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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Tightening of import quotas for steel – E-001257/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001257/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Erik Kaliňák (NI)

    By tightening steel import quotas, the Commission is risking the destruction of the automotive industry, one of the mainstays of the European economy, under the guise of protecting the steel sector. How can the Commission justify a policy that raises steel prices, stifles the competitiveness of car manufacturers and puts millions of jobs at risk, instead of tackling the real problems facing the sector?

    In the light of the foregoing:

    • 1.What measures does it have in place to mitigate the sharp rise in steel prices which the changes in quotas may cause and which is pushing the car industry into an existential crisis?
    • 2.Has the Commission carried out a detailed assessment of the policy’s impact on EU competitiveness, with particular emphasis on the automotive industry, employment and, not least, the rise in the price of steel?
    • 3.Is the Commission prepared to bear the political and legal responsibility for the measure if it results in the closure of more EU car production or its departure to countries that do not adopt similarly destructive measures?

    Submitted: 26.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – NEW TIMING: ICM “Affordable Housing for All” – Wednesday 9 April 2025, 15:00-18:00 – Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL) will host an Interparliamentary Committee Meeting (ICM) titled “Affordable Housing for All – Policy Approaches and Best Practice Cases in the Member States.” The event will take place at the European Parliament in Brussels (Antall 6Q2) on Wednesday, 9 April 2025, from 15:00 to 18:00.

    Organised in cooperation with the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis (HOUS), the meeting will address the escalating housing crisis across Europe and explore policy solutions at both the EU and Member State levels. Discussions will focus on the social and economic impacts of rising housing costs, mass tourism, and short-term rentals, which have limited access to affordable housing and affected employment and social welfare. The event will bring together representatives from the European Parliament, national parliaments, EU institutions, and key NGOs to assess these challenges and align efforts with the European Affordable Housing Plan. Participants will also exchange successful strategies and best practices to identify effective, adaptable housing policies across the EU.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – 8 April: Joint AFET-INTA hearing “The implementation of the EU-UK TCA” – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    On 8 April in the morning, AFET and INTA will hold a public hearing on the implementation of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The European Commission will present its annual reports for the years 2023 and 2024.

    After this presentation external guests will develop on:

    • Economic, trade and investment aspects of the implementation of the TCA
    • Boosting the EU-UK partnership in the foreign and security field

    Members will hold an exchange of views with both the European Commission and external experts.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Social Climate Fund (SCF) and limited liability housing companies in Finland – E-001228/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001228/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

    A limited liability housing company[1] is a home ownership model in Finland. It is the most common way to own an apartment in Finland and does not exist elsewhere in the EU. More than one third of homes owned in Finland are apartments in these housing companies.

    The Emissions Trading System (ETS2) will cover and address the CO2 emissions from fuel combustion in buildings. In the spirit of the just transition, it is important that the most vulnerable households, including the homeowners in housing companies, receive support for changing from fossil fuel-based heating systems to more climate-friendly alternatives.

    The ETS2 specifies that Member States should determine the use of revenues from the auctioning of allowances to decarbonise the heating of buildings and to provide financial support for low-income households in the worst-performing buildings. The economic support is distributed via the SCF.

    As renovations are carried out by the limited liability housing company – not an individual – a question arises as to whether these companies qualify to receive economic support from the ETS2. This is a question of equal treatment of homeowners in Finland.

    Will the Commission ensure that Finnish limited liability housing companies are able to receive support from the SCF, thereby ensuring the equal treatment of homeowners, and what measures does it intend to take to do so?

    Submitted: 24.3.2025

    • [1] https://stat.fi/meta/kas/asunto_osakeyht_en.html.
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ecodesign – local space heaters – E-001230/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001230/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Asger Christensen (Renew)

    In recent years, the Commission has been rolling out its ecodesign requirements for various products, including local space heaters.

    The European Committee of Manufacturers of Domestic Heating and Cooking Appliances has warned that the draft proposal for ecodesign for solid fuel local space heaters, published on 24 January 2025, then redacted, would see nearly 100 % of their members’ products removed from the market.

    In the light of the above, can the Commission clarify:

    • 1.Solid fuel local space heaters are essential for many rural households to heat homes in an affordable way. Has the Commission considered the energy poverty implications of limiting access to these cost-effective heating options?
    • 2.Given manufacturers’ concerns that the proposed changes are unachievable within the given time limits, how does the Commission intend to ensure that standards are both ecologically ambitious and realistically attainable?
    • 3.What guarantees can the Commission give businesses that any future process for ecodesign will ensure transparency and adequate stakeholder engagement to address the concerns of affected industries and consumers?

    Submitted: 24.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Hungary’s ban on Pride – 02-04-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On 18 March 2025, a law was adopted in Hungary restricting the freedom of assembly, by connecting it to a previous controversial law from 2021, which prohibited the public portrayal to children of ‘divergence from self-identity corresponding to sex at birth, sex change or homosexuality’. Consequently, events such as Pride marches have been prohibited in the country. On 2 April 2025, Parliament will hold a debate on recent legislative changes introduced in Hungary, including this one, and their impact on fundamental rights.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB Group and BBVA provide €185 million for sustainable housing projects promoted by small businesses and mid-caps

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB Group has invested more than €90 million in a BBVA asset-backed securitisation operation.
    • This EIB investment will allow BBVA to mobilise some €185 million in financing for sustainable housing projects in Spain.
    • The operation is backed by InvestEU, an EU programme that aims to unlock over €372 billion in investment by 2027.

    The EIB Group – made up of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF) – has signed a new €93 million synthetic securitisation operation with BBVA for 100% green projects. This investment will allow BBVA to mobilise around €185 million to finance the construction of residential buildings with near-zero emissions by small and medium firms (SMEs) and mid-caps in Spain’s real estate sector.

    The operation is guaranteed by InvestEU, the EU programme to mobilise public and private investment. It will give SMEs and mid-caps that promote sustainable housing easier access to financing on favourable terms that would not otherwise be available for such projects.

    The projects financed by this operation will improve energy efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions and help mitigate climate change. A significant number of these projects are expected to be implemented in cohesion regions where the income per capita is below the EU average.

    This operation is one more demonstration of the EIB Group’s role of promoting new financial instruments like securitisation that help unlock capital for green projects, reduce the risk borne by sponsoring financial institutions and strengthen the EU capital markets union.

    The agreement with BBVA supports the strategic priorities of the EIB Group, which include climate action, access to affordable and sustainable housing, cohesion and the capital markets union.

    The securitisation is on a portfolio of over €1.4 billion in loans to SMEs in which BBVA will retain the senior and junior tranches, and the EIB Group will guarantee the mezzanine tranche of €93 million. It has been structured to meet the STS criteria (simple, transparent and standardised), and includes a synthetic excess spread mechanism and uses pro rata amortisation (which may be changed to sequential).

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    About InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investment for EU policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that invest in projects, leveraging on the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increasing their risk-bearing capacity and mobilising at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    About BBVA

    BBVA is a global financial services group founded in 1857. The bank is present in more than 25 countries, has a strong leadership position in the Spanish market, is the largest financial institution in Mexico and it has leading franchises in South America and Turkey.

    BBVA contributes with its activity to the progress and welfare of all its stakeholders: shareholders, clients, employees, providers and society in general. In this regard, BBVA supports families, entrepreneurs and companies in their plans, and helps them to take advantage of the opportunities provided by innovation and technology.  Likewise, BBVA offers its customers a unique value proposition, leveraged on technology and data, helping them improve their financial health with personalized information on financial decision-making.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The EU’s response to Azerbaijan’s unlawful detention of Armenian hostages and the need for consistent human rights policies – E-001126/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001126/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    The European Parliament resolution of 13 March 2025 strongly condemned Azerbaijan’s unlawful detention and sham trials of Armenian hostages and called for targeted sanctions against the Azerbaijani officials responsible for these violations. However, no concrete steps have been taken at EU level to put pressure on Azerbaijan to comply with international law.

    Greece has been a steadfast advocate of human rights and the rule of law both within and outside the EU, upholding a principled stance in cases of political imprisonment. However, the EU’s response to Azerbaijan’s ongoing violations remains weaker compared to the action it has taken in response to other instances of human rights violations, including those concerning Russia and Belarus.

    In view of the above, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.What specific steps has the Commission taken to ensure the immediate release of the Armenian hostages, in accordance with the European Parliament resolution?
    • 2.Why have targeted sanctions not been adopted against the Azerbaijani officials responsible for these violations, despite Parliament’s clear call to action?
    • 3.How does the Commission explain its inconsistent approach, acting with severity in cases of human rights violations in some cases, while avoiding decisive action against Azerbaijan?

    Submitted: 17.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET and BUDG Members hold an Ukraine Facility Dialogue with the Commission – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    Establishing the Ukraine Facility © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    On 10 April 2025, the AFET and BUDG Committees will hold a second Ukraine Facility Dialogue in the framework of the Article 37 of the Ukraine Facility Regulation. The Ukraine Facility is a EUR 50 billion instrument, disbursed in stages, which represents one of the cornerstones of the EU’s strategy for the recovery, reconstruction and modernisation of Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s war of aggression.

    Members will have the opportunity to discuss with Commissioner Marta Kos the state of play of the implementation of the Facility, in particular the Ukraine Plan and related reforms, Ukraine’s progressive alignment to the EU acquis, as well as the payments made. Ukraine Facility Dialogues shall be held at least every four months.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Non-discrimination of diabetic pilots in the EU – E-000259/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA’s) research project on diabetes mellitus includes an evaluation of fitness requirements for air traffic controllers and pilots with diabetes. T he project will conclude on 12-14 November 2025. The results will not be included in the ARA.MED.330 Medical Assessment Protocol but could instead be the subject of dedicated rulemaking to ensure a uniform level of safety and a harmonised approach.

    2. A rulemaking task is expected to update the relevant medical fitness requirements, which will become mandatory for all Member States. EASA will ensure the uniform application of these new requirements through the standardisation process in accordance with Regulation (EU) 628/2013[1].

    3. Based on the research results, the anticipated regulatory update is expected to allow more individuals with insulin-dependent diabetes to become or continue working. Additionally, the study includes an impact assessment to evaluate the practical implications of implementing its recommendations. This assessment will be further refined as part of the upcoming rulemaking task, ensuring that any regulatory changes not only uphold safety standards but also support fair and equitable treatment of diabetic pilots and air traffic controllers across the EU. The Commission supports Member States in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases (NCD) under the Healthier Together EU NCD initiative[2]. Member States are sharing knowledge and best practices on the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes[3], including Type 1 diabetes, with funding of EUR 53 million from the EU4Health programme[4]. This includes awareness raising activities for healthcare providers and citizens.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32013R0628
    • [2] https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/healthier-together-eu-non-communicable-diseases-initiative_en
    • [3] https://jacardi.eu/
    • [4] https://health.ec.europa.eu/funding/eu4health-programme-2021-2027-vision-healthier-european-union_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unknown chemical status – E-000558/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Water Framework Directive (WFD)[1], intercalibration pertains to ecological status. Denmark, Sweden and Germany use chlorophyll-a to assess phytoplankton biomass, a mandatory status parameter.

    The Common Implementation Strategy (CIS) has produced specific guidance[2] on how to submit for approval a new or updated assessment method for items for which the intercalibration exercise has already been completed.

    The assessment method submitted to the intercalibration procedure does not need to already be in use in the current River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs)[3].

    Nutrient conditions are a parameter for ecological status[4]. Scientific literature has demonstrated a consistently strong link between chlorophyll-a and nutrient levels in water, suggesting the possibility of the intercalibration of chlorophyll-a based on nitrogen concentrations only, but its approval requires the scrutiny and approval by the relevant Commission experts.

    To be able to demonstrate good ecological status as required under the WFD, a Member State needs to define the reference conditions of the underlying quality elements, set up a monitoring programme, and use the resulting data to carry out the appropriate assessments.

    The ecological status and chemical status assessment are independent. The CIS provides guidance documents for applying the WFD.

    As regards chemical status, the Commission analysis of Denmark’s third RBMPs[5] notes with concern that o nly a tiny fraction of surface waters, namely 1.7%, is in good chemical status, whereas 5.6% is in poor status and for 92.7% the chemical status is classified as unknown.

    For almost all coastal waters, the status is known: 93% of them are in poor chemical status[6].

    • [1] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73, as amended by Commission Directive 2014/101/EU of 30 October 2014, OJ L 311, 31.10.2014, p. 32-35.
    • [2] https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/43c0f50e-5df6-4c1a-bdba-4a3b7d249799
    • [3] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/water/water-framework-directive_en#state-of-play-of-3rd-rbmp-adoption-in-eu-27
    • [4] While not the case for surface water bodies, nitrates are a parameter for the chemical status of groundwater.
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=SWD%3A2025%3A34%3AFIN&qid=1738746144581
    • [6] Only two coastal waters (1.8%) are reported with chemical status ‘unknown’.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Update of the EU entry price system: protecting the citrus sector against unfair competition – E-000705/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The EU applies an Entry Price System (EPS) to 15 types of fruit and vegetables, including citrus fruits. These are listed in Annex VII to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/891[1]. The Commission calculates and publishes the Standard Import Value (SIV) daily, for the respective period of application. If the SIV or import price is lower than the Entry Price, a specific import levy is applied. For the import of citrus fruits from Egypt, the EU is bound by conditions laid down in the EU-Egypt Association Agreement on agricultural, processed agricultural and fisheries products[2].

    2. Entry price levels, which vary by product and period, are fixed in the EU’s World Trade Organisation (WTO) Schedule of concessions as part of the WTO Agreement and reflected in the EU’s common customs tariff. Adjusting the minimum entry price for citrus would require reopening the EU’s WTO schedule in multilateral negotiations, which is not feasible due to its complexity and potential compensation demands.

    3. The Commission closely monitors the market situation, for citrus and other products, and publishes monthly data on production, prices and trade[3]. While data show that orange imports from Egypt have increased over the years, applying the safeguard clause in the bilateral EU-Egypt Association Agreement would require an investigation to determine whether imports have caused or are threatening to cause serious injury to a domestic industry. Should the Commission receive a duly substantiated request to this effect, it would assess the request on its merits and, if appropriate, initiate an investigation.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2017/891/oj/eng
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2010/240/oj
    • [3] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/data-and-analysis/markets/overviews/market-observatories/fruit-and-vegetables/citrus-fruit-statistics_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protein self-sufficiency – E-000708/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In the Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food[1], published on 19 February 2025, the Commission commits to develop a comprehensive plan to address the EU’s heavy reliance on imported high-quality protein from a limited number of origins.

    This initiative will be based on a holistic approach encompassing the agri-food system, considering both the way protein is produced and consumed.

    Learning from on-the-ground efforts and research, it will present a way forward to ensure the long-term competitiveness, sustainability, profitability and attractiveness of the sector.

    It will, in particular, focus on fostering domestic production to improve self-sufficiency to reduce the long-standing dependency on imported plant-based protein and on diversifying imports of plant-based protein to increase the EU’s food security.

    • [1]  https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/vision-agriculture-food_en#:~:text=Building%20on%20the%20report%20of%20the%20Strategic%20Dialogue,sustainability%20of%20the%20EU%E2%80%99s%20farming%20and%20food%20sector
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Protection of minors online – 07-04-2025 – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    Minors accessing the net © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 7 April, IMCO will hold a public hearing on the safe internet use for minors. Industry stakeholders, consumer associations, national enforcement authorities, experts on children’s rights, data protection authority and the European Commission have all been invited to take part.

    Discussions will focus on the various issues that minors face as vulnerable consumers when it comes to social media use and engagement with online tools. The hearing will also delve into the implementation of the EU rules called the Digital Services Act, for the protection of minors in the digital space.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – New Regulation on a common system for return of third-country nationals – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration © European Parliament 2025

    On 7th of April the LIBE MEPs will have the opportunity to engage into an exchange of views with the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, on the Commission’s new proposal for a Common European System for Returns.

    The proposal, launched at the beginning of March 2025, sets a swifter, simpler and more effective return procedures across the EU and constitutes a key piece to complement the Pact on Migration and Asylum, which was adopted in May 2024 setting out a comprehensive approach on migration. The new rules will give Member States the necessary tools to make return more efficient while fully respecting fundamental rights.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission offers 36,000 free EU travel passes to 18-year-olds

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 02 Apr 2025 Thousands of young people will soon have the chance to explore Europe for free with DiscoverEU. The European Commission has opened applications for a new DiscoverEU round, making nearly 36,000 travel passes available to 18-year-olds across Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Proposed reform of legal proceedings initiated by popular action in Spain – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    On 8 April 2025, the LIBE Committee will hold an exchange of views the European Commission and experts on the proposed reform of legal proceedings initiated by popular action in Spain.

    According to Article 125 of the Spanish Constitution, citizens have the right to initiate legal proceedings by filing a popular action. In January 2025, a parliamentary group presented to the Spanish Congress of Deputies legislative proposal no. 122/000147, for an organic law on the guarantee and protection fundamental rights against harassment arising from abusive legal actions.

    The proposed law would introduce additional conditions for bringing a popular action, including requiring a specific link between the plaintiff and the public interest protected in the criminal proceedings, and entirely barring certain categories of persons from brining such actions. Popular actions would also be inadmissible where they are based purely on hypotheses stemming from information which appeared in the media.

    The aim of the discussion in the LIBE Committee will be to examine the legal implications of this law if adopted, including its compatibility with fundamental rights and the rule of law.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fast times, fast tech: DASA launches new phase of fast paced themed competition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Fast times, fast tech: DASA launches new phase of fast paced themed competition

    DASA launches Phase Two of Innovation in Support of Operations – a Themed Competition seeking fast paced scalable proposals across five new challenge areas

    • DASA has launched Phase Two of Innovation in Support of Operations
    • Funded by the Ministry of Defence
    • Three competition cycles closing on 20 May 2025 12:00 Midday (BST); 05 August 2025 12:00 Midday (BST); 14 October 2025 12:00 Midday (BST)

    The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch Phase Two of our fast paced Themed Competition Innovation in Support of Operations. Run on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, this competition is looking for innovative proposals that are cost competitive, designed for manufacture, and can be scaled in an approximate twelve-month timeframe.

    Competition key information

    Phase Two – expected to consist of three cycles:

      Cycle 4 Cycle 5 Cycle 6
    Competition Launch 2 April 3 June 19 August
    Open For 7 Weeks 9 Weeks 8 Weeks
    Comp Closes 20 May 12:00 5 August 12:00 14 October 12:00

    All above time BST

    • We expect proposals to cost no more than £350,000
    • A number of proposals may be funded

    Background: Why we need innovation in this area

    The UK Government continuously evaluates insights from global events, to rapidly implement solutions that strengthen military and economic advantage.

    This competition aims to identify and accelerate innovative solutions and techniques, ensuring they can be scaled and deployed faster than our adversaries.

    If you think you have an innovation that could be deployed at pace, please read the full Competition Document and submit a proposal

    Competition challenges

    This competition has five new challenge areas:

    1. UAS Propulsion

    In this challenge area we are looking for:

    • Novel means of propulsion for small to medium UAS.
    • Novel means of manufacture/design of traditional UAS engines for small to medium UAS to increase scale of manufacture at a market leading price.

    2. 155mm Artillery Barrel Repair/Recondition

    We are looking for innovative solutions to repair, recondition and extend barrel life.

    3. Autonomous navigation systems for UAS and USVs

    In this challenge we are seeking autonomous navigation systems for air vehicles and/or maritime surface vessels.

    4. Seekers

    We are looking for novel systems directed against:

    1. RF transmitters at frequencies ranging from 200 MHz to 40 GHz
    2. Class I(d), Class II and Class III UAS
    3. Medium to large maritime surface targets.

    5.UAS defeat

    This challenge relates to the ability to:

    1. Detect UAS. We are seeking solutions to detect (and potentially defeat) UAS, including those that are not reliant on RF links.

    2. Destroy UAS.  We are looking for novel solutions to destroy UAVs around the Class 1(d) size, once detected.

    These challenges are designed to identify innovations that could be deployed, at an appropriate scale, in operational areas within 12 months.

    For full details of the competition Challenge Areas, please read the Competition Document

    Technology Readiness Levels (TRL)

    For this competition we are seeking technology output and demonstration to reach  technology readiness level (TRL) 6 by the end of the project.

    If you think your innovation could meet one of the Challenges, why not read the full Competition Document and submit a proposal?

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transforming Humberhead nature reserve with ‘snow of summer’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Transforming Humberhead nature reserve with ‘snow of summer’

    12,000 plugs of cotton grass have been planted at Humberhead National Nature Reserve (NNR) marking a key step in restoring the peatlands.

    Cottongrass in fruit on the Humberhead Peatlands NNR. Copyright Peter Roworth.

    Visitors to the iconic peatlands of Humberhead National Nature Reserve (NNR) may think they are seeing an early snowfall this summer following the planting of thousands of cotton grass plants.

    The white, whimsical allure of common cotton grass heads are a familiar sight across Yorkshire landscape and the little plants play a big role in peatland restoration.

    They act as a both an eco-warrior by fighting soil erosion and as a wildlife magnet, attracting birds and insects which boosts biodiversity.

    At Humberhead NNR, cotton grass is particularly important for the large heath butterfly with their caterpillars using it as a foodplant.

    Cotton grass is also considered a companion plant to another engineer of the ecosystem, sphagnum moss.

    Growing sphagnum and cotton grass together stores water and prevents the decay of dead plant material, which in turn develops new peat and locks away carbon from the atmosphere.  

    12,000 ‘plugs’ planted

    At Humberhead NNR, 12,000 cotton grass ‘plugs’ were planted by a team of Natural England staff and volunteers from Humberhead Levels Partnership.

    The work was delivered as part of the LIFE Moor Space project and funded by an EU LIFE grant. The wider project aims to restore 400 hectares of degraded lowland peat bog.  

    Natural England staff and volunteers from the Humberhead Levels Partnership planting cotton grass at Humberhead NNR

    Paul Schofield, Senior Project Manager for LIFE Moor Space with Natural England, said:  

    Peatlands are amongst our most carbon-rich ecosystems on Earth. Not only are they vital for fighting climate change, but they reduce flood risk and support biodiversity.  

    A key step in restoring the Humberhead Peatlands NNR is to ensure all bare peat is covered with peat forming vegetation. The new cotton grass, sometimes known as the snow of summer, is a major step towards achieving this and our thanks go to everyone involved.  

    Cotton grass plugs planted on bare peat at Humberhead NNR

    The Humberhead Peatlands are made up of Thorne, Goole, and Crowle Moors, as well as Hatfield Moors. The Peatlands are a remnant of a large wetland that occupied the floodplain of the Humberhead Levels thousands of years ago.

    Following significant restoration, they now represent the largest area of raised bog wilderness in lowland Britain at 2,887 hectares in size.   

    The site is also internationally important, both as an example of a lowland raised bog covered in pools and plant life, as well as for its breeding pairs of the mysterious and mythical nightjar.   

    Lowland raised bog is one of western Europe’s rarest and most threatened habitats and the Humberhead site is now protected as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

    Natural England take care of the peatlands by carefully managing the water levels to promote the growth of bog plants and sphagnum mosses.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the XVIII Interuniversity Olympiad “Management in Transport and Logistics” have been summed up

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The 18th Interuniversity Student Olympiad “Management in Transport and Logistics”, organized by the Institute of Industry Management of the State University of Management, has ended at the State University of Management.

    The central event of the Olympiad was the defense of project work, where 9 teams presented their developments to a competent jury. The guys demonstrated a deep understanding of modern challenges facing the logistics and transport industry, and proposed innovative solutions based on advanced technologies and best practices.

    The participants demonstrated not only a deep knowledge of theory, but also the ability to apply it to solve real business problems, creating projects ready for implementation in practice.

    The jury included representatives of the largest companies in the transport industry and logistics business: JSC OREKH, FS Mackenzie, LKTK GROUP (OOO SPAK), CESCA, OOO KAMPARI RUS, JSC Oktoblu, OOO COTTON CLUB, OOO SP BUSINESS CAR, NAMI, Tablogix, Fast Pax, ATI SU, JSC Russian Post, Alfa Group – BN Alfascan.

    The experts noted the high level of preparation of the students, their creative thinking and ability to find innovative solutions to complex problems.

    The best practice-oriented project was prepared by the team of the State University of Management “MyBestRoute”. The winners in the nomination “Research Project” were also our students from the team “Delivery Fly”, and the first place among video business cards was taken by the team of RUDN University “Logisticians of Friendship”.

    The winners of the scientific paper competition were: Tatyana Mananik, Daniil Yushin, Alexandra Patrick, Vasilina Shumskaya and Yuliana Linda.

    The competition demonstrated the high level of preparation of the participants and their genuine interest in the development of the logistics industry. Students from GUU, MADI and RUDN contributed to the creation of a unique atmosphere of competition and exchange of experience.

    At the award ceremony, Deputy Head of the Department of Transport Complex Management of the State University of Management Alexey Stepanov congratulated the competition participants and presented diplomas and memorable prizes to the winners.

    We would like to thank all participants and experts for their support and active participation in the Olympiad. We look forward to new meetings and inspiring ideas at the next event!

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/02/2025

    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: Your chance in science: the Institute of Marketing of the State University of Management invited students to join the research

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On March 27, the traditional event “Trends in Marketing, Brand Management and Advertising” was held in the Presentation Hall of the Scientific Library of the State University of Management, dedicated to the key areas of research work of students of the Institute of Marketing.

    Teachers from three graduate departments presented their initiative areas of scientific research and invited students to participate in the scientific life of the Institute.

    The presentations were made by Vasily Starostin, Olga Vasilyeva, Kristina Arzhanova, Dmitry Dolgopolov, Olga Larina, Victoria Bogdanova and Svetlana Silina.

    During the meeting, current topics were discussed concerning both the education sector itself, such as education marketing and university campus development, as well as the technology sector and the use of artificial intelligence.

    The participants also considered the issues of information perception in consumer communities, sustainable development marketing and transformation processes in the labour market.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/02/2025

    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: The fifth issue of the HSE Journal of Art and Design: from Gothic painting to digital technologies

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Photography is a form of visual communication that, while remaining technically accessible to a wide range of people, requires a strong theoretical background and constant practice. Specialists in this field define the face of modern culture, media, fashion, and advertising. Students majoring in Photography receive knowledge unique to a Russian university in the field of interaction between photography, design, video art, and installation. The School of Design offers photography training in two educational trajectories: fashion photography and art photography.

    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 Europe: Highlights – 7-8 April: Votes on FDI screening, Ukraine safeguards; US tariffs, China, South Korea – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    On 8 April, Members will vote on the INTA position on two key legislative proposals: the revision of the foreign investment screening regulation and on the suspension of the EU Safeguard Regulation vis-à-vis Ukraine. Members will hold an in camera debate with DG Trade Director-General Sabine Weyand on EU-US trade relations following the announcement of US reciprocal tariffs of 2 April. Members will also exchange with the Commission on the state of play of EU-China trade and investment relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – REGI – Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto – 09.04.25 – Committee on Regional Development

    Source: European Parliament

    Hearing of Executive Vice-President-designate Raffaele Fitto © European Union 2024 – EP

    The Committee on Regional Development will have the presentation of the legislative proposal on mid-term review of cohesion policy by Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto at its meeting on 9 April 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Next Meeting of the D-MX Delegation: 24 April 2025 – Delegation to the EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee

    Source: European Parliament

    The next meeting of the Delegation to the EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee (D-MX) has been scheduled for:

    Thursday, 24 April 2025, 9.30-11.00

    Room: tbc

    It will be ‘in camera’ and will focus on the preparation of the 31st EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Meeting due to take place in Brussels on 15 May 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET and BUDG Members hold an Ukraine Facility Dialogue with Commission – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    Establishing the Ukraine Facility © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    On 10 April 2025, the AFET and BUDG Committees will hold a second Ukraine Facility Dialogue in the framework of the Article 37 of the Ukraine Facility Regulation. The Ukraine Facility is a EUR 50 billion instrument, disbursed in stages, which represents one of the cornerstones of the EU’s strategy for the recovery, reconstruction and modernisation of Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s war of aggression.

    Members will have the opportunity to discuss with Commissioner Marta Kos the state of play of the implementation of the Facility, in particular the Ukraine Plan and related reforms, Ukraine’s progressive alignment to the EU acquis, as well as the payments made. Ukraine Facility Dialogues shall be held at least every four months.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Rare diseases and paediatric transplants – E-000537/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The definition of health policy and the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care is a Member State competence. EU actions in the field of rare diseases complement national policies and aim to encourage cooperation across Member States. Therefore, the Commission does not plan to adopt any measure to recognise ‘complex therapeutic procedures’ as part of the treatment of rare diseases. However, the European Reference Network (ERN) TransplantChild[1], one of the 24 ERNs funded by the EU, has been working since 2017 on paediatric transplantation, striving to make the latest techniques and medical, pharmacological and therapeutic advances available, while facilitating the dissemination of harmonised clinical practice guidelines and the development of personalised paediatric transplantation medicine.

    2. The Commission previously funded a project that supported the mobility of ERN healthcare professionals, allowing them to follow training sessions in specialised ERN centres. Under the current grants for the ERNs (2023-2027), worth EUR 77.4 million (amounting to around EUR 3.25 million per ERN), training and education activities are specifically included, organised and implemented by each ERN, including the ERN TransplantChild.

    • [1] https://transplantchild.eu/
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU response to the rise in animal disease outbreaks – E-000446/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is in constant and close contact with the competent authorities of the Member States to analyse and manage animal disease outbreaks under the Animal Health Law[1] within the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (PAFF Committee)[2]. Relevant Agencies, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), are supporting the Commission and the Member States through targeted Scientific Opinions and Reports on the evolution of the epidemiological situation in relation to several animal diseases.

    2. The Commission offers support to competent authorities and stakeholders through training initiatives, such as the Better Training for Safer Food (BTSF)[3], and the deployment of the EU Veterinary Emergency Team (EUVET)[4]. Furthermore, antigen and vaccine banks for certain animal diseases managed by the Commission are made available to the Member States in case of need. The Commission also performs audits in Member States aimed at monitoring the implementation and enforcement of EU legislation on animal health[5]. Finally, the EU co-funds certain disease control measures performed by the Member States for priority animal diseases through veterinary programmes[6] and emergency measures[7].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’).
    • [2] https://food.ec.europa.eu/horizontal-topics/committees/paff-committees/animal-health-and-welfare_en
    • [3] https://better-training-for-safer-food.ec.europa.eu/training/
    • [4] https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/veterinary-emergency-team_en
    • [5] https://food.ec.europa.eu/horizontal-topics/official-controls-and-enforcement/health-and-food-audits-and-analysis_en
    • [6] https://food.ec.europa.eu/horizontal-topics/funding-procurement-grants/food-chain-funding/funding-animal-health-measures/national-veterinary-programmes_en
    • [7] https://food.ec.europa.eu/horizontal-topics/funding-procurement-grants/food-chain-funding/funding-animal-health-measures/emergency-measures_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Exchange of Views on Spyware – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    During the LIBE Committee meeting on 8 April, Members will engage in discussions with representatives from the European Commission, WhatsApp, and those impacted by the Paragon spyware attack. The debates are organised after a number of journalists and civil society members were seemingly targeted by spyware developed by the surveillance technology company Paragon Solutions.

    The spyware, reportedly used by government clients, was designed to infiltrate encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. According to WhatsApp, a potential breach was detected, and evidence suggests that several individuals’ devices were compromised. While it remains unclear who orchestrated the attacks, WhatsApp has taken legal action against Paragon Solutions.

    In the past, the European Parliament has been very active scrutinising the use of spyware. The Committee of Inquiry to investigate the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware (PEGA), established in March 2022, investigated the misuse of Pegasus spyware in the EU. Its 2023 report led the European Parliament to recommend stronger legal enforcement, election security, and spyware export controls. During the previous term, the LIBE Committee organised Exchanges of Views to follow up on the findings of the PEGA Committee.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – REGI – Committee votes – 09.04.25 – Committee on Regional Development

    Source: European Parliament

    MEPs’ role in shaping EU rules -16:9 EE24 © European Parliament

    The Committee on Regional Development will vote on two dossiers at its meeting on Wednesday 9 April 2025 : Firstly on the adoption of the draft recommendation for second reading of the Border Regions’ instrument for development and growth (BRIDGEforEU) – 2018/0198(COD) – 17102/1/2024 – C10-0057/2025 – Rapporteur: Sandro Gozi (Renew) and secondly on the adoption of the draft report on Ninth report on economic and social cohesion 2024/2107(INI) – Rapporteur: Jacek Protas (PPE) – PE766.926v01-00.

    MIL OSI Europe News –