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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Updated guide to raising concerns about a charity

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Updated guide to raising concerns about a charity

    The Charity Commission for England and Wales has today published refreshed guidance and an updated online form to help anyone who wants to raise a concern about a charity.

    The guidance ‘Raising a concern with the Charity Commission’ (CC47) sets out when to raise concerns about a charity with the Commission as well as what it can do or cannot do within its remit of helping charities in England and Wales be accountable, well-run and meet their legal obligations.  

    The guidance also covers where and how it can and will act and how it prioritises the most serious concerns that present risk of significant harm to, or abuse of, charities, their beneficiaries or assets or to trust and confidence in the sector. 

    Eight percent of 3679 concerns submitted by members of the public to the Commission during the last financial year could not be taken further as these were either beyond the Commission’s regulatory remit set by Parliament or had insufficient information.  

    The Commission’s updated guidance and forms aim to help people find the most appropriate route for raising any concerns, while being clear when it is unlikely to be able to act. 

    An improved online ‘raising a concern’ form on gov.uk for members of the public, which still allows evidence to be attached, now provides new signposting to make it easier for a charity’s trustees, employees and volunteers to raise concerns in the right way via alternative routes for whistleblowing, reports of serious incidents or matters of material significance. 

    Charity Commission Head of Intelligence & Risk, Kate Waring, said:  

    While things can go wrong – either intentionally or unintentionally – the vast majority of the 170,000 charities on the register are doing great work to make a positive difference. Trustees overwhelmingly act in their charity’s best interests, and we step in when they do not.  

    It is important people can tell us when things are not right at a charity, and our refreshed guidance explains the sorts of concerns they can, and should, confidently bring to our attention. Both the improved guidance and online form also remind people about concerns that are for other regulators, so they can raise those with the right organisation. 

    We have to prioritise our work to help us make the best use of the resources we’ve been given as a public body and to ensure proportionate regulation of a volunteer led sector. 

    The ‘Raising a concern with the Charity Commission’ guidance is available on gov.uk. 

    ENDS 

    Notes to editors: 

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more  

    2. The Commission’s suite of guidance for charities in England and Wales is on gov.uk  

    3. Concerns about a charity can be raised with the appropriate authority on gov.uk  

    4. The refreshed guidance can be found on gov.uk  

    5. The updated form for raising concerns with the Charity Commission can be found here

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth’s largest anchor institutions unite in a pioneering collaboration to tackle inequality

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A Civic Engagement Agreement is being signed today by Plymouth’s four largest employers – Plymouth City Council, Babcock International Group (Babcock), University of Plymouth and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust – in a pioneering, voluntary commitment to address the root causes of inequality and drive inclusive, city-wide transformation.

    This landmark step collaboratively brings together major institutions in a coordinated approach to deliver social value, reduce deprivation and improve long-term outcomes for Plymouth households.

    A Shared Vision for Inclusive Growth

    At the heart of the Agreement is a shared belief: that the complex challenges facing Plymouth, such as job accessibility, health inequality, economic inactivity and skills, can best be addressed through collective action.

    The Civic Engagement Agreement sets out an intention for collaboration, guiding partners to align their expertise and resources across shared priorities including workforce development, community well-being, placemaking, and supply chain engagement.

    The Civic Engagement Agreement is working alongside and in collaboration with Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP). GAP is the partnership between Plymouth City Council, Babcock International Group and The Royal Navy to ensure vital defence outputs are delivered into the future while driving sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.

    What This Means for the People of Plymouth

    Local residents and businesses will see new, joined-up approaches through the Civic Engagement Agreement’s focus on:

    • Being inclusive in employment practices
    • Strengthening local supply chains
    • Supporting staff, students and volunteers to work with communities to improve health, education and social infrastructure
    • Reducing the environmental impact of operations internally and in supply chains.

    Ultimately, the Civic Engagement Agreement aims to ensure that public services and institutions work better together to improve life outcomes for Plymouth residents.

    Strategic Commitments from the Partners

    Plymouth City Council

    “This Agreement gives us clarity of four focus areas for collective action where we can make the biggest difference through our social value action” said Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council “It allows us to better coordinate services and investments that influence community wellbeing, ensuring we act with purpose—and with our partners, act with strength.”

    Babcock International

    John Gane, Managing Director for Babcock’s Devonport site, said “As one of Plymouth’s largest employers supporting over 11% of the city’s workforce—we understand the vital role we play in shaping a thriving, inclusive future for our community. At Babcock, we are proud to lead the way in regional skills development, expanding vocational opportunities and opening new career pathways that empower local talent to succeed. Our commitment to sustainability and social value is deeply rooted in our support for local communities, charities, and civic initiatives. As a key anchor institution in Plymouth, we are already making a meaningful impact, but through this Civic Engagement Agreement, backed by Growth Alliance Plymouth, we have the opportunity to achieve even greater things together. This partnership is not just about progress, it’s about creating lasting, transformative change.”

    University of Plymouth

    The University of Plymouth’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Davies says:

    “Knowledge and skills are vital to unlocking growth, encouraging investment, and helping our city fulfil its enormous potential.

    “We believe that universities should serve their communities, and this agreement sets a new standard for civic responsibility in higher education.

    “Our University is proud to be helping lead that journey here in Plymouth.”

    University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

    Sarah Brampton, Deputy Chief Executive: “We know that the health of our population is shaped by social determinants such as income, housing, environment, transport, education and work. To really improve people’s health, there needs to be a greater focus on preventing ill health and supporting our communities to be and stay well. We know we can achieve more by working together to tackle upstream causes of ill health, rather than just symptoms and coming together in this way, through this agreement, shows our commitment to doing that.”

    Key Objectives of the Agreement

    • Strengthen Community Well-being: Improve quality of life by tackling social determinants of health and supporting personal and community development.
    • Promote Sustainable and Inclusive Growth: Drive economic growth that benefits all residents through job creation, skills development, and local investment.
    • Champion Environmental and Social Responsibility: Embed sustainable practices and maximise social value through shared procurement, planning, and policy.

    A Call to Action

    This Civic Engagement Agreement marks a new chapter in civic partnership in Plymouth. The founding partners will now reach out to businesses, community organisations and residents to help shape the next phase of this work by contributing to the design and delivery of the detailed agreement to follow in autumn 2025.

    To learn more or get involved, visit: www.plymouthcharter.co.uk/post/civic-agreement

    For more information contact Ellie Tighe at Plymouth Charter, [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mapping Change and Investment in St Helier06 June 2025 ​An interactive plan has been published and displayed on digital touch screens in St Helier, showcasing how our town is evolving through coordinated investment and regeneration. The document:… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    06 June 2025

    ​An interactive plan has been published and displayed on digital touch screens in St Helier, showcasing how our town is evolving through coordinated investment and regeneration.

    The document: Mapping Change and Investment in St Helier brings together public and private projects – recently completed, in progress, and planned – to help Islanders understand what is happening, where it’s happening, and why it matters. 

    This interactive tool is part of a long-term effort to make information about St Helier’s future more accessible, engaging, and inclusive for all Islanders. 

    It encourages people to explore how Town is changing and to feel part of that transformation. 

    The plan is available online and can also be explored in person on digital touch screens installed at the Town Hall, Jersey Library, and the Government Office on Union Street – gov.je/planfortown. 

    Users can navigate the map to discover major developments, public realm enhancements, and the key policies driving the regeneration of St Helier. 

    The initiative centres on the three themes set out in the Bridging Island Plan’s vision for the Town: 

    • A Growing Town – Introduce and Integrate: Supporting the delivery of new homes, improved infrastructure, and better integration of spaces, services, and community. 
    • A Sustainable Town – Restore, Protect and Prepare: Revitalising heritage assets, delivering environmental improvements, and preparing for climate resilience and long-term sustainability. 
    • A Vibrant Town – Connect, Enliven and Enhance: Enhancing public spaces, promoting active travel, and investing in culture, retail, and community life to bring energy and life to Town. 

    The Minister for Infrastructure, Connétable Andy Jehan, said: “I am pleased with the recent progress and publication of this interactive plan. It will help Islanders, investors, and decision-makers understand the strategic context in St Helier and the positive changes that are underway. 

    “Some parts of Town clearly need investment, new infrastructure, and improvements to our public realm. This is key to our objective to revitalise St Helier. 

    “I recognise that people want to see further detail on key projects like Fort Regent, and I will ensure the Plan for Town stays updated as new announcements are made.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Volunteers invited to take part in a community dig at Kilmocholmóg

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    An exciting community dig is happening at the prehistoric and medieval site of Kilmocholmóg, just off Kilmore Road in Lurgan, from Monday 16 June to Friday 4 July 2025.

    Members of the local community are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and get involved in unearthing Lurgan’s medieval past.

    Previous excavations at the site known as Kilmocholmóg (meaning ‘church of my little Colman’) has uncovered a greater insight into life at this location over thousands of years.

    Working alongside archaeologists, volunteers have helped unearth artefacts, structures, and evidence of ancient craftsmanship at this high-status historical site.

    Since 2022 over 1,000 artefacts including stone age tools, pottery, an ingot mould and glass beads have been recovered as well as the remains of an iron age enclosure and surrounding stone structures.

    The upcoming community dig aims to expand on these discoveries and uncover more details about the settlement’s significance and prove or disprove the local memory that an early medieval church was once located here.

    The dig runs Mondays to Fridays, giving volunteers the chance to take part in morning sessions (9.30am-12pm) or afternoon sessions (1pm-3.30pm).

    It is open to everyone, making it a perfect opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult to ensure a safe and educational experience.

    No experience is necessary as a team of experts from leading archaeology firm, Northern Archaeological Consultancy, will be on hand to guide volunteers every step of the way.

    Organised by the Craigavon Historical Society in partnership with the Council’s Lurgan Townscape Heritage scheme, this dig has been funded by National Lottery players through the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    If you are interested in learning about archaeology and uncovering the secrets of Kilmocholmóg, book your place at www.eventbrite.com/e/1376030156239 or email David Weir of Craigavon Historical Society at

    *protected email*

    .

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lurgan Show serves up a celebration of local food and farming

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Thousands of visitors packed into the picturesque Lurgan Park on Saturday 7th June for this year’s Lurgan Show – a vibrant celebration of food, farming, and agriculture that firmly underscores the ABC Borough’s status as Northern Ireland’s Food Heartland.

    Now a flagship event in the agricultural calendar, the show proudly showcased the very best of the borough’s award-winning food and drink producers, agri-businesses, and farming excellence.

    This year’s Food Heartland stand, supported by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, attracted crowds keen to sample the finest produce from local favourites including Peggy’s Family Farm, Ballydown Milk, Rosemount Cottage Farm Meats, Glorious Bakes, Long Meadow Cider, Apple Tree Farm, the Hemp and Honey Farm Co Op, and Moo Valley gelato.

    From artisan jams and farm-fresh milkshakes to sizzling meats and handcrafted bakes, the local offering was second to none.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said:

    “Lurgan Show is a shining example of what makes our borough so special – a deep-rooted connection to our agricultural heritage and an unwavering passion for food excellence. I was delighted to see so many producers and visitors enjoying the day. This event is a true celebration of our Food Heartland, and I commend all those who work hard year-round to make our borough a place of taste, talent, and tradition.”

    Organised by the Lurgan & District Horse and Cattle Society, the Show also featured equestrian and livestock championships, vintage farm machinery, family activities, and more – offering something for everyone.

    The summer show season continues with the Armagh County Agricultural Show and Country Festival taking place this Saturday 14th June at Gosford Forest Park. For details, visit www.armaghshow.com

    To learn more about the Food Heartland and its producers, contact:

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US companies blame changing trade policy for eroding business prospects for the future – media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    WASHINGTON, June 9 (Xinhua) — American businessmen warn that the U.S. administration’s ever-changing trade policies are making it difficult for them to plan for the future, leading to a freeze in hiring and investment, The Wall Street Journal reported.

    John Starr, owner of UltraSource, a Kansas City, Mo., supplier of meat processing and packing equipment, said he is holding off on hiring or making additional capital investments until there is clarity on tariffs.

    The company is waiting for suppliers in Europe to finalize $20 million in orders it placed before the Trump administration’s 10 percent tariffs went into effect on April 9, the report said. That means it faces a $2 million tax bill if the tariffs remain in place.

    “How am I supposed to pay for this?” said J. Starr, the third-generation owner of the company. “It could wipe out the entire year’s profits.”

    For months, US President Donald Trump has announced one significant tariff increase after another, at times switching from escalation to temporary settlement.

    “Where this all ends depends on what Trump decides to do next, and frankly, even Trump doesn’t know what Trump will do next,” Christopher Thornberg, a founding partner at Beacon Economics in Los Angeles, was quoted as saying in the article. “So it’s almost impossible to know where this is going.”

    In this environment, the US economy faces three main risks in the coming months, namely a potential rise in unemployment, a decline in consumer demand, and disruptions caused by financial market turmoil or sharp changes in sentiment, the article says.

    With the possibility of companies laying off workers due to low demand remaining, unemployment could rise quickly once such a scenario becomes a reality.

    At the same time, the level of delinquent debt on consumer loans has been rising for a year, raising concerns that the worsening financial situation of low-income borrowers could lead to a more noticeable slowdown in consumer spending, the article notes.

    For many companies, the uncertainty caused by Trump’s sudden and seemingly arbitrary tariff announcements has impacted sales prospects this year, the article says.

    “I have to take action immediately,” said J. Starr. “We will be very careful about any cash expenditures just because we need the money to pay the tariff.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian President V. Putin approved the strategy for the development of the Navy until 2050

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 9 /Xinhua/ – Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 30 approved the Strategy for the Development of the Russian Navy until 2050. This was stated in an interview with the newspaper Argumenty i Fakty by the presidential aide and Chairman of the Russian Maritime Collegium Nikolai Patrushev.

    “The final version of the strategy was submitted to the head of state for consideration, and he approved it on May 30,” said N. Patrushev.

    According to him, “a strategic planning document of this kind has been adopted for the first time in modern history.”

    “The Strategy contains an analysis of the development of the military-political situation in the world, the possible occurrence and nature of armed conflicts, and the potential of the leading naval powers. An assessment is given of the current state and capabilities of the Navy, taking into account the experience of a special military operation,” he said.

    “The main requirements for the future combat composition of the fleet, its main tasks in peacetime and wartime, as well as mechanisms aimed at forming the future image of the Navy have been formulated. In a word, an important long-term document has been adopted, which provides an answer to the question of what Russia’s naval power should be so that our country can effectively defend its interests in the World Ocean,” N. Patrushev noted. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three people have been killed in two separate incidents in the Indian city of Delhi.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    NEW DELHI, June 9 (Xinhua) — Three people, including an 8-year-old boy, were killed in two separate incidents in Delhi on Monday and several others were injured, a senior Delhi Fire Service official has confirmed.

    Two people were killed in a fire that broke out at an electric charging station in Delhi’s Dilshad Garden area. The station, located inside a house, was meant for e-rickshaws, small vehicles used to ferry people over short distances.

    Both of them suffered burns and were rushed to a local government hospital where they were pronounced dead.

    Two more people injured in the incident were taken to a local hospital.

    In a separate incident, an 8-year-old boy was killed and a 60-year-old man was injured when a two-storey house collapsed in West Delhi’s Kamruddin Nagar on Monday.

    The victim was taken to a local hospital. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China reports decline in consumer and producer price indices in May

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) — China’s consumer inflation eased in May, driven by lower energy and food prices, while producer prices also continued to fall, data released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed Monday.

    According to the agency, in May the consumer price index /CPI/, the main indicator of inflation, fell by 0.1 percent year-on-year and by 0.2 percent month-on-month.

    The main factor that influenced the May CPI was the decline in energy prices. The contribution of this group of goods to the decline in CPI on an annual basis was 0.47 percentage points, noted /GSU/ statistician Dong Lijuan.

    According to her, positive price changes have been observed in some sectors against the backdrop of the country’s ongoing policy of stimulating consumption.

    The core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, rose by 0.6 percent year-on-year in May, compared to 0.5 percent in April, according to data from the State Statistics Service.

    In May, food prices in the country fell by 0.4 percent year-on-year, while prices for non-food products remained unchanged.

    Consumer prices fell by 0.5 percent, while service prices rose by 0.5 percent.

    Overall, in January-May, the CPI in China fell by 0.1 percent compared to the same period last year.

    The latest data from the State Statistics Service also showed that the producer price index (PPI), which measures the overall change in wholesale producer prices, fell 3.3 percent year-on-year in May, an improvement from a 2.7 percent drop in April.

    Dong Lijuan attributed the decline in PPI to the fall in global crude oil prices, which led to lower prices in China’s oil-related industries, as well as a seasonal decline in demand for energy and raw materials. As the statistician explained, seasonal factors led to a decline in coal prices, while hot and rainy weather also disrupted construction activity in the southern regions.

    On a monthly basis, the PPI fell by 0.4 percent in May. In the first five months of the year, the PPI declined by 2.6 percent compared to a year earlier. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s trade with African countries hits record high in January-May 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) — China’s trade volume with African countries reached a record high in the first five months of 2025, data released by the General Administration of Customs showed Monday.

    According to official data, from January to May this year, trade volume between China and Africa increased by 12.4 percent year on year to 963.21 billion yuan (about 134 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for 5.4 percent of China’s total foreign trade.

    China’s exports to Africa in the first five months rose 20.2 percent year on year to 599.57 billion yuan, while imports from Africa rose 1.6 percent to 363.64 billion yuan. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Dmitry Bryukhanov awarded the best managers of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On June 6, 2025, the final of the federal stage of the competition “Manager of the Year among graduates of the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel for Organizations of the National Economy of the Russian Federation – 2025” was held at the All-Russian Academy of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

    The expert jury of the competition included representatives of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, the Expert Council of the Government Commission for the Organization of Management Training, Russian universities, the business community and the Union of Associations of the Program’s Alumni. The State University of Management was represented in the jury by Vice-Rector Dmitry Bryukhanov.

    The competition was held in the format of assessing projects implemented by graduates of the Presidential Program. More than 80 projects were submitted in two nominations: “Business Project” and “Social Project”, of which 12 projects were selected for participation in the in-person stage: 9 in the “Business Project” nomination and 3 in the “Social Project” nomination.

    The experts assessed the relevance of the project, the personal contribution of the contestant to its implementation, the measurability of the project results and the possibility of replication, the social effect of the project implementation for the region and the country as a whole, the quality of the presentation material, and answers to additional questions.

    It should be noted that the finalists of the Manager of the Year 2025 competition were Russian entrepreneurs who participated in the program for training Russian specialists abroad in accordance with the State Plan for the Training of Managerial Personnel for Organizations of the National Economy of the Russian Federation, implemented by the State Management University in the period from 2022 to 2024.

    All finalists of the in-person stage of “Manager of the Year – 2025” presented projects that are significant for the regions of Russia:

    The winners of the competition:

    Nomination “Business Project”: 1st place – Anatoly Smirnov, “Creation of a new production facility for the AFS Group”, St. Petersburg; 2nd place – Anatoly Tulaev, “Development of 5D printer production with innovative 5D tech technology”, Volgograd Region; 3rd place – Andrey Semizorov, “Import substitution of products from the Electrotyazhmash plant (Ukraine) with modernized analogues from the Vorotynsky Energy Repair Plant (Russia)”, Kaluga Region.

    Nomination “Social Project”: Artem Korolev, “International Engineering Championship CASE-IN”, Moscow.

    Nomination “Audience Choice Award”: Yulia Kladko, “Organization of entrepreneurial activity in the field of environmental design”, Moscow.

    The experts noted the high level of the projects presented, congratulated the contestants and wished them further success in implementing their projects and achieving their professional goals.

    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: HSE University is the absolute leader in the ranking of universities’ practical orientation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Карьерная платформа Changellenge >> summed up the results of the largest case championships of the 2024/25 season and presented an updated ranking of universities by the level of practical orientation. The absolute leader was the National Research University Higher School of Economics.

    The ranking reflects the real ability of universities to prepare students to solve applied problems and apply knowledge in a professional environment.

    The key evaluation criterion was not formal academic indicators, but the practical successes of students: participation in qualifying rounds, reaching the finals and victories in case championships. HSE (Moscow) demonstrated an outstanding result: it accounted for 18% of all applications for participation in the championships, as well as 29% of all victories. Over the course of the year, 836 students took part, of which 90 reached the finals, and 14 became prize winners. The scale and quality of participation confirm HSE’s status as a leader in preparing students to solve applied problems and enter the labor market.

    It is noteworthy that the tasks of the case championships were developed by industry representatives: this season, 34 companies from the top 100 employers in Russia took part. For them, the championships serve as a real mechanism for selecting promising interns and young specialists, and for students, a platform for applying their knowledge and developing professional skills.

    The rating also included Saint Petersburg campus of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, which took 6th place. At the same time, it became the leader in terms of participation efficiency: out of 83 students, 7 reached the final, 4 became winners, which ensured it 1st place in terms of points per participant. The Moscow campus took 3rd place in this indicator.

    The results of the case season confirm that the Higher School of Economics not only forms a strong theoretical base, but also provides its students with real opportunities for professional growth, making them competitive in the eyes of the country’s leading employers.

    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: Women’s fund invites applications

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Women Empowerment Fund is open for the first round of applications in 2025-26 from today until July 8.

    The fund subsidises projects that support women in balancing their career and family commitments, raise awareness of women’s physical and mental health, and unlock their potential.

    The 2025-26 thematic projects include the Greater Bay Area Exchange Programme and the Programme on Women’s Participation in Community Services.

    The exchange programme will enable women to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of national affairs, and interact with local residents, thereby promoting women’s development. 

    The community services programme aims to encourage women to make use of their own strengths to plan and launch community service projects, thereby promoting care and inclusion.

    Each exchange project and community services project shall be completed within one year, with the funding capped at $120,000 and $400,000 respectively.

    Set up in June 2023, the fund aims to empower women, regardless of their age, occupation or background, to realise their full potential in their respective roles, thereby promoting women’s development in Hong Kong.

    Interested eligible women’s groups and non-governmental organisations may submit an electronic or paper application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [CRANEWARE PLC – 06 06 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 CRANEWARE PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 06 JUNE 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,693,428 4.7824    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 1,693,428 4.7824    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p ORDINARY SALE 1,050 2058p
    1p ORDINARY SALE 250 2059p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 09 JUNE 2025
    Contact name: PHIL HULME
    Telephone number: 01253 376551

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [GLOBALDATA PLC – 06 06 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 GLOBALDATA PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 06 JUNE 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.01p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,059,734 1.3713    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 11,059,734 1.3713    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.01p ORDINARY SALE 1,765 172.36p
    0.01p ORDINARY SALE 1,710 170.59p
    0.01p ORDINARY SALE 1,710 170.77p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 09 JUNE 2025
    Contact name: PHIL HULME
    Telephone number: 01253 376551

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • 11 years of PM Modi: A milestone in clean cooking fuel access under PM Modi’s leadership

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India marked the ninth anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), a flagship welfare initiative that has revolutionized access to clean cooking fuel across the country. Launched on May 1, 2016, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who now completes 11 years in office, the scheme has grown into the world’s largest clean energy program for households, transforming the lives of millions—particularly women—in rural and economically weaker sections.

    PMUY was initially conceived to provide deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from poor households. Over the past nine years, it has reached 10.33 crore beneficiaries as of March 1, 2025, enabling a major shift from traditional fuels like firewood and cow dung to cleaner alternatives. Data shows that out of 8.99 crore connections released by April 2022, 8.34 crore beneficiaries refilled their cylinders at least once between April 2022 and March 2024—signaling consistent and sustained usage.

    To bring the remaining unserved households under the LPG umbrella, the government launched Ujjwala 2.0 in August 2021. Initially targeting the release of one crore new connections, the scheme surpassed its goal by January 2022. Subsequently, an additional 60 lakh connections were provided by December 2022.

    In a further push, 75 lakh more connections were sanctioned for distribution between FY 2023–24 and FY 2025–26, a target achieved ahead of schedule in July 2024. Ujjwala 2.0 also introduced simplified norms for migrant families, allowing them to apply using a self-declaration, bypassing the need for standard documents like ration cards or proof of address.

    The expansion of the LPG network has accompanied the program’s success. India now has 32.94 crore active domestic LPG consumers, with PMUY users accounting for nearly one-third. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have played a critical role, setting up 7,959 new LPG distributorships between April 2016 and October 2024—93% of them in rural areas.

    The total number of distributors has jumped from 13,896 in 2014 to 25,481 in 2024, an 83% increase, while rural distributors alone have seen a 161% surge, reinforcing the government’s commitment to last-mile delivery.

    Affordability has been central to PMUY’s success. As of January 2025, PMUY beneficiaries in Delhi pay an effective price of ₹503 for a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder, compared to ₹803 for non-beneficiaries. This price stands in stark contrast to neighboring countries, where the same LPG cylinder costs ₹1,094.83 in Pakistan, ₹1,231.53 in Sri Lanka, and ₹1,206.65 in Nepal, according to Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) data.

    Thanks to such efforts, per capita LPG consumption among PMUY beneficiaries has steadily climbed—from 3.01 cylinders in FY 2019–20 to 4.43 cylinders in FY 2024–25 (as of March 2025), reflecting increased adoption and changing cooking habits.

    Numerous studies have highlighted PMUY’s tangible impact on public health, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. By reducing reliance on biomass and firewood, the scheme has helped lower indoor air pollution, significantly improving the respiratory health of women and children. It has also freed up time previously spent on collecting fuel, allowing women to engage in income-generating activities and improve nutritional outcomes through more efficient cooking.

    The shift to LPG has also curbed deforestation, contributing to broader environmental conservation goals.

    Among the states making the greatest strides in PMUY implementation are Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, all of which have contributed significantly to the scheme’s national footprint.

    The initiative has also received global acclaim. The International Energy Agency (IEA) described PMUY as a “major achievement” that goes beyond energy access, emphasizing its economic and social impact. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized the program in a 2018 report for its role in addressing the global challenge of household air pollution.

  • 11 years of Modi Govt: How ₹44 lakh crore in direct benefits transformed millions of lives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major achievement over the past eleven years, the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has revolutionized welfare delivery in India, resulting in cumulative savings of ₹3.48 lakh crore by curbing leakages and ensuring direct transfers to beneficiaries.

    Since its inception, ₹44 lakh crore worth of benefits have been transferred via DBT. To put this scale in perspective, counting ₹1 lakh every minute would take over 833 years to reach that total.

    The DBT model has significantly improved the efficiency and targeting of government subsidies. Programs with historically high leakage—such as food subsidies, MGNREGS, and PM-KISAN—have seen substantial improvements thanks to Aadhaar-linked and mobile-based transfers.

    According to a report by BlueKraft Digital Foundation, the initiative has also led to a notable decline in subsidy outlays as a percentage of total expenditure, reflecting better targeting and fiscal prudence. The rising Welfare Efficiency Index (WEI) further confirms that the DBT approach is optimizing public spending while expanding social coverage.

    India’s DBT experience is now seen as a global model, demonstrating how fiscal discipline and inclusive growth can go hand-in-hand. As countries worldwide seek to reform their welfare systems, India’s success offers crucial lessons in building transparent, efficient, and equitable delivery mechanisms.

     

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 9 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 9 June 2025

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    • PM unveils revolutionary AI tool to transform planning system and speed up housebuilding at London Tech Week

    • ‘Extract’ set to digitise planning documents and bring England’s outdated planning system into the 21st century

    • Breakthrough AI tool to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026, using Google DeepMind’s Gemini model

    • Digital planning transformation to help deliver Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    Speaking at London Tech Week, the Prime Minister announced the launch of “Extract” – an AI assistant for planning officers and local councils, developed by government with support from Google.

    For the first time, this cutting-edge technology will help councils convert decades-old, handwritten planning documents and maps into data in minutes – and will power new types of planning software to slash the 250,000 estimated hours spent by planning officers each year manually checking these documents. This will dramatically reduce delays that have long plagued the system.

    Around 350,000 planning applications are submitted a year in England, yet the system remains heavily reliant on paper documents – some hundreds of pages long. Once submitted, each of these documents needs to be manually validated and approved by a planning officer.  

    In test trials across Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter councils, Extract digitised planning records, including maps, in just three minutes each – compared to the 1–2 hours it typically takes manually. This means Extract could process around 100 planning records a day – significantly speeding up the process.

    This represents a step-change in productivity, freeing up thousands of hours for planning officers to focus on decision-making to speed up housebuilding. It will also accelerate the delivery of much-needed housing, improve reliability in the planning process and reduce costs and save time for councils and developers. 

    Extract is expected to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026. The government’s ambition is to fully digitise the planning system – making it faster, more transparent, and easier to navigate for working people, councils, businesses and developers. 

    The rollout will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament and is part of the government’s efforts to harness tech and AI to deliver change and renewal for working people.

    It also comes alongside the government’s wider efforts to digitise the planning system, building on an estimated £59.4m per year spent by councils on digital planning and housing software, delivering an estimated time and cost saving of £527m for the public sector each year.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    For too long, our outdated planning system has held back our country— slowing down the development of vital infrastructure and making it harder to get the homes we need built. 

    This government is working hand in hand with business to change that. With Extract, we’re harnessing the power of AI to help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions, and unlock the new homes for hard-working people as part of our Plan for Change. 

    It’s a bold step forward in our mission to build 1.5 million more homes and deliver a planning system that’s fit for the 21st century.” 

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

    From day one we made an unwavering promise to use every tool at our disposal to build the 1.5 million homes and vital infrastructure through our Plan for Change that our local communities desperately need.  

    By using cutting-edge technology like Extract we can fix the broken planning system, cut delays, save money, and also reduce burdens on councils to help pave the way for the biggest building boom in a generation.” 

    Co-Founder & CEO of Google DeepMind, Demis Hassabis said:

    We build our AI models to understand all types of information – from text to handwritten notes and technical drawings – so it’s really exciting to see the UK government choose Gemini to help speed up the planning process and support planners and people across the country.

    Hillingdon Council’s Chief Operating Officer Matthew Wallbridge said:  

    ‘The UK Planning System relies on paper-based processes, and AI can help to read and then extract the key information from it, to help both residents and planning officers. The productivity benefits will allow for a faster and cheaper service’. 

    Tom Shardlow, CEO Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council said:  

    Just like many local authorities, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has many plans and documents in storage from historic planning applications over the years. Working with the Extract team, we have seen the outputs from Extract, and how these could improve our service, providing high quality, digital, GeoSpatial data and how this could speed up the process for our Planning Team.” 

    The government is now working with Google to develop and expand Extract to all local authorities in England using its Gemini model. The government will expand Extract to handle all planning document types with the aim of supporting local authorities to digitise all planning documents by the end of 2026.

    The planning data, unlocked through Extract, will be uploaded to a publicly accessible gov.uk service page. Open, public data will ensure the planning system is more transparent, accessible and understandable to the public. The government will also explore the best and most efficient ways to deploy Extract into local authorities – this might also include developing an app to scan documents instantly.

    This government is turning the page on the decline of the past and choosing growth with a significant number of planning decisions already made by Ministers since July. 

    This includes 18 planning decisions taken by Ministers over 85% of which within the target timeframe, and 18 nationally significant infrastructure projects approved, collectively spanning airports, data centres, solar farms and major housing developments such as the Expansion of London City Airport, a data centre in Buckinghamshire and a new M&S store in Oxford Street, London.  

    The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also provide the powers to accelerate the infrastructure and homes needed to deliver on the government’s ambitions – and fast track critical infrastructure such as wind farms, power plants, and major road and rail projects.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Leads FL Delegation on Homestead Air Reserve Base F-35A Letter to Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, led a 17-member coalition from the Florida Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Trump and his administration requesting sustained F-35A production and fielding to modernize the aging F-16C fleet at Homestead Air Reserve Base.

    “As Dean of the Florida Delegation, I am acutely aware of the security threats our nation faces from drug trafficking, transnational criminal organizations, and the increasing malign influence and presence of anti-American adversaries like Russia and China in the Southern Hemisphere. Florida is foundational in protecting our national security, countering the southern border threats and defending our Eastern coastline.

    “For these reasons, having the modern, multi-role F-35A fighter aircraft at HomesteadAir Reserve Base, which has served as a foundational line of defense for over 80 years, is a vital asset and will ensure the United States’ readiness in confronting these threats to our national security,” said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart.

    “As America faces growing threats from our adversaries like Communist China and Putin’s Russia, the need to modernize our air defenses has never been more urgent,” said Congressman Carlos Gimenez. “The F-35 is the most advanced fighter jet in the world, and its production is critical to maintaining our military dominance. Located in Florida’s 28th District, Homestead Air Reserve Base must receive the investments and upgrades needed to support the next generation of tactical air power. South Florida plays a strategic role in our national defense, and Homestead must be ready to host and sustain the F-35 mission for decades to come.” 

    Read the full text of the letter here or below.

    “We would first like to thank you for your efforts to keep our nation safe, make our military the most lethal military force in the world and return peace through strength around the world. As Commander in Chief, you understand the critical role Florida plays in delivering on that mission and protecting our national security. From deterring and preventing the approximately $2.7 trillion impact to American lives through fentanyl counternarcotics efforts to supporting Southern border operations and homeland defense alert missions along our coastlines, Homestead Air Force Reserve Base (HARB) is critical for our national security. Florida’s strategic location makes it uniquely postured to counter Chinese, Russian, Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs), and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and their influence in the southern hemisphere. These regional threats are the largest contributor to the state of national emergency within the United States over illegal aliens, infiltration of Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs, and illicit opioids.

    “Under your leadership as both our 45th and 47th president, Florida continues to fight the cartels and drug traffickers, leading to South Florida being named the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area of the Year. We dismantled or disrupted 54 drug trafficking organizations in 2023 and seized an estimate value of $748 million in illicit drugs, including 23 metric tons of cocaine, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 224 kilograms of fentanyl.

    “Through U.S. Southern Command, appropriately headquartered in Florida, we are tracking and thwarting Chinese efforts to expand their Belt and Road Initiative in Latin American Countries to monopolize natural resources, such as 20% of the world’s oil reserves, 25% of the strategic metals, and 31% of the fishing areas. We are working to claw back the $358 billion amassed by 35 TCOs in the region in 2023 through interdiction and counter trafficking efforts to help stabilize South America, preventing their problems from reaching our shores. The Russian Surface Action Group, led by the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and cruise missile submarine Kazan docked in Havana, Cuba, passed within 30 miles of the Florida Keys last June. Florida is uniquely postured to support the border alert mission to deter these acts of aggression.

    “Within Florida, HARB serves a foundational role in supporting the most critical national defense missions. HARB generated $364 million for the local economy in 2023 alone. It is the home to the 2,500-member 482nd Fighter Wing and its reserve associate, the 367th Fighter Squadron, responsible for F-16 alerts across the coastline in support of Operation Noble Eagle. It houses the Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Branch, operating Blackhawks and turbo-prop airliners like the DHC-8 to interdict smugglers and prevent illegal aliens from crossing into the United States. Special Operations Command South Headquarters is also resident at HARB, executing special operations as assigned to U.S. Southern Command, spanning 31 countries and 10 overseas territories across Central and South America and the Caribbean.

    “Florida’s Gulf of America, Atlantic Ocean access, and its proximity to Central and South America is what drove the 125th Fighter Wing Air National Guard (ANG) unit selection for the F-35A Lightning II. Starting with an initial batch of aircraft to Jacksonville ANG in March of this year and expanding to the 125th Fighter Wing Detachment 1 at HARB in 2027. The Air Force Reserve also planned this F-35A modernization to replace the aging F-16C fleet within the 482nd Fighter Wing. This would create a common fighter platform between the Reserves and National Guard at HARB, reducing costs for base operations through shared maintenance efforts. Together, these units would provide a considerable increase in readiness for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Alert mission across both the Southern and Eastern U.S. border as well as downrange multi-role operations through short-notice worldwide deployments.

    “Together, we ask your administration to ensure that the F-35A goes to Homestead Air Reserve Base and the F-35A production quantities remain undeterred. There is no real trade when comparing other airframes and locales to a multi-role fighter aircraft capable of countering Russian, Chinese, VEOs, and TCOs operations across the entirety of the Southern and Eastern U.S. border and throughout the Southern Hemisphere. HARB is a vital asset for our national security and power projection, and critical for your Peace through Strength agenda. Thank you again for your leadership and we hope you will consider, within all applicable rules and regulations, our input on the matter.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Honors the Service and Sacrifice of the Fallen Servicemembers by Reintroducing the ’13 Folds of Honor Act’ Paying Tribute to the 13 Fallen Servicemembers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In remembrance of Memorial Day last week and in solemn tribute to the 13 brave U.S. servicemembers who lost their lives during the horrific terrorist attack at Abbey Gate outside of Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport, U.S. Representative Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) has reintroduced the 13 Folds of Honor Act,which providesa new script to be read during burial flag-folding ceremonies.

    “The traditional 13 folds symbolize our nation’s unity and deep respect for those who served. This legislation enhances the ceremonial flag-folding presentation that honors the service and sacrifice of veterans and deceased servicemembers. The new script acknowledges not only the significance of the ceremony but also pays tribute to the 13 servicemembers who gave their lives during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan,” said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart. “While no words can ease the pain of the families who lost their loved ones, the 13 Folds of Honor script symbolizes our profound gratitude and unwavering respect for their service. My deepest appreciation goes to Former Commander Dr. J.B. Holmes of the Golden Gate VFW Post 7721 for his tireless commitment to our veterans and for championing this meaningful tribute, as well as to the Korean War Veterans Association and the Del Webb Veterans Club of Naples for their endorsements.”

    Bill text is available here.

    The original cosponsors include:

    Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL-26), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), John Rutherford (R-FL-5), Tim Burchett (R-TN-2), Gregory W. Steube (R-FL-17), Harriet Hageman (R-WY-At Large), Mark Amodei (R-NV-2), Richard McCormick (R-GA-7), Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX-2), David G. Valadao (R-CA-22), Gregory F. Murphy (R-NC-3), Robert F. Onder (R-MO-3), Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL-28), and Jim Baird (D-CA-19).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart’s Statement on Rescissions Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Appropriations Committee Vice Chair and Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) issued the following statement regarding the Office of Management and Budget’s rescissions package:

    “Since becoming Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations, I have advocated for common-sense priorities that align with American values. I’m proud of my proven track record of advancing U.S. national security interests while eliminating the wasteful out-of-control spending that characterized the previous Administration.

    “My National Security and Department of State funding bill for fiscal year (FY) 2024, which is now law, achieved a six percent cut, the largest year-to-year funding cut of all appropriations bills compared to FY 2023, and the largest in recent memory. The FY 2025 version of the same bill, which passed the House, cut funding a further 11% below FY 2024 levels.

    “I am also proud of my well-documented FY 2024 and FY 2025 budget hearings with Biden Administration officials, where I consistently raised concerns about U.S. taxpayers footing the bill for controversial programs that failed to advance U.S. national security interests or reflect our values. These missteps have brought us to where we are today.

    “While not perfect, the $9.4 billion rescissions package reflects President Trump’s vision of restoring conservative and responsible fiscal policies.

    “I look forward to working with President Trump and his Administration to fund priorities that make sense for the American people, advance our national security interests, and support long-standing congressional directives that bolster security, stability, and prosperity at home and abroad.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government reminds Hong Kong residents to attend to personal safety when travelling to United States

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In view of the rcently ongoing protests and riots across the United States, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government reminds Hong Kong residents who are already there or intend to visit the United States to attend to personal safety.

    A Government spokesman said, “The Government reminds residents who intend to visit the United Stated or are already there to monitor the local situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety, avoid large gatherings of people, and pay attention to local announcements on the latest situation.”

    In view of the latest developments, the Security Bureau has already updated the Outbound Travel Alerts (OTA) webpage regarding supplementary information for the United States and will continue to closely monitor the situation there. Any updates will be issued through the media, the bureau’s mobile app, and the OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).
        
         Hong Kong residents in the United States who need assistance may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department (ImmD) at (852) 1868, call the 1868 hotline using network data or use the 1868 Chatbot via the Immigration Department Mobile Application, send a message to the 1868 WhatsApp assistance hotline or 1868 WeChat assistance hotline, or submit the Online Assistance Request Form, or contact the Chinese Embassy/Consulate-General in the United States of America at the consular protection hotline: (Embassy – (1) 2024952216, Consulate-General in New York – (1) 2126953125, Consulate-General in San Francisco – (1) 4159296998, Consulate-General in Los Angeles – (1) 2138078052, Consulate-General in Chicago – (1) 3123973015).
    ​
    Hong Kong residents are encouraged to use the online Registration of Outbound Travel Information service (www.gov.hk/roti) of the ImmD to register their contact details and itinerary when outside Hong Kong. The information provided allows the ImmD to disseminate practical information to them through appropriate means, including SMS on mobile phones, on a timely basis when necessary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YVO’s plan for responding to future geological hazards in Yellowstone National Park

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week’s contribution is from Michael Poland, geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey and Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.

    Cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory response plan for geological hazards in the Yellowstone region.  The report can be accessed at https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1351/.  Cover features a photograph by Mike Poland and frame captures from a video by Juliet Su.

    As Benjamin Franklin supposedly said, “failing to plan is planning to fail.”  This is why the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory (YVO) has a plan to guide the observatory’s actions during a response to earthquakes, hydrothermal explosions, or any geological activity that could lead to a volcanic eruption.

    The first YVO response plan was published in 2010 and explained how observatory scientists would collect data, communicate with one another and the public, and interact with emergency managers as part of any incident command system that was organized to deal with a crisis—for example, a major earthquake or volcanic eruption.

    A second version of the YVO response plan was published in 2014 and incorporated changes in the YVO consortium, which expanded in 2013 to include more institutions, as well as lessons learned from a readiness, or “table-top,” exercise that was held in 2011.  Table-top exercises are discussions that simulate a crisis and that are used by emergency responders to practice and evaluate procedures.

    The newest version of the YVO response plan was just published (https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1351/).  This update contains several significant modifications compared to the previous versions.

    First and foremost, the YVO response plan now aligns with a procedures established by the USGS Volcano Science Center—particularly the “OVERT,” or Observatory Volcano Event Response Team, concept. OVERT defines critical functions, like data management, communications, monitoring, science, and logistical support, that can be staffed up during a crisis.  The OVERT team can be implemented in stages to follow the nature of whatever volcanic unrest or eruption may be unfolding and is intended to be flexible and modular.  The concept also establishes clear lines of communication and reporting so that no one person has too many responsibilities, and information is shared quickly and openly.

    As an example, if a major seismic swarm were to begin in Yellowstone National Park, YVO might establish an OVERT organizational structure that has staffing for the monitoring and communications teams.  If that seismicity intensified and led to hydrothermal explosions, those teams would be expanded to take on additional responsibilities, and other branches would also be staffed—like those dealing with data documentation and logistics to support field operations. 

    Organization chart giving the structure of a response by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory to a significant episode of unrest or eruption at the Yellowstone volcanic system. The strategy is scalable (elements are activated as they are needed and deactivated when they are no longer needed) and can be adapted to meet the needs of the event response. Chart follows the Observatory Volcanic Event Response Team structure in the U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Science Center Response Plan for Significant Volcanic Events (Moran and others, 2024—https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/cir1518). EOC=Emergency Operations Center; UAS=Unoccupied Aircraft Systems; YVO=Yellowstone Volcano Observatory; YVOCOMS=YVO communications group.

    YVO’s updated response plan also defines two different cases: “events” and “activity with potential.” An “event” is a single and sudden hazardous occurrence, like the 1959 M7.3 Hebgen Lake earthquake or the July 23, 2024, hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin, that would prompt YVO to immediately initiate additional monitoring and to communicate hazards information to emergency managers and the public.  Because some geologic hazards evolve slowly, however, YVO’s response plan also defines “activity with potential” that could eventually build towards a hazard that requires intense monitoring.  The 2003 thermal event at Norris Geyser Basin, when ground heated to boiling temperatures in places and caused some boardwalks to be closed and eventually rerouted, is a good example.

    Also included in the response plan are communications protocols and call-down lists that establish robust methods for ensuring that information is passed along to emergency managers at various institutions, like the area land managers and, in the event of an explosive volcanic eruption, the Federal Aviation Administration and National Weather Service.  Additional guidelines describe how YVO consortium members would collaborate to ensure that the public—especially local residents—are informed of hazards that may develop, and steps that can be taken to lessen the impacts of those hazards.

    By developing this response plan, and also putting it into practice—for instance, as part of a table-top exercise that was held for YVO consortium members in 2022—YVO scientists will be better prepared to deal with any future geologic hazards in the Yellowstone region.  Hopefully there will never need to be put the YVO response protocols into practice in response to a serious geologic hazard.  But we must not fail to plan.

    Scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory meet in Mammoth Hot Springs in May 2022 to discuss the protocols for responding to a geological event in Yellowstone National Park.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $1 Million Saved on Insurance: Pennymac and SimplyIOA Celebrate a Successful First Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONGWOOD, Fla., June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  SimplyIOA, a national insurance agency, and Pennymac, a top national mortgage lender and servicer, mark the first anniversary of their collaboration, celebrating the positive impact and substantial achievements in serving Pennymac’s customers.

    “Using machine learning and AI, SimplyIOA has optimized our processes and prioritized customers through automated communications,” said Michelle Sipe, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Operations at SimplyIOA. “We have already seen amazing results in the early stages of working together, saving an average of $472 per customer, totaling $1 million across 13 insurance products in 42 states, and we are only just beginning*.”

    As a result of SimplyIOA’s collaboration with Pennymac, the top lender’s customers are securing higher coverage limits and significant savings on their annual premiums.

    “SimplyIOA streamlines the process for Pennymac customers to secure home insurance alongside their home loan,” said Abbie Tidmore, Chief Revenue Officer at Pennymac. “This first year has proven highly successful in enabling us to provide exceptional value to our customers with the shared goal of reducing costs associated with homeowners insurance.”

    This joint effort marks a significant step forward in integrating home financing and insurance solutions, ultimately delivering greater value and a more streamlined experience for homeowners.

    “We are grateful for the unwavering support from the Pennymac team that has enabled us to achieve over $1 million in savings for Pennymac customers. We look forward to strengthening our relationship and celebrating more successes together in the coming years,” said Bob Peters, Chief Operating Officer at IOA GROUP*.

    For additional information regarding SimplyIOA’s complete list of servicings, please visit https://www.simplyioa.com/pennymac.

    *The total savings figure is based on the total amount saved by Pennymac customers who switched their homeowners insurance with SimplyIOA and purchased an average $1,836 policy from March 2024 to February 2025.

    About SimplyIOA

    SimplyIOA is a national omnichannel personal lines insurance agency brought to you by Insurance Office of America (IOA). SimplyIOA’s industry-leading technology, supported by experienced licensed advisors, enables customers from 48 states to compare and purchase 20 different insurance products online or over the phone in minutes.

    For more information, visit: partners.simplyioa.com.

    About Insurance Office of America

    Insurance Office of America (IOA) is the third largest privately held insurance brokerage in the United States. Founded in 1988, IOA is a recognized leader in providing property and casualty, employee benefits, and personal lines insurance and risk management solutions as well as insurtech innovation. Headquartered in Longwood, Florida, part of the greater Orlando community, IOA has more than 1,400 associates located in over 60 offices in the U. S. and the United Kingdom. In California, dba IOA Insurance Services. (#0E67768) For more information, visit www.ioausa.com

    Michelle Sipe -SVP, Operations & Implementations Executive
    marketing@simplyioa.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6991d501-be1b-40ad-a769-e240c75ab91c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: YXT.com’s AI Learning Platform Deployed by Siemens for Digital Workforce Transformation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUZHOU, China, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YXT.com Group Holding Limited (NASDAQ: YXT) (“YXT.com” or the “Company”), a provider of AI-enabled enterprise productivity solutions, today announced that the global industrial technology leader Siemens has successfully deployed YXT.com’s AI-powered Radnova Learning Platform in China to address workforce training challenges as the company transforms into a “One Tech Company.”

    Siemens chose YXT.com to support its strategic transformation into a unified technology organization, requiring comprehensive workforce upskilling to align all business units under a cohesive digital framework. The Radnova platform delivers seamless data integration with Siemens’ proprietary learning management systems, eliminating data silos while providing access to diverse learning resources including video courses, online seminars, and interactive learning tools.

    YXT.com’s AI-driven training solutions have proven instrumental across all phases of learning program development – from curriculum design to deployment and performance analytics – enabling personalized learning paths tailored to blue-collar workers’ specific roles and skill levels while facilitating collaborative discussions and community building. This comprehensive approach has established a fully integrated learning ecosystem that measurably enhances training efficacy and delivers substantial organizational learning value.

    Meanwhile, YXT.com’s platform provides specialized microlearning and mentorship features that enhance operational effectiveness by enabling rapid creation and sharing of courses on critical topics like safety and sustainability. The mentorship functionality allows Siemens supervisors to independently manage apprentices, streamlining HR processes and strengthening overall workforce management.

    “Manufacturing companies worldwide are recognizing that digital transformation must include AI-powered upskilling for their entire workforce,” said Mr. Xiaoyan Lu, Director, Founder, and Chairman of the Board of YXT.com. “Our partnership with Siemens validates our strategy of targeting large industrial enterprises undergoing strategic transformations and demonstrates the significant market opportunity ahead of us.”

    YXT.com continues to expand its presence in the AI-powered workforce solutions market for manufacturing. With this Siemens partnership adding to thousands of existing enterprise clients, the Company maintains its focus on large-scale industrial customers navigating digital transformations in a growing market sector.

    About Siemens

    Siemens is a technology group that is active in nearly all countries of the world, focusing on the areas of automation and digitalization in the process and manufacturing industries, intelligent infrastructure for buildings and distributed energy systems, smart mobility solutions for rail transport, and medical technology and digital healthcare services.

    About YXT.com
    YXT.com (NASDAQ: YXT) is a technology company focusing on enterprise productivity solutions. With a mission to “Empower people and organization development through technology,” The Company strives to become the supreme provider in building and boosting enterprise productivity by combining over a decade of experience in tech-enabled talent learning and development and with AI-augmented task copilots and unleashing the power of knowledge and synergy. Since its inception, YXT.com has supported and received recognition from numerous Global and China Fortune 500 companies.

    YXT.com operates its business in China through “Jiangsu Radnova Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd.,” formerly known as “Jiangsu Yunxuetang Network Technology Co., Ltd.”. YXT.com has established an entity in Singapore to serve as a headquarter for its overseas business to be conducted in the future, with the “Radnova” trademark to serve international markets.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to”, or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    Contact
    Robin Yang
    ICR, LLC
    YXT.IR@icrinc.com
    +1 (646) 405-4883

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Hits 40M Users with 46% Growth in New Listing Token Trading Volume in May

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has released its May 2025 performance update, showcasing another strong month of growth across user acquisition, trading activity, and sectoral momentum. The platform’s global user base surpassed 40 million, up from 30 million in December 2024 — a 33% increase in just five months.

    Key Highlights:

    • User base exceeded 40 million (+33% since Dec 2024)
    • 214 new tokens listed in May (+33.7% MoM)
    • Average trading volume per user up 45.09%
    • Top 10 newly listed tokens averaged +2300.95% in peak gains
    • About 40,000 users joined Airdrop+ campaigns

    Listing Activity and Trading Volume Growth

    MEXC listed 214 new tokens in May, marking one of the most active listing months to date. Trading volume tied to these listings jumped by 46.7%, while average trading volume per user increased by 45.09% — signaling rising user engagement and growing confidence in MEXC’s early-stage project selection.
    MEXC’s total daily trading volume reached $4.1 billion according to CoinMarketCap, making it the second-largest platform by trading volume among leading crypto exchanges.

    Sector Momentum: AI, GameFi, Meme Coins

    Some of the strongest gains came from sectors that continue to define the next market cycle. AI infrastructure token AGT posted a peak gain of +3,770.10%, followed closely by blockchain gaming project NXPC (+3,756.30%) and PayFi protocol HUMA (+1,170.00%).
    Meme coins remained a major force in May, with retail-driven tokens from Solana and BNB Chain dominating charts. GOONC surged +3,400%, B gained +3,001.20%, and MOONPIG rallied +753.33%, demonstrating the power of meme communities in driving liquidity and excitement.

    User Incentives: Airdrops and Launchpools

    May also marked a record month for user rewards and event participation. MEXC hosted 58 Airdrop+ campaigns, more than doubling the number from April. The combined prize pool exceeded 3 million USDT, attracting nearly 40,000 users. Campaigns like AIOT (7,000+ participants, ~320 USDT value per user) and HUMA (100 USDT in tokens, followed by a 1,170% gain) stood out for their strong user response and post-listing performance.
    Launchpool events continued to deliver high returns. The ICEBERG pool offered an 8,488.44% APR, while the ongoing EIN Launchpool, open until July 17, remains attractive due to its high rewards and relatively low participation.

    Looking Ahead

    With momentum across listings, incentives, and user growth, MEXC continues to strengthen its position as a global launchpad for high-potential tokens. Strategic focus remains on trending verticals such as AI, Real World Assets (RWA), GameFi, and the TON ecosystem, where user demand and innovation are converging.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Source

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8de1c4e-5cd7-4c33-af92-9a1bbafb4335
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a50404fb-c5d7-499b-a6e6-6401155f9849

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat Supports Executive Orders to Strengthen U.S. Drone Manufacturing and National Security

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, today issued a statement of support for a series of executive orders from the White House that advance U.S. leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and reinforce the resilience of America’s domestic industrial base.

    The executive actions are expected to remove regulatory barriers and modernize federal approval processes to prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones. Additional provisions include expanded detection and mitigation authority, and streamlined regulations to accelerate the deployment of UAS across federal and commercial sectors.

    “These executive orders send a clear signal that the U.S. is serious about enabling a secure domestic drone industry that supports mission-critical outcomes for the U.S. and its allies,” said Brendan Stewart, VP of Regulatory Affairs at Red Cat. “This level of policy alignment removes barriers to fielding trusted, American-made systems at scale. Red Cat stands ready to meet this moment with its proven, electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing systems that utilize advanced AI and computer vision solutions from partners including Palantir, Palladyne AI, Athena AI and Primordial Labs.”

    This announcement follows Red Cat’s earlier show of support for the White House’s April 2025 executive order aimed at restoring America’s maritime dominance. In alignment with that national strategy, Red Cat unveiled its initiative to develop advanced uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) designed to enhance multi-domain situational awareness and autonomous mission execution across maritime environments.

    Red Cat’s Family of Systems is anchored by its advanced aerial platforms, led by America’s Drone, the Black Widow™, a secure, autonomous ISR drone delivering real-time intelligence at the tactical edge. The company’s vision is to build a holistic ecosystem of fully integrated autonomous platforms to support operations across air, land, and sea. This vision aligns with the Order to support the warfighter by expanding access to U.S.-manufactured high-performing drones.

    The company supports the White House’s coordinated approach to enabling American drone and maritime dominance through regulatory clarity, targeted investment, and streamlined authorizations. Clear federal guidance is essential to unlock broader operational use cases and promote American leadership in production, certification, and export of systems for use across all domains.

    About Red Cat Holdings, Inc.

    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a leading-edge Family of Systems. This includes the flagship Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red. 

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red 

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • Digital transformation in 11 years of Modi govt: Over 42 lakh route km optical fibre cable laid

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has undergone a remarkable digital transformation over the past eleven years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, marked by unprecedented growth in broadband and mobile connectivity across the country.

    A key pillar of this revolution is the BharatNet project, one of the world’s largest rural telecom initiatives, aimed at connecting all Gram Panchayats with high-speed internet. So far, more than 42 lakh km of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) has been laid — almost 11 times the distance between Earth and the Moon—ensuring digital access in even the remotest parts of India.

    The government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is evident in Phase 3 of the BharatNet project, which focuses on 5G integration, enhanced bandwidth capacity, and last-mile connectivity through the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP), approved in August 2023.

    The impact of the BharatNet project has been transformative. Rural India is now more digitally included, with improved access to e-education, telemedicine, e-governance, and digital financial services. BharatNet is also empowering local governance and enabling rural entrepreneurship.

    Complementing this initiative, mobile connectivity has also expanded significantly. As of December 2024, over 6.25 lakh villages have mobile coverage, including nearly 6.19 lakh with 4G services. Median mobile broadband speeds have also seen a sharp rise, further fueling digital inclusion.

    Together, BharatNet and expanded mobile infrastructure are ushering in a new era of inclusive digital growth, bridging the urban-rural divide and accelerating India’s journey toward a connected future.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    The Air Accidents Investigation Branch is recruiting for a Personal Assistant (EO) to the Chief Inspector

    Are you a dedicated professional with the ability to balance big-picture thinking and meticulous attention to detail? Do you have excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise and react to changing demands? Are you ready to develop your career in an interesting and varied role? If so, then this is the perfect role for you!

    The Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector of Air Accidents (PA CIAA) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Reporting directly to the Chief Inspector, the post-holder will provide high-level executive support to the Chief Inspector, Deputy Chief Inspector, and the wider AAIB management team. 

    This is a highly visible role with a strong external-facing element, involving regular interaction with senior stakeholders. 

    The successful candidate will be entrusted with handling sensitive and confidential information, and must demonstrate sound judgement, discretion, and professionalism at all times.

    Full job description and role profile (reference number: 406600): Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK

    Make sure to apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 22nd June 2025 to not miss out on this rare opportunity.

    Read more about our work here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Materials for the Government meeting on June 9, 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The following issues are planned to be considered at the meeting:

    1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation” (in terms of amending the legislation concerning the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the service contract of a state civil servant)

    The bill was prepared for the purpose of providing financial support (providing for the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the employment contract) to persons who, due to health reasons, have not renewed the employment contract (service contract of a state civil servant) within three months after the end of their military service due to mobilization or military service under contract.

     

    2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 81 and 3517 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill was prepared with the aim of protecting the labor rights of workers who are called up for military service by mobilization or who have entered military service under contract.

     

    3. On the recognition of certain provisions of certain acts of the Government of the Russian Federation as invalid (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Labor and Employment)

    The draft act is aimed at bringing the provision into line with the Federal Law “On State Control (Supervision) and Municipal Control in the Russian Federation”.

     

    4. On the draft federal laws “On Amendments to the Criminal Executive Code of the Russian Federation” and “On Amendments to Article 397 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bills are aimed at improving legislation in terms of issues related to the execution of criminal punishment in the form of forced labor.

     

    5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Code of Administrative Procedure of the Russian Federation” (in terms of unifying the procedure for paying for an examination appointed at the initiative of the parties, within the framework of administrative proceedings of the Russian Federation)

    The bill is aimed at unifying the procedure for paying for an expert examination appointed at the initiative of the parties within the framework of administrative proceedings, similar to civil proceedings.

     

    6. On the allocation of budgetary allocations reserved in the federal budget to Rosavtodor in 2025 for the provision of other interbudgetary transfers to the budgets of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at implementing measures to restore regional or inter-municipal and local roads during the elimination of the consequences of emergency situations.

     

    7. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosavtodor in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for measures to bring regional or inter-municipal, local roads into compliance with the norm, including the street and road network in the territories of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic, the Zaporizhia region and the Kherson region.

     

    8. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosmorrechflot in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the provision of a subsidy from the federal budget to the federal state budgetary institution “Marine Rescue Service” for the implementation of measures to eliminate the consequences of an emergency caused by an oil spill as a result of the wreck of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for a set of measures to eliminate the consequences of the emergency caused by the sinking of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, which are carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and contiguous zone of the Russian Federation.

     

    9. On the draft federal law “On Amending Article 57 of the Federal Law “On Military Duty and Military Service””

    The bill provides for the possibility of assigning military ranks without undergoing military training (certification) to a citizen in the reserve, performing (performed) duties under a contract for voluntary assistance in the performance of tasks assigned to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or the troops of the National Guard of the Russian Federation.

     

    10. On Amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 323 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare)

    The draft resolution establishes the powers of Roszdravnadzor to provide opinions on the compliance of organizations carrying out educational activities under professional educational programs of medical education, pharmaceutical education, with the requirements for personnel and material and technical support of educational activities in terms of practical training of students, as provided for by federal state educational standards, standard additional professional programs in the field of health protection and the implementation of pharmaceutical activities in the relevant medical and pharmaceutical specialties.

     

    11. On amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 331 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Antimonopoly Service)

    The draft resolution provides for the granting of authority to the FAS Russia to establish (approve) prices (tariffs) for electrical energy (capacity) supplied to customers in certain territories that were previously classified as non-price zones of the wholesale market.

     

    12. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to the Ministry of Culture of Russia in 2025 for the provision of a subsidy to the Charitable Foundation for the Support of the Humanities “My History”

    The draft order provides for the allocation of funds for financial support of expenses for the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos” in 2024, namely, for the payment of costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos”.

     

    Moscow, June 8, 2025

     

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    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 –