the PRC Chairman at Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport, he was warmly greeted by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Tatyana Golikova and other high-ranking officials. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following Hei Hei crash

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Canterbury Police are investigating a crash in Hei Hei last month and are appealing for witnesses.

    At around 4:15pm on Saturday 12 April, a vehicle collided with a pedestrian at the corner of Buchanans Road and Carmen Road.

    The pedestrian sustained serious injuries however these are not believed to be life threatening.

    Police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the crash, or saw a dark-coloured Mazda people mover in the Hei Hei area between 4pm and 4:30pm on 12 April.

    The vehicle travelled towards the airport along Carmen Road following the collision and was last seen at around 4:25pm turning into Roydvale Ave from Memorial Ave.

    If you have any information that could assist, including dashcam or CCTV footage, please get in touch via 105, either over the phone or online.

    You can reference file number 250413/9097.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: ESCO Reports Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    St. Louis, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESCO Technologies Inc. (NYSE: ESE) (ESCO, or the Company) today reported its operating results for the second quarter ended March 31, 2025 (Q2 2025).

    Operating Highlights

    • Q2 2025 Sales increased $16.4 million (7 percent) to $265.5 million compared to $249.1 million in Q2 2024.
    • Q2 2025 Entered Orders were $290.8 million for a book-to-bill ratio of 1.10x, resulting in record backlog of $932 million.
    • Q2 2025 GAAP EPS increased 33 percent to $1.20 per share compared to $0.90 per share in Q2 2024.
    • Q2 2025 Adjusted EPS increased 24 percent to $1.35 per share compared to $1.09 per share in Q2 2024.
    • Net cash provided by operating activities was $58 million YTD, an increase of $39 million compared to the prior year period.

    Bryan Sayler, Chief Executive Officer and President, commented, “Q2 was another strong quarter as we delivered 7 percent top line growth, 250 basis points of Adjusted EBITDA margin expansion, and a 24 percent increase in Adjusted EPS compared to the prior year. All three segments delivered solid revenue growth, highlighted by strength across our Navy, commercial aerospace, utility, and Test end-markets.   It was very positive to see orders increase 22 percent over the prior year, with particular strength in both USG and Test.

    “As previously announced, we closed the SM&P acquisition on April 25th. Going forward, SM&P will be known as ESCO Maritime Solutions (Maritime). We are happy to welcome the Maritime employees to the ESCO team. Maritime’s signature and power management solutions meaningfully expand our naval product offerings in both the US and UK. We are optimistic about the future of ESCO and are pleased to have Maritime join us as an integral part of that journey.”       

    Segment Performance

    Aerospace & Defense (A&D)

    • Sales increased $8.7 million (8 percent) to $123.4 million in Q2 2025 from $114.7 million in Q2 2024. The Q2 increase was driven by strength in Navy and aerospace sales.
    • EBIT increased $6.9 million in Q2 2025 to $30.3 million from $23.4 million in Q2 2024. Adjusted EBIT increased $6.7 million in Q2 2025 to $30.3 million (24.6 percent margin) from $23.6 million (20.6 percent margin) in Q2 2024. Margin improvement was driven by price increases and mix, partially offset by inflationary pressures.
    • Entered Orders increased $6 million (5 percent) to $122 million in Q2 2025 compared to $116 million in Q2 2024.   Q2 2025 included a $6M order for PTI’s cartridge actuated devices/propellant actuated devices (CAD/PAD) products. The segment book-to-bill was 0.99x in the quarter, resulting in ending backlog of $605 million.  

    Utility Solutions Group (USG)

    • Sales increased $3.5 million (4 percent) to $90.8 million in Q2 2025 from $87.3 million in Q2 2024. Doble’s sales increased by $3.5 million (5 percent) driven by a strong quarter for offline and protection testing products and services, partially offset by lower cybersecurity/compliance (DUCe) solutions. NRG sales were flat to the prior year due to moderation in renewable energy projects.
    • EBIT increased $3.2 million in Q2 2025 to $20.8 million from $17.6 million in Q2 2024. Adjusted EBIT increased $3.3 million in Q2 2025 to $20.9 million (23.0 percent margin) from $17.6 million (20.1 percent margin) in Q2 2024.   Margin was favorably impacted by leverage on higher volume, price increases and mix, partially offset by inflationary pressures.  
    • Entered Orders increased $13 million (17 percent) to $92 million in Q2 2025. Doble orders increased by $11 million (17 percent) on strong offline test equipment and services orders. NRG orders increased by $2 million (15 percent) driven by solar orders in North America and EMEA.   The segment book-to-bill was 1.02x in the quarter, resulting in ending backlog of $124 million.

    RF Test & Measurement (Test)

    • Sales increased $4.3 million (9 percent) to $51.4 million in Q2 2025 from $47.1 million in Q2 2024. Sales growth was primarily driven by higher Test and Measurement, industrial shielding, and medical services in the US, along with a strong quarter for MPE filters projects.
    • EBIT increased $0.9 million in Q2 2025 to $6.4 million from $5.5 million in Q2 2024. Adjusted EBIT increased $0.7 million in Q2 2025 to $6.4 million (12.4 percent margin) from $5.7 million (12.2 percent margin) in Q2 2024. Margin was favorably impacted by leverage on higher volume, price increases, and cost reduction efforts, partially offset by unfavorable mix and inflationary pressures.  
    • Entered Orders increased $33 million (75 percent) to $77 million in Q2 2025. The increase was primarily driven by a strong quarter for US Test & Measurement, filters, and medical and industrial shielding orders. In addition, orders in China increased $9M in the quarter, primarily related to Test & Measurement projects. The segment book-to-bill was 1.50x in the quarter, resulting in ending backlog of $203 million.

    Business Outlook – 2025

    Guidance for Q3 2025 and FY 2025 is being shown both with and without the impact of Maritime to provide insight into our expectations for Maritime’s impact on the remainder of Q3 2025 (approximately 2 months) and FY 2025 (approximately 5 months).   The transaction costs and purchase accounting amortization associated with the Maritime acquisition have not yet been finalized and are not included in our current business outlook.  

    Consistent with our initial FY 2025 guidance, organic sales are expected to grow 6 to 8 percent in FY 2025. Maritime is expected to contribute sales in the range of $90 to $100 million in FY 2025.

        Guidance Range ($ Millions)
    Sales Guidance excluding Maritime   $ 1,090   $ 1,110
    Maritime Impact   $ 90   $ 100
    Sales Guidance including Maritime   $ 1,180   $ 1,210

    In our Q1 2025 earnings release (dated 2/6/2025), FY 2025 Adjusted EPS guidance was increased to $5.55-$5.75. Due to continued market strength and improvement in operational performance, we are raising our full-year guidance by another $0.10 to $5.65 to $5.85 (18 to 23 percent growth over the prior year). Maritime is expected to contribute Adjusted EPS in the range of $0.20 – $0.30 in FY 2025.     

        Guidance Range
    Previous FY 2025 Adjusted EPS Guidance   $ 5.55   $ 5.75
    Guidance Increase   $ 0.10   $ 0.10
    Updated FY’25 Adjusted EPS Guidance excluding Maritime   $ 5.65   $ 5.85
    Maritime Impact   $ 0.20   $ 0.30
    Updated FY’25 Adjusted EPS Guidance including Maritime   $ 5.85   $ 6.15

    Management’s expectation is for Q3 Adjusted EPS without Maritime to be in the range of $1.50 to $1.60 (15 to 22 percent growth over the prior year quarter). Maritime is expected to add Adjusted EPS in the range of $0.08 to $0.12 in Q3 2025.

        Guidance Range
    Q3 2025 Adjusted EPS Guidance excluding Maritime   $ 1.50   $ 1.60
    Maritime Impact   $ 0.08   $ 0.12
    Q3 2025 Adjusted EPS Guidance including Maritime   $ 1.58   $ 1.72

    Dividend Payment
    The next quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share will be paid on July 17, 2025 to stockholders of record on July 2, 2025.

    Conference Call
    The Company will host a conference call today, May 7, at 4:00 p.m. Central Time, to discuss the Company’s Q2 2025 results. A live audio webcast and an accompanying slide presentation will be available in the Investor Center of ESCO’s website. Participants may also access the webcast using this registration link. For those unable to participate, a webcast replay will be available after the call in the Investor Center of ESCO’s website.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Statements in this press release regarding Management’s intentions, expectations and guidance for fiscal 2025, including restructuring and cost reduction actions, sales, orders, revenues, margin, earnings, Adjusted EPS, acquisition related amortization, and any other statements which are not strictly historical, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. securities laws.

    Investors are cautioned that such statements are only predictions and speak only as of the date of this presentation, and the Company undertakes no duty to update them except as may be required by applicable laws or regulations. The Company’s actual results in the future may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements due to risks and uncertainties that exist in the Company’s operations and business environment including but not limited to those described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors”, of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 and the following: the timing and outcome, if any, of the Company’s strategic alternatives review of the VACCO business; the impacts of climate change and related regulation of greenhouse gases; the impacts of labor disputes, civil disorder, wars, elections, political changes, tariffs and trade disputes, terrorist activities, cyberattacks or natural disasters on the Company’s operations and those of the Company’s customers and suppliers; disruptions in manufacturing or delivery arrangements due to shortages or unavailability of materials or components or supply chain disruptions; inability to access work sites; the timing and content of future contract awards or customer orders; the timely appropriation, allocation and availability of Government funds; the termination for convenience of Government and other customer contracts or orders; weakening of economic conditions in served markets; the success of the Company’s competitors; changes in customer demands or customer insolvencies; competition; intellectual property rights; technical difficulties or data breaches; the availability of acquisitions; delivery delays or defaults by customers; performance issues with key customers, suppliers and subcontractors; material changes in the costs and availability of certain raw materials; material changes in the cost of credit; changes in laws and regulations including but not limited to changes in accounting standards and taxation; changes in interest, inflation and employment rates; costs relating to environmental matters arising from current or former facilities; uncertainty regarding the ultimate resolution of current disputes, claims, litigation or arbitration; and the integration and performance of acquired businesses.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    The financial measures EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EPS are presented in this press release. The Company defines “EBIT” as earnings before interest and taxes, “EBITDA” as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, “Adjusted EBIT” and “Adjusted EBITDA” as excluding the net impact of the items described in the attached Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures, and “Adjusted EPS” as GAAP earnings per share excluding the net impact of the items described and reconciled in the attached Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.

    EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EPS are not recognized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). However, Management believes EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA are useful in assessing the operational profitability of the Company’s business segments because they exclude interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, which are generally accounted for across the entire Company on a consolidated basis. EBIT is also one of the measures used by Management in determining resource allocations within the Company as well as incentive compensation. The presentation of EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EPS provides important supplemental information to investors by facilitating comparisons with other companies, many of which use similar non-GAAP financial measures to supplement their GAAP results. The use of non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to replace any measures of performance determined in accordance with GAAP.

    About ESCO
    ESCO Technologies is a global provider of highly engineered products and solutions serving diverse end-markets. It manufactures filtration and fluid control products, advanced composites, as well as signature and power management solutions for aviation, Navy, space, and industrial customers. ESCO is an industry leader in designing and manufacturing RF test and measurement products and systems; and provides diagnostic instruments, software and services to industrial power users and the electric utility and renewable energy industries. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, ESCO and its subsidiaries have offices and manufacturing facilities worldwide. For more information on ESCO and its subsidiaries, visit ESCO’s website at www.escotechnologies.com.

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  
        
              Three Months
    Ended
    March 31,
    2025
      Three Months
    Ended
    March 31,
    2024
     
                     
    Net Sales     $ 265,519   249,129  
    Cost and Expenses:          
      Cost of sales   156,298   152,347  
      Selling, general and administrative expenses   58,163   55,097  
      Amortization of intangible assets   7,989   8,572  
      Interest expense   2,195   3,226  
      Other expenses (income), net   375   666  
        Total costs and expenses   225,020   219,908  
                     
    Earnings before income taxes   40,499   29,221  
    Income tax expense   9,466   6,002  
                     
        Net earnings $ 31,033   23,219  
                     
          Earnings Per Share (EPS)          
                     
          Diluted – GAAP $ 1.20   0.90  
                     
          Diluted – As Adjusted Basis $ 1.35 (1 ) 1.09 (2 )
                     
          Diluted average common shares O/S:   25,877   25,847  
                     
    (1 ) Q2 2025 Adjusted EPS excludes $0.15 per share of after-tax charges consisting primarily of acquisition related amortization.
                     
    (2 ) Q2 2024 Adjusted EPS excludes $0.19 per share of after-tax charges consisting of: $0.02 of MPE acquisition backlog charges, $0.02 of restructuring charges (primarily severance) within the Test and A&D segments, and $0.15 of acquisition related amortization.

       
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  
        
              Six Months
    Ended
    March 31, 2025
      Six Months
    Ended
    March 31, 2024
     
                     
    Net Sales   $ 512,545     467,443  
    Cost and Expenses:          
      Cost of sales   304,940     286,498  
      Selling, general and administrative expenses   116,947     109,065  
      Amortization of intangible assets   15,982     16,440  
      Interest expense   4,452     5,893  
      Other expenses (income), net   (216 )   872  
        Total costs and expenses   442,105     418,768  
                     
    Earnings before income taxes   70,440     48,675  
    Income tax expense   15,934     10,287  
                     
        Net earnings $ 54,506     38,388  
                     
          Earnings Per Share (EPS)          
                     
          Diluted – GAAP $ 2.11     1.49  
                     
          Diluted – As Adjusted Basis $ 2.42   (1 ) 1.85 (2 )
                     
          Diluted average common shares O/S:   25,854     25,846  
                     
    (1 ) YTD Q2 2025 Adjusted EPS excludes $0.31 per share of after-tax charges consisting primarily of $0.01 of restructuring charges within the Test segment and $0.30 of acquisition related amortization.
                     
    (2 ) YTD Q2 2024 Adjusted EPS excludes $0.36 per share of after-tax charges consisting of: $0.05 of MPE acquisition backlog and inventory step-up charges and acquisition costs, $0.02 of restructuring charges (primarily severance) within the Test and A&D segments, and $0.29 of acquisition related amortization.

        
        

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Condensed Business Segment Information (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
       
            GAAP   As Adjusted  
            Q2 2025   Q2 2024   Q2 2025   Q2 2024  
    Net Sales                  
      Aerospace & Defense $ 123,369     114,701     123,369     114,701    
      USG   90,767     87,309     90,767     87,309    
      Test   51,383     47,119     51,383     47,119    
        Totals $ 265,519     249,129     265,519     249,129    
                           
    EBIT                    
      Aerospace & Defense $ 30,296     23,377     30,298     23,640    
      USG   20,779     17,575     20,862     17,575    
      Test   6,369     5,542     6,369     5,745    
      Corporate   (14,750 )   (14,047 )   (9,648 )   (8,260 )  
        Consolidated EBIT   42,694     32,447     47,881     38,700    
        Less: Interest expense   (2,195 )   (3,226 )   (2,195 )   (3,226 )  
        Less: Income tax expense   (9,466 )   (6,002 )   (10,659 )   (7,440 )  
        Net earnings $ 31,033     23,219     35,027     28,034    
                              
    Note 1: Adjusted net earnings of $35.0 million in Q2 2025 exclude $4.0 million (or $0.15 per share) of after-tax charges consisting primarily of acquisition related amortization.
                           
    Note 2: Adjusted net earnings of $28.0 million in Q2 2024 exclude $4.8 million (or $0.19 per share) of after-tax charges consisting of: $0.02 of MPE acquisition backlog charges, $0.02 of restructuring charges (primarily severance) within the Test and A&D segments, and $0.15 of acquisition related amortization.
                           
    EBITDA Reconciliation to Net earnings:           Q2 2025 –   Q2 2024 –  
            Q2 2025   Q2 2024   As Adjusted   As Adjusted  
    Consolidated EBITDA $ 56,668     46,550     56,895     47,174    
    Less: Depr & Amort   (13,974 )   (14,103 )   (9,014 )   (8,474 )  
    Consolidated EBIT   42,694     32,447     47,881     38,700    
    Less: Interest expense   (2,195 )   (3,226 )   (2,195 )   (3,226 )  
    Less: Income tax expense   (9,466 )   (6,002 )   (10,659 )   (7,440 )  
    Net earnings $ 31,033     23,219     35,027     28,034    
                           

       
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Condensed Business Segment Information (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
       
            GAAP   As Adjusted  
            YTD Q2 2025   YTD Q2 2024   YTD Q2 2025   YTD Q2 2024  
    Net Sales                  
      Aerospace & Defense $ 237,670     209,434     237,670     209,434    
      USG   177,427     170,293     177,427     170,293    
      Test   97,448     87,716     97,448     87,716    
        Totals $ 512,545     467,443     512,545     467,443    
                           
    EBIT                      
      Aerospace & Defense $ 51,892     40,040     51,920     40,303    
      USG   41,269     35,200     41,352     35,320    
      Test   10,791     7,321     11,256     7,797    
      Corporate   (29,060 )   (27,993 )   (18,959 )   (16,860 )  
        Consolidated EBIT   74,892     54,568     85,569     66,560    
        Less: Interest expense   (4,452 )   (5,893 )   (4,452 )   (5,893 )  
        Less: Income tax   (15,934 )   (10,287 )   (18,390 )   (13,045 )  
        Net earnings $ 54,506     38,388     62,727     47,622    
                              
    Note 1: Adjusted net earnings of $62.7 million in YTD 2025 exclude $8.2 million (or $0.31 per share) of after-tax charges consisting of: $0.01 of restructuring charges within the Test segment and acquisition related costs at Corporate, and $0.30 of acquisition related amortization.
                           
    Note 2: Adjusted net earnings of $47.6 million in YTD 2024 exclude $9.2 million (or $0.36 per share) of after-tax charges consisting of: $0.05 of MPE acquisition backlog and inventory step-up charges and acquisition costs, $0.02 of restructuring costs (primarily severance) within the Test and A&D segments, and $0.29 of acquisition related amortization.
                           
    EBITDA Reconciliation to Net earnings:           YTD   YTD  
            YTD   YTD   Q2 2025 –   Q2 2024 –  
            Q2 2025   Q2 2024   As Adjusted   As Adjusted  
    Consolidated EBITDA $ 102,673     82,123     103,393     83,582    
    Less: Depr & Amort   (27,781 )   (27,555 )   (17,824 )   (17,022 )  
    Consolidated EBIT   74,892     54,568     85,569     66,560    
    Less: Interest expense   (4,452 )   (5,893 )   (4,452 )   (5,893 )  
    Less: Income tax expense   (15,934 )   (10,287 )   (18,390 )   (13,045 )  
    Net earnings $ 54,506     38,388     62,727     47,622    
                           

        
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
       
            March 31,
    2025
      September 30,
    2024
                 
    Assets          
      Cash and cash equivalents $ 57,397   65,963
      Accounts receivable, net   218,123   240,680
      Contract assets   125,281   130,534
      Inventories   231,200   209,164
      Other current assets   28,752   22,308
        Total current assets   660,753   668,649
      Property, plant and equipment, net   172,081   170,596
      Intangible assets, net   394,594   407,602
      Goodwill   536,222   539,899
      Operating lease assets   38,322   37,744
      Other assets   13,690   14,130
          $ 1,815,662   1,838,620
                 
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity        
      Current maturities of long-term debt $ 20,000   20,000
      Accounts payable   81,244   98,371
      Contract liabilities   128,114   124,845
      Other current liabilities   92,661   106,638
        Total current liabilities   322,019   349,854
      Deferred tax liabilities   72,580   75,333
      Non-current operating lease liabilities   35,948   34,810
      Other liabilities   39,787   39,273
      Long-term debt   68,000   102,000
      Shareholders’ equity   1,277,328   1,237,350
          $ 1,815,662   1,838,620

        
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
           
        Six Months
    Ended
    March 31, 2025
      Six Months
    Ended
    March 31, 2024
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net earnings $ 54,506     38,388  
    Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash        
    provided by operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization   27,781     27,555  
    Stock compensation expense   5,323     4,144  
    Changes in assets and liabilities   (27,207 )   (47,869 )
    Effect of deferred taxes   (2,128 )   (2,981 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   58,275     19,237  
             
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired     (56,179 )
    Capital expenditures   (15,350 )   (16,301 )
    Additions to capitalized software   (5,465 )   (5,912 )
    Net cash used by investing activities   (20,815 )   (78,392 )
             
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from long-term debt   66,000     154,000  
    Principal payments on long-term debt and short-term borrowings   (100,000 )   (65,000 )
    Dividends paid   (4,130 )   (4,125 )
    Purchases of common stock into treasury     (7,189 )
    Other   (6,146 )   (1,432 )
    Net cash (used) provided by financing activities   (44,276 )   76,254  
             
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   (1,750 )   471  
             
    Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents   (8,566 )   17,570  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   65,963     41,866  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 57,397     59,436  

        
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Other Selected Financial Data (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
       
    Backlog And Entered Orders – Q2 2025   A&D   USG   Test   Total
      Beginning Backlog – 1/1/25 $ 606,687     122,857     177,404     906,948  
      Entered Orders   121,706     92,184     76,950     290,840  
      Sales     (123,369 )   (90,767 )   (51,383 )   (265,519 )
      Ending Backlog – 3/31/25 $ 605,024     124,274     202,971     932,269  
                         
    Backlog And Entered Orders – YTD Q2 2025   A&D   USG   Test   Total
      Beginning Backlog – 10/1/24 $ 600,382     119,943     158,644     878,969  
      Entered Orders   242,312     181,758     141,775     565,845  
      Sales     (237,670 )   (177,427 )   (97,448 )   (512,545 )
      Ending Backlog – 3/31/25 $ 605,024     124,274     202,971     932,269  

       
       

    ESCO TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES  
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited)  
             
    EPS – Adjusted Basis Reconciliation – Q2 2025      
      EPS – GAAP Basis – Q2 2025 $ 1.20  
      Adjustments (defined below)   0.15  
      EPS – As Adjusted Basis – Q2 2025 $ 1.35  
             
      Adjustments exclude $0.15 per share consisting primarily of acquisition      
      related amortization.      
      The $0.15 of EPS adjustments per share consists of $5.2 million of pre-tax      
      charges offset by $1.2 million of tax benefit for net impact of $4 million.      
             
    EPS – Adjusted Basis Reconciliation – Q2 2024      
      EPS – GAAP Basis – Q2 2024 $ 0.90  
      Adjustments (defined below)   0.19  
      EPS – As Adjusted Basis – Q2 2024 $ 1.09  
             
      Adjustments exclude $0.19 per share consisting primarily of $0.02 of MPE      
      acquisition backlog charges, $0.02 of restructuring charges within the Test      
      and A&D segments, and $0.15 of acquisition related amortization.      
      The $0.19 of EPS adjustments per share consists of $6.2 million of pre-tax charges      
      offset by $1.4 million of tax benefit for net impact of $4.8 million.      
             
    EPS – Adjusted Basis Reconciliation – YTD Q2 2025      
      EPS – GAAP Basis – YTD Q2 2025 $ 2.11  
      Adjustments (defined below)   0.31  
      EPS – As Adjusted Basis – YTD Q2 2025 $ 2.42  
             
      Adjustments exclude $0.31 per share consisting primarily of $0.01 of restructuring      
      charges within the Test segment and $0.30 of acquisition related amortization.      
      The $0.31 of EPS adjustments per share consists of $10.7 million of pre-tax charges      
      offset by $2.5 million of tax benefit for net impact of $8.2 million.      
             
    EPS – Adjusted Basis Reconciliation – YTD Q2 2024      
      EPS – GAAP Basis – YTD Q2 2024 $ 1.49  
      Adjustments (defined below)   0.36  
      EPS – As Adjusted Basis – YTD Q2 2024 $ 1.85  
             
      Adjustments exclude $0.36 per share consisting primarily of $0.05 of MPE acquisition      
      backlog charges, inventory step-up charges and acquisition costs, $0.02 of      
      restructuring charges, and $0.29 of acquisition related amortization.      
      The $0.36 of EPS adjustments per share consists of $12 million of pre-tax charges      
      offset by $2.8 million of tax benefit for net impact of $9.2 million.      

    SOURCE ESCO Technologies Inc.
    Kate Lowrey, Vice President of Investor Relations, (314) 213-7277

    The MIL Network –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube, Titus Introduce Bill to Counter Drone Threats at Stadiums and Public Events)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    May 07, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Dina Titus (D-Nev.) this week led a bipartisan coalition to introduce the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act, legislation that permits trained state and local law enforcement officers to intercept and disable hostile drones at stadiums and other large-scale events protected by temporary flight restrictions.“Whether it’s a packed stadium or a large outdoor gathering, our communities deserve to enjoy these moments without fear of surveillance or disruption from above,” said Rep. Steube. “The DEFENSE Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to protect Americans attending high-profile events from dangerous and unauthorized drones.”“People travel to Las Vegas from all over the world to experience our world class entertainment and live sporting events,” said Rep. Dina Titus. “I am proud to co-lead this bill to give our state and local law enforcement the tools they need to keep fans, athletes, performers, and stadium workers safe from aerial threats.”Current law authorizes only federal authorities to counter rogue drone incursions. While state and local authorities often have a larger presence at sporting events, the gap created in real-time event security denies state and local officials the ability to address unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that threaten the safety of the stadium attendees. The DEFENSE Act would change that by authorizing the Department of Homeland (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to extend temporary authority to state and local officers—provided they receive proper training and oversight—to use approved counter-UAS technology to detect, monitor, and respond to airborne threats. Authorized equipment would be limited to systems approved by DHS in coordination with DOJ, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The bill also requires full federal oversight and compliance with airspace and privacy laws.Representatives Steube and Titus partnered with four of their House colleagues, Representatives Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.), Cory Mills (R-Fla.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), and Lou Correa (D-Calif.) as well as Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) who have proposed companion legislation in the Senate.“Stadiums and spectators at large events are vulnerable to unauthorized drone activity, which puts both public safety and national security at risk,” said Senator Cotton. “Our bill empowers local authorities to safeguard large public gatherings from aerial threats.”
    “Major events — including sports and live entertainment — play a significant role in supporting our economy in Las Vegas and across the country, and we need to ensure they are safe,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan bill would enable state and local law enforcement to better mitigate threats posed by drones to the security of these high attendance events.” 
    “The DEFENSE Act allows local law enforcement to step in when drones threaten large public events,” said Rep. Yakym. “Whether it’s a sold-out game or a concert, this act ensures people can enjoy these moments without worrying about what’s flying overhead.”“With the growing number of drones in use it is paramount that our state and local law enforcement agencies are able to be granted the proper authority to protect citizens at large events and gatherings,” said Rep. Mills. “Events like NASCAR races, rallies, or other large public events should be safe and this bill provides the ability for local law enforcement agencies to protect their citizens.”“As we continue to see the rise of drones and unmanned aircraft systems as a potential threat to public safety, it’s critical that state and local law enforcement have the tools and resources they need to protect our communities, especially at large-scale events that are at increased risk,” said Rep. Tokuda. “I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to ensure that our local partners in law enforcement can respond quickly and effectively to unauthorized drone activity and keep our people safe from harm.”“The economic engine of Orange County is tourism. From sports to live concerts, Orange County is proud to host hundreds of outdoor events each year. We must ensure that these major events which draw thousands of attendees are safe,” said Rep. Correa. “I’m proud to join my colleagues—Democrat and Republican—in introducing this commonsense, bipartisan legislation to give state and local law enforcement the tools they need to counter threats posed by drones and other unauthorized aircraft.”This legislation has the backing of numerous national sports organizations, including the NFL, MLB, NCAA, and NASCAR, which have all expressed support for expanding drone countermeasure authority to protect fans, players, and event staff. For additional background, see this report from ESPN.“The NFL applauds the bipartisan group of sponsors for their leadership in introducing the DEFENSE Act in the House of Representatives. As the threat of illicit drone activity continues to rise, it is critical that our state and local law enforcement partners have the tools and resources they need to keep fans safe at major sporting events across the country.   This legislation will help to do just that, and we urge Congress to adopt it as soon as possible.  Doing so is vital to the security of our homeland.”  —Cathy Lanier, Chief Security Officer, National Football League“Major League Baseball (MLB) applauds the leadership of Representatives Greg Steube, Dina Titus, Lou Correa, Cory Mills, and Rudy Yakym in introducing H.B. 3207, the DEFENSE Act. This bill is crucial for enabling trained state and local law enforcement to use counter-drone technology to safeguard sporting venues from unauthorized unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or drones). MLB has long recognized the threat that unauthorized drones pose to its 30 stadiums nationwide, and has urged Congress to take the requisite steps to provide law enforcement with the tools and authority necessary to protect our fans, players, and employees. If enacted, this bipartisan bill will enhance the safety of America’s pastime for the 70 million fans attending our games each year. We look forward to collaborating with the bill’s sponsors and others to advance this important piece of legislation.” —David Thomas, Major League Baseball Senior Vice President of Security and Ballpark Operations“Drone related threats continue to pose real risks for events and communities across the country. The DEFENSE Act, introduced by Representatives Steube, Titus, Correa, Mills, and Yakym, provides important authority to trusted law enforcement agencies around the country who are integral partners at each of our races.” —Allen Taylor, Managing Director, Security, NASCAR“The NCAA remains concerned about the threat of unauthorized drones at NCAA championships and college sporting events. The safety of the competitors, fans, and staff that work at NCAA events is our top priority and we applaud Rep. Steube and Rep. Titus for their leadership on this issue.” —Tim Buckley, Senior Vice President of External Affairs, NCAA“The safety of our teams and fans is a key priority at athletics events.   The SEC commends Representatives Greg Steube and Dina Titus for introducing this important legislation that is intended to provide public safety officials on campuses and in the communities they serve with enhanced measures to address unauthorized drone usage, and for joining the bipartisan leadership of Senator Tom Cotton and Senator Jacky Rosen on this issue.” —SEC Commissioner Greg SankeyRead the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan is fully capable of defending its borders and responding to Indian aggression: PM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) — Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday said his country is fully capable of defending its geographical borders and responding to any aggression from India.

    Sh. Sharif made this statement while speaking in the National Assembly (lower house of parliament) of Pakistan.

    Pakistan shot down five Indian military aircraft without entering Indian airspace, he said.

    Pakistan’s National Security Council has “authorised” the army to take “appropriate” countermeasures in response to the Indian attacks, which killed 26 civilians and injured 46, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Tensions between the two South Asian neighbours have escalated after an attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which Indian media reported killed at least 25 people. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is worsening gender-based violence against women

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Annie Bunting, Professor of Law & Society, York University, York Research Chair in International Gender Justice & Peacebuilding, York University, Canada

    In early 2025, the March 23 Movement (M23) armed group seized control of Goma and then Bukavu, two major cities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

    M23’s advance and control in eastern DRC, in defiance of ceasefire agreements, has terrorized communities and led to mass displacement. More than two million people have since been internally displaced in eastern DRC; close to one million people were displaced in 2024 alone.




    Read more:
    M23’s capture of Goma is the latest chapter in eastern Congo’s long-running war


    Civilians are caught in a devastating humanitarian crisis involving sexual and gender-based violence. This kind of violence not only contributes to forced displacement, but displaced women are also more at risk of gender-based violence during times of ongoing fighting.

    Furthermore, signs point to gendered violence worsening: in just the last two weeks of February 2025, UNHCR reported 895 reports of humanitarian workers being raped. Previous research has shown that sexual and gender-based violence continues through periods of political transition, and
    worsens
    when state militaries are weaker than rebel forces.

    The risks and drivers of displacement

    To understand these risks, in December 2024 researchers with the Congolese organization Solidarité Féminine Pour La Paix et le Développement Intégral (SOFEPADI) interviewed 89 displaced women and 30 members of civil society organizations working in internally displaced person camps around Goma.

    We worked with a team of researchers from SOFEPADI, co-ordinated by SOFEPADI program officer Martin Baguma and national co-ordinator Sandrine Lusamba, and with research assistance from Cora Fletcher, a master’s student at Dalhousie University, to put together our recently published report that outlines some of the key findings from the interviews.

    The overwhelming majority of respondents had experienced or witnessed sexual and gender-based violence. While interviewers were careful to avoid direct questions so as not to induce trauma, dozens of women nonetheless disclosed personal experiences.

    These interviews show just how vulnerable the population is, and how an already dire situation for women and girls has been made exponentially worse over the past six months.

    Displaced women were extremely likely to have experienced conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence: 97 per cent of those interviewed were victims of or had witnessed violence during the conflict, with one stating that sexual violence had contributed to their displacement:

    “I was living in Kitshanga and then the war started, but I didn’t leave right away. One day I went to the field and I was raped. That’s the day I left Kitshanga and I came here [to the camp].”

    Over 70 per cent of interviewees identified M23 as the direct cause of their displacement. A further five per cent indicated that their displacement had been caused by Rwanda’s armed forces, either alone or in conjunction with M23.

    One woman from Kitshanga, a town roughly 150 kilometres away from Goma, stated that she had been displaced following “massacres, rapes, and the war…caused by the M23.”

    Perpetrators everywhere, protection nowhere

    M23 troops were not the only group identified as being responsible for perpetrating sexual and gender-based violence during displacement and in the camps. The crisis has led to widespread gender violence perpetrated by armed groups and forces, including the Congolese military and military-allied militias, civilians and groups of bandits.

    The breadth of perpetrators, challenges in identifying perpetrators, and the shifting status of civilians/ militia members all impact opportunities to hold individuals accountable and to meaningfully prevent sexual and gender-based violence through targeted initiatives.

    Despite the significant number of international forces operating in eastern DRC, both civil society representatives and displaced women expressed little confidence in these forces’ ability to prevent sexual and gender-based violence.

    Goma remains the operational centre of the United Nations MONUSCO peacekeeping mission. Yet, of the 89 displaced women interviewed, only one identified MONUSCO troops as providing security in the areas surrounding the camps. In the eyes of most of the respondents, international forces are simply absent.

    Scattered survivors and thwarted justice

    Since the M23 takeover, international attention has been drawn to the crisis, and there is renewed focus by the International Criminal Court on combatting impunity and securing accountability for atrocity crimes.

    Organizations on the ground, however, remain under-resourced and over-stretched. Access to healthcare (including mental health support), banking, economic support, children’s education, and justice are all severely constrained – a point consistently emphasized by affected women interviewed.

    Repeated displacement of vulnerable people, including survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, is likely to further frustrate attempts at holding responsible actors to account, has made it near-impossible to track where women are going, to provide necessary and ongoing support.

    With the recent order from M23 for civilians to leave IDP camps, already uprooted women are displaced once again, with little access to humanitarian aid. Civilians have been dispersed, with many unable to return to their villages due to fighting.

    Others have returned to find their homes have been burned or looted and there is tension between neighbours over access to land and resources. Human rights defenders are also at grave risk of violence, with mass prison breaks and legal institutions not functioning.

    The need for action

    The DRC government and M23 have reportedly resumed peace talks to end the fighting. The security situation in eastern DRC is shifting rapidly, and the context that these interviews took place in only three short months ago has changed. The airport in Goma remains closed, thwarting the flow of humanitarian aid. What remains consistent are high levels of forced displacement, sexual and gender-based violence and an internationalized conflict that has worsened women’s security.

    With women and girls uniquely and disproportionately impacted, responses to this dire security situation must include and urgent and durable ceasefire and increased humanitarian support.

    Women must be at peace talks. Immediate steps must be taken to alleviate humanitarian suffering, to protect women and girls from further violence and abuse, and to move toward a peaceful resolution that results in Congolese civilians able to return to their homes and begin the process of recovering from this devastating conflict.

    Annie Bunting receives funding from the Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy and Trends (XCEPT) research programme, funded by the UK Department for International Development.

    Heather Tasker receives funding from the UK International Development through the Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy and Trends (XCEPT) research programme.

    – ref. Fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is worsening gender-based violence against women – https://theconversation.com/fighting-in-eastern-democratic-republic-of-congo-is-worsening-gender-based-violence-against-women-255374

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting New York’s Public Workforce

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today highlighted her administration’s commitment to supporting New York’s public workforce in honor of Public Service Recognition Week, a nationwide celebration of the contributions of public service employees at the local, state and federal levels. Since the launch, New York State has received 5,689 applications and hired 50 former federal workers into the state workforce as a result of Governor Hochul’s “You’re Hired” campaign — these public service employees will serve in positions all across the state’s public service sector. In addition, the Governor issued a proclamation declaring Public Service Recognition Week in New York from May 4-10, 2025, and announced that state landmarks would be lit blue in celebration, building on Governor Hochul’s continued support for public workers.

    “Public service employees are the backbone of our state — their dedication and commitment to providing New Yorkers with essential services every day does not go unnoticed,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State employees are essential to bolstering our state’s success, and I remain committed to expanding our hardworking public workforce through our ‘You’re Hired’ initiative. We know you’re essential and New York wants you in every part of the public service sector.”

    New York State Department of Civil Service Commissioner and Civil Service President Timothy R. Hogues said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we are building the ranks of New York’s public workforce to provide the best services to all New Yorkers. Our public employees work hard each and every day to serve their neighbors and make a difference in people’s lives. We are grateful for their dedication and commitment to making New York a great place to live.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “I am so grateful to the hundreds of thousands of employees who have dedicated their careers to public service, creating a safer and stronger New York State. Even in the face of changing times, the commitment and perseverance of our public workforce has not wavered. With competitive pay and robust benefits, I encourage others to answer the call to state service and build a better New York.”

    Since taking office, Governor Hochul has implemented several initiatives to strengthen New York’s public workforce. In February 2025, Governor Hochul launched the “You’re Hired” initiative to recruit talented displaced federal public sector workers into State service. In 2024, the state launched the NY HELPS program, temporarily waiving civil service exam requirements for many job vacancies, resulting in more than 25,000 appointments in state government, on top of 6,000 appointments in local governments. In 2023, Governor Hochul extended 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave to the entire state workforce for the first time in state history.

    Additionally, the state created 10 Centers for Careers in Government, offering job seekers guidance on civil service systems and career opportunities. The Governor has also lifted the state employment hiring freeze, expanded opportunities for individuals and veterans with disabilities, and funded new testing centers to further support the public workforce.

    The landmarks to be lit in honor of Public Service Recognition Week include:

    • One World Trade Center
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • Empire State Plaza
    • State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: 26 civilians killed, 46 injured in Indian attack on Pakistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) — Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others were injured in Indian attacks on civilian areas in six districts of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, head of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said at a briefing.

    He said India had attacked homes and mosques, targeting civilians in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir and eastern Punjab province.

    He confirmed that the Pakistan Air Force had shot down five Indian fighter jets and one drone, the remains of which fell in Indian territory. “None of the Pakistani aircraft entered Indian airspace,” he added.

    The ISPR chief said that the Pakistan army hit several posts and a brigade headquarters of the Indian army in a retaliatory strike. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Hyde-Smith Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Violence Against Health Care Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) introduced bipartisan legislation to curb violence against health care workers. The Save Healthcare Workers Act would help deter and prevent violence against health care workers by making it easier to prosecute individuals who commit violence against hospital employees.
    The legislation would establish fines and federal criminal penalties for persons convicted of assaulting hospital personnel, with increased penalties for the use of deadly or dangerous weapons or infliction of bodily harm. These penalties would provide hospital staff with the same existing protections given to flight attendants and airport workers. If passed, the Save Healthcare Workers Act would be the first federal law to protect threatened hospital employees — including those who work in states that have not enacted laws imposing penalties for harming healthcare workers.
    “Maine’s health care workers deserve respect and appreciation for the work they do to keep our communities safe and healthy — there should never be injuries in the lines of duty for those delivering care,” said Senator King. “As violence against health care workers rises, we have a duty to protect the men and women serving in hospitals and health care facilities. The bipartisan Save Healthcare Workers Act will help to combat this senseless violence and ensure it no longer goes unpunished — keeping staff safe and free from harm so they’re able to focus on patient care.”
    “I am proud that Mississippi has been leading the way by strengthening laws to protect our healthcare workers. But we know there’s still more work to do on the federal level, and this bill is a big part of that,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “I believe the federal government can help deter violence and keep our healthcare workers safe by establishing stronger penalties for those who assault hospital employees. Our legislation will protect these workers and, importantly, the people who rely on their care.”
    “Workplace Violence continues to be pervasive across Maine hospitals, with hospitals reporting over 300 incidents each month — of which half are physical assaults,” said Sally Weiss, Vice President of the Maine Hospital Association.  “A multipronged approach is needed to address this epidemic; however, federal legislation like the Save Healthcare Workers Act would act as a deterrent and send a strong message — just as it does for the aviation industry — that the safety and wellbeing of health care workers matters.  We thank Senator King for his advocacy and support on this issue and sponsoring this legislation to provide better protection for all health care workers across the U.S..”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: The King’s speech: The world will be watching when Charles opens Canada’s Parliament

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Justin Vovk, European Royal History Reseacher, McMaster University

    Prime Minister Mark Carney has invited King Charles to embark upon a Royal Visit to Canada and open the new session of Parliament on May 27.

    The visit comes at a significant moment in Canadian history. Carney has just had his first meeting with Donald Trump, pushing back unequivocally against the American president’s continuing calls for Canada to become the 51st state.

    In their Oval Office news conference, Trump once again declared his desire to erase “the artificially drawn line” separating the U.S. and Canada and to annex Canada, as Carney made clear that would never happen.




    Read more:
    Mark Carney tells Donald Trump ‘Canada is not for sale’ in a high-stakes Oval Office meeting


    At the same time, Trump has been looking to reshape the global economic order through the use of tariffs on imported goods. Even though Canadians are fighting back with consumer and travel boycotts, many are also worrying about the future due to Trump’s actions.

    Amid this turmoil, the King’s timely visit could be a powerful show of support for Canadians, whose identity has often wilted in the shadow of its powerful but formerly protective American neighbour. The presence of the King will undoubtedly generate global attention, which could provide reassurances to Canadians that they’re not alone.

    Delivering the Speech from the Throne

    Charles is King of Canada and the country’s official head of state. This will be his 20th trip to Canada, but his first since becoming King in September 2022.

    In day-to-day government business, his duties are carried out by the Governor General. These include opening Parliament and delivering the Speech from the Throne, which outlines the government’s agenda.

    The King’s visit will mark the first time the sovereign has personally delivered the Speech from the Throne since Queen Elizabeth did so in 1957. She also opened a session of Canada’s 30th Parliament in 1977.

    Canada has maintained close ties with the United Kingdom. It still uses the Westminster parliamentary system. But Canada has also worked to establish its own national identity.

    In 1982, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau repatriated Canada’s Constitution. This replaced the British North America Act and established Canada’s full political independence, a process that began with Confederation in 1867.

    Signals of support to Canada

    Royal Visits are one of the monarchy’s most effective tools for promoting international relations. In Charles’s recent visit to Italy, he even made a point of honouring Canada.

    This upcoming visit is expected to highlight Canada’s identity separate from the United States. It will give Charles the opportunity to remind everyone of the Crown’s place at the heart of Canadian sovereignty and our constitutional relationship with monarchy. This is an image that Charles has been eager to foster since becoming King in 2022 following the death of his mother and amid waning enthusiasm for the monarchy in some Commonwealth countries.

    The King cannot make political statements — at least, not without the say-so of the prime minister. After meeting with Justin Trudeau in March before he was replaced by Carney as prime minister, Charles signalled his support for Canadian sovereignty through a series of subtle but important gestures.




    Read more:
    How King Charles is sending Canada subtle signals of support amid Trump’s threats


    He presented a ceremonial sword to the Usher of the Black Rod — one of the Canadian Senate’s senior ceremonial officers. A week later, Charles planted a red maple at Buckingham Palace to commemorate the late Queen Elizabeth’s support for international forestry. He even wore Canadian military insignia on his admiral’s uniform during a public inspection of a British aircraft carrier.

    Commonwealth ties

    The King’s visit could also reinvigorate Canada’s ties to the Commonwealth.

    Canada has long maintained positive relations with the other Commonwealth countries through shared culture, military action and economic support. This Royal Visit could solidify the beneficial role of the Crown and of the Commonwealth for Canada as it seeks to assert its sovereignty and broaden its international economic ties in the face of American tariffs.

    Many in Canada and around the world will be watching and listening to the King’s speech when he opens Parliament on May 27.




    Read more:
    King Charles’s coronation: Can the British monarchy shed its imperial past?


    It is unlikely there will be any direct references to Trump’s 51st state threats or to the president himself. But its symbolic significance could reaffirm Canada’s place on the world stage. It may also help to quell, at least for a little while, the growing calls to reconsider the need for the British monarchy at all in modern-day Canada.

    Justin Vovk has previously received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. Justin is currently on the advisory board of the Institute for the Study of the Crown in Canada.

    – ref. The King’s speech: The world will be watching when Charles opens Canada’s Parliament – https://theconversation.com/the-kings-speech-the-world-will-be-watching-when-charles-opens-canadas-parliament-255852

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming Guard Aviators Sharpen Wildfire Response Skills in Interagency Bucket Drop Training

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming National Guard

    By Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas

    Wyoming Guard Aviators Sharpen Wildfire Response Skills in Interagency Bucket Drop Training

    CAMP GUERNSEY, Wyo. – Wyoming Army National Guard aviators, in coordination with local and state firefighting agencies, conducted annual interagency bucket drop training April 16 at Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center, enhancing readiness for wildfire response across the state.

    The training brought together Wyoming Aviation crews and partners including Wyoming State Forestry, Camp Guernsey Fire Department, Cheyenne Fire Rescue’s Wildland Team, Glendo Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Albany County Volunteer Fire Department, Yoder Volunteer Fire Department, Guernsey Rural Fire District, and the Platte County Fire Warden. The exercise was designed to sharpen skills like water bucket deployment, aerial coordination, and ground-to-air communications.

    “This training supports both our federal and state missions,” said Maj. Brian Doble, operations officer for Training Center Command. “At the federal level, Camp Guernsey’s mission is to facilitate realistic military training. That training comes with an inherent wildfire risk. Our aviators often stand ready to respond, and this type of exercise—conducted with our interagency partners—builds confidence that we can effectively mitigate that risk.”

    According to Doble, the training also serves to prepare aviators for real-world wildfire suppression across Wyoming by ensuring they meet required state and federal certifications. Local firefighters benefit as well, gaining experience working with aircraft in wildfire scenarios.

    “This isn’t just about dropping water,” Doble said. “It’s about building relationships and practicing coordinated responses. You never want to meet your firefighting partners for the first time during an actual emergency. These joint exercises build trust and save time when it counts most.”

    Camp Guernsey’s unique terrain and mission make it an ideal location for such joint operations.

    “Conducting this kind of training at Camp Guernsey is mutually beneficial,” Doble explained. “We conduct planned burns to maintain a fire-adapted landscape that supports military training while protecting the surrounding environment. Our partners get critical live-fire experience, and the community benefits from reduced wildfire risk.”

    Doble emphasized the importance of cooperation in the region’s emergency response framework.

    “There isn’t a single department around here that can do it all alone,” he said. “We depend on each other. Whether it’s a planned burn or a real wildfire, these partnerships are what keep people safe.”

    A HH-60M Black Hawk, assigned to Wyoming Army Aviation Support Facility, releases water during an interagency bucket drop training at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, on April 16, 2025. The training brought together Wyoming Aviation crews and partners including Wyoming State Forestry, Camp Guernsey Fire Department, Cheyenne Fire Rescue’s Wildland Team, Glendo Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Albany County Volunteer Fire Department, Yoder Volunteer Fire Department, Guernsey Rural Fire District, and the Platte County Fire Warden. The exercise was designed to sharpen skills like water bucket deployment, aerial coordination, and ground-to-air communications.
    A HH-60M Black Hawk, assigned to Wyoming Army Aviation Support Facility, is airborne during an interagency bucket drop training at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, on April 16, 2025. The training brought together Wyoming Aviation crews and partners including Wyoming State Forestry, Camp Guernsey Fire Department, Cheyenne Fire Rescue’s Wildland Team, Glendo Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Albany County Volunteer Fire Department, Yoder Volunteer Fire Department, Guernsey Rural Fire District, and the Platte County Fire Warden. The exercise was designed to sharpen skills like water bucket deployment, aerial coordination, and ground-to-air communications.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming Air National Guard selected for C-130J upgrade

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Department of the Air Force has announced that the Wyoming Air National Guard base in Cheyenne has been selected to receive the C-130J Super Hercules, a modern upgrade to replace its aging fleet of C-130H aircraft.

    The decision marks a major milestone for the 153rd Airlift Wing and reflects the outstanding performance and reliability of Wyoming Airmen in support of missions at home and around the world. A total of eight C-130J aircraft will be assigned to Cheyenne, with the first deliveries expected to begin in early 2028.

    “This is a major win for the men and women of the Wyoming Air National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming’s Adjutant General. “It’s a result of their hard work, the trust they’ve built across the Air Force, and the strong support we’ve received from our state and national leaders. We are grateful.”

    As part of the transition, pilots and loadmasters will undergo new training and certification, while flight engineers and navigators will be phased out of C-130J crew configurations. The changes will affect 19 manpower positions, which will be reallocated through the Air National Guard’s corporate process.

    Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon emphasized the long-term value of the investment.

    “This decision speaks volumes about the professionalism and dedication of our Cowboy Guard,” said Governor Mark Gordon. “I’m proud of the work that’s gone into making this possible and thankful to the Air Force for recognizing Wyoming as a critical part of its future. These aircraft will keep our state ready to serve—both in crisis response and in support of national missions.”

    Members of Wyoming’s congressional delegation praised the announcement as a reflection of the state’s ongoing role in national defense.

    “The men and women of the Wyoming Air National Guard represent the best of our state,” said Senator John Barrasso. “This C-130J upgrade ensures they have the tools they need to carry out missions more efficiently and effectively. It’s a well-earned investment in their capabilities and our national security.”

    Senator Cynthia Lummis added, “Wyoming’s Airmen are responsive, lethal, and always there when called. The arrival of the C-130J fleet will secure our Guard’s ability to respond quickly in emergencies, while strengthening our presence in key military operations.”

    Congresswoman Harriet Hageman echoed that sentiment: “This is a big moment for Cheyenne and the entire state of Wyoming. The C-130J upgrade reflects our Wyoming Guard’s stellar record and the community’s strong partnership with the military.”

    The 153rd Airlift Wing has long played a vital role in the Air National Guard’s airlift capabilities, including aeromedical evacuation, humanitarian relief, firefighting with the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS), and global operations. The addition of the C-130J marks the next evolution in that legacy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: New direct air route links south China’s Haikou, London

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

    HAIKOU, May 7 — A new direct air route linking Haikou, capital city of China’s southernmost island province of Hainan, and London in Britain was launched on Wednesday.

    The route is operated by Hainan Airlines using a Boeing 787 wide-body aircraft, with one round trip per week scheduled.

    Outbound flight HU7911 departs from Haikou Meilan International Airport at 13:45 Beijing Time on Wednesday and arrives at London Heathrow International Airport at 19:30 local time the same day. Return flight HU7912 departs from London Heathrow at 22:00 local time and arrives in Haikou at 16:55 the following day, Beijing Time.

    Meanwhile, the airport authority also revealed that it plans to further increase the frequency of flights between Haikou and Kuala Lumpur, capital city of Malaysia, and between Haikou and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as part of its aim to continuously expand its network of both international and regional routes.

    These efforts aim to accelerate the airport’s development into a regional aviation hub serving destinations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, while supporting the growth of Hainan as an international tourism and consumption center.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Rudy R. Miller Among Most Generous Donors to National Museum of the United States Army Campaign

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT BELVOIR, Va., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Army Historical Foundation announced that Rudy R. Miller has presented a gift to the campaign for the National Museum of the United States Army that qualifies him for the Foundation’s One-Star Circle of Distinction. The Museum, which will debut a special Revolutionary War exhibit in June marking the 250th Birthday of the U.S. Army and next year’s 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, has been praised as one of the top military museums in the nation.

    Rudy R. Miller stated, “I became a member and early supporter of The Army Historical Foundation and the National Museum of the United States Army a few years ago. In 2024, I was very proud to become a lifetime member of The 1814 Society, which shares a commitment and desire to see the Army’s history preserved and exhibited for future generations. I have great respect for our flag plus symbols of our nation’s freedom and independence.”

    Miller continued, “I was born in Tennessee and raised in Virginia. My grandfather, father, uncle, brother, and myself all served in the U.S. Army. I am a passionate, motivated individual, a serial entrepreneur, and a philanthropist. I’m inspired by the Foundation’s challenge coin which has the following words engraved, “ENGAGE * EDUCATE * INSPIRE * HONOR * PRESERVE!”

    The Army Historical Foundation serves as the official fundraising organization for the National Army Museum as part of its mission to preserve and present the history of the American Soldier. The Museum, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Army, is the first to tell the entire history of the nation’s oldest military service, immersing visitors in the Army story through compelling galleries, moving exhibits, a multisensory 300-degree theater, tranquil rooftop garden, and hundreds of historic artifacts rarely or never-before seen by the public.

    “Rudy Miller has led a lifetime of service to our great nation, and we are deeply grateful that he has made a defining gift toward the Foundation’s mission to preserve and present the history of the American Soldier,” said retired Brig. Gen. Burt Thompson, president of The Army Historical Foundation. “With Rudy’s support, we will be better able to remind the nation of all we owe those who wore the Army uniform, including Rudy himself and the members of his proud military family.”

    Rudy R. Miller’s contribution places him among the campaign’s most generous donors. Mr. Miller is Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Miller Capital Corporation, a private equity firm and an affiliated company of The Miller Group of entities, established in 1972. Mr. Miller was Founder and Chairman of the Board of Miller Capital Markets, a FINRA member investment banking firm, from 2006 through 2012. He previously served over 20 years as a certified arbitrator for the NASD (now known as FINRA). He has years of executive-level experience owning, operating, and advising national and international corporations, from NYSE listed public companies to emerging-growth private companies, through varying economic climates. He has worked with various U.S. government contractors and possesses the ability to address crisis issues on behalf of his clients as one of his crucial skillsets. In 2025, Miller Capital was voted Best of Our Valley – Best Investment Firm for the sixth consecutive year by Arizona Foothills Magazine’s readers who responded with hundreds of thousands votes.

    Mr. Miller served in the United States Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and the U.S. Air Force Reserve, in the Vietnam era, and received honorable discharges as a Noncommissioned Officer. Mr. Miller also has an aviation background and is listed on the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Wall of Honor. Prior to his military service, he served as a fireman and first responder. Mr. Miller earned his Bachelor and Master of Business Administration degrees from Pacific Western University.

    President of the United States of America, Ronald W. Reagan, presented Mr. Miller the Medal of Merit in appreciation of his support and service as a member of a Presidential Task Force. Miller was honored to be the keynote speaker at a U.S. Navy Relinquishment of Command and Retirement Ceremony aboard the USS Midway Museum, San Diego, California in 2018. Mr. Miller accepted an invitation in 2014 to become a member of Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc., a non-profit organization for veterans and non-veterans. He was selected by the Board of Directors to be the Chairman of the Advisory Board where he developed and managed its Aviation Scholarship Program. Prior to retiring from Tbird2 in 2024, he served as Co-Chairman of the Scholarship Committee and a key fundraiser. He was the recipient of the first Tbird2 Leadership Award. Mr. Miller’s philanthropic endeavors include support for the non-profit arts community, athletic foundations, universities, community colleges, numerous non-profit entities, and veterans’ projects.

    In 2008, Mr. Miller instituted the annual Rudy R. Miller Business – Finance Scholarship in support of Arizona State University, in particular the W. P. Carey School of Business. His active involvement at the University also included having served as a member of ASU’s Dean’s Council of 100. In 2023, Mr. Miller was selected by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to join two influential advisory boards for both the College of Aviation (COA) and the College of Business, Security and Intelligence (CBSI). In addition to joining Embry-Riddle’s COA and CBSI advisory boards, Miller has established scholarships for students, both veterans and non-veterans, at both colleges. He also set up a fund to support COA simulator training to improve commercial pilot safety (ISCP) as well as a fund to support CBSI students with CompTIA Security+ courseware and exam fees.

    In January 2024, Mr. Miller accepted a position on the Advisory Board at CrossFirst Bank (Phoenix, Arizona), a subsidiary of CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc. Effective March 1, 2025, First Busey Corporation (NASDAQ: BUSE), the holding company for Busey Bank, acquired by merger CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc. Mr. Miller agreed to continue to serve on the Busey Bank (Arizona) Advisory Board.

    For more information about Rudy R. Miller and The Miller Group of entities, please visit www.themillergroup.net.

    Individuals and organizations that wish to support the Foundation’s mission can make a gift through its website at armyhistory.org. The Foundation can also arrange for large group visits and special events at the Museum. The Museum is open every day, except December 25, with free admission and parking.

    About The Army Historical Foundation
    The Army Historical Foundation establishes, assists, and promotes programs and projects that preserve the history of the American Soldier and promote public understanding of and appreciation for the contributions by all components of the U.S. Army and its members. The Foundation serves as the Army’s official fundraising entity for the Capital Campaign for the National Museum of the United States Army. The award-winning, LEED- certified Museum opened on November 11, 2020, at Fort Belvoir, Va., and honors the service and sacrifice of all American Soldiers who have served since the Army’s inception in 1775. For more information on the Foundation and the National Museum of the United States Army, visit www.armyhistory.org.

    Official photographer for The Miller Group and its affiliated entities – Gordon Murray, 480 205-9691 (www.flashpv.com)

       
    Contact: Contact:
    The Army Historical Foundation Miller Capital Corporation
    Lydia Pitea Kristina McDaniel
    Senior Donor Relations Manager Vice President Admin & Corporate Controller
    lydia.pitea@armyhistory.org kmcdaniel@themillergroup.net
    973.632.1244 602.225.0505
       

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ec64ce26-7579-48b1-9fe9-9388078f1411

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3b9eef90-f7c5-427f-9de6-05efa2a0daf5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cf3a312d-a7fa-4374-9fb0-efebf75aa551

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e0d35d5a-9a50-4004-886c-a838fc8936c5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a0900908-b6ab-4d6f-bf2f-e3bc81e5ba64

    The MIL Network –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft volunteers improved more than 50 monuments to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War on the eve of the Victory Day anniversary

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In anticipation of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, volunteers from Rosneft enterprises renovated and improved more than 50 monuments, memorials, obelisks, commemorative signs, and burial sites of heroes of the Great Patriotic War in different parts of Russia.

    In the regions where the Company operates, employees take an active part in commemorative events dedicated to the anniversary of the Great Victory.

    Volunteers from the Central Office and Moscow enterprises of Rosneft have landscaped the area around the monument to the workers of the Moscow Oil Depot who died on the fronts of the Great Patriotic War. In 1941-1945, the oil depot, located on Sormovskaya Street in Moscow, played a key role in supplying the capital with fuel, ensuring uninterrupted supplies of fuel for military equipment. The Company’s employees installed new stone vases near the monument and planted flower beds. The wall of the oil depot was decorated with a mural dedicated to the contribution of oil workers to the Victory.

    Environmentalists and activists of the Novokuibyshevsky and Kuibyshevsky Oil Refineries, the Novokuibyshevsk Petrochemical Company and the Novokuibyshevsky Oil and Additives Plant, together with volunteers from the EcoRavnovesie movement, improved the park in the village of Kryazh in the Samara urban district. There is a monument to soldiers who died during the Great Patriotic War. Volunteers collected and removed household waste from the area, laid out flower beds and planted a rowan alley.

    Employees of the Kuibyshev Oil Refinery have improved more than a dozen burial sites of veterans of the Great Patriotic War in the Kuibyshev District of Samara. The oil workers cleaned the graves of the front-line soldiers after the winter and painted the fences.

    Volunteers of the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery improved the Victory Alley and the area adjacent to the monument to home front workers. The memorial was erected in Novokuibyshevsk in 2022 on the initiative and with the support of the enterprise. In addition, the plant workers restored four burial sites of fellow countrymen – participants in the Great Patriotic War, installed new monuments, and improved the adjacent territories.

    Samaraneftegaz employees tidied up the monument to fallen heroes of the Great Patriotic War in the village of Mirny in the Samara Region. Volunteers cleaned up, painted the fences, and planted bushes and trees.

    In the Republic of Bashkortostan, in the city of labor valor Ishimbay, Bashneft volunteers together with activists of the Movement of the First improved the territory of the memorial to the Ishimbay oil workers who died in battles for the Motherland. The participants of the action collected and removed more than a ton of dead wood and household waste, painted the curbs and tree trunks.

    For several years, RN-Krasnodarneftegaz employees have been looking after the monument to the residents of the 2nd Zapadny farmstead in the Krymsky District of Krasnodar Krai. The fascist occupiers destroyed the farmstead along with all its residents in May 1943. Their memory is carefully preserved by Rosneft volunteers, who have taken patronage over the monument.

    In addition, RN-Krasnodarneftegaz volunteers tidied up the territory of the Monument to the Separate 16th Rifle Brigade in the village of Sputnik in the Seversky District of the Krasnodar Territory, the Memorial to those killed in the battles for the liberation of the village of Saratovskaya, the cultural heritage site “Mass grave of 52 Soviet soldiers killed in battles with the fascist invaders in 1943” in the Khankov farm in the Slavyansky District, the Victory Obelisk and the Worship Cross at the site of the death of Soviet citizens.

    According to a long-standing tradition, employees of the Tuapse Oil Refinery improved the monument to oil refiners who died during the Great Patriotic War and cleaned up the territory of Victory Park in Tuapse.

    Volunteers of the Ryazan NPK improved three memorial sites: a memorial in the village of Nikulichi in honor of the villagers who fought in the Great Patriotic War, a street named after the Hero of the Soviet Union and National Hero of Italy, a native of the Ryazan region, Fyodor Poletaev, and a monument to the pilots who died in an unequal battle with the enemy at the end of 1941.

    Udmurtneft employees together with activists of the Movement of the First improved the monument to those killed in the Great Patriotic War in the village of Svetloye in the Votkinsk district of Udmurtia. The company’s volunteers also participated in the arrangement of memorials in six settlements in the Sarapul, Sharkansky and Igrinsky districts of the republic.

    A large-scale volunteer initiative to improve war memorials was carried out by RN-Service employees. They tidied up the monuments to soldiers who died in Moscow hospitals and to fallen soldiers of the Kremlin Regiment. In Ufa, volunteers looked after individual burials in city and rural cemeteries. In Krasnoyarsk, oil workers improved the monument to “Soldiers-athletes of the Krasnoyarsk Territory – participants in the Great Patriotic War”. In Nefteyugansk, the monument to “Loyal Sons of the Fatherland” was renovated. In Buzuluk, work was carried out at the memorial to “Mass grave of soldiers of the Czechoslovak People’s Army” and at the burial sites of veterans. In the village of Kolva in the Komi Republic, the “Memorial sign to soldiers of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945” was improved. In the village of Sernovodsk in the Samara Region, the monument to “Defenders of all generations” was tidied up. In all regions, the patriotic event ended with the ceremonial laying of wreaths and a minute of silence.

    Volunteers from Voronezhnefteprodukt organized the cleanup of the military burial ground in the village of Chertovitsy, Ramonsky District, Voronezh Region. 383 soldiers who died of wounds in hospitals in 1942-1943 are buried here.

    Workers of Kaluga Oil Products cleared and landscaped the area around the memorial sign to pilots near the village of Kosmachi in the Babyninsky District of the Kaluga Region. The sign was installed 10 years ago at the site of the heroic death of the Pe-2 aircraft crew in 1941.

    Employees of RN-North-West take care of the memorial to the sailors of the warship TShch-100 who died there, guarding the “Road of Life” during the siege of Leningrad. The memorial is located in the village of Vladimirovka in the Priozersky District of the Leningrad Region.

    For several years now, Orelnefteprodukt employees have been patronizing a mass grave in the village of Gnilets, Trosnyansky District, Oryol Region. Here are buried 427 soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 605th Infantry Regiment, 132nd Infantry Division, who died in the fiercest battles on the Northern Face of the Kursk Bulge on July 7, 1943. This year, in honor of the Victory anniversary, volunteers have decorated a flower bed in the form of a St. George ribbon on the territory of the Vyazhi military-historical complex in the Novosilsky District, Oryol Region, where the offensive operation to liberate Oryol began in July 1943.

    Rosneft supports projects and initiatives aimed at preserving the historical memory of the immortal feat of the Soviet people during the Great Patriotic War.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft May 7, 2025

    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 –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: One Stop Systems Reports Q1 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    First quarter of 2025 consolidated gross margin increased 320 basis points year-over-year to 32.6%, on consolidated revenue of $12.3 million

    OSS segment gross margin of 45.5%, on OSS segment revenue of $5.2 million

    OSS segment experienced strong first-quarter bookings of $10.4 million

    Management continues to expect double-digit consolidated revenue growth in 2025 and consolidated EBITDA break even for the year

    ESCONDIDO, Calif., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Stop Systems, Inc. (“OSS” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OSS), a leader in rugged Enterprise Class compute for artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), autonomy and sensor processing at the edge, reported results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025. Comparisons for the three-month periods are to the same year-ago periods unless otherwise noted.

    “Our OSS segment achieved strong bookings during the first quarter of 2025, driven by growing demand from both new and existing commercial and defense customers. This positive trend highlights increased interest in our Enterprise Class compute solutions and validates our strategic focus on building multi-year, predictable revenue streams. Higher OSS segment orders are particularly encouraging amid ongoing uncertainty in business and government spending. Momentum remains strong, as the programs we are pursuing closely align with our customers’ evolving priorities on AI, ML, autonomy and sensor processing at the Edge,” stated OSS President and CEO, Mike Knowles.

    “As expected, our consolidated gross margin improved year-over-year and from the fourth quarter of 2024, supported by a 45.5% gross margin at our OSS segment, associated with a more profitable mix of products. While near-term market conditions affected the timing of certain OSS segment orders anticipated for the first and second quarters of 2025, we remain on track to achieve our 2025 annual guidance. In addition, we expect bookings to remain strong throughout the year within our OSS segment and support profitable revenue growth in the second half of 2025 and into 2026,” concluded Mr. Knowles.

    2025 First-Quarter Financial Summary

    Consolidated revenue was $12.3 million, compared to $12.7 million in the first quarter of 2024. OSS segment revenue decreased 5.9%, as compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to lower volume of shipments to a commercial aerospace customer, partially offset by higher volume of shipments to a defense customer. Bressner segment revenue decreased $65,637, or 0.9%, as compared to the same period in 2024.

    The following table sets forth net revenue by segment for the three months ended March 31, 2025, and March 31, 2024 (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding):

      Three Months Ended

    Entity:

    March 31,
    2025
      % of Net
    Revenue
      March 31,
    2024
     
    % of Net
    Revenue

      %
    Change
    OSS $ 5,206,810       42.5 %   $ 5,533,872       43.7 %     (5.9 )%
    Bressner   7,052,277       57.5 %     7,117,914       56.3 %     (0.9 )%
    Total net revenue $ 12,259,088       100.0 %   $ 12,651,786       100.0 %     (3.1 )%
                                           

    Consolidated gross margin percentage was 32.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to 29.4% in the prior year quarter. On a segment basis, the OSS segment had a gross margin of 45.5%, an increase of 11.3 percentage points as compared to the prior year of 34.2%. The increase in OSS segment gross margin was primarily due to higher volume of certain higher margin data storage units and componentry shipped in the quarter. The Company’s Bressner segment had a gross margin percentage of 23.1%, compared to 25.7% in the same period last year, due to product mix.

    Total operating expenses increased 19.2% to $5.9 million. This increase was predominantly attributable to higher marketing and selling costs due to an increase in personnel costs from the additions in headcount made during 2024 as well as an increase in research and development costs driven by higher engineering labor to support new product development.

    The Company reported a net loss of $2.0 million, or $(0.09) per share, as compared to a net loss of $1.3 million, or $(0.06) per share, in the prior year period.

    Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, was a loss of $1.1 million, compared to adjusted EBITDA loss of $500,452 in the prior year period.

    As of March 31, 2025, the Company reported cash and short-term investments of $9.1 million and total working capital of $23.1 million, compared to cash and short-term investments of $10.0 million and total working capital of $24.0 million at December 31, 2024.

    2025 Full Year Outlook

    OSS is executing a strategic plan targeting both commercial and defense markets, aiming to provide integrated solutions and establish OSS as a platform incumbent on large, multi-year programs. This approach is expected to drive long-term value by increasing predictable, recurring revenue and building a strong, multi-year backlog.

    As a result of OSS’ multi-year strategy, the Company continues to anticipate consolidated revenue of $59 to $61 million for the full year of 2025. This includes expected OSS segment revenue of approximately $30 million, representing over 20% year-over-year growth. In addition, the Company expects to be EBITDA break-even for the full year of 2025. Management expects revenue and profitability to improve at a higher rate in the second half of 2025 based on current trends and the Company’s expanding sales pipeline.

    Conference Call

    OSS will hold a conference call to discuss its results for the first quarter of 2025, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
    Time: 10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT)
    Toll-free dial-in: 1-800-717-1738
    International dial-in: 1-646-307-1865
    Conference ID: 57745 (required for entry)
    Webcast: https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1710966&tp_key=28a1f0fc7f

    A replay of the call will be available after 1:00 p.m. ET on May 7, 2025, through May 21, 2025.

    Toll-free replay: 1-844-512-2921
    International replay: 1-412-317-6671
    Passcode: 1157745

    About One Stop Systems

    One Stop Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSS) is a leader in AI enabled solutions for the demanding ‘edge’. OSS designs and manufactures Enterprise Class compute and storage products that enable rugged AI, sensor fusion and autonomous capabilities without compromise. These hardware and software platforms bring the latest data center performance to harsh and challenging applications, whether they are on land, sea or in the air.

    OSS products include ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, flash storage arrays, and storage acceleration software. These specialized compact products are used across multiple industries and applications, including autonomous trucking and farming, as well as aircraft, drones, ships and vehicles within the defense industry.

    OSS solutions address the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training and large-scale inference, and have delivered many industry firsts for industrial OEM and government customers.

    As the fastest growing segment of the multi-billion-dollar edge computing market, AI enabled solutions require—and OSS delivers—the highest level of performance in the most challenging environments without compromise.

    OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com. You can also follow OSS on X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We believe that the use of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or adjusted EBITDA, is helpful for an investor to assess the performance of the Company. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as income (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, acquisition expense, impairment of long-lived assets, financing costs, government funded programs, fair value adjustments from purchase accounting, stock-based compensation expense, and expenses related to discontinued operations.

    Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. Because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of equity instruments that can impact a company’s non-cash operating expenses, we believe that providing a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes non-cash and non-recurring expenses allows for meaningful comparisons between our core business operating results and those of other companies, as well as providing us with an important tool for financial and operational decision making and for evaluating our own core business operating results over different periods of time.

    Our adjusted EBITDA measure may not provide information that is directly comparable to that provided by other companies in our industry, as other companies in our industry may calculate non-GAAP financial results differently, particularly related to non-recurring and unusual items. Our adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP, and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or as an indication of operating performance or any other measure of performance derived in accordance with GAAP. We do not consider adjusted EBITDA to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial results.

      For the Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Net loss $ (2,017,634 )   $ (1,339,622 )
    Depreciation   223,847       289,547  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets net of change in lease liability   (2,032 )     55,997  
    Stock-based compensation expense   612,561       408,740  
    Interest expense   14,186       35,342  
    Interest income   (72,511 )     (141,725 )
    Provision for income taxes   109,466       191,269  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (1,132,116 )   $ (500,452 )
           

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Adjusted EPS excludes the impact of certain items and, therefore, has not been calculated in accordance with GAAP. We believe that exclusion of certain selected items assists in providing a more complete understanding of our underlying results and trends and allows for comparability with our peer company index and industry. We use this measure along with the corresponding GAAP financial measures to manage our business and to evaluate our performance compared to prior periods and the marketplace. The Company defines non-GAAP income (loss) as income or (loss) before amortization, government funded programs, impairment of long lived assets, stock-based compensation, expenses related to discontinued operations, and acquisition costs. Adjusted EPS expresses adjusted income (loss) on a per share basis using weighted average diluted shares outstanding.

    Adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial information provided in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures may not be computed in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. We expect to continue to incur expenses similar to the adjusted income from continuing operations and adjusted EPS financial adjustments described above, and investors should not infer from our presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures that these costs are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring.

    The following table reconciles non-GAAP net income and basic and diluted earnings per share:

      For the Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Net loss $ (2,017,634 )   $ (1,339,622 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   612,561       408,740  
    Non-GAAP net loss $ (1,405,073 )   $ (930,882 )
    Non-GAAP net loss per share:      
    Basic $ (0.07 )   $ (0.04 )
    Diluted $ (0.07 )   $ (0.04 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:      
    Basic   21,384,599       20,709,234  
    Diluted   21,384,599       20,709,234  
     

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Forward-Looking Statements

    OSS cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. . Words such as, but not limited to, “anticipate,” “aim,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “design,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “suggest,” “strategy,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions or phrases, or the negative of those expressions or phrases, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements include but are not limited to those relating to increased sales and revenues, non-GAAP financial measures, our multi-year strategy, increase in margins, and operating expenses. These statements are based on the company’s current beliefs and expectations. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by OSS or its partners that any of our plans or expectations will be achieved. Factors that could interfere with our ability to achieve our plans or expectations , include but are not limited to, our ability to expand our product offerings and further penetrate our target markets, future demand for AI/ML integrations, global socio-economic challenges, stock market uncertainty or volatility, reductions in business and/or government spending, and changes in our business strategies, management and/or senior leadership. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this press release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in our business, including risks described in our prior press releases and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, which is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Media Contacts:
    Robert Kalebaugh
    One Stop Systems, Inc.
    Tel (858) 518-6154
    Email contact

    Investor Relations:
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    Email contact

    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
      Unaudited   Audited
      March 31,   December 31,
        2025       2024  
    ASSETS      
    Current assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,498,468     $ 6,794,093  
    Short-term investments   2,620,169       3,217,065  
    Accounts receivable, net   7,245,983       8,177,371  
    Inventories, net   15,099,479       13,176,156  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   1,178,620       836,364  
    Total current assets   32,642,719       32,201,048  
    Property and equipment, net   1,472,160       1,669,026  
    Operating lease right-of use assets   1,463,099       1,536,094  
    Deposits and other   38,093       38,093  
    Goodwill   1,489,722       1,489,722  
    Total Assets $ 37,105,793     $ 36,933,982  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Current liabilities      
    Accounts payable $ 4,475,684     $ 2,068,017  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   3,730,499       4,806,675  
    Current portion of operating lease obligation   272,865       285,937  
    Current portion of notes payable   1,079,484       1,035,050  
    Total current liabilities   9,558,532       8,195,679  
    Deferred tax liability, net   45,572       52,574  
    Operating lease obligation, net of current portion   1,451,728       1,513,684  
    Total liabilities   11,055,832       9,761,937  
    Commitments and contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity      
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 21,582,196 and 21,148,810 shares issued and outstanding   2,158       2,115  
    Additional paid-in capital   49,824,911       49,082,737  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income   293,587       140,254  
    Accumulated deficit   (24,070,695 )     (22,053,061 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   26,049,961       27,172,045  
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 37,105,793     $ 36,933,982  
           
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)
     
      For the Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Revenue:      
    Product $ 11,848,713     $ 12,287,046  
    Customer funded development   410,375       364,740  
        12,259,088       12,651,786  
    Cost of revenue:      
    Product   7,912,314       8,818,756  
    Customer funded development   349,782       109,737  
        8,262,096       8,928,493  
    Gross profit   3,996,992       3,723,293  
    Operating expenses:      
    General and administrative   2,366,369       2,094,317  
    Marketing and selling   2,218,190       1,920,113  
    Research and development   1,357,293       970,877  
    Total operating expenses   5,941,852       4,985,307  
    Loss from operations   (1,944,860 )     (1,262,014 )
    Other (expense) income, net:      
    Interest income   72,511       141,725  
    Interest expense   (14,186 )     (35,342 )
    Other (expense) income, net   (21,633 )     7,278  
    Total other income, net   36,692       113,661  
    Loss before income taxes   (1,908,168 )     (1,148,353 )
    Provision for income taxes   109,466       191,269  
    Net loss $ (2,017,634 )   $ (1,339,622 )
           
    Net loss per share:      
    Basic $ (0.09 )   $ (0.06 )
    Diluted $ (0.09 )   $ (0.06 )
           
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:      
    Basic   21,384,599       20,709,234  
    Diluted   21,384,599       20,709,234  
           
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
     
      For the Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net loss $ (2,017,634 )   $ (1,339,622 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:      
    Deferred income taxes   1,737       (188,674 )
    Loss on disposal of property and equipment   –       354  
    Provision for bad debt   (100 )     –  
    Warranty reserves   –       (15,000 )
    Depreciation   223,847       289,547  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets   76,825       100,138  
    Inventory reserves   (146,200 )     94,063  
    Stock-based compensation expense   612,561       408,740  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    Accounts receivable   1,068,100       842,057  
    Inventories   (1,418,185 )     (66,013 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (332,400 )     (224,116 )
    Accounts payable   2,336,310       1,486,003  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   (1,461,601 )     700,041  
    Operating lease liabilities   (78,857 )     (44,141 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (1,135,596 )     2,043,378  
           
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Redemption of short-term investment grade securities   597,288       1,811,364  
    Purchases of property and equipment, including capitalization of labor costs for test equipment and ERP   (12,793 )     (167,168 )
    Net cash provided by investing activities   584,495       1,644,196  
           
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants   373,310       127,350  
    Payment of payroll taxes on net issuance of employee stock options   (243,654 )     (246,376 )
    Repayments on notes payable   –       (680,948 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   129,656       (799,974 )
           
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents   (421,445 )     2,887,600  
    Effect of exchange rates on cash   125,820       (32,446 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   6,794,093       4,048,948  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 6,498,468     $ 6,904,102  

    The MIL Network –

    May 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Aviation safety

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chow Man-kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

    ​It has been reported that a major air disaster occurred in South Korea in December last year, killing 179 passengers and crew members on board an aircraft, raising global concern about aviation safety. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as it has been reported that Boeing 737-800, the model of the aircraft involved in the aforesaid air disaster, accounts for approximately 15 per cent of the world’s passenger aircraft in service, whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the respective numbers of passenger aircraft of this model owned by the various airlines currently using Hong Kong as an operating base, and the specific information thereof (including the years of service of each aircraft, whether there have been any incidents on flights in the past, and whether safety inspections have been stepped up recently);

    (2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of bird strike warnings issued by the air traffic control towers of the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) in each of the past three years, as well as the number of reports received from flight crews regarding bird strike encounters or potential bird strike encounters; if so, of the details of each bird strike warning or report;

    (3) as it is learnt that the aforesaid air disaster has aroused grave public concern about the impact of birds on the landing and take-off of passenger aircraft, what measures are currently being taken by the Airport Authority Hong Kong and the CAD to reduce the impact of birds on the aviation safety in Hong Kong’s airspace; whether the authorities and relevant departments will strengthen the existing preventive measures against bird strikes on aircraft, so as to further reduce the risk of bird strikes; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (4) as it has been reported that a concrete wall located about 250 metres from the end of the runway at the airport concerned might have been one of the causes contributing to the eventual crash of the aircraft in the aforesaid air disaster, whether the authorities will consider conducting a comprehensive inspection of the runways at Hong Kong International Airport for the existence of similar potential safety hazards; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (5) as it has been reported that the aircraft involved in the air disaster had operated 13 flights in 48 hours prior to the incident, arousing public concern about whether airlines have sufficient time to conduct routine inspections and maintenance on their aircraft, whether the authorities will formulate measures to step up the monitoring of flight safety for flights to and from Hong Kong, and to ensure that the necessary safety inspections are properly conducted before each flight operation, so as to minimise navigational risks and allay passengers’ concerns about aviation safety; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    As the regulatory body of civil aviation affairs, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has been strictly regulating the operational safety and airworthiness of all aircraft registered in Hong Kong in accordance with the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 (Cap. 448C) and the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

    In consultation with the CAD and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), the reply to Professor the Hon Chow is as follows:

    (1) and (5) Every aircraft registered in Hong Kong is required to comply with the safety and design standards of the ICAO and the civil aviation authority of the State of Design, and must also comply with Hong Kong’s airworthiness standards in accordance with Cap. 448C and those issued by the CAD. These include relevant maintenance and operational records. 

    Currently, there are eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft registered in Hong Kong. To ensure the safe operation of all aircraft registered in Hong Kong, including the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the CAD will continue to monitor incidents involving various aircraft models, assess the latest developments, and take appropriate follow-up measures in a timely manner.

    In addition, in order to strengthen the safety oversight of foreign-registered aircraft, the CAD will continue to conduct safety assessment inspections on foreign-registered aircraft under a risk-based principle to ensure that aircraft operating at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) comply with international safety standards.

    (2) and (3) The AAHK and CAD have been closely monitoring bird strike reports and trends at HKIA. According to the Aerodrome Licensing Requirements Document, the AAHK is required to formulate procedures for bird strike hazard assessment at HKIA and implement corresponding control measures. The major bird control measures implemented by the AAHK include:
     

    • a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan has been developed specifically for HKIA based on the ICAO guidelines to control safety risks posed by wildlife (including birds) at the airport. The AAHK also hires bird experts to regularly observe bird activities within the airport and nearby areas, collect and analyse relevant data, and assist in formulating bird control measures to reduce the risk of bird strikes;
    • the Bird Control Unit has been established to implement bird control measures, including patrolling the runways and apron every day to ensure that there are no bird activities on the runways and apron and there are no creatures or objects that may attract birds. If Bird Control Unit officers find any bird near the runways or taxiways, they will drive away the birds by means of using horn, emitting strong light, firing crackers, etc. The Bird Control Unit also extends patrol hours during bird migration seasons to strengthen bird control;
    • with regard to plantation species and plant maintenance, the AAHK will only grow plant species that are less attractive to birds in the airport area, and will limit the grass height within the airfield area to between 100 millimetres and 200mm to avoid attracting birds;
    • contractors have been hired to clean up the garbage in the airfield area from time to time and conduct pest control regularly to avoid attracting birds to enter the airport area;
    • bird scaring and deterrent devices have been installed on all runways at HKIA; and
    • procedures have been established such that when air traffic controllers or airport staff receive bird strike reports, they will immediately notify relevant parties and personnel.

    According to the record in the past three years (i.e. from 2022 to 2024), there was an average of only approximately one bird strike report for every 10 000 aircraft movements each year at HKIA, and none of these reported events had caused serious damage to aircraft. It demonstrated that the above measures are effective in mitigating safety risks. The CAD will continue to review the AAHK’s bird control measures to ensure their effectiveness. 

    (4) The design of HKIA and its operations comply fully with ICAO runway design standards, including equipping each end of the runways with a runway end safety area, and there are no physical barriers near the runways. The AAHK has reviewed the equipment and installations at the runway end safety area and its extended area of HKIA, and confirmed that there are no concrete barriers in place. As for the navigation equipment and essential installations (such as meteorological instruments) that must be installed on the runways and in adjacent areas, they were designed and installed in accordance with the relevant guidance of the ICAO. The structure meets the frangibility requirement to reduce flight safety risks. The AAHK will continue to closely monitor the runways and their surrounding areas, as well as carry out maintenance works as necessary, to ensure that the pavement and surface remain smooth.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 7, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE leads delegation to visit Qatar and Kuwait

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, will lead a business delegation to visit Qatar and Kuwait on May 10. The visit aims to further strengthen exchanges and connections with the Middle East region in areas such as finance, trade, investment, and innovation and technology (I&T), and to promote the latest advantages and opportunities in Hong Kong to local political and business communities.
     
    Noting that the Middle East region is experiencing rapid development with abundant capital, Mr Lee said the region is actively seeking to diversify risks, particularly by channelling investments into China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region(HKSAR), aligning with the global economic shift towards the East. Qatar and Kuwait are both economically vibrant and fast-growing countries in the Middle East region. Qatar boasts the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita among the member states of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) and serves as a crucial aviation hub in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Kuwait, currently the rotating President of the GCC, ranks third in GDP per capita among GCC member states and possesses one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds.
     
    He highlighted that this marks his first time leading Mainland enterprises in addition to leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong in an outbound mission, aiming to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world. It also aims to give full play to Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” by deepening international exchanges and co-operation, acting as a bridge to serve enterprises in going global and attracting external investment. At the same time, it also demonstrates the complementary advantages of co-operation between Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises, creating synergies and providing comprehensive supply chain services.
     
    The HKSAR Government officials joining the Business Delegation from Hong Kong and the Mainland led by the Chief Executive of the HKSAR include the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip; the Commissioner for Belt and Road, Mr Nicholas Ho; and the Director of Information Services, Mrs Apollonia Liu.
     
    Members of the delegation include more than 50 representatives from the business community of Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises. This includes over 30 leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong and over 20 entrepreneurs from Mainland provinces such as Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong. The delegation spans fields including finance, industry and commerce, trade, infrastructure, I&T, energy, and transport and logistics.
     
    Mr Lee will visit Qatar on May 11 and 12 and depart for Kuwait on the evening of May 12. During the visit, he will meet with local government leaders to enhance communication and establish collaborative consensus, enabling businesses to clearly understand the policy directions of co-operation between the HKSAR Government and the governments of both countries, and leading the promotion of cultural exchanges. He will also lead the delegation to visit facilities and enterprises to gain insights into the latest developments in such areas as finance, trade, and I&T, exploring new opportunities. He will also attend exchange events to introduce Hong Kong’s advantages and investment opportunities to the local business community.
     
    Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on May 15. During his absence, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will be the Acting Chief Executive.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 7, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: GlobalData revises down global MAT insurance industry growth forecast due to increased US tariffs

    Source: GlobalData

    The global marine, aviation, and transit (MAT) insurance industry, which was forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% before the imposition of the reciprocal tariff from the US, is now expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during 2025-29, in terms of written premiums, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    On April 02, 2025, the US President announced “reciprocal” tariffs on imports. These tariffs include a base 10% plus additional tariffs ranging from 10% to 245%. Higher tariffs are typically imposed on specific products, but the blanket tariff rate of 10% on all countries will negatively impact the global economy. The countries that are mostly dependent on exports to the US will be severely impacted. However, there is a hold on this tariff for 90 days, except for China.

    According to GlobalData’s Insurance Database, the US accounted for around 50% of the global MAT insurance premiums in 2024. As per the revised forecast, high reciprocal tariffs will reduce US MAT insurance premiums by 1.4% in 2025, whereas the premiums of global MAT insurance will be impacted by 0.7%. The US is the largest importer in the world, with Mexico, China, Canada, Germany, and Japan being the top 5 exporting countries in 2023, accounting for 53% of the total US imports.

    GlobalData expects the CAGR of MAT insurance premiums during 2025-29 to reduce by 0.5pp in Mexico, 0.6pp in China, 0.5pp in Canada, 0.5pp in Germany, and 0.2pp in Japan.

    Swarup Kumar Sahoo, Senior Insurance Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The ‘Liberation Day’ tariff will disrupt the global MAT insurance as the premium growth will slow down in 2025 and subsequent years compared to the previous forecast. Although the global MAT business will experience a temporary surge during April-June 2025 due to the 90-day pause in the tariff, the growth will slow down once the tariff is in place. This will also impact the profitability of MAT insurers across the world.”

    The US has imposed a tariff in the range of 20% (Germany and Italy) to 245% (China) on the top 10 exporters, which contribute 69% of the total US imports, according to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC). Marine cargo business of all the markets except Canada and Mexico will be impacted, whereas for Mexico and Canada, which account for 29% of the total US imports, the aviation cargo and transit insurance will be disrupted.

    Sahoo adds: “The decline in MAT premiums growth rate will be due to both a decline in exports and the value of exported goods. In case the exporter absorbs the cost of the tariff, the cost of goods will go down, and this will reduce the sum insured and the respective premium amount. On the other hand, if the importer bears this, it will be passed on to the consumer, leading to a decline in demand.”

    To offset higher tariffs, importers have started either consolidating shipments or increasing the order size. The risk of theft and damage has increased due to the concentration of high-value goods at various points. Furthermore, the imposition of revised tariffs across countries will create complexities in customs clearance, leading to an increase in demurrage and detention fees.

    Insurers are expected to incur additional costs to rewrite such policies by considering the complexities and associated additional risks. Additionally, increased claims in marine cargo, aviation cargo, and transit will impact the profitability of insurers.

    Starting May 02, 2025, the US will eliminate the exemption of import tariffs on goods under $800 from China and Hong Kong. Due to this, DHL has suspended high-value business-to-consumer shipments to the US. Also, various airlines have suspended air cargo services for high-value goods. This will directly impact the air cargo insurance business.

    Sahoo concludes: “The imposition of the higher tariff will disrupt the global MAT insurance, impacting premiums growth, while increasing the associated risks. Insurers need to be vigilant as higher claims would erode profitability. Furthermore, MAT insurers in the US will lose their global market share as they write half of the global MAT business.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 7, 2025
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