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Category: Aviation

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Coons leads Senior Democrats in demanding additional information from White House after Trump disregards mishandling classified information by defense officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, led a letter to the White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles asking for additional details regarding their decision to close the case on the disclosure of sensitive information after The Atlantic revealed senior Trump Administration defense officials included a journalist in a Signal group chat about plans for U.S. strikes in Yemen. 

    Last month, The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg published a series of articles detailing his inclusion in a Signal chat with high-ranking Trump administration officials about upcoming military strikes conducted in Yemen. Despite lawmakers on both sides of the aisle calling for investigations into the officials and circumstances around the group chat, the White House said that this “case has been closed.” However, shortly after White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made those comments, the press reported that National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and his aides used personal Gmail accounts for government business. 

    The senators wrote, “It is unclear to us if this White House review included the existence of additional Signal group chats, or their contents, or the use of personal email accounts for government business.”

    In their letter, the Senators requested that Wiles answer the following questions:

    1. Did the White House review identify other instances in which Signal, or other unapproved personal applications such as Gmail, were used to conduct official business?
    2. How many additional Signal group chats were created to conduct official business? What topics were discussed?  Have those chats been archived in compliance with the Presidential Records Act?  Were subsequent classification reviews of the material conducted?
    3. What steps have been taken to ensure that the National Security Council’s archives directorate has accessed all communication on Signal, or other unapproved applications, to preserve the content of these deliberations in compliance with the Presidential Records Act?
    4. What, if any, disciplinary actions were taken as a result of the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive military information to a journalist?
    5. Was a formal classification review conducted of the messages included in the “Houthi PC small group” Signal group chat?  Did the Department of Defense and the United States Central Command concur with the proposed portion-markings contained in any classification review?
    6. Did this classification review assess the risk of adversary detection of U.S. aircraft if the adversary were able to obtain the precise take-off location of inbound aircraft?
    7. Is Signal an approved messaging application for the transmission of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)?
    8. What specific steps have been taken “to ensure that something like that can, obviously, never happen again?

    In addition to Senator Coons, the letter is signed by U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair; Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.); Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS).

    Last month, Senator Coons led his fellow democratic ranking members in sending a letter to the Acting Inspectors General of the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, the National Archives and Records Administration, and the Department of State calling for an investigation into the matter. 

    You can read the full text of the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Putin and Sobyanin visited the new campus of Bauman Moscow State Technical University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin visited the new campus of the Moscow State Technical University (MSTU) named after N.E. Bauman. He familiarized himself with the research and development of teachers, students and postgraduates in the field of space exploration, as well as in other areas. The Mayor of Moscow Sergei Sobyanin reported to the head of state on the work of the Moscow Government to develop Russia’s leading engineering university.

    Vladimir Putin also held a meeting at the university on the development of space activities, which was attended by representatives of departments related to this industry.

    “Our focus today is on the development of the domestic space industry for the long term. Addressing this topic is always a special responsibility to the pioneers of space, to those people who set the highest bar for us,” said the Russian President.

    Vladimir Putin congratulated veterans of the industry, cosmonauts and servicemen of the Russian Aerospace Forces on the recent Cosmonautics Day, and also thanked all employees of state enterprises, private space companies, scientific organizations and universities for their work. Particular attention was paid to the merits of the team of Bauman Moscow State Technical University, among whose graduates there is a whole galaxy of famous cosmonauts, outstanding scientists and designers.

    “The best traditions of personnel training are developing and multiplying these days, and, as we have seen, in the new campus. Modern conditions are being created here for obtaining in-demand competencies. Of course, we will implement such projects in other cities of Russia,” Vladimir Putin emphasized.

    Construction of the campus of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University

    The project for the construction of a new educational complex of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University was implemented by the Moscow Government together with the Russian Government on behalf of Vladimir Putin. The new campus became the first facility in the country built under the federal project “Creation of a Network of Modern Campuses”. It became part of the national project “Science and Universities”, the implementation of which has been ongoing since 2025 within the framework of the national project “Youth and Children”This is one of the largest and most complex projects in the field of development of higher professional education.

    “A total of 14 buildings with a total area of about 170 thousand square meters were built and restored in the shortest possible time. This was achieved through coordinated work – the facilities were built and designed in parallel. In almost 90 percent of cases, components and equipment from domestic manufacturers were used,” the Moscow Mayor said.

    in his telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    In 2022 – early 2024, six facilities of the MSTU research cluster were opened.

    The Life Sciences Engineering Cluster (formerly the Biomedical Systems and Technologies Center) is designed to implement modern educational programs, conduct research and development in the field of engineering and life sciences. Along with the educational programs of the Biomedical Engineering Faculty, research and development in the field of advanced biomedical engineering is conducted here. The building houses classrooms, including an office with a transformable partition, rooms for teachers, and a meeting room. Much space is allocated to advanced laboratories, including Biophotonics and Visualization of Living Systems, Neuroinfobionics, Rapid Prototyping, Cellular Technologies and Tissue Engineering, and Functional Hydrogels.

    The Engineering Center for Ground Transport and Technological Systems is designed to carry out research and development work, as well as to implement educational programs in the field of creation and operation of ground transport and technological machines and complexes. The building houses laboratories, engineers’ offices, educational and laboratory premises, office premises for employees, a classroom, premises for scientific research and meetings. The KAMAZ-Bauman Scientific and Educational Center and several specialized laboratories operate here. In particular, the Wheeled Machines laboratory has been opened, conducting work in five key areas, such as Traction Electric Drives and Mechatronic Transmissions, Intelligent NTTS Systems, Hydraulic Testing, On-Board Storage Devices, and Acoustic Testing.

    The multifunctional scientific and educational building is a new five-story building with an area of 20 thousand square meters, designed to accommodate research laboratories, scientific, administrative and educational spaces. The building houses seven departments of the university, as well as a complex of laboratories of mechanical engineering technologies, ground-based technological and launch equipment for rocket and space, vacuum and compressor technology. In total, 26 laboratories are open here, including laboratories of additive manufacturing technologies, reverse engineering and prototyping, research and certification of additive materials and additive manufacturing technologies.

    The exhibition and educational media space “Palace of Technologies” is located in the building of an architectural monument – the restored two-story Phanagoria barracks built in the 18th century. The ceremonial halls of the palace are intended for holding ceremonies, international meetings, scientific and educational forums and other thematic events of congress and exhibition activities. The university’s specialized departments are located here – the information policy department and the organizational and protocol work department. In December 2023, the building hosted the first open day of the Faculty of Robotics and Complex Automation, which was attended by more than 200 people. Representatives of the faculty prepared lectures on the digital transformation of industry, robotics and engineering infrastructure of a modern industrial enterprise. Applicants and their parents were told about the admission rules, curricula of educational programs, as well as future employment, career and salary prospects.

    The research center is a new six-story building with an area of 5.1 thousand square meters. The advanced engineering school “System Engineering of Rocket and Space Technology” operates on its basis. In addition, departments developing products for space and aviation have launched their activities here.

    The multifunctional library building is a restored three-story building of the chemical laboratory of the Imperial Moscow Technical School, built in the 19th century according to the design of the architect Lev Kekushev. It trains IT specialists. It houses classrooms and computer labs for lectures, seminars and laboratory work, specialized laboratories for classes with senior students of the university’s industrial partners – IT companies, as well as coworking spaces and premises for teachers and postgraduate students of the departments. Since February 2024, the building has been hosting strategic sessions, scientific and practical conferences and other socially significant events. In addition, it was used as an accreditation center on the day of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University alumni meeting, which was attended by more than two thousand people.

    Vladimir Putin and Sergei Sobyanin opened new buildings of Bauman Moscow State Technical University

    By September 2024, work on several sites was completed.

    The central cluster with a total area of about 51 thousand square meters includes five buildings of different heights – from four to six. The main task of the architects was to visually separate different functional areas without disturbing the overall harmony of the ensemble. To do this, they decided to detail the facades of the buildings with the help of scientific formulas. The facade glass looks different: in some places the formulas and equations are visible as clearly as possible, in others they are reflected, and in buildings with atrium spaces they can disappear depending on the viewing angle. All five buildings are united by a hovering dome roof – a membrane structure with an area of 2.5 thousand square meters, which will protect the ensemble and the inner courtyard from bad weather and make it more comfortable.

    The center of the square is the “tree of knowledge” – an oak tree, around which an amphitheater for students and employees of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University is located. The inner courtyard is open to city residents, which made it possible to create a new center for meetings and communication.

    The central cluster of Bauman Moscow State Technical University houses an innovation hub and a congress center, a cluster of “Environmental Protection Technologies – Green Territory”, a center of excellence and a scientific and educational cluster of digital transformation, a center of excellence and a scientific and educational cluster of “Digital Materials Science”, as well as a federal testing center.

    The multifunctional complex “Quantum Park” with a total area of 13.8 thousand square meters houses research laboratories with advanced equipment, including world-class “clean rooms”, co-working spaces and transformable spaces for presenting scientific developments.

    Today, it is one of the most advanced research complexes in the world. It is designed to solve practical problems at the intersection of quantum, photonic and fluid technologies that will determine the future of science and industry.

    The Quantum Park building is one of the largest and at the same time the most equipped in the new cluster. “House of Light” was the working title of the new building. The architects sought to make it truly airy and luminous.

    The Bauman Moscow State Technical University dormitory complex consists of the Spektr and Strela buildings. It is designed to accommodate about 2.3 thousand students.

    According to Sergei Sobyanin, a small plot of land between the river and the city collector was chosen for its construction. Now the dormitories have everything necessary for a comfortable stay of students.

    In addition to living quarters, the buildings with a total area of 60.5 thousand square meters house a multifunctional educational and leisure center, multimedia spaces and the necessary social infrastructure. An unusual form of faceted crystals was chosen for the student dormitory buildings: the monoform effect was achieved by increasing the size of the glass on the facades.

    The flat facade of the building reflects the surrounding environment during the day: trees, clouds and sun. From the street, spectacular panoramic glass spanning the entire floor is visible. The windows inside the building are not only beautiful, but also fully functional: there are window sills and ventilation sashes.

    The seven-story Spektr building on Gospitalnaya Embankment is designed for 550 students who live in single, double, triple and quadruple rooms. Some of the rooms have been adapted for people with disabilities. The residential units have a kitchen area, an entrance hall, a bathroom with a bathtub, and modern and functional furniture. The building houses the Novoselye information center. It processes documents for moving in and accepts requests for electrical, plumbing and furniture repairs. Public spaces include coworking spaces and rooms with individual work areas, music classrooms and rehearsal rooms. The Spektr building also has a modern canteen with 140 seats.

    Sergei Sobyanin announced the completion of construction of two new buildings of Baumanka

    Metro station and pedestrian bridges

    Simultaneously with the construction of the research cluster, the Moscow Government implemented a set of measures to develop transport infrastructure and improve the territory in the area of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University.

    Opened in 2020 Elektrozavodskaya station Large metro ring line. Thanks to the improvement of the adjacent territory, convenient approaches and access roads to it from residential buildings were provided.

    In April 2022, a pedestrian bridge across the Yauza River was opened near the new station. The 111-meter-long artificial structure connected residential areas on the Semenovskaya and Rubtsovskaya embankments, providing convenient access for teachers and students of Bauman Moscow State Technical University, as well as local residents, to the Elektrozavodskaya metro station of the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya and Big Circle Lines and the station of the same name on the third Moscow Central Diameter.

    In September 2024, the construction of a 243-meter-long bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Yauza River was completed. It provides a connection between the educational buildings of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University, as well as unimpeded passage from Rubtsovskaya Embankment to the buildings of the N.N. Burdenko Main Military Clinical Hospital. The artificial structure was made in the form of open caissoned steel structures with lighting from the bottom. This gives a sense of the fluidity of the bridge and the river beneath it. The smooth lines of the structures compositionally continue the lines of the concrete supports.

    The accent points of the bridge are the staircase and elevator units, made in the form of crystals. They harmoniously connect the appearance of the engineering structure with the architecture of the new campus buildings. In addition, the crystals have a symbolic connection with education and scientific activity. Cyclists and pedestrians can move along the bridge. There is a recreation area and a viewing area – a comfortable observation deck with an amphitheater. In addition to bike paths, the bridge is equipped with ramps for cyclists, stairways and elevators for people with limited mobility.

    Moscow Mayor: 25 Tunnels, Overpasses, Bridges and Overpasses Built in 2024

    Metallurg Stadium

    The historic Metallurg stadium on the bank of the Yauza River was donated to Bauman Moscow State Technical University. It became the university’s main home arena.

    According to Sergei Sobyanin, a complete reconstruction of the stadium is currently underway, within the framework of which a modern gym and changing rooms will be built here, and all the necessary infrastructure will be created.

    The comprehensive renovation of the sports facility is planned to be completed in the third quarter of 2025. It will house a football and rugby field, a basketball and volleyball court, beach volleyball, workout and tennis areas. In addition, sports enthusiasts will be provided with a physical education and health complex and an administrative and household complex with volleyball courts that can be transformed for other sports (table tennis, basketball and mini-football), as well as a hall for the volleyball super league, exercise machines, comfortable locker rooms, coaches’ rooms, a room for storing sports equipment and a first aid station. In addition, the stadium will have an event venue, a recreation area, a pavilion-cafe with a summer terrace and a children’s play area.

    The renovated Metallurg stadium will become a modern sports complex — Sobyanin

    Improvement of neighborhoods in the area of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University

    “Along with the construction of the research cluster, much was done to improve the transport infrastructure in the area of the university. The nearby neighborhoods were also improved,” said Sergei Sobyanin

    in his telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    Landscaping works were carried out in the areas located near the Bauman Moscow State Technical University complex of buildings and the Metallurg stadium. In particular, in 2023, landscaping of 14 objects was completed: Baumanskaya, 2-ya Baumanskaya, Malaya Pochtovaya and Ladozhskaya streets, as well as Staro-Kirochny, Denisovsky, Gardnerovsky, Brigadirsky, Maly Gavrikov, Gospitalny and Spartakovsky lanes, Proektiruyemy proezd No. 1106, the inter-yard area from Lefortovskaya Square to Gospitalny Lane, as well as Khomutovsky blind alley.

    Comfortable conditions for pedestrians were created on the landscaped streets: sidewalks were widened where possible, new outdoor lighting supports with energy-saving lamps were installed, and comfortable public spaces with places to rest were arranged.

     

    Four new pavilions with charging slots and information boards were installed at public transport stops. Convenient parking for 278 cars was arranged, and for cyclists – bicycle parking for 63 places.

    During the additional landscaping work, lawns and flower beds with a total area of over 14 thousand square meters were laid out, and large trees and shrubs were planted.

    Under the Clean Sky project, overhead cable lines were moved to underground collectors. In addition, storm drains were put in order, the asphalt pavement of the roadway was replaced, road signs and other infrastructure facilities were updated.

    Sobyanin: A number of areas near universities in Moscow will be improved by 2024

    In September 2024, the reorganization of the space between Lefortovo Embankment and Bauman Moscow State Technical University was completed. A convenient route from the main building of the university to the Faculty of Power Engineering and a new pedestrian path from Lefortovo Square to the embankment were created for students and teachers. The area in front of Lefortovo Palace was also transformed: an additional approach to the main building of the university was organized in place of the dilapidated buildings, the granite paving of the staircase near the building was renewed, benches were installed on the territory, a lawn was laid out and a video surveillance system was installed. The sidewalk along the embankment was widened, protective screens and lanterns with energy-efficient lamps were installed, and the parking area was reorganized.

    Leading space university in Russia

    Bauman Moscow State Technical University is rightfully considered the largest center for training personnel for the space industry. Among the university’s graduates are outstanding designers Sergei Korolev, Vladimir Barmin, Nikolai Pilyugin, many other managers and leading employees of industry enterprises, as well as 15 cosmonauts.

    Today, more than 4.5 thousand students are studying at the university in areas related to space exploration. By the end of 2024, 90 percent of graduates in these specialties were successfully employed.

    For the practice-oriented training of students and the implementation of research and development work on space topics, specialized divisions operate at Bauman Moscow State Technical University:

    — educational and experimental center based at the Dmitrov branch;

    — an educational and scientific youth space center with a flight control center, in which students develop microsatellites, payloads for space experiments, and special software and mathematical support;

    — the design bureau “Breakthrough Space Research and Technology”, which implements the full cycle of spacecraft and their systems development, integration of target equipment from third-party developers and leading domestic scientific organizations. Currently, there are six satellites in orbit, designed for weather monitoring and forecasting. They are also used for marine navigation of ships, including in the Northern Sea Route zone;

    — advanced engineering school “System Engineering of Rocket and Space Technology”. The federal project was created in 2022 on the initiative of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation with the aim of training specialists in the field of system design to solve breakthrough problems in the rocket and space industry, as well as to implement projects in the interests of high-tech companies. Special equipment and machinery have been purchased for specific educational and research purposes, which are already being used by teachers and students.

    Today, 160 students are studying at the engineering school. The training includes practical work at enterprises of the state corporation Roscosmos and private space companies in the laboratories of the advanced engineering school, work with mentors in team projects. Students in interdisciplinary teams participate in the implementation of research and development work commissioned by industry enterprises. The school works in several areas, including the creation of the Russian orbital station and the production of a promising component base to ensure Russia’s technological sovereignty in space.

    Which capital companies offer internship and practical training programs for university and college students

    On cooperation with the Moscow Innovation Cluster

    MSTU named after N.E. Bauman is a member Moscow Innovation Cluster. The university carries out research and development work for government and commercial customers in the field of creating spacecraft, electronic systems, and other strategically important areas. In particular, work is underway on the project of a small-sized descent vehicle “Zaryanka” – a system for delivering samples and materials for research from orbit of space stations.

    On the development of the Moscow aerospace industry

    Moscow is the center of the rocket and space industry of Russia, where over 40 enterprises, scientific and technical centers, laboratories and research institutes work. They employ over 30 thousand people. These are engineers and designers, developers and other specialists in related fields, thanks to whom almost everything is created in the city: from ultra-light cables to launch vehicles and components for spacecraft.

    In 2024, manufacturers of aircraft, including spacecraft, and related equipment increased shipments by 11.7 percent compared to 2023: companies delivered products worth about 214.4 billion rubles. The revenue of enterprises in 2024 amounted to almost 200 billion rubles, and investments in fixed assets exceeded nine billion rubles.

    The Khrunichev State Space Research and Production Center operates in Moscow. It is one of the basic enterprises of the Roscosmos state corporation, a leading domestic developer and manufacturer of space launch vehicles of various payload capacities and their components for federal and commercial programs. For example, it created the third stage, assembly units, payload fairing and other parts of the Angara-A5 heavy rocket, which was launched on April 11, 2024.

    The development of control systems for rocket and space technology is carried out by the Scientific and Production Center for Automation and Instrumentation (NPCAI) named after Academician N.A. Pilyugin. Here they produced the control system for the Angara-A5 rocket, and for the Proton-M launch vehicle – a single hardware and software complex that ensures control of pre-launch preparation and flight mode. In addition, the Fregat upper stage, designed to launch spacecraft into various specified orbits, is equipped with an integrated inertial-satellite control system of JSC NPCAI.

    A unique development of Moscow industrialists was space bread. The capital’s Research Institute of the Baking Industry is responsible for its production. This product, which can be stored for 15 months, is supplied to cosmonauts in the form of mini-loaves. In addition, flour flatbreads with onions, cheese and ketchup are prepared for them, as well as mini-muffins and rolls for tea.

    The capital’s Spetskabel plant produces a cable for onboard computer networks using SpaceWire technology. Information is transmitted at a speed of 400 megabits per second, four times faster than similar products. It is manufactured using lightweight foam insulation technology, which makes the cable thinner and lighter than foreign analogues. Its operating temperature is from minus 198 to plus 200 degrees, which guarantees stable operation in extreme space conditions.

    In the Moscow engineering center “Automated Control Systems” they test the electronic component base for products of the rocket and space industry in the components of ground simulators for training cosmonauts for flight, as well as in many other devices. They are tested, in particular, for resistance to shock loads and for determining the critical frequencies of the product.

    Ventilation systems produced in the capital are used at key facilities in the space industry. Thus, the GalVent ventilation factory ensures a comfortable microclimate in the premises at the Vostochny and Plesetsk cosmodromes, the country’s scientific and production centers, and the center for the operation of ground-based space infrastructure facilities.

    The Russian aerospace company Bureau 1440 is developing a low-orbit satellite constellation that will provide broadband Internet access with data transfer rates of up to one gigabit per second with minimal delays anywhere on Earth. The work is being carried out as part of the national project Data Economy.

    Sobyanin: Moscow remains the center of Russia’s high-tech industry

    A number of other companies also work in the Moscow space industry. For example, the N.A. Dollezhal Research and Design Institute of Power Engineering produces systems for the automation of reactors and nuclear space installations.

    ExpertStroyProekt LLC produces antenna and telemetry systems, ground-based receiving telemetry stations, as well as command radio line equipment, space, rocket and aviation based for stationary monitoring of the Earth’s surface and its atmosphere, measuring, receiving and control radio engineering and optoelectronic testing complexes for rocket and aviation equipment.

    The State Research Institute of Instrument Engineering produces drones and various devices of a wide range, on-board systems for space and aircraft.

    The Kometa Corporation produces computing systems, automated control systems, spacecraft payloads, television systems, automatic equipment, radio measuring equipment, artistic castings and television surveillance systems. The Research Institute of Precision Instruments produces products for radio control of spacecraft.

    The research and production enterprise (RPE) “Impulse” is creating a controlled thermostatic system for liquid fuel of a rocket engine under conditions of variable thermal load, and the RPE “Quantum” is creating autonomous power supply systems.

    OOO Sputniks (Skolkovo) manufactures debugging tools and devices for microsatellites, and the scientific and production concern Barl develops and implements solutions in the field of remote sensing of the Earth and satellite communications.

    The VNIIEM corporation is engaged in space systems for remote sensing of the Earth, and the scientific and production association Nauka creates life support systems.

    The All-Russian Research Institute of Aviation Materials of the National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” is producing a light-filtering gold coating for the Orlan spacesuit.

    JSC Aeropribor-Voskhod produces aerometric, radio-electronic and navigation equipment, precision and working pressure gauges for aviation and space technology.

    A large number of projects in this industry and the telecommunications sector are being implemented in the special economic zone (SEZ) Technopolis Moscow. At the Pechatniki site, one of the leading Russian developers of high-tech equipment, Neoros LLC, in partnership with Biforcom Tek LLC, produces transceivers used in telecommunications equipment. The Goodwin Concern produces a microcellular communication system used to service subscribers. Labs 1440 JSC (ICS Holding Company) has placed the production of components for a low-orbit satellite system.

    At the Alabushevo site in Zelenograd, the Electroinvest group of companies launched the production of radiation-resistant secondary power sources.

    The construction of the Moscow Photonics Center has been completed. Its production capacity will be 100 thousand photonic integrated circuits (PIC) per year. A PIC is a microchip designed for ultra-fast processing of light (photonic) signals, which increases the data transfer rate by 100 times. It is a basic element for the implementation of modern technologies of artificial intelligence, fifth-generation mobile communications (5G), biomedicine, lidars, radars and much more.

    Another important project at the Alabushevo site is the construction of a photomask center, which is used to create integrated circuits. The enterprise’s capacity will allow it to produce up to 5.5 thousand photomasks per year.

    Over the year, 30 high-tech production facilities have been launched in the Technopolis Moscow SEZ

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12629050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Going Home: NASA Retires S-3B Viking to POW/MIA Museum

    Source: NASA

    After supporting the center’s research missions for more than a decade, NASA’s S-3B Viking aircraft is moving on from NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland to begin a new and honorable assignment.
    The aircraft is heading to the National POW/MIA Memorial and Museum in Jacksonville, Florida, where it will be on display, honoring all Prisoners of War (POW), those Missing in Action (MIA), and the families who seek the return of their loved ones. The museum gives visitors a place of solace to reflect, learn, and hear stories about America’s POW and MIA service members through exhibits and events.

    “We are honored to be part of it,” said JD Demers, chief of Aircraft Operations at NASA Glenn. “Moving the S-3 is a win-win for everybody. The museum gets an aircraft in beautiful shape, and our S-3 gets to continue living a meaningful life.”
    Originally designed by Lockheed Martin as an anti-submarine warfare aircraft, NASA’s S-3B Viking will travel south to its new museum home, which is located at the former Naval Air Station Cecil Field where S-3B Vikings once flew. It will be displayed with a plaque recognizing the 54 service members who perished during S-3 flight missions. 

    “It’s really fortunate for us that this S-3 has such a well-kept, beautiful airframe that we can use as part of this plaza,” said Ed Turner, executive director of the National POW/MIA Memorial and Museum. “Cecil Field was the East Coast home for the S-3B Vikings, so we are proud to have it for display here as one of Cecil’s legacy aircraft.”
    Behind the scenes, this S-3 supported vital NASA flight research by donating parts to its sister plane, another S3-B Viking that was retired in 2021. Through the donation of its parts, the S-3 contributed to communications research in advanced air mobility and monitoring of algal bloom growth in Lake Erie.
    “Having this aircraft added an extra 10 years of life to its sister plane,” Demers said. “Those 10 years were vital for research. This plane allowed us to keep flying that aircraft after the Navy retired the S-3B Vikings in 2009. We wouldn’t have been able to find parts.”

    The U.S. Navy flew S-3 Vikings primarily out of three locations: North Island Naval Air Station, Naval Air Station Cecil Field, and Naval Air Station Jacksonville. There were S-3B Vikings in all locations except Jacksonville, until now.
    “There are three bases in three locations that used to fly S-3s, and now each area has an S-3 as part of its display,” Demers said. “It belongs there. It’s going back to its original home.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Temporary tariff pause mitigates trade contraction, but strong downside risks persist

    Source: World Trade Organization

    The volume of world merchandise trade is expected to decline by 0.2% in 2025 under current conditions, nearly three percentage points lower than what would have been expected under a “low tariff” baseline scenario, according to the WTO Secretariat’s latest Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report released on 16 April.  This is premised on the tariff situation as of 14 April. Trade could shrink even further, to -1.5% in 2025, if the situation deteriorates.

    Services trade, though not directly subject to tariffs, is also expected to be adversely affected, with the global volume of commercial services trade now forecast to grow by 4.0%, slower than expected.

    Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “I am deeply concerned by the uncertainty surrounding trade policy, including the US-China stand-off. The recent de-escalation of tariff tensions has temporarily relieved some of the pressure on global trade. However, the enduring uncertainty threatens to act as a brake on global growth, with severe negative consequences for the world, the most vulnerable economies in particular. In the face of this crisis, WTO members have the unprecedented opportunity to inject dynamism into the organization, foster a level-playing field, streamline decision-making, and adapt our agreements to better meet today’s global realities.”

    At the start of the year, the WTO Secretariat expected to see continued expansion of world trade in 2025 and 2026, with merchandise trade growing in line with world GDP and commercial services trade increasing at a faster pace. However, the large number of new tariffs introduced since January prompted WTO economists to reassess the trade situation, resulting in a substantial downgrade to their forecast for merchandise trade and a smaller reduction in their outlook for services trade.

    Risks to the forecast

    Risks to the merchandise trade forecast persist, particularly from the reactivation of the suspended “reciprocal tariffs” by the United States, as well as the spread of trade policy uncertainty that could impact non-US trade relationships. If realized, reciprocal tariffs would reduce global merchandise trade volume growth by 0.6 percentage points in 2025 while spreading trade policy uncertainty could shave off another 0.8 percentage points. Together, reciprocal tariffs and spreading trade policy uncertainty would lead to a 1.5% decline in world merchandise trade in 2025. These scenarios are explored in detail in the Analytical Chapter of the report. Risks to services trade related to the escalation in trade tensions are not currently captured in the forecast.

    “Our simulations show that trade policy uncertainty has a significant dampening effect on trade flows, reducing exports and weakening economic activity,” WTO Chief Economist Ralph Ossa said. “Moreover, tariffs are a policy lever with wide-ranging, and often unintended consequences. In a world of growing trade tensions, a clear-eyed view of those trade-offs is more important than ever.”

    Regional goods trade forecasts

    The latest forecast marks a reversal from 2024, when the volume of world merchandise trade grew 2.9%, while GDP expanded by 2.8%, making 2024 the first year since 2017 (excluding the rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic) where merchandise trade grew faster than output.

    In 2025, the impact of recent tariff measures on merchandise trade is expected to differ sharply across regions.

    Under the current policy landscape, North America is expected to see a 12.6% decline in exports and 9.6% drop in imports in 2025. The region’s performance would subtract 1.7 percentage points from world merchandise trade growth in 2025, turning the overall figure negative. Asia is projected to post modest growth in both exports and imports this year (1.6% for both), along with Europe (1.0% export growth, 1.9% import growth). Both regions’ contributions to world trade growth would remain positive under current policies, albeit smaller than in the baseline low tariff scenario. The collective contribution to world trade growth of other regions would also remain positive, in part due to their importance as producers of energy products, demand for which tends to be stable over the global business cycle.

    The disruption in US-China trade is expected to trigger significant trade diversion, raising concerns among third markets about increased competition from China. Chinese merchandise exports are projected to rise by 4% to 9% across all regions outside North America, as trade is redirected. At the same time, US imports from China are expected to fall sharply in sectors such as textiles, apparel, and electrical equipment, creating new export opportunities for other suppliers able to fill the gap.

    Additionally, the reinstatement of US tariffs could have severe repercussions for export-oriented least-developed countries (LDCs) whose economies are particularly sensitive to external economic shocks due to their concentration of trade on a small number of products as well as their limited resources to deal with setbacks. Under the current situation with the pause on US’ “reciprocal” tariffs, LDCs may benefit from trade diversion as their export structure is similar to China’s, especially in textiles and electronics.

    Commercial services trade

    In 2024, services accounted for 26.4% of global trade based on balance of payments statistics, the highest share since 2005. Rising demand for services and advances in digitalization have helped expand the contribution of services to global trade. In 2024, services trade totalled US$ 8.69 trillion, increasing by 9% and mirroring the growth registered in 2023. This is in sharp contrast to goods trade, which rose by only 2% in value terms in 2024.

    Although the high tariffs are limited to goods, their effects are expected to ripple across the broader economy, including on services trade.

    High tariffs will directly affect the volume of goods traded, leading to weaker demand for freight shipping and logistics services in ports and airports, which account for the bulk of overall transport. International travel, particularly leisure travel, may be the first sector impacted by economic uncertainty, as discretionary spending on trips and accommodations can easily be curtailed. Furthermore, various intermediate services supporting goods trade and other services such as professional, research and development, and information technology services, will likely face declining demand in the current economic climate.

    Most services growth in 2025 will originate from Europe, where exports are expected to grow by 5.0% under current policies. European growth will continue at 4.4% in 2026. Asian economies’ services exports are projected to increase by 4.4% in 2025 and by 5.1% in 2026. Growth in services exports of North America will slow to 1.6% in 2025 but then accelerate to 2.3% in 2026. For the Middle East, services exports are expected to grow by 1.7% in 2025 and 1.0% in 2026. In the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), growth of 1.1% in 2025 and of 3.5% in 2026 is anticipated. The outlook for 2025 is subdued for Africa and for South and Central America and the Caribbean, both of which are expected to record declines in 2025.

    The full report is available here.

    Detailed annual, quarterly and monthly trade statistics can be downloaded from the WTO Stats portal. Our interactive user-friendly tools are also available for a more in-depth look at the data: WTO World Trade Statistics, Key Insights and Trends in 2024 and WTO Global Services Trade Data Hub.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News release on CRB treatments in Kona

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News release on CRB treatments in Kona

    Posted on Apr 16, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

        

         

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

    ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    SHARON HURD
    CHAIRPERSON

    HAWAIʻI BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

     

    DEAN M. MATSUKAWA
    DEPUTY TO THE CHAIRPERSON

    HAWAIʻI BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

     

     

     

    HDOA CONTINUES COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLE TREATMENTS
    IN KONA

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    NR25-08

    April 15, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA), with the assistance of the County of Hawai‘i Public Works Department, have been working collaboratively since January 2025 to combat the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) after detections in the Kona area. The HDOA and Hawai‘i County crews completed the latest round of treatments on palm trees last week at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in the continuing effort to protect the island from CRB infestations.

    “The staff of the Department of Agriculture remains dedicated to stopping the further spread of the coconut rhinoceros beetle, with emphasis in areas that are not known to be infested,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We truly appreciate the concern and assistance of Mayor Kimo Alameda and the county’s public works crew in providing the resources to prevent CRB from taking hold on Hawai‘i Island. We also appreciate all the various agencies and organizations that work tirelessly in the fight against invasive species.”

    Mayor Alameda emphasized the importance of the state and county working collaboratively to protect the island from the invasive species. “The introduction of the coconut rhinoceros beetle is a major concern, and we are committed to doing everything we can—alongside HDOA and our other partners—to stop its spread,” he said.

     

    In September 2024, HDOA Plant Pest Control (PPC) personnel found a single CRB in a trap during routine monitoring in Waikoloa. This was the first detection of CRB on the island since October 2023 when a Waikoloa resident found six grubs (larvae) in a decaying palm tree stump. Increased surveillance continued throughout the island and more intensely on the Kona side.

    In January 2025, Mayor Alameda and the County of Hawai‘i offered their resources and assistance to HDOA, including the use of their 75-foot boom truck to treat the crowns of palm trees. On January 14, the team treated a total of 38 trees in the Waikoloa area via crown treatments and 24 trees were treated via an injection system which provides systemic protection against CRB. HDOA’s Pesticides Branch was also at the site to assist. So far, there have been no further detections of CRB in Waikoloa.

    On March 3, 2025, the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) reported one adult CRB in a detection trap along the boundary of the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. A day later, two more adult CRBs were found in traps at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i (NELHA).

    After the detections, HDOA, county crews and airport staff targeted treatments at the airport over a period of three days in March. The county provided the use of two boom trucks and the team treated 128 trees on the airport grounds and injected 12 more trees that were inaccessible to the boom trucks. So far, there have been no further detections at the airport.

    Last week, on April 7 and 8, crews began work at NELHA and treated 58 trees via crown treatments with about 14 trees treated via injections due to their close proximity to water.

    All palms that were treated were tagged and surrounded with yellow tape to indicate treatment. Coconuts from treated trees should not be consumed. Questions regarding pesticide use may be addressed to HDOA’s Pesticides Branch at 808-973-9402.

    Surveillance for CRB continues around Hawai‘i Island by HDOA, BIISC, University of Hawai‘i, the County of Hawai‘i and the state Department of Health Vector Control Branch. 

    Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. CRB grubs breed in decomposing plant and animal waste. An adult beetle is about 2-inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head.

    Residents may go to the CRB Response website at:  https://www.crbhawaii.org/  to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

    # # #

    Attachments: Photos:
    Waikoloa treatment – boom truck
    Waikoloa injection
    Waikoloa treatment ground (treated trees marked with yellow tape and tagged)
    CRB crown treatment – Kona Airport (Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport)
    CRB crown treatment Kona Airport2 (Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport)
    CRB injection – Kona Airport (Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport)
    Treated trees

    Media Contact:
    Janelle Saneishi
    Public Information Officer
    Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
    Phone: 808-973-9560
    Cell: 808-341-5528
    Email:     [email protected]
    Website:     http://hdoa.hawaii.govAloha,

    Janelle Saneishi

    Public Information Officer

    Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture
    ph: (808) 973-9560
    email: [email protected]

    Website: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/

    Confidentiality Notice:  This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information.  Any review, use, disclosure, or distribution by unintended recipients is prohibited.  If you are not the intended recipient(s), please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The suspension of the screening of liquids, aerosols and gels in airports – E-001453/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001453/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE), Roberto Vannacci (PfE), Susanna Ceccardi (PfE), Silvia Sardone (PfE), Raffaele Stancanelli (PfE)

    Entering into force on 1 September 2024, Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108 halted the security screening of liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) in EU airports which use Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB) equipment meeting standard C3.

    This decision was taken because the Commission had received technical information indicating that a specific configuration of standard C3 EDSCB equipment was not fit for purpose.

    As a result, and in spite of the significant financial investments that had been made, the Commission reintroduced the previous limitations for LAG containers in all airports. Though this measure was supposed to be temporary, it is still in place, and there has been no news on how much progress has been made in evaluating whether the C3 EDSCB equipment can meet the required standards. This state of affairs is harming airport operators financially and is an inconvenience for passengers.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Given that Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108 does not specify the duration of the suspension – instead defining it as ‘temporary’ and making mention of ‘reasonable periods’ – how long does the Commission think it will be before standard C3 EDSCB equipment is fully operational again?
    • 2.In the months when standard C3 EDSCB equipment was being used, did the Commission receive any reports of malfunctions justifying a total suspension?

    Submitted: 9.4.2025

    Last updated: 16 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA seizes over 17 kg of cocaine at Montréal-Trudeau Airport

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Montréal, Québec, April 16th, 2025 – Canada Border Services Agency

    On April 4, 2025, border services officers detected and seized 17.6 kg of cocaine at the Montréal-Trudeau airport. This seizure is the result of a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) inspection of baggage from a flight from Rio Hato, Panama.

    Border services officers found several bricks of a white substance after examining a suitcase on the baggage carousel. A drug test confirmed the substance to be cocaine. A total of 16 bricks were seized, for an approximate value of $2,193,625.00 CAD. The drugs have been turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and an investigation is currently underway.

    In 2024, the CBSA made 60 cocaine seizures in the Quebec Region for a total of 39.97 kg. Moreover, in 2024, across Canada, the CBSA seized 4,589 kg of cocaine at the border, an increase of 156% from 2023.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairmen Babin and Cruz Lead Texas Delegation in Support of Relocating NASA Headquarters to Houston

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,  U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36) and Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) led a bicameral coalition of federal lawmakers representing Texas communities in sending a letter to President Trump urging his administration to move the headquarters for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) from Washington, D.C. to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas. The lease for NASA’s current D.C. office expires in 2028.

    In the letter, the lawmakers argue that NASA is disconnected from the day-to-day work of its centers and hindered by bureaucratic micromanagement in Washington, D.C. Houston is well suited for NASA’s headquarters because of JSC’s substantial involvement in nearly everything that makes America a leader in space exploration. JSC maintains the largest NASA workforce, accommodates extensive research and development partnerships, and houses Mission Control, the NASA astronaut corps, and the Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility.

    Additionally, Texas boasts a strong business environment, low government regulation, a robust commercial space sector, and a cost of living that is less than half of the Washington, D.C. area. Moving the NASA headquarters to Texas will create more jobs, save taxpayer dollars, and reinvigorate America’s space agency.

    Joining Sen. Cruz and Rep. Babin in sending the letter are Sen. John Cornyn and Reps. Jodey Arrington, John Carter, Michael Cloud, Dan Crenshaw, Monica De La Cruz, Jake Ellzey, Pat Fallon, Brandon Gill, Craig Goldman, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Wesley Hunt, Ronny Jackson, Morgan Luttrell, Michael McCaul, Nathaniel Moran, Troy E. Nehls, August Pfluger, Chip Roy, Keith Self, Pete Sessions, Beth Van Duyne, Randy Weber, and Roger Williams.

    As the lawmakers wrote:

    “From its founding in 1958, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has a storied history of exploring new frontiers, making transformational discoveries, and reaching far into the great beyond. However, as NASA’s leadership has languished in our nation’s capital, the core missions of this critical agency are more divided than ever before. This seismic disconnect between NASA’s headquarters and its missions has opened the door to bureaucratic micromanagement and an erosion of centers’ interdependence. For NASA to return to its core mission of excellence in exploration, its headquarters should be located at a place where NASA’s most critical missions are and where transformational leadership from the ground up can be provided. In 2028 the lease for NASA’s current headquarters building in Washington, D.C. expires. We write to urge you to use this opportunity to reinvigorate our national space agency and move NASA’s headquarters from Washington, D.C. to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas.

    “Perhaps no city is more closely linked to America’s space program than ‘Space City.’ Some of the first words spoken on the surface of the moon called out to Houston which is home to numerous aerospace businesses. JSC in particular is the largest home of the NASA workforce, with more than 12,000 employees across its 1,620-acre facility and supporting more than 52,000 public and private jobs. As the pinnacle of human spaceflight development, Houston is home to Mission Control, the NASA astronaut corps, the Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility, commercial space agreements, and extensive research and development partnerships. JSC plays a role in nearly everything that makes America a leader in space exploration.

    “Houston is particularly well suited for NASA’s headquarters due in part to the unique strengths of the city and the state. Texas is the eighth largest economy in the world, with low government regulation and a strong business environment. Houston boasts a cost of living that is less than half that of the Washington, D.C. area ; three ‘R1: Doctoral Universities’ producing the high caliber professionals necessary for human spaceflight; and two major commercial service airports for easy connectivity around the country. In contrast, NASA’s current headquarters in Washington, D.C. is disconnected from the NASA centers across the country and thus much of the day-to-day work. Consolidating greater and greater levels of work and authority in Washington, D.C. has been a decades-long trend, resulting in decision making funneled up to bureaucrats at headquarters rather than empowering scientists and astronauts across the centers. This strategy has separated decision makers from the actual workforce and stands antithetical to NASA’s core function.

    “Relatedly, for the United States to reach the surface of Mars, NASA must rely on a robust commercial space sector. Towards that end, no state offers greater economic and geographic benefits than Texas. The Lone Star State is home to more than 2,000 aerospace, aviation, and defense-related companies, with 18 of the 20 largest aerospace companies based in Texas. Notably, SpaceX relocated their entire company to Texas, establishing the town of Starbase, Texas, to develop, test, and launch SpaceX vehicles. Similarly, Blue Origin develops engines and rockets in West Texas, leading a new generation of spaceflight, and conducts its commercial sub-orbital flights there. Firefly Aerospace, in Cedar Park, recently sent photos of Earth from its Blue Ghost lunar lander on its voyage to explore the surface of the moon. Axiom Space, based in Houston, is building the next generation spacesuit for NASA and a commercial space station to succeed the International Space Station. In addition, the State of Texas recently stood up the Texas Space Commission to promote innovation in space operations and commercial aerospace and to attract commercial space ventures to the state. These are just a few of the ways Texas aerospace companies, projects, and institutions are transforming our nation’s leadership in the space economy.

    “A central location among NASA’s centers and the geographical center of the United States, Houston offers the ideal location for NASA to return to its core mission of space exploration and to do so at a substantially lower operating cost than in Washington, D.C. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the great servants of NASA — who are focused on recommitting America’s space agency to its roots and exploring the final frontier — by relocating NASA’s headquarters from Washington, D.C. to the Johnson Space Center.”

    Read the full text of the letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM hails the inauguration of Amravati airport

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 16 APR 2025 9:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed the inauguration of Amravati airport as great news for Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha region, remarking that an active airport in Amravati will boost commerce and connectivity.

    Responding to a post by Union Civil Aviation Minister, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu on X, Shri Modi said:

    “Great news for Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha region. An active airport in Amravati will boost commerce and connectivity.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2122267) Visitor Counter : 87

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: TSA Begins REAL ID Full Enforcement on May 7

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On May 7, TSA will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Noncitizens illegally present in the U.S. who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding under this requirement.

    Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.
    Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint | Transportation Security Administration
    The TSA Identification Requirements page outlines acceptable forms of ID for travelers at airport security checkpoints.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYHe5wn2-dE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Against All Odds: Wyoming Guard Airmen make history with Antarctic cardiac evacuation

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming Air National Guard

    By Tech. Sgt. Lee Murphy

     MCMURDO STATION, Antarctica – In a historic feat of teamwork, precision, and lifesaving expertise, members of the Wyoming Air National Guard’s 187th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron played a critical role in the first successful evacuation of a cardiac arrest patient from McMurdo Station, Antarctica, in more than 35 years.

    The patient, a U.S. civilian contractor and veteran of more than 20 Operation Deep Freeze missions, suffered a massive heart attack at McMurdo Station. The station, a key hub for the U.S. Antarctic Program, is home to over 500 personnel during the harsh winter months when flights in or out are nearly impossible.

    Temperatures had hovered near -35°C (-31°F), and a prior rescue attempt had been thwarted by severe blizzards.

     Race Against Time

    The emergency began when the approximately 60-year-old male collapsed in the station’s galley. Medical professionals from McMurdo’s fire department, National Science Foundation, and U.S. Air Force responded instantly, finding the man in cardiac arrest — a “widow maker” heart attack caused by a complete blockage of the left anterior descending artery.

    First responders initiated CPR and delivered multiple defibrillator shocks en route to the station clinic. After nearly 40 minutes of intensive efforts, including CPR, epinephrine injections, and eight defibrillation shocks, the team stabilized the patient and began planning an immediate medical evacuation.

    “This was a truly remarkable case,” said Maj. Nate Krueger, flight nurse with the Wyoming Air National Guard. “From the moment of collapse to the successful evacuation, every step was executed with precision and urgency. The coordination between emergency responders, the clinic team, and the flight crew made all the difference.”

    A Dangerous Flight, A Life Saved

    Krueger and Master Sgt. Lyndsey Glotfelty, an aeromedical technician also with the 187th AES, were deployed to support Operation Deep Freeze — the U.S. military’s logistical mission in Antarctica since 1955 — and led the patient’s stabilization and transport efforts.

    In a place where help is measured not in minutes, but miles and hours, the airlift was no routine mission. A Royal New Zealand Air Force Orion aircraft carrying additional medical staff landed on McMurdo’s icy runway during a brief daylight window. Following about 90 minutes on the ground, a U.S. Air Force LC-130 flew the patient 2,500 miles to Christchurch, New Zealand — a seven-hour flight across one of the world’s most unforgiving terrains.

    Upon arrival, the patient was rushed to a hospital catheterization lab where two stents were placed to reopen his arteries. In total, the ordeal lasted about 12 hours from collapse to advanced cardiac care — and ended with the patient walking out of the hospital days later.

    An Unmatched Partnership

    “This was a win through teamwork and rapid emergency response,” said Maj. Thomas Powell, McMurdo Station flight surgeon. “Having a robust cooperative partnership between the National Science Foundation and the military was key to ensuring rapid medical care and evacuation of the patient.”

    The success of this mission highlights the strength of the longstanding partnership between the U.S. military and the National Science Foundation in supporting scientific operations in Antarctica. It also underscores the critical importance of readiness and training in environments where help is hours — or even days — away.

    “This was more than a mission — it was a life saved against all odds,” said Brig. Gen. Michelle Mulberry, Director of Joint Staff for the Wyoming National Guard. “What our Airmen and their teammates accomplished is extraordinary. The 187 AES embodied what it means to be Citizen-Airmen — bringing compassion and expert care to one of the most remote places on Earth. Great job Krueger and Glotfelty.”

     

    Master Sgt. Lyndsey Glotfelty, 187th Wyoming Air National Guard aeromedical evacuation technician, provided in-flight care for a heart attack victim aboard an LC-130 en route to Christchurch, New Zealand, on Feb. 13, 2025. The Antarctic is as remote as it gets, with great distance to the nearest help and limited resources, so the mission contained a standardized response plan for medical incidents and select personnel trained to handle them. Maj. Nate Krueger and Master Sgt. Lyndsey Glotfelty of the 187th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron delivered critical care during a life-saving patient transport mission in Antarctica. Their actions and expert care helped make history with the first successful cardiac arrest evacuation from the continent in over 35 years. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

    The U.S. National Science Foundation’s McMurdo Station is the largest of the U.S. year-round stations and the largest station on the continent. It is the central logistical hub for the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP), supporting research on the continent and at NSF Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station. Maj. Nate Krueger and Master Sgt. Lyndsey Glotfelty of the 187th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron delivered critical care during a life-saving patient transport mission in Antarctica. Their actions and expert care helped make history with the first successful cardiac arrest evacuation from the continent in over 35 years. (U.S. National Science Foundation courtesy photo)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: It is necessary to ensure the safety of people during the fire-hazardous season and the flood-hazardous period

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    As part of a working visit to the Magadan Region, Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on the readiness of the regions of the Far Eastern Federal District for the fire-hazardous season and flood-hazardous period, visited the Talaya sanatorium in the village of the same name in the Khasynsky Municipal District, and inspected the new terminal of the airport complex of the Magadan (Sokol) International Airport named after V.S. Vysotsky, which was included in the master plan for the development of the regional capital.

    “Today’s meeting is traditional. We always meet with the heads of regions at the beginning of the flood and fire-hazardous period and figure out the state of readiness of the territories to counteract natural hazards. I cannot help but note that there is another important reason: several days ago, the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin held a meeting with members of the Russian Government, at which they discussed preparations for the fire-hazardous season and issues of extinguishing fires. It was noted that the situation with forest fires in Transbaikalia requires special attention. The heads of all regions must pay attention to issues of passing the fire-hazardous season. We must figure out where this poses a danger to people and construction sites,” Yuri Trutnev opened the meeting.

    Since the beginning of the year, the Russian Emergencies Ministry has registered 483 wildfires in the Far Eastern Federal District. About 63% of fires are extinguished within the first day of detection. The cause of 69% of wildfires is the population’s violation of fire safety rules in forests.

    The fire season has begun in six regions: the Republic of Buryatia, Zabaikalsky, Primorsky and Khabarovsk Krais, Amur Oblast, and the Jewish Autonomous Oblast. A special fire prevention regime has been established in 84 municipal districts. A state of emergency has been introduced in regional forests in Zabaikalsky Krai and a state of emergency in municipal forests in the Republic of Buryatia and the Jewish Autonomous Oblast.

    To combat fires, the number of parachute firefighting personnel has been increased in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Zabaykalsky Krai, Khabarovsk Krai and Magadan Oblast. In general, in the Far Eastern Federal District, compared to 2024, the parachute firefighting service has been increased by 352 staff units and now totals 2,227 people. The Far Eastern Federal District Forestry Department continues to check the regions’ readiness for the fire season. The total number of forest firefighting personnel in the district is 4,158 staff units. The overall percentage of forest firefighting equipment readiness in the district’s constituent entities is 98%, including tractor and bulldozer equipment – 98.9%, automobile equipment – 97.9%, and all-terrain vehicles – 98.7%.

    The issues of passing the flood-hazardous period were discussed. In the Far Eastern Federal District, 545 hydroposts are planned to be involved in permanent operational monitoring. During the flood period, it is planned to additionally open 83 temporary posts. Preventive measures are being carried out in preparation for the accident-free passage of spring floods and summer floods, including dredging and bank protection works, clearing and straightening river beds.

    Roshydromet and Rosvodresursy have assessed the readiness of the main large reservoirs to receive flood waters and ensure the safe passage of spring floods.

    In March, the Russian Emergencies Ministry conducted an inspection of the readiness of the management bodies, forces and means of the functional and territorial subsystems of the unified state system for the prevention and elimination of emergency situations in the subjects of the Far Eastern Federal District for actions as intended during the flood-hazardous period of 2025. Based on the results of the inspection, seven subjects (Kamchatka, Primorsky, Khabarovsk Krais, Amur, Magadan, Sakhalin Oblasts, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug) were recognized as ready for the safe passage of flood waters.

    “We hold a meeting every year on the issue of the readiness of the regions of the Far Eastern Federal District for the fire-hazardous season and the flood-hazardous period. Dangerous natural phenomena in the Far East require special attention. Currently, a rather dangerous fire situation has developed in the Zabaikalsky Krai. We proceed from the fact that fires closer than five kilometers from populated areas are unacceptable. There are 19 such fires in Zabaikalsky Krai. It is necessary to ensure the safety of people. The creation of fire-fighting mineralized strips was discussed at the meeting. The prospects for unmanned aviation were considered. In general, there is a lot of work to be done. The heads of the regions understand their responsibility, everyone has experience in this work. We will make every effort to ensure that people in the Far East are safe from fires and floods,” Yuri Trutnev summed up.

    On the same day, Yuri Trutnev visited the Talaya sanatorium in the village of the same name in the Khasynsky municipal district and held a meeting on the progress of the construction of the power transmission line in the village of Talaya.

    The Talaya sanatorium is included in the List of Russian resorts with justification for their uniqueness in terms of natural healing factors, approved by the Russian Ministry of Health. The resort is known for its thermal mineral spring and therapeutic mud, the use of which allows for the treatment of many diseases. The construction, equipment of the treatment base and room stock, as well as the improvement of the sanatorium itself have already been fully completed.

    The launch of the resort is entirely dependent on the construction of a high-voltage power line that will connect Talaya to the region’s energy system.

    “We discussed the progress of the construction of the power transmission line to the village of Talaya. I suggested that colleagues reach an agreement on when the construction of the power transmission line will be completed, and determine the final deadline for the completion of the work. The deadline was postponed three times. This cannot be left unpunished. If a person takes on a job, then he must complete it,” Yuri Trutnev summed up and instructed Magadan Region Governor Sergei Nosov not to lose control over the situation.

    Yuri Trutnev also inspected the new terminal of the airport complex of the Magadan International Airport (Sokol) named after V.S. Vysotsky, which was included in the master plan for the development of Magadan. The area of the new terminal is 14 thousand square meters. The capacity of the new terminal is 800 passengers per hour (the old terminal can handle 600 passengers per hour).

    “The main thing is that people feel comfortable. We looked at the terminal today – people are already using the airport, everything is clean and comfortable there. This is another transport hub that will help develop the Far East, help flights between cities. Therefore, it is good that this work has been done,” said Yuri Trutnev.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: US government officially notifies Taiwan of latest arms sale

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    US government officially notifies Taiwan of latest arms sale

    Date：2024-11-30
    Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    November 30, 2024 
    No. 443 

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has received official notification from the United States government that its executive branch has informed Congress of a US$385 million arms sale to Taiwan, including spare parts and support for F-16 aircraft and active electronically scanned array radars as well as improved mobile subscriber equipment follow-on support. MOFA warmly welcomes this news and thanks the US government for continuing to provide the weaponry and services needed for Taiwan’s defense and for honoring its security commitments as outlined in the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.
     
    This is the 18th arms sale to Taiwan announced during the Biden administration. It continues the US policy of normalized arms sales that ensure Taiwan has adequate self-defense capabilities and reliable defense capacity in response to China’s threats. The sale highlights the US government’s firm support for bolstering Taiwan’s defense resilience and its high regard for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
     
    Taiwan will continue to demonstrate its commitment to self-defense in response to China’s recurrent military pressure and gray-zone intrusion in the waters and airspace around Taiwan. It will strengthen national defense and whole-of-society resilience, staunchly defend its free and democratic way of life, seek peace through strength, and deepen its close security partnership with the United States. MOFA welcomes further concrete action by the United States and other like-minded partners that advances peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and throughout the Indo-Pacific. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Second leaders’ debate is a tame affair befitting a ‘deeply uninspiring’ campaign

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Marks, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships, Western Sydney University

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have had their second showdown of the 2025 federal election campaign. The debate, hosted by the ABC, was moderated by David Speers in the national broadcaster’s studios in Western Sydney.

    The leaders were asked a wide range of questions on topics such as negative gearing, nuclear energy and Australia’s relationships with the US and China. But the debate was kicked off on housing, which has been a major focus of the campaign over the last few days.

    So, how did it shape up, and how did it compare to the first debate a fortnight ago? Three experts give their analysis.

    Matthew Ricketson, Deakin University

    Ahead of tonight’s debate, commentators predicted it would have little impact because most people no longer get their news from television and because the election campaign has been deeply uninspiring.

    That’s partly an index of how drastically the media landscape has changed. As recently as 2010, nearly 3.4 million people tuned in to watch the debate between Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott, which was broadcast on all three commercial networks, as well as the ABC. That number showed evidence of widespread interest in politics.

    The number of viewers’ advance questions to the ABC tonight also illustrated keen interest, particularly on issues like the plight of potentially lifelong renters in an overheated housing market and the urgent need to tackle climate change.

    The second leaders’ debate didn’t become heated or hostile. Both the prime minister and the opposition leader stayed relentlessly on-message.

    As is well known, Albanese is no Cicero, but he was well prepared and generally clear. He was stronger on housing than his opponent, but clearly did not want to get trapped predicting energy prices again, as he had during the 2022 campaign.

    Dutton was also clear when he focused on the issue at hand. His strongest line was one he used at least three times: are you better off now than you were three years ago? It is a line used by US President Donald Trump during his successful campaign last year.

    But it was on Trump that Dutton tied himself in knots, asserting he would be able to get a deal done with Trump when virtually no one else has and then saying he did not know him. Huh?

    He was also defensive when pressed on his nuclear policy and he was all over the shop on climate change.

    Befitting the current election campaign, there were meme-able moments on offer for both. Dutton got out his line about Albanese having a problem with the truth. But he coughed up his own when he admitted making a mistake in saying Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto had “publicly announced” Russia had asked his country for a base for its aircraft.

    Michelle Cull, Western Sydney University

    After both leaders finished their opening statements in good spirits, the debate quickly turned to housing. As suggested by host David Speers, both parties have “put forward ideas that a lot of experts and economists are warning will only push up prices even more”.

    So, could the leaders explain how their plans will make housing more affordable in five or ten years?

    Albanese said his party had a plan for both demand and supply. He mentioned the Building Australia’s Future Fund to build more public housing, Build to Rent scheme to increase the private rental supply, and the 5% deposit for first home buyers. He also made note of the 100,000 homes that would be allocated only to first home buyers.

    Dutton blamed Albanese for the current housing crisis. He promoted the Coalition’s plans to allow first home buyers access up to $50,000 of their superannuation to buy a home and a planned $5 billion infrastructure fund to free up to 500,000 new home lots. Reducing immigration and foreign ownership also rated a mention.

    Dutton explained the most important part of the Coalition’s plan was to allow first home buyers a tax deduction for interest on the first $650,000 of their mortgage. When questioned about this favouring higher income earners, Dutton quickly responded that the average taxpayer would save around $11,000 a year.

    Talking tax, this provided the perfect opportunity for Speers to pose the question that many viewers wanted to ask – why are both parties not willing to review the tax breaks for investors and the capital gains tax discount?

    Dutton jumped at the chance to challenge Albanese about the modelling on negative gearing conducted by Treasury for the government last year. Albanese replied Treasury was just doing their job and looking at ideas.

    The host reminded both leaders that they themselves are property investors. When pressed about possibly placing limits on the number of properties held by investors, Dutton argued there should be no limit as we need the rentals.

    Talking rentals, Dutton said renters’ rights were up to the states, while Albanese said his party has delivered the Renter’s Rights Program and increased rental assistance.

    Andy Marks, Western Sydney University

    For the second leaders’ debate, the ABC’s new Parramatta digs, Studio 91, felt more like the legendary New York dance club, Studio 54. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton stuck to their steps while the host, “DJ” David Speers, tried to disrupt their rhythm.

    Dutton opened with the Reaganesque classic, asking viewers: “Are you better off than you were three years ago?”. Albanese countered by saying Australians have done the “hard work” over the past three years, then adding, “there’s much more work to do”.

    Dutton wanted to talk about renters. Labor’s policies, he argued, would “drive up the cost of rents”. Albanese held out, preferring to talk first home buyers. “We need to give people a fair crack”, he said.

    Dutton retorted, we need to “give young Australians a go”. A “crack” or a “go”. Both options have “hit” written all over them.

    Speers then changed tunes, turning to the old election stalwart, spending versus revenue.

    “We have improved the bottom line”, Albanese assured viewers. That claim “defies the reality”, Dutton responded. Speers asked Dutton, “Where do you cut?”. No answer. Speers then quizzed Albanese. “When will power bills come down?” No answer.

    “I’m friends with Keir Starmer”, Albanese suddenly volunteered, cautioning against the Coalition’s nuclear energy plans. The UK prime minister, Albanese said, regrets his country’s nuclear adventures.

    Crossing the Atlantic, Dutton remarked, the Coalition has an “incredible relationship” with the Trump administration. The government’s current ambassador, Kevin Rudd, “can’t get a phone call with the president”, he said. The former ambassador, Joe Hockey, “used to play golf with him.”

    The second leaders’ debate traversed the dance floor to the golf course, but got no closer to differing visions for the country.

    In a rare moment of harmony, Albanese and Dutton concurred: both sides of government have failed Indigenous Australians. No debate there.

    Michelle Cull is an FCPA member of CPA Australia, member of the Financial Advice Association Australia and President Elect of the Academy of Financial Services in the United States. Michelle is an academic member of UniSuper’s Consultative Committee. Michelle co-founded the Western Sydney University Tax Clinic which has received funding from the Australian Taxation Office as part of the National Tax Clinic Program. Michelle has previously volunteered as Chair of the Macarthur Advisory Council for the Salvation Army Australia.

    Andy Marks and Matthew Ricketson do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Second leaders’ debate is a tame affair befitting a ‘deeply uninspiring’ campaign – https://theconversation.com/second-leaders-debate-is-a-tame-affair-befitting-a-deeply-uninspiring-campaign-254466

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: there were a couple of ‘moments’ in second Albanese-Dutton encounter

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Two “moments” stuck out in Wednesday’s leaders’ debate, the second head-to-head of the campaign.

    Peter Dutton cut his losses over his faux pas this week when he wrongly named Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto as having said there had been a Russian approach to base aircraft in Papua.

    So that was a mistake, ABC moderator David Speers asked. “It was a mistake.”

    The other “moment” was in a discussion about negative gearing, when Anthony Albanese denied the government had sought modelling on that. The public service “certainly wasn’t commissioned by us to do so”. In fact, we know Treasurer Jim Chalmers asked Treasury to do it.

    That enabled Dutton to repeat a favourite Coalition line. “This prime minister has a problem with the truth.” (Albanese has given grist for this line by his denial earlier in the campaign that he fell off a stage, when the footage contradicted him.)

    While the leaders were predictably well-rehearsed across the broad sweep of issues, they could not prevent their weak spots being put on display.

    Albanese struggled with something that has not been canvassed enough.Wasn’t there a case for more means testing of some of the big spending the government has undertaken?

    Then of course there was the perennially unanswerable question: when will power prices come down? The PM squirmed.

    Dutton left us no more informed about what a Coalition government would cut to finance his programs, although he did concede, when asked whether cuts to the public service would be enough to cover all his spending, “The short answer is no”.

    On climate change, the opposition leader looked awkward, when asked what seemed simple questions, such as whether the impact of climate change was getting worse. That’s a judgement he’d prefer to leave to others, “because I’m not a scientist”.

    Aware that he is paying a political cost by being painted as Trump-lite, Dutton dodged when asked whether he trusted Trump. “I don’t know Donald Trump” was his lame response (although he continues to declare himself confident of being able to get a deal on tariffs with him).

    Albanese, for his part, said he had “no reason not to trust him”.

    The PM reconfirmed that in tariff discussions with the US, Australia’s critical minerals were on the table, but lacked clarity when pressed on what precisely was Australia’s proposed critical minerals reserve.

    The two leaders were at one on being behind AUKUS (just like they are on not touching negative gearing) despite increasing criticism of the agreement in Australia.

    Housing was thoroughly canvassed but without taking us much further. It now seems it is the politicians against the experts, many of whom are sceptical of much of both sides’ offerings.

    Speers’ raising the issue of renters was a reminder that the housing issue in this campaign – at least as it’s being argued by the main parties – has been firmly focused on promoting ownership. The plight of renters has been the bailiwick of the Greens.

    Asked about the one big reform change they’d like to be remembered for, Albanese nominated affordable child care.

    Dutton went to a more ambitious level, nominating energy, which was, he said, “the economy”, an inevitably more contestable area than childcare. This opened the usual claims and counter-claims about nuclear.

    For those who want to hear the next round of the leaders’ duelling, they will meet again on April 27 on commercial TV.

    Business signals post-election fight on gender-based undervaluation of work

    The Albanese government has made reducing the gender pay gap one of its signature issues. Among other initiatives, its legislation in 2022 required the Fair Work Commission to take into account the need to achieve gender equality.

    The commission’s expert panel for pay equity has been investigating five areas: pharmacists, health workers, social and community services employees, dental assistants, and child care workers.

    On Wednesday its results were released, finding gender-based undervaluation of work in all these areas and proposing pay rises up to 35%.

    There is an immediate determination for pharmacists, who will receive a 14.1% pay rise phased in over three years. In the other areas, a process of further hearings will commence.

    The government reacted cautiously. The bill for the wages of many workers in the care sector falls on to the public purse.

    A Labor spokesperson said: “A re-elected Albanese Government will engage positively with the Commission consistent with the principles set out in our submission [to the expert panel] , including our obligation to manage any changes in a fiscally and economically responsible manner”.

    The Australian Industry Group declared “many employers will struggle to meet the scale of the increased costs proposed”.

    “Industry will be  anxiously awaiting  the response of the major sides of politics  to the decision and what concrete commitments will be made to assist employers in grappling  with its implications.”

    The last thing the government wants to make on this before the election is a “concrete commitment”.

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

    – ref. Election Diary: there were a couple of ‘moments’ in second Albanese-Dutton encounter – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-there-were-a-couple-of-moments-in-second-albanese-dutton-encounter-254586

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Fire safety measures have been tightened in Moscow’s natural areas

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital has stepped up control over compliance with fire safety rules in green areas. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “In connection with the onset of the fire-hazardous period, control over compliance with fire safety rules in green areas has been strengthened, and additional measures have been taken to prevent possible wildfires. Firefighters and rescuers of the capital’s garrison are conducting enhanced patrols to identify cases of unauthorized burning of garbage and grass burning,” noted Petr Biryukov.

    In the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts, comprehensive work is being carried out to prevent natural fires. In particular, fire-prevention and mineralized strips are being arranged, and double plowing of areas near residential buildings is being carried out.

    Additionally, water intake sites for aircraft are being examined, approaches to reservoirs and piers are being equipped, and helicopter pads are being prepared. In addition, control over the removal of garbage and dry grass, as well as the cutting down of hazardous trees, has been strengthened.

    Much attention is paid to preventive measures: explanatory talks are held with city residents, and leaflets with recommendations on compliance with fire safety measures are distributed.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152678073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour dept’s work affirmed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Labour Department today thanked the Office of the Ombudsman for affirming the department’s numerous effective efforts to enhance occupational safety and health (OSH) in the construction industry.

    In its direct investigation report into the Government’s regulation of OSH in the construction industry, the Ombudsman recognised the department’s work, including amending the relevant legislation to raise the maximum penalties for OSH offences and revising the codes of practice to strengthen safety requirements for specific work processes.

    The department’s work in conducting special enforcement operations to curb unsafe work practices, improving mandatory safety training courses and enhancing the supervision of course providers as well as promoting a culture of safety via various channels was also acknowledged.
           
    Meanwhile, the department is taking follow-up action on the report’s recommendations, including a planned trial with small unmanned aircraft to assist in law enforcement in the second half of this year, in addition to exploring the adoption of speech-to-text technology to assist in taking statements to enhance the efficiency of evidence collection.

    It will also broaden the participation of safety committee meetings to cover high-risk private construction sites with a poor safety performance; strengthen monitoring of safety practitioners to ensure they discharge their duties cautiously; and enhance the monitoring of mandatory safety training course providers and instructors’ performance.
           
    Additionally, the Labour Department will actively study and follow up on other recommendations raised by the Ombudsman, and strengthen collaboration with the Development Bureau and the Buildings Department.

    It will continue to adopt the three-pronged strategy of inspection and enforcement, publicity and promotion, and education and training, complemented by the application of technology to actively foster OSH in the construction industry and enhance workers’ safety awareness.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kashi Ringing the Bells of Progress

    Source: Government of India

    Kashi Ringing the Bells of Progress

    Building Modern India

    Posted On: 16 APR 2025 2:28PM by PIB Delhi

    “Today, Kashi stands not only as a symbol of antiquity but also as a beacon of progress.”

    ~ Prime Minister Narendra Modi

    Introduction

    On April 11, PM Modi launched development projects worth ₹3,880 crore in Kashi. The ancient city is getting a modern makeover. Roads are being widened; schools are being upgraded and new power stations are coming up. Kashi is growing while keeping its roots alive. From 2014 to March 2025, 580 projects were taken up under Kashi Development with a total investment of ₹48,459 crore. The aim is to improve infrastructure, preserve heritage and support tourism in Varanasi.

    Kashi’s Development Journey: Key Milestones

    🗓️ November 7, 2014: The Powerloom Service Centre was inaugurated and a ₹2,375 crore revival package was announced for district cooperative banks.

    🗓️ September 18, 2015: ₹572 crore was announced for Kashi’s upgrade, along with ₹11,000 crore for roads connecting nearby districts.

    🗓️ December 22, 2016: Projects worth ₹2,100 crore were inaugurated, including foundation stones of various projects.

    🗓️ September 22, 2017: PM Modi dedicated the Deendayal Hastkala Sankul, a trade facilitation centre for handicrafts.

    🗓️ July 14, 2018: Foundation stone of key projects worth over ₹900 crore was laid.

    🗓️ March 8, 2019: The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.

    🗓️ November 30, 2020: The 73 km six-lane NH19 built at ₹2,447 crore was inaugurated to ease travel between Prayagraj and Varanasi. The Maha Kaal Express India’s first overnight private train was also launched.

    🗓️December 13-14, 2021: Phase 1 of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, constructed at a cost of around Rs 339 crores inaugurated.

    🗓️ July 7, 2022: PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development projects worth over ₹1,800 crore. This includes ₹590 crore under Varanasi Smart City and Urban Projects.

    🗓️ January 13, 2023: PM Modi flagged off the world’s longest river cruise ‘MV Ganga Vilas.’ 🗓️ December 18, 2023: The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation several development projects worth over ₹19,150 crore in Varanasi.

    🗓️ October 10, 2024: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth Rs 6,100 crores.

    From Pilgrimage to Premium Experiences

    Tourism in Varanasi is more than just travel, it’s a journey through history, faith and vibrant culture. Below are key initiatives that are reshaping the tourism experience in the city:

    1. MV Ganga Vilas: World’s Longest River Cruise

    Launched by PM Narendra Modi on January 13, 2023, the MV Ganga Vilas is the world’s longest river cruise, starting from Varanasi and culminating in Dibrugarh on 28th February 2023.

     

    2. Tent City: Riverside Luxury Experience

    The Tent City was inaugurated on January 13, 2023 on the opposite bank of the Ganga from the city ghats. Open from October to June annually, the Tent City helps manage the increasing tourist flow by providing a unique and peaceful riverside stay experience.

     

    3. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor

    Inaugurated on December 13, 2021, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a transformative ₹355-crore project that spans an area of 5.5 acres. It connects the Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the Ganges River via a four-lane pathway, making the temple more accessible to pilgrims.

     

    4. Monument Illumination Projects

    To enhance the visual appeal of Varanasi’s historic monuments, several illumination projects have been undertaken: In 2015, ₹5.12 crore was sanctioned for lighting up monuments like Dhamekh Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Tomb of Lalkan, and Man Mahal. In 2017, ₹2.93 crore were sanctioned to illuminate Dashashwamedh to Darbhanga Ghat, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and the Sarnath Museum.

     

    Kashi’s Infrastructure Boost

    Kashi’s infrastructure development has seen major progress from 2021 to 2025. The Varanasi-Gorakhpur NH-20 (Package-2), a 72.16 km road was inaugurated on October 25, 2021. The project cost was ₹3,509 crore. The redevelopment of Namo Ghat (Khidkiya Ghat) was completed on November 15, 2024. The cost of the redevelopment was ₹95.2 crore. The ghat now features a cafeteria, viewing platforms and heritage murals. The construction of the jetty at Rajghat costed approximately Rs.10 crore. Each cruise boat was procured at a cost of Rs.20 crore. Furthermore, the tourism circuit along the riverfront will feature the construction of a walkway, a viewing deck, and a food court. The operation of cruise boats started in March, 2023.  Additionally, over ₹980 crore is allocated for flyovers, road bridges, and an airport underpass on April 11, 2025.

    Urban Transformation in Kashi

    Varanasi is undergoing a major urban makeover with focus on sustainability and civic upgrades. To reduce pollution in the Ganga, diesel/petrol boats were converted to CNG. This project, worth ₹29.7 crore, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister on July 7, 2022. It is being executed by Varanasi Smart City Ltd. and GAIL. The Goitha Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), with a capacity of 120 million litres per day (MLD), was inaugurated on February 19, 2019. Built at a cost of ₹217.57 crore, it was aimed at treating sewage and reducing pollution in the Ganga. Under the Namami Gange scheme, a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 55 million litres per day (MLD) is also being built at a cost of ₹300 crore. On April 11, 2025, ₹345 crore has been allocated under Jal Jeevan Mission for rural drinking water schemes. Varanasi connected 55,000 houses to sewer lines under AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation), using ₹105 crore, by March 2017. For better parking and traffic flow, the Godowlia Multilevel Two-wheeler Parking, a four-storey facility for 375 vehicles, was built for ₹19.55 crore and operates 24/7 with full security.

    Varanasi’s Handloom and Handicraft Revival

    Varanasi is renowned not just for its spiritual aura, but also for its rich tradition of handlooms and handicrafts. Generations of artisans have mastered the art of silk weaving, wood and stone carving, metalwork, pottery and jewellery making. Their creations reflect incredible skill and cultural heritage. Many of these crafts, like Banarasi sarees, Soft Stone Jali work, Banaras Gulabi Meenakari and Wooden Lacquerware & Toys etc, have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, marking their authenticity and excellence.

    To support and promote these traditional arts the government announced the establishment of a Trade Facilitation Centre and Crafts Museum in the 2014-15 Union Budget. This initiative aimed to help weavers, artisans, and entrepreneurs market their products. The complex was built over 7.93 acres with a total cost of ₹300 crore, providing a space for showcasing, training and selling local crafts. The Centre was inaugurated on September 22, 2017 and today stands as a key step in preserving Varanasi’s artistic legacy.

    Kashi’s Education and Health Drive

    Kashi is witnessing rapid growth through major investments in research, healthcare, energy, and education. The Inter-University Teacher Education Center (IUTEC) at BHU, Varanasi, was inaugurated on December 23, 2021. Built at a cost of ₹107.36 crore, it will offer a two-year M.Ed. program for 1,000 students. In February 2019, PM inaugurated the PARAM Shivay Supercomputing Center at BHU, with a peak performance of 3.3 petaflops and a cost of ₹32.5 crore. In agriculture, ₹105 crore bonus was transferred to Banas Dairy milk suppliers in April 11, 2025. In the power sector, ₹1,820 crore has been allocated for new substations and transmission upgrades. The redevelopment of Sports Stadium in Sigra is an ambitious project with a total budget of ₹180.03 crore (Phase 1: ₹90.01 crore, Phase 2: ₹90.02 crore). It was designed as a world-class hub for sports. It was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on October 20, 2024.

    Conclusion

    Kashi stands today as a shining example of how heritage and modernity can thrive together. With transformative projects in infrastructure, tourism, health, education, and culture, the city is not just preserving its spiritual essence but also creating a vibrant, future-ready identity. From ghats to gateways of development, Kashi is truly ringing the bells of progress.

    References

    Click here to see PDF.

    *****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria/ Kritika Rane

    (Release ID: 2122058) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department responds to Office of The Ombudsman’s direct investigation report

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Labour Department responds to Office of The Ombudsman’s direct investigation report 
    The LD attaches great importance to the occupational safety and health (OSH) of the construction industry. The department is pleased to note that the Ombudsman affirmed and recognised its numerous effective work efforts in enhancing the OSH of the construction industry, including (i) amending the OSH legislation to increase the maximum penalties for OSH offenses; (ii) revising a number of codes of practice to strengthen safety requirements for specific work processes; (iii) conducting special enforcement operations to curb unsafe work practices; (iv) improving mandatory safety training courses and enhancing the supervision of course providers; and (v) promoting a culture of safety through various channels.
     
    Meanwhile, the LD has been taking various follow-up actions on the recommendations in the report, including (i) planning to start a trial of using small unmanned aircraft to assist in law enforcement in the second half of 2025 and exploring the adoption of speech-to-text technology to assist in taking statements, thereby improving the efficiency of frontline officers in law enforcement and evidence collection; (ii) broadening the participation of safety committee meetings to cover high-risk private construction sites with a poor safety performance to enhance risk monitoring; (iii) strengthening monitoring of safety practitioners to ensure they will discharge their duties cautiously; and (iv) enhancing the monitoring of mandatory safety training course providers and instructors’ performance.
     
    An LD spokesman said, “In addition to the above measures, the LD will actively study and follow up on other recommendations raised by the Ombudsman, and strengthen the collaboration with the Development Bureau and the Buildings Department. The LD will continue to adopt a three-pronged strategy, including inspection and enforcement, publicity and promotion as well as education and training, complemented by the application of technology, to actively promote and foster an OSH culture in the construction industry, enhance workers’ OSH awareness and prevent accidents.”
    Issued at HKT 12:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Immigration clearance service at Hong Kong International Airport

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ14: Immigration clearance service at Hong Kong International Airport 
         It has been reported that passenger throughput at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) reached 53.1 million last year, representing an increase of more than 30 per cent compared to 2023. However, it is learnt that many overseas visitors have to wait for a long time before they could complete immigration clearance procedures at HKIA, which has adversely affected the reputation of Hong Kong’s tourism industry. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the annual number of inbound and outbound passenger trips at the HKIA control point in the past three years, their average waiting time for immigration clearance (including for those using the Automated Passenger Clearance System (e-Channel) service), and the proportion of cases where the waiting time exceeded the standard of the Immigration Department’s performance pledge;
     
    (2) whether it has conducted a survey on the specific difference in the average time taken to clear visitors between HKIA and other major international airports, including those in Japan, Korea, Thailand and Singapore; if not, whether it has plans to conduct such a survey with a view to improving the standard of Hong Kong’s immigration clearance service; and
     
    (3) of the total annual number of visitors who used the e-Channel service at HKIA in the past three years, with a breakdown by the country and place of origin; whether it has plans to consider adjusting the eligibility criteria for visitors to register for the e-‍Channel service (e.g. lowering the requirement for the number of visits to Hong Kong by a visitor), thereby broadening the coverage of the service; whether it will allow visitors to opt to use facial recognition technology for self-service immigration clearance so that more visitors who meet the basic eligibility criteria can enjoy the convenience of the automated immigration clearance service; if it will, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In 2024, a total of around 298 million passengers passed through Hong Kong’s control points, representing an increase of about 41 per cent over 2023 and a return to the level in 2019. The total number of visitor arrivals was about 44.5 million, representing an increase of about 31 per cent compared to 2023. Among them, around 9.86 million visitors travelled through the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) control point, representing an increase of about 42 per cent over 2023. In response to the significant volume of passenger traffic and adhering to the spirit of striving for excellence and innovation, the Immigration Department (ImmD) keeps leveraging innovative technologies to continuously improve its immigration clearance services. Various facilitation measures have been implemented at control points in order to provide visitors with a more convenient clearance experience.
     
         The reply to the Hon Rock Chen’s question is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past three years, the annual number of inbound and outbound passenger trips at the HKIA control point was as follows:
     

    Year     Regarding the clearance services at the HKIA control point, the ImmD pledges to clear 95 per cent of visitors within a 15-minute waiting time. Over the past three years, an average of over 99 per cent of visitors were cleared within a 15-minute waiting time each year. During peak passenger traffic periods at the HKIA, the ImmD would flexibly deploy manpower and optimise workflows, including operating additional counters and e-Channels when necessary, to ensure smooth passenger flow.
     
    (2) According to the open information from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, in December 2024, the rate at which the major airports in Japan (including New Chitose Airport, Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, Chubu Airport, Kansai Airport, Fukuoka Airport and Naha Airport) cleared inbound visitors within 20 minutes was 66 per cent. As for other major international airports mentioned in the question (i.e. those in Korea, Thailand and Singapore), the respective authorities have not disclosed data on the average immigration waiting time. Meanwhile, in a recent World Passenger Survey commissioned by Skytrax, an international specialist research agent in the air transport industry, the ImmD won the 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service. This marks another accomplishment of the ImmD following previous awards in 2015, 2016, 2019 and 2020, reflecting the global recognition of the services provided by the ImmD. The ImmD will continue to maintain close ties with immigration authorities worldwide, engaging in exchanges and sharing, as well as learning from their experiences and practices, with a view to introducing further visitor-friendly measures to enhance the level of clearance facilitation, thereby supporting the overall development of Hong Kong.
     
    (3) In the past three years, the annual number of inbound and outbound passenger trips using the e-Channel service at the HKIA control point was as follows:
     

    Year     The ImmD does not maintain a breakdown of other visitors by country or place of origin.
     
         To enhance the level of convenience for immigration clearance, the ImmD has been leveraging innovative technologies to boost the efficiency of e-Channels and broaden the service to cover more target groups.
     
         Currently, frequent visitors to Hong Kong (typically those who have made visits to Hong Kong via the HKIA for no fewer than three times in the past 12 months) and eligible passport holders from countries that have entered into an agreement with Hong Kong for mutual use of automated clearance services (including Korea, Singapore, Germany, Australia and Thailand) can enrol for the e-Channel service. Eligible visitors to Hong Kong holding Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Travel Passes, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards or Frequent Flyer Programme membership cards issued by relevant airlines can even enrol for the e-Channel service right upon their first arrival in Hong Kong. In addition, the ImmD launched the Smart Departure e-Channels in October 2017 which utilise facial recognition technology to verify visitors’ identities, thereby enabling eligible visitors from over 100 locations to complete self-service departure clearance without prior enrolment. Also, the Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons has been launched since March 18, 2025 to provide automated clearance services for invited persons from the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
     
         For visitors from the Mainland and Macao, the ImmD lowered the eligible age from 16 to 11 years old or above for holders of the Mainland’s electronic Exit-Entry Permits for travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao to use the e-Channel service in April 2023. The ImmD also launched the “Mutual Use of QR Code between HKSAR and Macao SAR Clearance Service” jointly with the Macao authorities in July last year, allowing eligible residents of both places to use QR Codes to pass through the automated clearance channels.
     
         To further reduce waiting time for inbound visitors, the ImmD is actively exploring ways to enhance the e-Channel service arrangements for visitors to Hong Kong, including relaxing application requirements for frequent visitors to Hong Kong and streamlining enrolment procedures. The ImmD will also step up publicity to boost the e-Channel service enrolment rate among visitors. Additionally, the ImmD and the Airport Authority Hong Kong are exploring the feasibility of installing additional e-Channels in the HKIA arrivals hall to cater for the trend that more visitors will use automated clearance service and the increase in demand in the longer term. Taking into account the practical and unique operational needs of immigration clearance at the HKIA, the ImmD is also looking into other measures, such as optimising staff deployment, to flexibly meet service demands while ensuring quality and efficiency of service.
     
         The ImmD will regularly review existing policies and measures, striving to balance effective immigration control with facilitating inbound visitors. Furthermore, the ImmD will continuously strive for innovation in enhancing clearance efficiency as well as broadening the e-Channel service to cover more target groups.
    Issued at HKT 11:58

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public welcome to watch 15th National Games Beach Volleyball test event

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Public welcome to watch 15th National Games Beach Volleyball test event 
         Nine men’s teams and eight women’s teams will participate in the three-day test event. In both the men’s and women’s tournaments, participating teams will be divided into two groups with each playing a single round robin before they reach the knockout stage. There will be two sessions on the first day, which are from 9.30am to 2.30pm, and from 4pm to 8.30pm. For the other two days, matches will be held from noon to 8.30pm on the second day and from noon to 8pm on the last day.
     
         The test event is organised by the National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) and co-organised by the Volleyball Association of Hong Kong, China, with the China Volleyball Association as advisor. Tickets have been distributed to the public through the Volleyball Association of Hong Kong, China. Those who possess a ticket will undergo a security check at the public entrance located at a soccer pitch of Victoria Park and watch the event in the public viewing area. The public entrance is accessible from MTR Causeway Bay Station Exit E via Great George Street (please refer to the annex for the location). A small number of tickets have been reserved for distribution on-site. Members of the public who are interested may obtain a ticket at the public entrance for admission while stocks last.
     
    Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) will provide a live webcast of the event (RTHK weblink: www.rthk.hk/nationalgames 
    The Police will set up a temporary restricted flying zone (RFZ), extending two kilometres outwards, from the competition venue from 8.30am to 9.30pm on April 18; from 11am to 9.30pm on April 19; and from 11am to 9pm on April 20. No small unmanned aircraft, except those authorised, will be permitted to enter the zone. Details of the temporary RFZ will be shown on the electronic portal for small unmanned aircraft “eSUA”.
     
    In addition, the 2025 Hong Kong International Track Cup organised by the Cycling Association of Hong Kong, China, which is also the 15th NG Track Cycling test event, will be staged at the Hong Kong Velodrome in Tseung Kwan O between April 19 and 21.
     
         For information on the 15th NG, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games in Hong Kong, please visit the thematic website (    www.2025nationalgames.gov.hk/en/index.htmlIssued at HKT 11:55

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Treatments Continues in Kona

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Treatments Continues in Kona

    Posted on Apr 15, 2025 in Main

    April 15, 2025
    NR25-08

    HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA), with the assistance of the County of Hawai‘i Public Works Department, have been working collaboratively since January 2025 to combat the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) after detections in the Kona area. The HDOA and Hawai‘i County crews completed the latest round of treatments on palm trees last week at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in the continuing effort to protect the island from CRB infestations.

    “The staff of the Department of Agriculture remains dedicated to stopping the further spread of the coconut rhinoceros beetle, with emphasis in areas that are not known to be infested,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We truly appreciate the concern and assistance of Mayor Kimo Alameda and the county’s public works crew in providing the resources to prevent CRB from taking hold on Hawai‘i Island. We also appreciate all the various agencies and organizations that work tirelessly in the fight against invasive species.”

    Mayor Alameda emphasized the importance of the state and county working collaboratively to protect the island from the invasive species. “The introduction of the coconut rhinoceros beetle is a major concern, and we are committed to doing everything we can—alongside HDOA and our other partners—to stop its spread,” he said.

    In September 2024, HDOA Plant Pest Control (PPC) personnel found a single CRB in a trap during routine monitoring in Waikoloa. This was the first detection of CRB on the island since October 2023 when a Waikoloa resident found six grubs (larvae) in a decaying palm tree stump. Increased surveillance continued throughout the island and more intensely on the Kona side.

    In January 2025, Mayor Alameda and the County of Hawai‘i offered their resources and assistance to HDOA, including the use of their 75-foot boom truck to treat the crowns of palm trees. On January 14, the team treated a total of 38 trees in the Waikoloa area via crown treatments and 24 trees were treated via an injection system which provides systemic protection against CRB. HDOA’s Pesticides Branch was also at the site to assist. So far, there have been no further detections of CRB in Waikoloa.

    On March 3, 2025, the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) reported one adult CRB in a detection trap along the boundary of the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. A day later, two more adult CRBs were found in traps at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i (NELHA).

    After the detections, HDOA, county crews and airport staff targeted treatments at the airport over a period of three days in March. The county provided the use of two boom trucks and the team treated 128 trees on the airport grounds and injected 12 more trees that were inaccessible to the boom trucks. So far, there have been no further detections at the airport.

    Last week, on April 7 and 8, crews began work at NELHA and treated 58 trees via crown treatments with about 14 trees treated via injections due to their close proximity to water.

    All palms that were treated were tagged and surrounded with yellow tape to indicate treatment. Coconuts from treated trees should not be consumed. Questions regarding pesticide use may be addressed to HDOA’s Pesticides Branch at 808-973-9402.

    Surveillance for CRB continues around Hawai‘i Island by HDOA, BIISC, University of Hawai‘i, the County of Hawai‘i and the state Department of Health Vector Control Branch.

    Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. CRB grubs breed in decomposing plant and animal waste. An adult beetle is about 2-inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head.

    Residents may go to the CRB Response website at:  https://www.crbhawaii.org/  to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

    # # #

    CRB treatment at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport

    CRB treatment at Kona Airport

    Waikoloa tree injection treatment

    Waikoloa CRB treatment using boom truck

    Tagging of treated trees – do not consume coconuts

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales delivers complete set of Dual Travelling Wave Tubes (TWTs) for the Optus-11 Satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales delivers complete set of Dual Travelling Wave Tubes (TWTs) for the Optus-11 Satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space

    • In order to enhance satellite performance and mission efficiency, travelling wave tubes (TWTs), which amplify radiofrequency signals in satellite systems, can be doubled and integrated together into a more compact and lightweight format (Dual-TWT),. This technology, with performances that are unique in the world, contributes to the new flexibility requirements of satellites.
    • Thales has delivered all the Dual-TWTs necessary for the optimal performance of the Optus-11 satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space, and operating in the Ku-band1. This delivery will significantly improve the communication and data management capabilities of Optus-11, while enhancing its performance and operational reliability.
    • Reconfigurable even in orbit, this flexible satellite represents a major advancement in the field of geostationary telecommunications satellites.
    © Airbus Defense and Space” id=”image-c42f2a26-0769-4e95-b799-941f5e3be8d5″ data-id=”c42f2a26-0769-4e95-b799-941f5e3be8d5″ data-original=”https://cdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/c42f2a26-0769-4e95-b799-941f5e3be8d5/-/inline/no/PR+IMG.png” data-mfp-src=”https://cdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/c42f2a26-0769-4e95-b799-941f5e3be8d5/-/format/auto/” alt=”© Airbus Defense and Space”/>
    © Airbus Defense and Space

    As the foundation of a new generation of highly flexible and innovative telecommunications satellites that can quickly adapt to the changing dynamics of the market and user needs, the OneSat program by Airbus Defence and Space has been developed through synergies among key national and international space industry players. While Airbus is responsible for the main design, TESAT is integrating Thales’s TWTs in to Microwave Power Modules (MPM). Both partners bring their expertise in communication systems, built on Thales’s experience with over 23,200 TWTs in orbit.

    Thales’s next-generation Dual-TWTs offer unparalleled global performance, combining reduced weight and size with advanced technology. These Dual-TWTs are engineered to provide exceptional reliability and performance in constrained space environments. Easily integrated into the satellite antenna system, they are a crucial element for the success of the Optus program. Available in two versions for both the Ku and Ka band satellite frequency ranges, the Dual-TWTs fully meet the requirements of active antenna amplification systems designed for flexible and software-defined satellites.

    Three of Thales’s facilities are collaborating to manufacture the Dual-TWTs: Ulm in Germany, and Thonon-les-Bains and Vélizy in France.

    With key components such as Thales’ Ku-band Dual-TWTs, the Optus-11 satellite is positioned as a vital element for next-generation spacecraft, significantly enhancing their communication and satellite service capabilities.

    “We are honored to make a significant contribution to the operation of the Optus-11 satellite by providing Airbus Defence and Space with our next-generation Dual Travelling Wave Tubes. Our successful delivery of this system for the first flight model showcases Thales’s ability to quickly provide cutting-edge technological solutions that will shape the future of space communications,” said Charles-Antoine Goffin, Vice President, Microwave and Imaging Systems, Thales.

    1Frequency of 12-18 GHz, allowing satellites to send and receive messages without interfering with other signals.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Daily summary of the Berlin offensive operation

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Exactly 80 years ago, on April 16, 1945, the Berlin Strategic Offensive Operation began, ending the Great Patriotic War with the complete and unconditional victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany.

    The Guinness Book of Records lists this operation as the largest-scale battle in world history. About 3.5 million people, 52 thousand guns and mortars, 7,750 tanks and 11 thousand aircraft took part in it on both sides. The German capital was attacked by forces from three fronts: the 1st Belorussian under the command of Georgy Zhukov, the 2nd Belorussian under the command of Konstantin Rokossovsky and the 1st Ukrainian under the command of Ivan Konev.

    The scale of the operation is clearly described by Zhukov in his book “Memories and Reflections”: “On the first day, 1,197,000 shots were planned for artillery alone, but in fact 1,236,000 shots were fired. Think about these numbers! 2,450 train cars of shells, that is, almost 98 thousand tons of metal fell on the enemy’s head.”

    On April 16, at exactly 4 a.m., the final chord of retribution for Germany’s treacherous attack sounded – the code signal “Rodina” swept through the communication lines and the battle began. Having recovered from the first artillery barrage, the Germans put up serious resistance, the Soviet tanks got bogged down in heavy fighting and were unable to outpace the infantry.

    On April 17, as a result of bloody battles, the Seelow Heights, 50-60 kilometers from Berlin, were taken; they were considered by the German command to be the most reliable line of defense.

    On April 18, the Red Army began to cross the Ost-Oder.

    On April 19, the breakthrough of the entire Oder defensive line was completed.

    On April 20, Soviet long-range artillery began shelling Berlin.

    On April 21, troops of the 1st Belorussian and 1st Ukrainian Fronts reached the eastern and southern outskirts of the city, respectively. The first street battles began.

    On April 22, the German command transferred troops of the Frankfurt-Guben group from the Western Front to stop the envelopment of Berlin from the north. This attack was repelled by Soviet troops with the help of the 2nd Polish Army.

    On April 23, during particularly fierce battles, the 9th Rifle Corps of Major General Ivan Roslov captured the Karlshorst and Kölönig areas, and immediately crossed the Spree River, where the Dnieper military flotilla was already operating.

    On April 24, in the southeast of Berlin, in the Bonsdorf area, troops of the 1st Belorussian and 1st Ukrainian fronts met, encircling the German Frankfurt-Guben group.

    On April 25, the troops of the same fronts united in the Ketzin area, encircling the enemy’s Berlin group. At the same time, the famous meeting on the Elbe with the troops of the 1st US Army took place.

    On April 26, the two-day air operation “Salute” ended, during which 1,222 tons of bombs were dropped on the central districts of Berlin to suppress the enemy – 70 tons per square kilometer.

    On April 27, the assault on the central districts of the German capital began – the city front stretched from the southeast to the northwest in a narrow strip 16 km long and 2-3 km wide. The Red Army seemed to be plunging into the capital of Germany with a bayonet.

    On April 28, the commander of Army Group Vistula, Gotthard Heinrici, ordered his troops to retreat, for which he was removed from command and later surrendered to British troops. Meanwhile, the Russians reached the Reichstag area.

    On April 29, the Moltke Bridge leading to the Government Quarter of Berlin was captured.

    April 30 – German Fuhrer Adolf Hitler committed suicide. On the same day, the Frankfurt-Guben group, the largest German unit at the time, numbering about 200 thousand soldiers, was liquidated. The Ministry of Internal Affairs building next to the Reichstag was captured. Red flags also began to rise over the Reichstag itself. There was more than one Victory Banner; a total of nine special flags were prepared for the Red Army assault groups.

    On May 1, the German government announced Hitler’s death and offered to conclude a truce, but did not agree to an unconditional surrender. The storming of the Government Quarter resumed.

    On May 2, still at night, a radio message in Russian arrived at the headquarters of the 1st Belorussian Front asking for a ceasefire. At 6 a.m., after brief negotiations, the commander of the Berlin defense, Helmut Weidling, surrendered and signed the capitulation order. The units that refused to surrender were destroyed by the end of the day.

    Thus ended the Berlin offensive operation. And although the capitulation of all of Germany was still ahead, it was already a matter of time. The main result of the battle was the destruction of the last large forces of Germany and the capture of its top leadership, as well as the liberation from captivity of hundreds of thousands of civilians of the Soviet Union and many European countries. About 1 million Red Army servicemen were awarded the Medal “For the Capture of Berlin”. Among them were employees and graduates of the Moscow Engineering and Economics Institute, heroes of the Scientific Regiment of the State University of Management: – Georgy Bryansky – Dean of the Faculty of Organizers of Industrial Production and Construction, Candidate of Economic Sciences, Professor, during the war assistant to the division commander for political affairs; – Boris Ionas – Head of the Department of Construction Economics, Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor, twice Knight of the Order of the Red Star; – Alexey Kozhin – Professor of the Department of Management in Automobile Transport, Candidate of Economic Sciences, during the war commander of a control platoon, and later a battery of a howitzer-artillery regiment; — Arkady Pashenin – 1941 graduate of the Moscow Institute of Power Engineering, retired lieutenant colonel, during the war a major in the headquarters of the 5th Shock Army, standard-bearer at the signing ceremony of the act of surrender of Germany; — Alexey Strigin – associate professor, candidate of historical sciences, retired lieutenant, during the war served as a tank platoon commander.

    #Scientific regiment

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/16/2025

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A new production building was built in the Rudnevo industrial park

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A three-story administrative and production building was built in the Rudnevo industrial park of the special economic zone (SEZ) “Technopolis Moscow”This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “On the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, special attention is being paid to the development of the industrial sector of the economy – the city has adopted extensive measures to support business in the form of tax breaks and other preferences. The flagship of the capital’s industry is the special economic zone “Technopolis Moscow”. Today, over 220 high-tech enterprises are concentrated here, and this figure will only grow. The new building, which was built in the industrial park “Rudnevo”, will also contribute to an increase in the number of residents. Almost 14 thousand square meters will be allocated for the placement of production facilities here,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    Today, 13 enterprises, whose production facilities are located in the Rudnevo industrial park, have the status of residents of the Technopolis Moscow SEZ. Most of the companies produce unmanned aerial vehicles and components for them, and also produce absorbent underwear, ATMs and other popular products.

    “The new administrative and production building will house enterprises specializing in the production of unmanned aircraft systems, lining bolts used in mining and heavy industry. In addition, medical products for neurosurgery, traumatology and orthopedics will be manufactured here,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    According to the Chairman of the Committee for State Construction Supervision of the City of Moscow (Mosgosstroynadzor) Anton Slobodchikova, the department’s specialists conducted a final inspection, issued a conclusion on the facility’s compliance with the approved design documentation and issued a permit for its commissioning.

    The Rudnevo Industrial Park is a center for the development of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). In February of this year, Sergei Sobyanin opened The site houses a flight test complex for UAS.

    Enterprises with resident status are exempt from paying property, land and transport taxes for 10 years. The profit tax rate is only two percent instead of 20. In addition, residents are exempt from paying customs duties and VAT when importing goods and equipment when using the free customs zone procedure.

    The Technopolis Moscow Special Economic Zone is a territory with a special legal status, where a preferential regime for investors operates. The area of land where high-tech enterprises are located exceeds 390 hectares. The SEZ has been a leader in international and national industry ratings for several years.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152650073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dedicated to the heroes. Moscow museum projects for the 80th anniversary of Victory

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    City museums are preparing special projects dedicated to the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War. About what exhibitions can be seen in the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, the State Museum of the Defense of Moscow and other cultural institutions – in the material mos.ru.

    “Dedicated to Heroes” at the Ilya Glazunov Gallery

    Dates: April 3 – December 30

    Address: Izmailovsky Boulevard, Building 30

    Age limit: 6

    The exhibition “Dedicated to Heroes” introduces the indomitable strength and courage of the Russian army, captured in the paintings of naive artists and in the works of masters of heroic popular prints. The exhibition presents works dedicated not only to the Great Patriotic War, but also to the stories of other military exploits over many centuries.

    Popular prints on military subjects are unique documents, they preserve the people’s memory of the exploits and glory of heroes. Many popular prints still serve as a source of knowledge about the military history of tsarist Russia.

    Buy tickets you can on mos.ru.

    “Immortal Regiment of Russian Geneticists” at the State Darwin Museum

    Dates: April 15 – June 29

    Address: Vavilov street, house 57, building 1

    Age limit: 12

    The scientists discussed at the thematic exhibition in the State Darwin Museum are the cream of Russian genetics. They made a great contribution to the overall victory. Among the front-line soldiers were famous practicing doctors of science who managed to distinguish themselves during the war years, many were awarded military orders and medals, and achieved high military ranks. Visitors will be able to see portraits of outstanding geneticists, learn about their scientific work, participation in military operations, and awards.

    You can visit the exhibition with an entrance ticket to the museum.

    “Hero Cities” at the State Museum of the Defense of Moscow

    Dates: April 18 – June 30

    Address: Michurinsky Prospect, Olympic Village, Building 3

    Age limit: 6

    The new exhibition will be dedicated to 12 cities of the Soviet Union and the Brest Fortress, which became famous for their heroic defense during the Great Patriotic War and received the titles of “Hero City” and “Hero Fortress”.

    The exhibition will feature unique items from the collection of the State Museum of the Defense of Moscow. The hero cities will be represented by graphics by Ivan Tsarevich, Vasily Medvedev, Pavel Baranov, Vasily Konovalov, Yaroslav Titov and other artists who fought at the front. The works reflect the mood of the war years: the will to win, the suffering of civilians and the hard work of soldiers. Each painting is a true portrait of the city.

    Buy tickets you can on mos.ru.

    “The Darwin Museum during the Great Patriotic War” at the State Darwin Museum

    Dates: April 22 – July 27

    Address: Vavilov street, house 57, building 1

    Age limit: 6

    Visitors will learn how the State Darwin Museum survived many difficult trials from 1941 to 1945, but did not stop its educational activities. The exhibition is based exclusively on items from the institution’s collections: photographs, archival materials, original and printed graphics.

    Already in the third week of the war, several employees went to the front with the people’s militia units, and 11 people continued to work in the museum, for whom it became a matter of honor to preserve the collections and throw the ideas reflected in them into the fight against the enemy.

    The specialists took patronage over several Moscow hospitals, where they carried out cultural and educational work. In a short period of time, they prepared lectures, supplemented with visual material. For example, the theme “Animals on the Fronts of the Great Patriotic War” was illustrated by paintings by Konstantin Flerov and Alexey Komarov, painted within the walls of the Darwin Museum during this difficult time.

    Entrance to the exhibition – with a museum ticket.

    Exhibition for the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War at the Nikolai Ostrovsky Museum

    Dates: April 22 – June 29

    Address: Tverskaya street, house 14

    Age limit: 0

    Nikolai Ostrovsky was a figure inspiring Soviet people to feats – during the Great Patriotic War, not only military equipment but also military units of various purposes (for example, partisans) bore his name. The new exhibition will tell about the lives and feats of people united by a common goal.

    Visitors will see exhibits evacuated from the museum in August 1941, letters from frontline soldiers, and materials about the Ostrovsky family’s participation in the Great Patriotic War. The exhibition will feature documents and photographs from the institution’s employees’ archives, telling about their work at the front and support for servicemen in the rear.

    Among the interesting exhibits is the book “How the Steel Was Tempered”, donated by members of the Nikolai Ostrovsky partisan detachment, which was part of the Alexander Suvorov brigade. In rare moments of rest, the fighters were inspired by the story of Pavka Korchagin, whose main motto was the words: “Only forward, only to the line of fire, only through difficulties to victory.”

    Entrance to the exhibition – with a museum ticket.

    “Maestro, take off!” at the Cosmonautics Museum

    Dates: April 24 – October 6

    Address: Mira Avenue, Building 111

    Age limit: 6

    The 5th Guards Fighter Aviation Berlin Red Banner Order of Bohdan Khmelnitsky Regiment (5th GIAP) became the most effective air combat unit of the Great Patriotic War. The pilots carried out over 15 thousand combat sorties, destroyed over 700 enemy aircraft, inflicted great damage on ground troops, and collected important intelligence data.

    The profession of a pilot was extremely popular and in demand in the USSR in the first half of the 20th century. The exploits of its representatives had a huge impact on the younger generation: the flight of Valery Chkalov, the rescue of the Chelyuskinites, in which the future head of the first cosmonaut detachment Nikolai Kamanin took part, the dropping of the Victory Banner on the roof of the Reichstag (for this the 5th GIAP received the title of “Berlin”). Yuri Gagarin in his autobiography described a meeting with pilots during the occupation and his admiration for these amazing people: “In the morning the pilots flew away, leaving behind bright memories. Each of us wanted to fly, to be as brave and beautiful as they were. We experienced some strange, unknown feeling.” The first cosmonauts, whose childhood fell on the war years, became military pilots – thus the baton of heroes was passed on.

    The exhibition is based on the story of two people united by the goal of preserving the memory of the heroic past of their ancestors: the son of ace pilot Ivan Laveykin, Hero of the Soviet Union, USSR pilot-cosmonaut No. 61 Alexander Laveykin, and the great-grandson of sniper Vasily Zaytsev, Vladimir Donshin.

    Visitors will see the squadron’s authentic battle flag — a sacred symbol of the regiment, personifying the glory and valor of the military unit. Descendants of the heroes will help them learn their stories: the exhibition will feature documentary and photo materials, personal belongings, including priceless relics — uniforms and awards. One of the sections of the exhibition will be a large-scale video installation, which combines newsreel footage and fragments of the film “Only Old Men Are Going to Battle”. Among the artifacts on display is the heart of the legendary combat vehicle, the fiery engine. At the end of the exhibition, you can learn the story of the feat of Pyotr Kalsin, who was nominated for the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, but did not have time to receive the award, as he went missing.

    Entrance to the exhibition – with museum tickets.

    “And courage, like a banner, was carried” in the Alexander Shilov Gallery

    Dates: April 24 – May 30

    Address: Znamenka street, building 5

    Age limit: 6

    “Such concepts as love for the Motherland, readiness to defend it, the image of a person standing guard over the Fatherland have always been very close to me,” says Hero of Labor of the Russian Federation, People’s Artist of the USSR Alexander Shilov. The theme of the Great Patriotic War is one of the main ones in his work, portraits of veterans are a genuine chronicle of the war years created by the artist. With these images, Alexander Shilov tells about courage, patriotism, high human dignity of people who went through severe trials. His heroes were generals and doctors, pilots and sailors, partisans, intelligence officers and ordinary soldiers.

    Over the years of his work, the master has created the history of Russia in faces. The exhibition will feature the following portraits: “On Victory Day. Machine Gunner P.P. Shorin”, “Sister of Mercy (Elena Mikhailovna Ogneva)”, “Special Purpose Partisan M. Stroganov”, “War Veteran I.F. Rubtsov”, “Hero of the Soviet Union Attack Pilot V.B. Yemelyanenko”, “Participant in the Victory Parade Colonel N.A. Gorbachev”, “Hero of the Soviet Union Intelligence Officer G.A. Vartanyan” and a number of other paintings. More than 50 portraits, each with its own story, its own destiny. You can get acquainted with them at the exhibition “And Courage, Like a Banner, They Carried”.

    Tickets – on mos.ru.

    “Victory Salute” at the State Museum of the Defense of Moscow

    Dates: April 25 – August 31

    Address: Michurinsky Prospect, Olympic Village, Building 3

    Age limit: 6

    On May 9, 1945, to commemorate the victory over Germany, a special salute was given in Moscow: 30 artillery salvos from one thousand guns, accompanied by the cross-beams of 160 searchlights and the launch of multi-colored rockets.

    The Victory Salute is an exceptional event with unique aesthetics and impeccable organization based on engineering and management solutions that were unique for its time. The exhibition at the State Museum of Defense of Moscow will tell the story of this most regulated festive event. The exposition will feature paintings, photographs, and rare materials from personal archives.

    Tickets are available for purchase on mos.ru.

    “With faith in the victory of life…” in the panorama museum “Battle of Borodino”

    Dates: April 29 – July 20

    Address: Kutuzovsky Prospect, Building 38, Building 1

    Age limit: 12

    The exhibition will feature drawings by Nikolai Zhukov, Leonid Golovanov, Vladimir Gorbachenko, Anatoly Gorpenko, Pavel Kirpichev, Yuri Tsishevsky, Dmitry Pyatkin and other front-line artists. They showed how peaceful life was gradually reviving in the territories liberated from occupation. At the same time, the drawings are filled with tragic signs of war, reminding us that battles had recently taken place here. But these works are characterized by faith in victory, historical optimism and humanism.

    You can buy tickets on mos.ru.

    “Victory Park. Images of Memory in Contemporary Russian Art” at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art

    Dates: April 30 – August 24

    Address: Petrovka street, house 25, building 1

    Age limit: 6

    The exhibition at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art dedicated to the victory in the Great Patriotic War focuses on modern sculptural monuments. Each room will feature photographs, texts and other exhibits to present a monument, and works from the museum’s collection will be gathered around it.

    Visitors will be able to see how the themes of war and Victory have been represented over the last three decades. These events, which in one way or another touched every corner of the country, became a powerful impulse for artists who created countless works throughout Russia and beyond. The exhibition will feature photographs, texts and graphics created at the front, as well as works by veteran and nonconformist artists such as Ernst Neizvestny, Nikolai Vechtomov, Vadim Sidur and other masters.

    Tickets are available for purchase on mos.ru.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152643073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 16, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 16, 2025.

    Trump’s racist, corrupt agenda – like a bank robbery in broad daylight
    EDITORIAL: By Giff Johnson, editor of the Marshall Islands Journal US President Donald Trump and his team is pursuing a white man’s racist agenda that is corrupt at its core. Trump’s advisor Elon Musk, who often seems to be the actual president, is handing his companies multiple contracts as his team takes over or takes

    Why the Coalition’s tone-deaf diss track was bound to hit all the wrong notes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Ward, Senior Lecturer in Music, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the Sunshine Coast Hip-hop is a cultural powerhouse that has infiltrated every facet of popular culture, across a global market. That said, one place you usually don’t see it is on the election

    Homelessness – the other housing crisis politicians aren’t talking about
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cameron Parsell, Professor, School of Social Science, The University of Queensland Igor Corovic/Shutterstock Measures to tackle homelessness in Australia have been conspicuously absent from the election campaign. The major parties have rightly identified deep voter anxiety over high house prices. They have responded with a raft of

    Superb fairy-wrens’ songs hold clues to their personalities, new study finds
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Diane Colombelli-Négrel, Senior Lecturer, Animal Behaviour, Flinders University Two superb fairy-wrens (_Malurus cyaneus_). ARKphoto/Shutterstock When we think of bird songs, we often imagine a cheerful soundtrack during our morning walks. However, for birds, songs are much more than background music – they are crucial to attract a

    ‘De-extinction’ of dire wolves promotes false hope: technology can’t undo extinction
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martín Boer-Cueva, Ecologist and Environmental Consultant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid Colossal Biosciences Over the past week, the media have been inundated with news of the “de-extinction” of the dire wolf (Aenocyon dirus) – a species that went extinct about 13,000 years ago. The breakthrough has been achieved

    Students are neither left nor right brained: how some early childhood educators get this ‘neuromyth’ and others wrong
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate E. Williams, Professor of Education, University of the Sunshine Coast MalikNalik/ Shutterstock Many teachers and parents know neuroscience, the study of how the brain functions and develops, is important for children’s education. Brain development is recommended as part of teacher education in universities. Neuroscience is even

    Trump’s trade war puts America’s AI ambitions at risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Albert Zomaya, Professor, School of Computer Science, University of Sydney remotevfx.com/Shutterstock The global trade war triggered by US President Donald Trump earlier this month shows no signs of ending anytime soon. In recent days, China suspended exports of a wide range of critical minerals that are vital

    More bulk billing is fine. But what the health system really needs this election is genuine reform
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Duckett, Honorary Enterprise Professor, School of Population and Global Health, and Department of General Practice and Primary Care, The University of Melbourne Worrying signs are emerging about aspects of Australia’s health system, which will require the attention of whoever wins the May election. Despite big money

    Half way through the campaign, how are the major party leaders faring?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Mills, Honorary Senior Lecturer, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Sydney More than two weeks in, we know one thing for sure. This time, the election campaign does matter. In decades past, when voters were more loyally rusted on to the major parties, news

    Safe seat syndrome? Why some hospitals get upgrades and others miss out
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anam Bilgrami, Senior Research Fellow, Macquarie University Centre for the Health Economy, Macquarie University On his campaign trail, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged A$200 million to upgrade St John of God Midland Public Hospital in Perth. He promised more beds and operating theatres, and a redesigned obstetrics

    Allowing forests to regrow and regenerate is a great way to restore habitat
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hannah Thomas, PhD candidate in Environmental Policy, The University of Queensland Cynthia A Jackson, Shutterstock Queensland is widely known as the land clearing capital of Australia. But what’s not so well known is many of the cleared trees can grow back naturally. The latest state government figures

    A century after its discovery, scientists capture first confirmed footage of a colossal squid in the deep
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kat Bolstad, Associate professor, Auckland University of Technology The colossal squid was first described in 1925 based on specimens from the stomach of a commercially hunted sperm whale. A century later, an international voyage captured the first confirmed video of this species in its natural habitat –

    Students are neither left or right brained: how some early childhood educators get this ‘neuromyth’ and others wrong
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate E. Williams, Professor of Education, University of the Sunshine Coast MalikNalik/ Shutterstock Many teachers and parents know neuroscience, the study of how the brain functions and develops, is important for children’s education. Brain development is recommended as part of teacher education in universities. Neuroscience is even

    Pagan loaves, Christian bread, a secular treat: a brief history of hot cross buns
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University Jasmine Waheed/Unsplash Hot cross buns aren’t just a sweet snack that appears around Easter. They carry centuries of storytelling in their dough. From ancient gods to modern supermarkets, these sticky spiced buns have crossed many borders and beliefs. Today,

    US-China trade war leaves NZ worse off, but still well placed to weather the storm – new modelling
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Niven Winchester, Professor of Economics, Auckland University of Technology Getty Images Forecasting the potential impact of Donald Trump’s turbulent tariff policies is a fraught business – and fraught for business. The United States president has changed, paused and exempted various categories of goods so often, the only

    Caitlin Johnstone: Every day the Gaza holocaust continues, the empire tells the truth about itself
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone Every day the Gaza holocaust continues, the Western empire tells the truth about itself. The US government is telling you the truth about itself. Israel is telling you the truth about itself. Their Western allies are telling you the truth about themselves.

    PNG’s ‘chief servant’ James Marape defeats no-confidence vote
    By Koroi Hawkins, RNZ Pacific editor Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has survived a motion of no confidence against him in Parliament. During the proceedings, livestreamed on EMTV, Speaker Job Pomat announced the results of the vote as 16 votes in favour and 89 against. In moving the motion, the member for Abau,

    Does Russia have military interest in Indonesia? Here’s what we know – and why Australia would be concerned
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University A news report that Russia has sought to base long-range aircraft in Indonesia caught Australia’s political leaders by surprise during an already hectic election campaign. The military publication Janes

    Obama praises Harvard for ‘setting example’ to universities resisting Trump
    Asia Pacific Report Former US President Barack Obama has taken to social media to praise Harvard’s decision to stand up for academic freedom by rebuffing the Trump administration’s demands. “Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions — rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom, while taking concrete steps to make

    Election Diary: for a few hours, it seemed possible the Russians might be coming
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra For a few hours on Tuesday afternoon, it seemed just possible the Russians might be sending their planes to a base very near us. A claim on the military and intelligence site Janes that said the Russians were seeking to

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Proto Hologram Expands in India with Amitabh Bachchan & Sourav Ganguly

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hyderabad, India, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Proto Hologram has expanded rapidly across India, with the launch of AI Avatars of Amitabh Bachchan and Sourav “Dada” Ganguly. Based on IP deals created by Hyderbad-based company Ikonz, the Proto avatars are hyper-real, volumetric, digital twins of the icons, that are capable of fully interactive conversations. 

    The AI Proto Hologram of Mr. Bachchan, one of the biggest international film stars of all time, has already been helping visitors at six branches of IDFC FIRST Bank with information and transactions. It is among the first in the world to enable hologram banking transactions. 

    Mr. Ganguly’s Proto avatar debuted at an event in Kolkata on April 11th. The newly reappointed chairman of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee became the first ever cricket star to become a Proto hologram, and was there in person to show, side-by-side, how real the hologram looks. Mr. Ganguly joins Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, UFC CEO Dana White, Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali and other top sports execs and athletes to appear as an AI hologram via Proto.

    “It’s an incredible honor to have the great Amitabh Bachchan and Sourav Ganguly appear in Proto hologram form,” said Proto Hologram Founder and Inventor David Nussbaum. “Proto’s AI Persona tools let them – and other spokesmen, experts, executives, doctors, or celebrities –  have hyper-real, conversational interactions with customers and fans in any language. It’s perfect for India where there are 22 officially recognized languages — and in reality, over 100 more.”

    Proto partner Ikonz is a specialist in licensing IP rights. Ikonz has secured exclusive global rights to Mr. Ganguly’s voice, likeness and mannerisms, enabling the creation of an avatar that authentically captures the charisma, energy, and unique presence of one of cricket’s most celebrated figures. Ikonz’ brands the Proto activations in India HXR. 

    Amitabh Bachchan said, “This initiative by IDFC FIRST Bank highlights the role of technology in creating immersive customer experiences. It is fascinating to see how innovation continues to redefine connections. I am pleased to see my digital avatar playing a part in this journey.”

    See Amitabh Bachchan’s Proto AI Hologram in action at IDFC FIRST bank

    Shreepad Shende, Head of Business Excellence and Corporate Strategy at IDFC FIRST Bank, said, “​​This technology makes banking simpler, faster, and more engaging.” 

    Mr. Ganguly said he is excited to see his digital avatar come to life via Proto Hologram and to explore the technology’s potential across sports, entertainment, education, and beyond. “Ikonz’s commitment to authenticity and respect for my personal brand gives me full confidence in this partnership,” said Sourav Ganguly.

    “Dada has always been at the forefront of cricketing excellence and innovation. With this digital avatar, we’re thrilled to bring his spirit to new audiences and industries around the world. The avatar speaks, moves, and emotes exactly as Sourav Ganguly would,” said Abinav Varma Kalidindi, CEO of Ikonz.

    See Sourav Ganguly’s Proto Hologram in action. 

    Proto also counts dozens of Fortune 500 companies as partners and clients, as well as dozens of major universities, major airports, museums, hospitals, retailers and more. Partners and clients include AARP, Accenture, Amazon AWS, CBS, Delta Airways, HPE, Intec, PwC, Siemens, Softbank, Walmart and Verizon. 

    The sports world includes over 65 active and retired professional athletes who have invested in Los Angeles-based Proto. The technology has been installed in over 50 major stadiums and arenas, been utilized by the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, NHL, Major League Soccer, NCAA, UFC, WWE, PFL and at events such as the Woman’s World Cup. Most recently Tiger Woods appeared via Proto at his TGL Golf arena in Florida in a partnership with Best Buy. Other athletes who have used Proto include Usain Bolt, Lewis Hamilton, Mary Fowler, Nick Kyrgios, Francis Ngannou and Son Hueng-min. 

    Among other activations in India, Proto has been seen on the show Bigg Boss Telugu, featuring host Nagarjuna.

    About its role managing Mr. Ganguly’s  IP, Ikonz states, “By securing exclusive IP rights to Dada’s voice, likeness, and mannerisms, Ikonz ensures that any organisation or brand seeking to leverage the digital avatar will engage directly with Ikonz as the sole representative and licensor. This strategic approach safeguards the integrity of Sourav Ganguly’s personal brand while opening limitless possibilities.”

    For more information contact hello@protohologram.com

    About Proto Inc.: Proto Inc. is the patented leader in hologram technology and AI spatial computing. Proto devices and its platform are in use across enterprise, finance, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Invented in Los Angeles and with showrooms and distribution partners around the globe, Proto distributes the large Proto Epic and Proto Luma, the desktop-sized Proto M, and a suite of hologram AI and spatial computing services. Learn more at protohologram.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photo & Video Chronology — April 15, 2025 — Kīlauea summit UAS flights

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Photo & Video Chronology — April 15, 2025 — Kīlauea summit UAS flights

    On April 15, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists flew UAS (uncrewed aircraft systems) into Halemaʻumaʻu to monitor the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption. 

    A view of the north and south vents within Halemaʻumaʻu, Kīlauea volcano, on April 15, 2025, taken from the south rim of the caldera. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists measured the height of the crater wall behind the vents using a laser rangefinder. The distance between the lowest part in the center of the south vent and the lava flows at the lava flows at the top of the crater wall is approximately 150 meters (492 feet) on April 15, 2025. With every eruptive episode, this measurement changes as the cones around the vents grow with new material added to them.  USGS photo by K. Mulliken. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S and ROK Navy Divers Conclude Successful SALVEX Korea 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    CHINHAE NAVAL BASE, Republic of Korea – U.S. Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1 and their counterparts from the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) successfully concluded Salvage Exercise (SALVEX) Korea 2025, in Chinhae, South Korea on April 11, 2025.

    This year’s exercise marked over four decades of partnership, emphasizing enhanced interoperability in a range of complex diving and salvage operations.

    Throughout SALVEX Korea 2025, divers participated in a range of practical training evolutions. These included gear familiarization, tactical procedure exchanges, and full-mission profile salvage operations, all designed to enhance their ability to work together seamlessly.

    “The ROKN divers are incredibly skilled and professional. They bring a unique perspective and approach to every challenge, and we learn from each other every time we are in the water together,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nick Blankshine, Company Commander for MDSU Company 1-8. “That shared knowledge and those bonds of trust are essential for facing maritime challenges together.

    Divers sharpened their search and recovery expertise, practicing the location and recovery of simulated deceased bodies from a mock wreckage on the sea bed. Showcasing cutting-edge technology, U.S. Navy divers trained their ROKN counterparts on the Diver Augmented Vision Display system, which significantly enhances underwater visibility in challenging conditions.

    Divers also conducted deep sea dives to 170 feet, utilizing a wet dive bell deployed from the Tongyeong-class salvage and rescue ship ROKS Gwangyang (ATS-32).

    “Being lowered into the ocean inside a dive bell is a surreal experience,” said Navy Diver 3rd Class Anthony Briggs, assigned to MDSU 1. “One minute you’re surrounded by the team, the next it’s just you, your dive partner, and the emptiness of the ocean. It makes you feel small, for sure, but it also reinforces the trust you have in your training and the people on the surface.”

    Demonstrating their proficiency with unmanned systems, ROKN divers showcased their remotely operated vehicle, used for underwater exploration and object manipulation. U.S. Navy divers observed the demonstration, sharing their own experiences and insights on utilizing remotely operated underwater vehicle technology in challenging underwater environments. This exchange of knowledge underscored the commitment to shared learning throughout SALVEX.

    “Working alongside the ROK navy divers during the search and recovery was an incredible experience. Despite our different backgrounds, we were united by our shared training and commitment to the mission,” said Briggs. “The teamwork showcased during the exercise is a true testament to the power of SALVEX.”

    SALVEX Korea 2025 stands as a powerful testament to the enduring U.S. – ROK Alliance and its unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Through continued bilateral exercises and cooperation, the U.S. and ROKN stand ready to respond to any challenge.

    Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and response to natural disasters.

    Date Taken: 04.11.2025
    Date Posted: 04.15.2025 22:01
    Story ID: 495398
    Location: JINHAE, KR
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    MIL Security OSI –