NewzIntel.com

Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Concluding a successful spring session

    [. In addition to the work in the assembly, this session saw the government advocate fiercely for a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada, build and strengthen relationships with trade partners, and defend Alberta’s economy and Albertan jobs.

    In the face of global trade tensions and market uncertainty, the rising cost of living remains one of the largest challenges facing Albertans. This spring, Alberta’s government took action to ease that burden. Budget 2025 delivered the promised income tax cut, saving families up to $1,500 per year. The Automobile Insurance Act was passed to enable better, faster, cheaper auto insurance for Albertans, and we passed legislation to expand energy options by enabling hydrogen blending and making critical reforms to ensure Albertans have access to affordable, reliable utilities when they need them most.

    “Every piece of legislation our government brought forward this session was driven by one goal: to make life better for Albertans. I’m proud to be part of a team that meets the challenges Albertans are facing today and positions our province for long-term success.”

    Joseph Schow, Government House Leader and Minister of Tourism and Sport

    Alberta’s government also passed legislation to deliver on its mandate to restore health and safety for families and communities. The Compassionate Intervention Act introduced a new approach to addressing the addiction crisis, adding another tool to the Alberta Recovery Model and giving Albertans struggling with severe addiction the opportunity to rebuild their lives and reconnect with their family, community and culture. Legislation was also passed that implements lessons learned during previous emergency responses and empowers municipalities through expanded options for local policing.

    This session Alberta’s government passed 19 bills, fulfilled multiple platform commitments and delivered on the strong mandate received from Albertans two years ago.

    Other highlights

    • The Agricultural Operation Practices Amendment Act provides clarity for the emerging biogas industry, spurring job-creating investment in rural Alberta.
    • The Critical Infrastructure Defence Amendment Act protects essential infrastructure and supports the government’s work under the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act.
    • The Education Amendment Act reflects changes in the education landscape, strengthening democratic accountability in school boards, and increasing clarity and efficiency in the teacher discipline process.
    • The Election Statutes Amendment Act protects democracy, delivers fair and open elections and restores confidence in every vote cast.
    • The Health Statutes Amendment Act continues the work to refocus the healthcare system, ensuring patients receive the care they need, when and where they need it.
    • The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act strengthens local governance and collaboration, streamlines processes and bolsters protections for new home builders and buyers.
    • The Professional Governance Act ensures Alberta has a modern, uniform governance framework for professional regulatory organizations.
    • The Wildlife Amendment Act aligns the Wildlife Act with current knowledge and best practices, supporting enhanced opportunities for hunting and trapping, reducing human-wildlife conflicts and streamlining enforcement approaches.

    Related information

    • Bill Status for Legislature 31, Session 1

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China has always firmly supported UN peacekeeping activities: Chinese Defense Minister

    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

    BERLIN, May 15 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun said at a meeting in Berlin that China supports the reform and transformation of United Nations peacekeeping operations.

    Speaking at the 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting on Wednesday, Dong Jun said China has always been a strong supporter and constructive participant in UN peacekeeping operations, noting that such missions bring hope for peace to people suffering from the chaos of war.

    Expressing China’s commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind and promoting universal security and prosperity, Dong Jun stressed that China supports the reform and transformation of UN peacekeeping operations. He put forward a six-point proposal to strengthen global peacekeeping efforts.

    The Chinese Defense Minister pointed out that China hopes to work with all parties to implement the Global Security Initiative, upholding the principles of solidarity, cooperation and common benefit in resolving security issues.

    He stressed the need for continued support for the central role of the UN and its important role in maintaining peace and security throughout the world.

    China will step up its efforts in UN peacekeeping operations, Dong Jun said, calling on all countries to provide them with firm support.

    The minister stressed that China is willing to support the training of professional peacekeepers, adding that the Chinese side will hold high-level strategic seminars and new training courses to help participating countries enhance their operational capabilities.

    China intends to optimize the composition and capabilities of its reserve peacekeeping forces and promote continuous innovation in UN peacekeeping operations by facilitating the use of new technologies, Dong Jun said.

    During his visit, the Chinese Defense Minister held talks with the UN Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General, and with defense ministers from countries such as France, Germany, Italy and Nepal. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Turkish FM Meets Russian Delegation Ahead of Istanbul Peace Talks

    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

    ISTANBUL, May 15 (Xinhua) — Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with the Russian delegation for peace talks with Ukraine, led by Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, in Istanbul on Thursday.

    The meeting took place behind closed doors at around 21:00 local time /18:00 GMT/ at the presidential residence Dolmabahce.

    According to the Turkish Foreign Ministry, talks between Moscow and Kiev are scheduled for May 16. They will be attended by delegations from Russia, Ukraine, headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and the United States, headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

    H. Fidan is also expected to take part in the talks.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 11 proposed resuming direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, which were interrupted three years ago. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Terry Sanford to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Terry Sanford to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Terry Sanford to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
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    A man who served as governor, U.S. Senator and university president soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker. The N.C. Historical Marker Program is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    The marker commemorating Terry Sanford will be unveiled Friday, May 23 at 11 a.m., during a roadside ceremony at the intersection of NC 751 and Science Drive in Durham.

    Sanford, who served as governor of North Carolina from 1961-65, also served his state and country in numerous roles throughout his public career.  

    Born Aug. 20, 1917, in Laurinburg, N.C., Sanford was the second of five children in a middle-class family. He attended Presbyterian Junior College (now St. Andrews Presbyterian College) and then the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating from the latter in 1939. While at the UNC, Sanford met fellow student Margaret Rose Knight, whom he would marry in 1942, and the couple would have two children.

    Following graduation, Sanford entered the University of North Carolina School of Law. While continuing to study law, Sanford joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation in December 1941 and after training, he was assigned to duty in Ohio and Missouri. Following the entry of the United States into World War II, Sanford enlisted in the Army on the first anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was assigned first to the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment as a medic, and then to the 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment. In the latter regiment, he saw combat in Italy, southern France, and Belgium (the Battle of the Bulge).

    Following the war, Sanford reentered law school and graduated from the university in 1946. He was admitted to the state bar later in the year. Already entertaining ambitions to one day run for governor, he became assistant director of the University of North Carolina’s Institute of Government before becoming a full-time attorney in Fayetteville. He also served as a captain in the North Carolina Army National Guard.  

    A slow but steady rise in the Democratic Party of North Carolina and state government followed over the next few years, including a job in the North Carolina State Ports Authority, presidency of the North Carolina Young Democratic Clubs, state senator representing the 10th District, and campaign manager for former governor W. Kerr Scott’s successful 1954 run for the U.S. Senate, culminating with his successful run for governor in 1960.

    In December 1969, he was selected to be the new president of Duke University. Upon inauguration, he immediately ended a cap on the number of Jewish students who could be enrolled at the school. Facing a budget deficit and a small endowment, he worked to attract more students, increase enrollment, and increase annual donations. He also sought to improve relations between the student body and the administration, declaring opposition to the Vietnam War, supporting peaceful protest, and increasing student involvement in administration operations. He established the Institute of Policy Studies and Public Affairs, now the Sanford School of Public Policy.

    In 1986, Sanford was elected to the U.S. Senate. He supported efforts to bring about an end to the civil war in Nicaragua and created an International Commission for Central American Recovery and Development to promote regional development under the oversight of the Center for International Development Research at Duke University. As in the case of the North Carolina Fund, the commission would be funded by private philanthropy. The commission became informally known as the “Sanford Commission,” although he was not a member. He also participated in efforts to recruit Democratic candidates for the 1988 presidential election. He ran for reelection in 1992 but lost to Republican candidate Lauch Faircloth.

    Sanford devoted his remaining years to law and teaching at Duke. He died of cancer at home on April 18, 1998, and was interred at Duke Chapel.

    For more information about the historical marker, please visit  https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2024/07/10/terry-sanford-1917-1998-g-144, or call (919) 814-6625  

    The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 15, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Weber Announces KEY Funding for Sabine Neches Navigation District

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) announced that he secured $172.711,000 through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Fiscal Year 2025 Work Plan for the Sabine-Neches Navigation District. These funds will be used to deepen the Sabine-Neches Waterway from its current 40-foot depth to its congressionally authorized depth of 48 feet, as authorized by the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2014. The Sabine-Neches Navigation District is authorized to execute the federal share of the project funding, allowing faster, more efficient progress on this critical infrastructure.

    “This is a great day for Southeast Texas, and we are glad President Trump is back in office to prioritize critical projects like the Sabine-Neches Waterway, one of the most vital waterway systems in the country,” said Rep. Weber. “This funding will strengthen America’s energy and national security, continue to grow our economy, and support jobs right here at home. I am proud to fight for the funding our region needs to remain the commerce and energy leader for decades. Again, thank you, President Trump.”

    “I want to express our deepest gratitude to President Trump, OMB Director Vought and Congressman Weber for their confidence in The Sabine-Neches Navigation District,” said Randy Reese, CEO of Sabine-Neches Navigation District. “Our entire team, and my COO Matthew Kaufman have worked diligently for decades to prepare us to answer this call.  Southeast Texas’ strength is its people, its industry and its ports. The recognition and responsibility The White House has put on our shoulders is humbling, and we will not let the nation down.”

    “This $172,711,000 in federal funding and its pivotal language authorizing the Sabine-Neches Navigation District to execute continued construction, directly utilizing federal funds, is effective and efficient, said Matthew Kaufman, Chief Operating Officer of Sabine-Neches Navigation District. “It will expedite the deepening of America’s most vital energy and military ship channel – all the way to 48 feet.  We will ensure these hard earned tax dollars strengthen our nation for all Americans and answer President Trump’s call to Unleash American Energy Dominance.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Higgins Announces Army Corps Funding for South Louisiana Projects

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) announced today that South Louisiana waterway projects will receive robust funding in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers FY 2025 Army Civil Work Plan.

    “Maintaining our ports and waterways is an investment in our future,” said Congressman Higgins. “My office will continue to work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local stakeholders to prioritize funding for dredging and waterway projects in South Louisiana. The FY25 Work Plan provides critical support for our ports, waterways, locks, and flood control infrastructure across Louisiana’s 3rd District. We will continue to push for the economic success of South Louisiana and our nation by funding our maritime infrastructure.”

    Operation & Maintenance projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District were awarded:

    • $48,541,000 for the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black,
    • $7,276,000 for Bayou Lafourche and Lafourche Jump Waterway,
    • $1,035,000 for Bayou Teche and Vermilion River,
    • $2,082,000 for Bayou Teche,
    • $34,559,314 for the Calcasieu River and Pass,
    • $15,432,000 for Fresh Water Bayou,
    • $26,159,000 for the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway,
    • $14,967,000 for Houma Navigation Canal,
    • $10,597,000 for the Mermentau River,
    • $17,000 for the Waterway from Intracoastal Waterway to Bayou Dulac.

    Construction projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District were awarded:

    • $9,000,000 to continue sediment disposal site construction for the Calcasieu River and Pass project.

    Investigation projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District were awarded:

    • $2,000,000 to continue preconstruction engineering and design at the Port of Iberia.

    Mississippi River and Tributaries projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District were awarded:

    • $650,000 for completion of the floodwall analysis for the Atchafalaya Basin project,
    • $7,761,000 for the design and construction of feature three for Morganza to the Gulf,
    • $1,613,000 for operations and maintenance of the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway System,
    • $31,197,000 for channel enhancements and guidewall repairs on the Atchafalaya Basin project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of May 19, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of May 19, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 217, CHIP IN for Veterans Act of 2025, as amended
    • H.R. 658, To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish qualifications for the appointment of a person as a marriage and family therapist, qualified to provide clinical supervision, in the Veterans Health Administration.
    • H.R. 1147, Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1223, ANCHOR Act
    • H.R. 1263, Strengthening the Quad Act
    • H.R. 1286, Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1364, ASSIST Act of 2025, as amended
    • H.R. 1453, Clean Energy Demonstration Transparency Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1578, Veterans Claims Education Act of 2025, as amended
    • H.R. 1701, Strategic Ports Reporting Act
    • H.R. 1815, VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1823, VA Budget Shortfall Accountability Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1969, No Wrong Door for Veterans Act, as amended
    • H.R. 2201, Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma Claims Act, as amended

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King: “Siloing Innovation” Harms American Security, Entrepreneurialism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke with Dr. William Greenwalt, the former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Industrial Policy, on the wide-ranging benefits of the United States’ collaboration with allies to bolster American defense modernization. During the exchange, Senator King noted that by retreating from our European, Japanese and Australian allies, we are “squandering that asset and siloing innovation.” Dr. Greenwalt agreed with Senator King, saying that cooperation with our allies is critical to the future of innovation and shared national security.
    “Dr. Greenwalt, I was struck by what you said in your opening statement. One of our asymmetric or I think our principal asymmetric advantage in terms of national security is our allies, and yet we put them through this long, arduous process. And there should be, I think you suggested a, I don’t know whether you call it an exemption or a bobtail process or something, so that we’re not, so that we can have greater cooperation with our allies. Is that? Is that a fair interpretation of what you said,” questioned Senator King.
    “Yes, I won’t even call it an easy pass lane,” said Dr. Greenwalt.
    “Well, I think that’s and the other piece of this, and as I travel and meet with security people in other countries, we’re missing an innovation multiplier by not working with our allies. Countries like Japan and Australia, Europe, Germany, UK, all have brilliant scientists who are working on a lot of innovative areas. And instead of having innovation be siloed by country, it’s always occurred to me that it would be much more, as I say, a multiplier, if we could work more closely and have better cooperation with the countries that are aligned with us? Is that a fair observation,” asked Senator King.
    “I think that’s a fair observation. We’re a country of 340 million, our allies together, the EU, NATO, Japan, Korea, kick us up over to over a trillion. We were close to the Chinese population,” responded Dr. Greenwalt.
    “And we’re squandering that asset by siloing innovation,” replied Senator King.
    “The number of scientists, engineers working together would be critical in the future, and unfortunately, right now, we’re all stove pipe working on these things separately,” said Dr. Greenwalt.
    “Well, I do want to, I have a visual aid in terms of the process. I’m not going to burden the committee, Mr. Chairman, by submitting it for the record, but this is the foreign military sales manual, 642 pages. I mean this to me this summarizes, in many ways, the problem of the of the process itself, which has impeded our ability to work with, again, with our allies,” finished Senator King.
    A member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI), Senator King is recognized as an authoritative voice on national security and foreign policy issues who has also been named a “fiscal hero” by government watchdogs for responsible spending. Last year, Senator King urged the DoD to take advantage of private sector technologies or risk losing access to innovative defense technologies. In previous SASC hearings, he has encouraged the DoD to adopt smart spending practices when it comes to developing defense technologies, and has emphasized that “new technologies win wars.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Military Installations from Unauthorized Drones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    May 15, 2025

    Cotton, Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Military Installations from Unauthorized Drones

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York) today introduced the Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act, bipartisan legislation to enhance airspace security at military installations. 

    Senators Jim Banks (R-Indiana), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Jim Moran (R-Kansas), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and Todd Young (R-Indiana) are co-sponsoring this legislation. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (Pennsylvania-06) and August Pfluger (Texas-11) are introducing companion legislation in the House.

    “Leaving American military facilities vulnerable to drone incursions puts our service members, the general public, and our national security at risk. Our bill will expand the Department of Defense’s authority to neutralize unauthorized drones,” said Senator Cotton. 

    “As commercial drones become more commonplace, we must ensure that they are not being used to share sensitive information with our adversaries, to conduct attacks against our service members, or otherwise pose a threat to our national security. This legislation will enable DoD to more effectively mitigate threats from drones and allow for better interagency cooperation to keep Americans safe. I am proud to be introducing this important piece of bipartisan legislation, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get it passed,” said Senator Gillibrand. 

    “In recent years, there has been a disturbing increase in threats posed to U.S. military bases by unmanned aircraft systems, including from systems controlled by foreign adversaries. Despite this, our armed forces continue to tell us that they lack the authority to protect the skies over some of our most sensitive military installations,” said Rep. Houlahan. “Today’s introduction of the bipartisan COUNTER Act marks the next step towards delivering the expanded authorities our military needs to address the threats of unmanned aircraft systems and keep these facilities safe.”

    “Unauthorized drone activity near and over U.S. military installations has become a persistent and growing national security concern. In the past year alone, there were more than 350 drone detections at 100 different military installations,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This is why I am proud to help lead the bipartisan COUNTER Act, which gives our armed forces the clear authority they need to take down hostile drones and defend our most sensitive installations. As a fighter pilot with hundreds of hours in combat experience, I know firsthand how critical airspace security is — and how urgent this action has become.”

    Full text of the legislation may be found here.

    The COUNTER Act would:

    • Expand the definition of a “covered facility” as it is in current law, enabling more bases to apply for approval to detect, track, and, if necessary, neutralize drones.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermap Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company reports first quarter 2025 revenue growth of 153% with 28% pro-forma adjusted EBITDA margin

    Confirms projected 2025 revenue of $30–35 million and 28% EBITDA margin

    Conference call today at 5:00 pm ET to discuss results

    DENVER, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intermap Technologies (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) (“Intermap” or the “Company”), a global leader in 3D geospatial services and intelligence solutions, today announced first quarter 2025 results and affirmed 2025 guidance.

    For the first quarter ending March 31, 2025

    • Total revenue of $4.3 million, compared with $1.7 million in the first quarter of 2024
    • Acquisition Services revenue of $2.4 million versus $478 thousand in the year-ago quarter
    • Value-added Data revenue of $514 thousand versus $266 thousand in the year-ago quarter
    • Software and Solutions revenue of $1.3 million, compared with $942 thousand in the first quarter of 2024
    • 28% pro-forma adjusted EBITDA margin versus 25% in the first quarter of 2024
      • Intermap invested to support permitting and pursuit costs on behalf of its partners for follow-on awards
    • Pro-forma net income of $833 thousand, compared with a net loss of $839 thousand in the first quarter of 2024
    • Total assets of $19.2 million versus $11.9 million on December 31, 2024
    • Cash, unbilled and A/R totaled $13.9 million versus $6.5 million on December 31, 2024

    “We’re seeing strong momentum across our government and commercial segments,” said Patrick A. Blott, Intermap Chairman and CEO. “With multiyear partnerships, federal contracts and a strengthened balance sheet, we’re benefiting from growing customer confidence and positioning the Company for recurring revenue with long-term growth. We are pleased to affirm our 2025 guidance.”

    Q1 Government Milestones
    In the government sector, Intermap’s team, led by CACI, was selected as a vendor for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s $200 million Luno B IDIQ contract. When combined with the previously announced Luno A award, the addressable opportunity totals $500 million. The first task orders have begun to be issued and Intermap is well positioned with superior proprietary source data and analytics located over difficult areas of the world inaccessible by optical satellites. This positions Intermap to compete for federal work over the next five years and expand its role in delivering advanced geospatial intelligence to support national security.

    Intermap continued to execute Phase 1 of Indonesia’s national mapping initiative, delivering high-resolution 3D elevation and feature data exceeding specifications in a shorter timeframe than planned. The Company is pursuing follow-on awards under Phase 2 of the $653 million World Bank–funded ILASP project, which supports land administration and spatial planning. With the Indonesian government prioritizing large-scale base maps for national development, Intermap’s Phase 1 performance positions it strongly for continued participation. The Company’s advanced technology and proven execution align with the project’s goals, including expansion into Java, Kalimantan and other key regions.

    As part of the Indonesian mapping program during the quarter, Intermap incurred charges for permitting, currency adjustment and working capital investment to support large government milestone payments, which were subsequently collected in April 2025, after the quarter end. In addition, Intermap incurred pursuit costs related to upcoming contracts. When the partner-related charges and pursuit costs are added back, pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA and earnings for the first quarter were $1.2 million and $833 thousand, respectively. To further mitigate exchange risks, Intermap entered into foreign currency hedging and arrangements with its local prime partner to pay IDR subcontractors. Going forward, currency risk and hedging costs are mitigated by World Bank funding, which will be denominated and fixed in U.S. dollars.

    During the quarter, Intermap was down-selected after a competitive process for a new U.S. Defense Advanced Research Project (DARPA) program to support priority DARPA investments targeted to leverage Intermap’s unique commercial capabilities, commercialization expertise, proprietary internal research and development and growth capital support. This program extends Intermap’s own upgrade efforts and capital with sponsored access to additional government-funded, cutting-edge applied geospatial technologies, advanced research and development, next-generation geospatial products and emerging dual-use companies on contract with DARPA. The Company is currently working with multiple customers using Intermap data and technology for real-time terrain matching to power long-range autonomous systems. More information about this important award will follow as contracting is finalized.

    Q1 Commercial Achievements
    Intermap began 2025 with strong performance in its insurance business, securing over $1.1 million in new and renewed contracts. It signed two major multiyear partnerships with a leading European bank-insurance group and PREMIUM Insurance. Both adopted Intermap’s Aquarius RMA platform, reinforcing the Company’s position as a key provider of AI-driven geospatial solutions for multi-peril and flood risk assessment.

    During the first quarter, the Company significantly expanded its partnership with a major global space infrastructure operator, which has increased its investment in the Company’s high-precision 3D elevation data with Intermap’s NEXTMap® solution. This expansion supports the operator’s use of the data for radio frequency interference modeling and optimizing site selection across diverse geographies. In 2024, the operator acquired 10 times as many projects as the previous year, driving a 6.4x increase in revenue. Early 2025 projects are nearly three times larger than the average size in 2024, with points of presence growing rapidly, reflecting the growing scale of the initiative. This rapid expansion demonstrates the operator’s growing reliance on Intermap’s best-in-class data.

    The Company also renewed its subscription partnership with a leading provider of GPS-enabled golf technology. Now entering its fourth year, the collaboration utilizes Intermap’s high-resolution 3D elevation data to map more than 40,000 golf courses globally, delivering immersive, real-time virtual experiences for golfers. This data powers advanced features such as swing metrics, ball flight analytics and detailed course visualizations—accessible from homes, backyards and practice ranges. Driven by strong user growth, the partnership is expanding to include a new generation of golf products built on Intermap’s proprietary terrain models, where Intermap is compensated alongside the customer for growing user data consumption. With 78% of core golfers using at least one golf app, Intermap’s data remains a key enabler of the evolving digital golf experience.

    Q1 Financing
    To fund growth, Intermap raised C$12 million in February. The capital strengthens the Company’s ability to execute on its expanding pipeline and scale delivery of high-value contracts.

    Outlook
    Intermap confirms projected 2025 revenue of $30–35 million and 28% EBITDA margin.

    Intermap does not provide quarterly guidance. The Company has tremendous installed capacity, providing a competitive advantage for speed of execution. Intermap’s customers are large global institutions and governments with long procurement and decision-making cycles. Intermap has the proven ability and track record to increase operational efficiency and tempo once under contract to meet aggressive timelines consistent with customer requirements.

    Intermap will continue building recurring revenue by enabling customers to consume the world’s most precise GEOINT terrain data products at global scale, as-a-service, provisioned within seconds, consuming only the points they need, when and where they need them. While penetrating deeper into its targeted markets, Intermap is also enabling new users and new use-cases, and its financial results highlight the persistent recurring revenue and high growth embedded in this attractive business model.

    Quarterly Filing
    The Company’s consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, along with management’s discussion and analysis for the corresponding period and related management certifications for the first quarter financial results, will be filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the SEC’s EDGAR website at SEC.gov on May 15, 2025.

    Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure. The term earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) consists of net loss and excludes interest (financing costs), taxes, and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes share-based compensation, fair value adjustments and foreign currency translation. See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures” in Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the SEC’s EDGAR website at SEC.gov.

    Conference Call Details
    Intermap’s CEO Patrick A. Blott and CFO Jennifer Bakken will host a live webinar today, at 5:00 pm ET to review the results, provide Company updates and answer investor questions following the presentation.

    Intermap invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives and other stakeholders to attend the earnings webinar to discuss the first quarter of 2025 results.

    DATE Thursday, May 15, 2025
    TIME 5:00 pm ET
    WEBCAST Register

    Learn more about Intermap here.

    Intermap Reader Advisory 
    Certain information provided in this news release, including reference to revenue growth, EBITDA margin, future contracting, constitutes forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate”, “expect”, “project”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “will be”, “will consider”, “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Although Intermap believes that these statements are based on information and assumptions which are current, reasonable and complete, these statements are necessarily subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Intermap’s forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, cash available to fund operations, availability of capital, revenue fluctuations, nature of government contracts, economic conditions, loss of key customers, retention and availability of executive talent, competing technologies, common share price volatility, loss of proprietary information, software functionality, internet and system infrastructure functionality, information technology security, breakdown of strategic alliances, and international and political considerations, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed Intermap’s Annual Information Form and other securities filings. While the Company makes these forward-looking statements in good faith, should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that the Company will derive therefrom. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to Intermap or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements made herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities law.

    About Intermap Technologies 

    Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Intermap (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) is a global leader in geospatial intelligence solutions, focusing on the creation and analysis of 3D terrain data to produce high-resolution thematic models. Through scientific analysis of geospatial information and patented sensors and processing technology, the Company provisions diverse, complementary, multi-source datasets to enable customers to seamlessly integrate geospatial intelligence into their workflows. Intermap’s 3D elevation data and software analytic capabilities enable global geospatial analysis through artificial intelligence and machine learning, providing customers with critical information to understand their terrain environment. By leveraging its proprietary archive of the world’s largest collection of multi-sensor global elevation data, the Company’s collection and processing capabilities provide multi-source 3D datasets and analytics at mission speed, enabling governments and companies to build and integrate geospatial foundation data with actionable insights. Applications for Intermap’s products and solutions include defense, aviation and UAV flight planning, flood and wildfire insurance, disaster mitigation, base mapping, environmental and renewable energy planning, telecommunications, engineering, critical infrastructure monitoring, hydrology, land management, oil and gas and transportation. 

    For more information, please visit www.intermap.com or contact:
    Jennifer Bakken
    Executive Vice President and CFO
    CFO@intermap.com
    +1 (303) 708-0955

    Sean Peasgood
    Investor Relations
    Sean@SophicCapital.com
    +1 (647) 260-9266

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMSC to Report Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results on May 21, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AYER, Mass., May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMSC® (NASDAQ: AMSC), a leading system provider of megawatt-scale power resiliency solutions that orchestrate the rhythm and harmony of power on the grid™ and protect and expand the capability of our Navy’s fleet, announced today that it plans to release its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2024 financial results after the market close on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. In conjunction with this announcement, AMSC management will participate in a conference call with investors and covering analysts beginning at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, May 22, 2025. On this call, management will discuss the Company’s recent accomplishments, financial results, and business outlook.

    Those who wish to listen to the live or archived conference call webcast should visit the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at https://www.amsc.com. The live call can be accessed 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time by dialing 1-844-481-2802 or 1-412-317-0675 and asking to join the AMSC call.

    A replay of the call may be accessed 2 hours following the call by dialing 1-877-344-7529 and using conference passcode 4917468.

    About AMSC (Nasdaq: AMSC)
    AMSC generates the ideas, technologies and solutions that meet the world’s demand for smarter, cleaner … better energy™. Through its Gridtec™ Solutions, AMSC provides the engineering planning services and advanced grid systems that optimize network reliability, efficiency and performance. Through its Marinetec™ Solutions, AMSC provides ship protection systems and is developing propulsion and power management solutions designed to help fleets increase system efficiencies, enhance power quality and boost operational safety. Through its Windtec® Solutions, AMSC provides wind turbine electronic controls and systems, designs and engineering services that reduce the cost of wind energy. The Company’s solutions are enhancing the performance and reliability of power networks, increasing the operational safety of navy fleets, and powering gigawatts of renewable energy globally. Founded in 1987, AMSC is headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts with operations in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. For more information, please visit www.amsc.com.

    ©2025 AMSC. AMSC, American Superconductor, NEPSI, Neeltran, NWL, D-VAR, D-VAR VVO, Amperium, Gridtec, Marinetec, Windtec, Orchestrate the Rhythm and Harmony of Power on the Grid and Smarter, Cleaner … Better Energy are trademarks or registered trademarks of American Superconductor Corporation. All other brand names, product names, trademarks, or service marks belong to their respective holders.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Signing Day Sports Announces Selected Financial Results for Quarter Ended March 31, 2025 and Provides Business Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reduces Net Loss for Quarter by 66% Year-Over-Year, Reflecting Improved Operating Efficiency

     Strong Combine Participation and Scalable Digital Platform Expected to Drive Higher Margin Growth

    SCOTTSDALE, AZ, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Signing Day Sports, Inc. (“Signing Day Sports” or the “Company”) (NYSE American: SGN), the developer of the Signing Day Sports app and platform to aid high school athletes in the recruitment process, today announced selected financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided a business update.

    Daniel Nelson, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Signing Day Sports, stated, “One of our primary objectives this quarter was to streamline costs and strike the right balance between growth and efficiency—resulting in a 66% year-over-year reduction in net loss. At the same time, we have seen strong athlete engagement through our national combine series and weekly recruiting webinars, which continues to expand our brand visibility. With enhancements to the digital platform and the signing of a new Sponsorship Agreement with the U.S. Army Bowl during the quarter, we believe we are well-positioned to drive growth in higher-margin, subscription-based revenues. We are also advancing strategic initiatives that we believe could significantly enhance long-term shareholder value. Overall, we have laid a strong foundation for scalable growth and meaningful returns, while continuing to enable new college recruiting opportunities for student-athletes and coaches nationwide.”

    During the first quarter of 2025, Signing Day Sports advanced its growth strategy by hosting five U.S. Army Bowl Regional Combines in key cities—Atlanta, Georgia; Orlando, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; Phoenix, Arizona; and Jackson, Mississippi—which attracted nearly 1,000 high school athletes. These events reinforce the strong demand for verified performance data and enhanced recruiting visibility.

    To extend this momentum, the Company expanded its digital footprint with weekly recruiting webinars that spotlight top student-athletes and promote direct engagement with college coaches. Signing Day Sports also renewed its role as the National Recruiting Partner to the U.S. Army Bowl through 2026, maintaining exclusive rights to national and regional combines and generating revenue from athlete registrations. Verified data collected from these events is automatically integrated into athlete profiles on the Company’s app, enhancing usability and value for both users and coaches.

    Financial highlights for the quarter ended March 31, 2025

    • Revenue totaled approximately $0.15 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to approximately $0.23 million for the comparable 2024 period.
    • General and administrative expenses were approximately $0.97 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to approximately $2.04 million for the 2024 period.
    • Net loss was approximately $0.84 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a net loss of approximately $2.50 million in the same period in 2024.

    The selected results included in this press release should be reviewed together with the Company’s complete financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The complete financial results are available in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2025 and available at www.sec.gov.

    Signing Day Sports

    Signing Day Sports’ mission is to help student-athletes achieve their goal of playing college sports. Signing Day Sports’ app allows student-athletes to build their Signing Day Sports’ recruitment profile, which includes information college coaches need to evaluate and verify them through video technology. The Signing Day Sports app includes a platform to upload a comprehensive data set including video-verified measurables (such as height, weight, 40-yard dash, wingspan, and hand size), academic information (such as official transcripts and SAT/ACT scores), and technical skill videos (such as drills and mechanics that exemplify player mechanics, coordination, and development). For more information on Signing Day Sports, go to https://bit.ly/SigningDaySports.

    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 “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic reports which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are, in some cases, beyond our control and could materially affect results. If one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors become applicable, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual events or results may vary significantly from those implied or projected by the forward-looking statements. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Investor Contacts:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    SGN@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Thirty Gang Members and Associates Indicted on Racketeering, Murder, Drug Trafficking, Fraud, and Firearm Charges

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    An eight-count indictment was unsealed in the Southern District of Georgia charging 30 defendants – all alleged Sex Money Murder (SMM) gang members and associates – with crimes including racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and related firearm and drug trafficking crimes.

    According to court documents and statements in court, SMM members and associates engaged in extreme violence to retaliate against fellow members for perceived violations of gang rules. For example, SMM members killed one member who wanted to leave the gang and attempted to kill another by repeatedly stabbing him for alleged homosexual activities while in jail. SMM members profited from trafficking large amounts of deadly drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, throughout the Savannah metropolitan area. They also made money participating in sophisticated fraud schemes targeting federal COVID-19 relief and unemployment benefit programs that resulted in intended losses of over $850,000.

    “As alleged, the Sex Money Murder gang, a derivative of the nationally known Bloods gang, brutally enforced its purported rules, killing a 19-year-old member, and engaged in rampant drug trafficking and federal program fraud to enrich themselves,” said Matthew Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We will not rest until every criminal organization like SMM that wreaks havoc on our streets and prison systems and exploits programs meant to support vulnerable populations are dismantled. Thank you to every federal, state, and local law enforcement agency that came together to dismantle this criminal enterprise.”

    “Today’s indictment is an important step in ending gang violence on our streets and in our prisons,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons for the Southern District of Georgia. “My office will continuously work with our law enforcement partners to ensure public safety.”

    “The violence and crime this gang committed across our region contributed to an epidemic in our nation.” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families who suffer because of this gangs’ activities. The FBI works with our law enforcement partners every day to crush violent crime in Georgia and our nation.”

    “This case demonstrates the relentless coordination and commitment among our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent criminal enterprises like Sex Money Murder,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “ATF is proud to have played a critical role in targeting the illegal firearms and narcotics trafficking that fueled this gang’s deadly reach both inside and outside prison walls.” 

    “This indictment represents a significant step forward in our continued efforts to dismantle violent criminal enterprises operating within Georgia communities and correctional facilities,” said Director Chris Hosey of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). “The GBI remains committed to working alongside our federal, state, and local partners to hold gang members accountable and protect the safety and wellbeing of all Georgians.”

    “The use of contraband cell phones as a tool to carry out gang activity and other crimes from behind prison walls will not be tolerated and we are proud of our Agents for their role in assisting our law enforcement partners in stopping these individuals from jeopardizing the safety of the public and the operations of our facilities,” said Commissioner Tyrone Oliver of the Georgia Department of Corrections. “This indictment is a great example of partnerships at every level, ensuring the job of public safety remains paramount.”

    According to court documents, on Feb. 24, 2020, Byron Hopkins and other SMM members intercepted a young victim a few hours after he stepped off his school bus. They drove him to a rural residential neighborhood where Hopkins shot him to death. The victim had reportedly expressed a desire to leave the gang after accusing Hopkins of having sexual relations with a minor female who became pregnant. To lure the victim, his, “big brother” in the gang – a person he trusted – sent him a text message claiming there was an important gang meeting he needed to attend. Believing this, the victim willingly got into the vehicle, unaware he was being taken to the site of his execution. This is just one example of SMM’s deadly violence against a member that questioned authority or violated gang rules.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, SMM is a subset of The Bloods gang, which originated in Los Angeles in the early 1970s. The SMM subset has spread from the Bronx and New York to areas across the East Coast, including Georgia, where it operates inside and outside prisons and jails. The indictment alleges an extensive criminal enterprise in which SMM members, including inmates within the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDOC), orchestrated numerous crimes, including murders, attempted murders, attempted robberies, drug trafficking within and outside of GDOC facilities, and wire and bank fraud. Seven of the defendants allegedly committed or ordered the charged crimes from prison.

    If convicted, the defendants face penalties including up to life in prison or death for the murder in aid of racketeering and using a firearm in the commission of a murder; up to life in prison for the racketeering conspiracy and drug conspiracy; up to 30 years for the wire fraud conspiracy; and up to 20 years for the conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and Georgia Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with valuable assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Prisons, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, the Georgia State Patrol, Hinesville Police Department, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, Chatham County Police Department, Chatham Couty Counternarcotics Team, Savannah Police Department, McRae-Helena Police Department, Police Department, DeKalb Police Department, Brunswick Police Department, and Richmond Hill Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank M. Pennington III for the Southern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

    The indictment is a result of Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigations. The OCDETF mission is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency task force approach. OCDETF synchronizes and incentivizes prosecutors and agents to lead smart, creative investigations targeting the command-and-control networks of organized criminal groups and the illicit financiers that support them. Additional information about the OCDETF Program may be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud for Defrauding United States Department of Veterans Affairs and Social Security Administration

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenbelt, Maryland – Marvin Deboulet, 51, of Catonsville, Maryland, pled guilty to wire fraud in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain Veterans Affairs and Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits in federal court.  

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Special Agent in Charge Nate Landkrammer, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of the Inspector General (VA-OIG), and Special Agent in Charge Colleen Lawlor, Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG) – Philadelphia Field Division. 

    According to the guilty plea, Deboulet enlisted in the U.S. Army in February 2010, and officially entered duty for basic training, on May 5, 2010. Then on December 2, 2010, Deboulet went absent without official leave of duty (AWOL) from military service.

    On June 6, 2011, Deboulet was charged by summary court martial with a period of desertion ending on March 22, 2011. The U.S. Army formally discharged Deboulet “under conditions other than honorable” on November 18, 2011. Prior to and after 2010, Deboulet never served in any branch of the U.S. military.

    In June 2012, Deboulet sought care from a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center in Loma Linda, California. On his application for treatment, Deboulet indicated that he was discharged honorably and checked a box stating that he was a purple heart recipient.

    Additionally, Deboulet submitted documents falsely claiming that he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and suffered combat-related mental and physical injuries during military service from 2003 and 2005. Deboulet also falsely stated that he was the sole survivor of a Humvee bombing in Kosovo. As a result of Deboulet’s misrepresentations, the VA provided Deboulet with medical care and associated costs that he was not entitled to.

    Then, in October 2014, Deboulet sought SSA benefits in Hagerstown, Maryland. Deboulet again provided false information, specifically that he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from February 26, 1994, until November 23, 2005. Based on its rules as of June 2012, the SSA determined Deboulet was disabled based on information he provided, and a pending claim that he referenced with a VA medical facility.

    As a result of its findings, the SSA awarded Deboulet and his son benefits. Deboulet fraudulently received $143,128.27 in benefit funds that he was not entitled to.

    Deboulet faces a maximum sentence of 20 years for wire fraud. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the VA-OIG and SSA-OIG for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kertisha Dixon who is prosecuting the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee man sentenced to 5 years of probation for selling unapproved drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA – A Greenville, Tennessee man who admitted selling unapproved drugs made from ingredients purchased from China was sentenced today to five years of probation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Tyler Jordan Hall, 31, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to introduction of unapproved drugs in interstate commerce.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

    “Tyler Hall manufactured unapproved drugs in an unregulated lab using ingredients he bought from China. And he sold those drugs to unwitting customers based on his false claims that the products were approved by the FDA. That behavior, which can result in serious health problems for users, will not be tolerated. I want to thank the FDA for investigating and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke for prosecuting the matter as we continue to strive to protect Montanans and other Americans from this kind of deceitful and dangerous conduct.” U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    “Illegally manufacturing and selling unapproved drugs outside the legitimate U.S. supply chain can present serious health risks to those who buy and use them,” said Robert Iwanicki, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office. “Furthermore, knowingly misleading customers and the FDA by making false claims about the nature and legitimacy of the products shows a reckless disregard for FDA regulations and for the lives and well-being of consumers. FDA will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who would disregard and jeopardize public health and safety by selling misbranded drugs.”

    The government alleged in court documents that from June 17, 2020, through March 2022, Tyler Hall operated a business known as Rat’s Army, LLC, which imported, created, bottled, and labeled drugs. Hall marketed the substances to individuals in the bodybuilding and fitness community to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and counter the unwanted side effects of other bodybuilding drugs. Many of the substances were not safe for human consumption except under the supervision of a practitioner licensed to administer prescription drugs. Some drugs were of similar composition to FDA-approved drugs that require special boxed warnings in their labeling emphasizing serious potential side effects, including pulmonary embolism.

    During the timeframe noted above, Hall obtained proceeds from Rat’s Army of approximately $3.8 million. The income was generated, at least in part, from the sale of unapproved drugs, including Raloxifene, Tamoxifen, and Pramipexole.

    Hall knowingly took steps to mislead and defraud United States regulatory agencies, including the FDA, about the true nature of the products he was selling on the Rat’s Army website. Specifically, he attempted to conceal the nature of his products by falsely portraying them as “research chemicals” and “not for human consumption,” despite knowing and intending that the products were for ingestion by humans to affect the structure and function of their bodies.

    Hall also took steps to mislead and defraud the consumers to whom he was offering the sale of these drugs by posting misleading Certificates of Analysis on the website to convince consumers Rat’s Army was manufacturing products which were legitimate and safe to consume.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: India and Pakistan have agreed a precarious peace – but will it last?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alex Waterman, Lecturer in Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford

    India and Pakistan stepped back from the brink of catastrophe on May 10 after a US-brokered ceasefire brought rapidly escalating hostilities between the two countries to an end. But tensions are still running high.

    The Indian prime minister, Narendra Modi, said on May 12 that India has only “paused” its military action against Pakistan and would “retaliate on its own terms” to any attacks.

    The latest episode in the long-running conflict between these nuclear powers was triggered on April 22. Militants from a group known as the Resistance Front, which India says is a proxy for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group, killed 26 tourists in the picturesque resort town of Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir. India alleges Pakistan’s involvement, which it denies.

    The fact that India and Pakistan were able to agree to a ceasefire as escalations spiralled is reason for optimism. It shows that internal calculations and international pressure can pull the two parties back from the brink. However, the ceasefire represents an incredibly precarious peace. Can it be sustained?

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

    Recent experience shows that sustained ceasefires are possible between the two states. In February 2021, India and Pakistan’s militaries signed a ceasefire to end four months of cross-border skirmishes. The agreement was a reaffirmation of an original ceasefire understanding from 2003.

    Only two violations were recorded across the line of control separating Indian- and Pakistani-administered Kashmir for the rest of the year, dropping to one in 2022. This compared to 4,645 such incidents in 2020.

    The reduction led to optimism that armed rebellion in Kashmir, which both India and Pakistan claim in full, was in persistent decline. In March 2025, just one month before the deadly Pahalgam attack, security sources in India estimated that there were only 77 active militants operating on the Indian side of the border.

    The drop in violence was a result of combined international and domestic pressure on Pakistan. The Financial Action Task Force, an organisation that monitors countries’ efforts to tackle terrorist financing and recommends financial sanctions against non-compliant states, added Pakistan to its “grey list” in 2018.

    This listing forced Pakistan to introduce a string of policy measures to curb terrorism financing. Pakistan was removed from the list in 2022 due to significant improvements in its counter-terrorism framework.

    But, as the Kashmir conundrum is at the heart of Pakistani national identity, it has often been employed as a political strategy to shore up domestic support. And in recent years, as Pakistan’s powerful army has grappled with overlapping economic and political crises, this strategy has been rolled out again.

    The popularity of Pakistan’s army, for example, diminished significantly following the arrest of Pakistan’s leader, Imran Khan, in 2023. This has prompted army chief Asim Munir to use tensions with India to deflect attention.

    Munir has called Kashmir “our jugular vein”, and has promised not to “leave our Kashmiri brothers in their historical struggle”. These comments followed an increase in the number and frequency of insurgent attempts to cross the border into India after India’s May 2024 general elections were held peacefully in Kashmir, a rare occurrence since the separatist insurgency began in 1987.

    These cross-border operations are allegedly carried out by Pakistan’s so-called Border Action Teams, comprised of Pakistani special forces and militants from insurgent groups. Pakistan has never acknowledged the existence of such teams.

    By April 1, tit-for-tat firing across the line of control had also already surpassed the total number of incidents in 2023 and 2024 combined.

    Fragile peace

    The latest ceasefire was agreed in the context of hostilities escalating beyond previous levels. Military strikes were launched outside Kashmir itself at military bases deep in Pakistani territory and in north-western India.

    Certain actions by Islamabad were also widely interpreted as attempts to signal the country’s nuclear capabilities. These included the decision to convene the National Command Authority, the body responsible for control and use of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.

    The move may not have been a genuine alert. But the possible willingness to resort to nuclear threats is particularly concerning as, unlike India, Pakistan does not have a “no-first use” nuclear weapons policy.

    India, as an aspiring political and economic power, has clear interests in preserving the ceasefire. New Delhi wants to project itself as rational and responsible, worthy of a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

    At the same time, some of the decisions taken by India after the Pahalgam attack may compel further support for the insurgency in Kashmir. This brings with it the risk of further escalation between India and Pakistan in the future.

    India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, which governs the use of water from the Indus River. Pakistan lies downstream from India and is heavily dependent on the river for irrigation and public consumption.



    Read more:
    India-Pakistan conflict over water reflects a region increasingly vulnerable to climate change

    Intervention from global powers such as the US may again be able to prevent future hostility from spiralling out of control. However, substantive talks are unlikely.

    The US, which is in advanced negotiations with New Delhi over reducing tariffs on Indian imports, has offered to act as a mediator. This has been welcomed by Pakistan. But India maintains that, on the question of Kashmir, it would prefer bilateral talks rather than involving a third party.

    While the Trump administration initially signalled a hands-off approach to relations between India and Pakistan, deeming it “none of our business”, it is now clear how rapidly matters can escalate between them.

    The US and other interested parties like China will probably continue in their efforts to regulate and manage the conflict, openly or covertly, even if deeper resolution appears unlikely.

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

    – ref. India and Pakistan have agreed a precarious peace – but will it last? – https://theconversation.com/india-and-pakistan-have-agreed-a-precarious-peace-but-will-it-last-256618

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Schmitt Renew Bipartisan Fight for More Competition in Pentagon’s AI and Cloud Contracting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 15, 2025

    Bicameral bill aligns with new White House guidelines on AI contracting for government agencies

    Text of Bill (PDF) | Text of One-Pager (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD)’s contracting for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition. The bill reins in Big Tech monopolies and prevents them from cutting out competitors in the AI and cloud computing markets.

    Representatives Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Pat Fallon (R-Texas), and Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.) introduced the bill in the House of Representatives. 

    The reintroduction comes as the White House has released new guidelines on AI procurement that encourage federal agencies to avoid vendor lock-in and to ensure that government data is protected and not used to train commercial AI models. 

    The AI and cloud computing industries are highly concentrated, and a few Silicon Valley companies control the markets the DoD relies on for cloud infrastructure, foundation models, and data infrastructure. DoD has already awarded $9 billion in contracts to Google, Oracle, Microsoft, and Amazon to build its cloud computing network, and requested an additional $1.8 billion for AI programs for Fiscal Year 2025. The Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act would ensure that DoD’s new contracts protect competition in the AI and cloud computing markets, instead of giving an unfair advantage to a few big players. The bill also encourages DoD to consider cloud computing services from multiple providers so the agency isn’t locked in by a single tech company.

    Specifically, the bill would: 

    • Require DoD — when contracting with AI and cloud computing companies that make $50 million or more with DoD annually — to hold a competitive award process, ensure that the government maintains exclusive rights to access and use of all government data, mitigate barriers to entry faced by small businesses and nontraditional contractors, and consider multi-cloud technology unless doing so is infeasible or presents a danger to national security. 
    • Require DoD’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) to ensure that government data provided for the purpose of development and operation of AI products to DoD will not be disclosed or used without DoD authorization, and such government data, if stored on vendor systems, has appropriate protections.
    • Require DoD to publish a report every four years on competition, innovation, barriers to entry, and market power concentration in the AI sector, with recommendations for legislative and administrative action.

    Senators Warren and Schmitt first introduced the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act in December 2024. 

    “It’s a mistake to let Silicon Valley monopolize our AI and cloud computing tools because it doesn’t just stifle innovation, it increases costs and threatens our national security,” said Senator Warren. “Our bill will make sure the military can access cutting-edge tools and will keep our markets strong and our information secure.”

    “The Department of Defense’s procurement system must encourage competition instead of allowing a select group of companies to dominate the awards process. We must move away from policies that create risk concentration, and stifle innovation to instead adopt policies that create opportunities for emerging A.I. defense companies. I am proud to be leading this bill that promotes this smart policy, as well as encourage innovation so the U.S. can continue to lead A.I.,” said Senator Eric Schmitt.

    “Competition always pushes the limits of creativity, innovation, and excellence – whether in AI or any other field. That’s why the Department of Defense needs to prioritize competition in its AI and cloud computing contracts to ensure we deploy the best technologies to protect and strengthen our national security. I’m proud to help lead this bicameral legislation that will make our country safer, stronger, and more competitive on the global stage,” said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. 

    “The Department of Defense needs to shape up its federal tech procurement process to protect data and public money from the failures of concentrated power and a lack of competition,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio. “Policies like the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act will promote real competition in the defense technology sector to help keep our military strong, fortified, and ready for anything.”

    “By relying on free market principles, the Department of Defense can help ensure competition and innovation when it comes to the bidding process for government AI and cloud contracts,” said Congressman Pat Fallon. “It’s our duty to ensure the DOD is picking the winners now and, in the future, to keep ahead of our competitors. Due to the varied cyber threats facing our nation today, we must also ensure that AI and cloud related data is secure when it is held exclusively by the federal government. For these reasons, the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act is the next step forward Congress must take in the interest of US national security.”

    The Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act is endorsed by Economic Securities Project Action and the Open Markets Institute.

    Senator Warren has been a leader in the fight to rein in Big Tech and boost competition in the tech and defense sectors: 

    • In May 2025, Secretary of the Army, Daniel P. Driscoll announced that the Army will ensure right-to-repair provisions are included in future Army contracts, after pressure from Senator Warren. 
    • In April 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured a commitment from Mr. Michael Cadenazzi, nominee to be the next Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, to support AI competition and innovation in defense contracting.
    • In April 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wrote to cloud service providers Google and Microsoft with concerns that their respective partnerships with AI developers Anthropic and OpenAI may violate antitrust laws, leading to fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools.
    • In January 2025, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, a Palantir Executive agreed with Senator Elizabeth Warren that legal loopholes should not enable companies to  price-gouge the military.
    • In September 2024, Senator Warren wrote to Assistant Attorney General of the Antitrust Division at the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) Jonathan Kanter in support of the DOJ’s ongoing probe into Nvidia’s potentially anticompetitive behavior.
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren delivered the keynote address at RemedyFest, where she called out Big Tech for their anti-competitive tactics that have led to market consolidation and record profits.
    • In January 2024, at a hearing of the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Senator Warren questioned Emily Kilcrease, Senior Fellow and Director of the Energy, Economics, and Security Program at the Center for a New American Security, on the national security risks posed by digital trade rules that allow tech companies to collect, sell, and store Americans’ data wherever is cheapest, including China.
    • In December 2023, Senators Warren, Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), along with U.S. Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), sent a letter to President Biden, urging him to continue to reject any trade or policy proposals from Big Tech that would deem the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) to be discriminatory or an illegal trade barrier, in order to protect the administration’s shared pro-competition priorities with its European allies. 
    • In November 2023, Senator Warren and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), led 10 lawmakers in a letter to President Joe Biden, commending his administration’s actions countering Big Tech’s influence in trade negotiations, and asking him to replace “digital trade” provisions lobbied for by Big Tech in Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) negotiations with new language to ensure regulatory agencies and Congress are able to counter Big Tech abuses and develop a new model for digital rules in trade agreements that promotes competition and protects workers, consumers, and small businesses. 
    • In July 2023, Senators Warren and Graham introduced the Bipartisan Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act which would  rein in Big Tech by establishing a new commission to regulate online platforms. The commission would have concurrent jurisdiction with FTC and DOJ, and would be responsible for enforcing the new statutory provisions in the bill and implementing rules to promote competition, protect privacy, protect consumers, and strengthen our national security.
    • In May 2023, Senator Warren released a 22-page investigative report: Big Tech’s Big Con: Rigging Digital Trade Rules to Block Antitrust Regulation. The investigation, based on a review of previously undisclosed emails, reveals that Big Tech is using its revolving door hires to gain backdoor access to key United States Trade Representative and Commerce Department officials, undermining the Biden Administration’s promises to end rigged trade deals and protect workers, consumers, and the environment. 
    • In October 2022, Senator Warren and Representative Jayapal sent a letter to Secretary Raimondo underscoring the dangers of Big Tech’s digital trade agenda, following up on a letter the lawmakers sent to Secretary Raimondo in July 2022 requesting additional information about the revolving door between Commerce and Big Tech and its potential impact on global digital trade rules.
    • In July 2022, Senator Warren and Representative Jayapal sent a letter to Secretary Raimondo raising questions about the revolving door between the Department of Commerce and Big Tech companies, and its potential impact on global digital trade rules.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transparency of the Commission’s actions in promoting its CSDP initiatives in Member States – E-001826/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001826/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    The Commission is obliged to ensure transparency in the development and implementation of EU legislation and policies. However, in recent years, there have been numerous reports of a lack of transparency. One need only mention the Commission President’s secret SMS negotiations on the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, or the Commission’s lobbying of MEPs on the Green Deal[1], which violated the principles of sincere cooperation between EU institutions.

    Another example is the Commission’s lobbying activities in Member States to promote its policies in the area of security and defence, including the arms industry. The EU’s competences in these areas are limited, yet more and more proposals put forward by the Commission indicate a systematic drive to secure greater decision-making powers at EU level. In particular, since the outbreak of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the Commission’s initiatives relating to the defence industry, while not formally changing the competences laid down in the Treaties, have de facto extended the EU’s influence in these areas through financial and regulatory instruments. Therefore, the Commission’s actions aimed at shaping public opinion and influencing the public debate in Member States on security and defence issues raise serious legal and ethical concerns.

    In light of the foregoing:

    How many contracts has the Commission concluded, for what amounts and in which countries for lobbying activities for its initiatives in the area of Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and the arms industry in the Member States?

    Submitted: 6.5.2025

    • [1] According to the media, the Commission used European taxpayers’ money to commission lobbying activities aimed at influencing the views of MEPs. https://www.lepoint.fr/monde/la-commission-europeenne-a-paye-des-ong-pour-faire-son-lobbying-sur-le-pacte-vert-23-01-2025-2580637_24.php#11
    Last updated: 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: US, Dominican Republic Militaries Partner to Develop Enlisted Leaders

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    A group of enlisted leaders from the United States Army kicked off a subject matter expert exchange with fellow enlisted leaders from the Dominican Republic’s military just outside of the Caribbean nation’s capital in Santo Domingo – further progressing the professional development of noncommissioned officers in the Dominican armed services.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former El Paso US Army soldier charged with child pornography offenses

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — A federal grand jury returned an indictment May 14 charging Seth Herrera, 35, a U.S. Army soldier, previously of El Paso, Texas, with attempted sexual exploitation of a child and receiving files depicting child sexual abuse.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the case.

    According to court documents, Herrera allegedly used encrypted messaging applications and network applications to find, receive, and download child sexual abuse material over the course of multiple years, beginning in 2021. He also allegedly used artificial intelligence chatbots to generate child sexual abuse material using images of children he knew and surreptitiously took images and videos of those same children undressing in his El Paso home.

    Herrera is already charged in Alaska relating to his alleged transportation, receipt, and possession of child sexual abuse material, including AI-generated child sexual abuse material, while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory J. Rasmussen for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Soldier Charged with Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: US State of California

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging Seth Herrera, 35, a U.S. Army soldier, previously of El Paso, TX, with attempted sexual exploitation of a child and receipt of files depicting child sexual abuse.

    According to court documents, Herrera allegedly used encrypted messaging applications and network applications to find, receive, and download child sexual abuse material (CSAM) over the course of multiple years, beginning in 2021. He also allegedly used artificial intelligence chatbots to generate CSAM using images of children he knew. He is also alleged to have surreptitiously taken images and videos of those same children undressing in his home in El Paso.

    Herrera is already charged in Alaska relating to his alleged transportation, receipt, and possession of CSAM, including AI-generated CSAM, while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret F. Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory J. Rasmussen for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Fallon Leads Introduction of the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    Congressman Fallon Leads Introduction of the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act

    Washington, May 15, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Pat Fallon (TX-04) led the House introduction of the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act today, a bill which would ensure that the Department of Defense (DOD)’s contracting for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition. The bill would help spur competition and innovation with regards to the DOD contract bidding process, which would allow the US to stay ahead of competitors and ensure related data is kept secure. 

    “By relying on free market principles, the Department of Defense can help ensure competition and innovation when it comes to the bidding process for government AI and cloud contracts,” commented Rep. Pat Fallon. “It’s our duty to ensure the DOD is picking the winners now and, in the future, to keep ahead of our competitors. Due to the varied cyber threats facing our nation today, we must also ensure that AI and cloud related data is secure when it is held exclusively by the federal government. For these reasons, the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act is the next step forward Congress must take in the interest of US national security.”

    Representatives Sara Jacobs (CA-51) Chris Deluzio (PA-17) joined Rep. Fallon on the introduction of this bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V. Zelensky refused to participate in Russian-Ukrainian negotiations in Istanbul

    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

    ANKARA, May 15 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said at a press conference held at the Ukrainian Embassy in Turkey on Thursday that he will not personally participate in the talks with the Russian side in Istanbul, but the Ukrainian side will send a high-level delegation to them.

    V. Zelensky arrived in Ankara at midday on May 15, after which he held several hours of closed-door talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at his residence. He then made the above statement at a press conference at the Ukrainian embassy.

    He said that the Ukrainian delegation would be headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and would include representatives of military and intelligence agencies. It is not yet clear when the talks will take place – May 15 or 16.

    The head of the Russian delegation to the talks with Ukraine, Vladimir Medinsky, said on Thursday: “We view these talks as a continuation of the peace process in Istanbul, which, unfortunately, was interrupted by the Ukrainian side three years ago. Our official delegation has been approved by a presidential decree, and it has all the necessary competencies and powers to conduct negotiations.”

    “The delegation is set on a constructive mood, on finding possible solutions and points of contact. The goal of direct negotiations with the Ukrainian side is to sooner or later establish long-term peace by eliminating the basic root causes of the conflict,” the head of the Russian delegation emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi congratulates president of Togo on assuming office 2025-05-15 19:55:00 Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday extended congratulations to Jean-Lucien Savi de Tove on assuming the presidency of Togo.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday extended congratulations to Jean-Lucien Savi de Tove on assuming the presidency of Togo.

      Also on Wednesday, Xi sent a congratulatory message to Faure Gnassingbe on his assuming office as the president of Togo’s Council of Ministers.

      Xi said that friendly relations between China and Togo have been jointly established and carefully nurtured by the generations of leaders of both countries.

      Over half a century, the two sides have always adhered to sincerity, friendship, equality, mutual trust and win-win cooperation, he said.

      He also noted that the two countries have always firmly supported each other on matters of their core interests and major concerns, and have become a model of equality among nations, regardless of size, as well as unity and cooperation in the Global South.

      During the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing, China and Togo have elevated bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening a new chapter in bilateral ties, he said.

      Xi said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Togo relations and is willing to work with Togo’s leaders to take the implementation of the FOCAC Beijing Summit outcomes as an opportunity to carry forward the traditional friendship, expand cooperation in various fields, and continuously enrich the connotation of the comprehensive strategic partnership, so as to better benefit the people of both countries.

      Also on Wednesday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a congratulatory message to Faure Gnassingbe on his assuming office as the president of Togo’s Council of Ministers.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Philippines should stop risky infringements and provocations: Defense Spokesperson 2025-05-15 21:53:10 “We urge the Philippine side to stop any risky infringements and provocations, and refrain from challenging China’s firm resolve in safeguarding territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Otherwise, it will only taste the bitter fruit of its own doing,” said a Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, May 15 — “We urge the Philippine side to stop any risky infringements and provocations, and refrain from challenging China’s firm resolve in safeguarding territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Otherwise, it will only taste the bitter fruit of its own doing,” said a Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday.

      It is reported that recently the Philippines has frequently sent its frigates in an attempt to intrude into the territorial waters of China’s Huangyan Dao, and claimed that the Chinese military vessels took high-risk maneuvers.

      When being asked to share comment, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, stressed that Huangyan Dao is China’s inherent territory. 

      According to the spokesperson, in recent days, the Philippine military vessels attempted to intrude into the territorial waters of China’s Huangyan Dao. “The Chinese side took necessary measures to stop and dispel them, which was completely legitimate, legal, professional and restrained,” said the spokesperson, adding that the Philippine side’s actions were highly irresponsible and severely threatened China’s sovereignty and security by approaching Chinese vessels in a dangerous manner. 

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  • MIL-OSI China: China’s defense chief outlines six proposals to support UN peacekeeping reform 2025-05-16 01:05:21 Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Wednesday laid out six proposals to support the reform and transformation of United Nations peacekeeping operations, reaffirming China’s long-standing commitment to multilateral security cooperation.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      By Jiang Chenglong

      Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Wednesday laid out six proposals to support the reform and transformation of United Nations peacekeeping operations, reaffirming China’s long-standing commitment to multilateral security cooperation.

      Speaking at the 6th UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin, Dong said peacekeeping missions offer peace and hope to people suffering in conflict zones. His remarks were released Thursday by China’s Ministry of National Defense.

      China “steadfastly promotes the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” Dong said, adding that the country remains a firm supporter and constructive contributor to UN peacekeeping.

      Dong’s six-point proposal included advancing the Global Security Initiative through unity, cooperation and mutual benefit in addressing international security challenges. He also called for firm support for the UN’s central role in global peace and security.

      Additional proposals included enhancing training for peacekeeping professionals, organizing high-level strategic seminars, expanding training sessions, and improving the readiness and capabilities of China’s peacekeeping standby forces.

      On the sidelines of the conference, Dong met with senior UN officials as well as defense leaders from France, Germany, Italy and Nepal.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese defense minister holds talks with German counterpart 2025-05-15 23:02:51 The Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun, who is currently on a visit to Germany at invitation, held talks with his German counterpart, Boris Pistorius, on May 15.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, May 15 — The Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun, who is currently on a visit to Germany at invitation, held talks with his German counterpart, Boris Pistorius, on May 15.

      The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on the relations between the two countries and the two militaries, international and regional situations as well as issues of common concern, and reached a consensus on strengthening practical exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Judiciary Democrats Open Investigation into Trump’s Qatari Plane Deal, Seek Answers from Trump DOJ and White House Counsel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    Committee Democrats Request Trump Admin Provide Memos Defending Blatantly Unconstitutional Attempt to Accept Qatari “Flying Palace” Without Congressional Consent

    WASHINGTON — Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, and Rep. Pramila Jayapal, member of the House Judiciary Committee, led Committee Democrats in a letter demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) and White House Counsel’s Office provide legal memoranda that reportedly bless Donald Trump’s efforts to flout the clear text of the Constitution’s Foreign Emoluments Clause and accept a luxury private jet—described as a “flying palace”—from the State of Qatar without seeking the consent of Congress.

    “President Trump is reportedly relying on memos that you authored, at his request, to accept a $400 million airplane from the State of Qatar—described in media reports as a ‘flying palace’ and ‘the most luxurious private jet in the world’—without obtaining, or even seeking, Congress’s consent.  Any legal memo purporting to make such a claim would obviously fly in the face of the text of the Constitution’s Foreign Emoluments Clause, which explicitly prohibits the President from accepting any ‘present [or] Emolument . . . of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State’ unless he has ‘the Consent of Congress.’ Accordingly, we are writing to request that you provide the Committee on the Judiciary with these memos immediately as their analysis and conclusions are apparently the basis for the President’s decision to disregard the plain text of the Constitution,” wrote the Members.

    On May 11, an ABC News report revealed that President Trump plans to accept a $400 million private jet from the Qatari Royal Family to use as Air Force One—a lavish and unconstitutional gift which he intends to transfer to his personal presidential library foundation at the conclusion of his term.

    Reports indicate that the DOJ and White House Counsel’s Office are aiding Trump’s efforts to paper over this clear Constitutional violation and reportedly drafted an analysis for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth concluding that it is legal for the Department of Defense to accept the aircraft as a gift and later turn it over to Trump’s presidential library.

    The Constitution is clear that Congress—not the Attorney General or the White House Counsel—has the exclusive authority to approve or reject a gift “of any kind whatever” given to the President by a foreign government.

    Attorney General Pam Bondi’s involvement in this matter is particularly egregious since she should have recused herself given her conflict of interest. Bondi was previously a registered foreign agent of the Qatari government, earning $115,000 per month to lobby on its behalf prior to entering the Administration.

    Trump’s acceptance of this unprecedented and unconstitutional gift has sparked bipartisan criticism and outrage, with even Republican Members of Congress and conservative media raising concerns about national security risks and the appearance of corruption. Additionally, this supposedly “free plane” may cost the taxpayer billions of dollars to overhaul to meet “all the survivability, security and communications requirements of Air Force One.”

    Judiciary Democrats requested Attorney General Bondi and White House Counsel David Warrington provide all documents and communications related to or purporting to justify or provide legal analysis regarding the constitutionality of the President’s acceptance of the Qatari plane; all documents and communications related to an agreement between the State of Qatar and the United States regarding the transfer of the plane; and all documents related to whether Attorney General Bondi should recuse herself in matters related to emoluments from Qatar.

    The letter comes after Judiciary Democrats filed a Resolution demanding Trump comply with the Constitutional rules on foreign gifts by seeking the consent of Congress before accepting the Qatari plane.

    Click here to read the letter.

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security, Government Reform & Ethics

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Joins POLITICO’s Security Summit to Discuss Defense Budget, DOD Spectrum Airwaves, Golden Dome

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined POLITICO’s Security Summit to discuss defense spending, retaining the Department of Defense’s (DOD) access to wireless frequencies in the lower 3 gigahertz (GHz) and key portions of the 7/8 GHz spectrum bands, and how the Trump administration could not complete its Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield should the DOD be forced to vacate spectrum frequencies.

    Click here to watch the full conversation.

    Fischer on Supporting a Strong Defense Budget:

    “On the Senate Armed Services Committee, for the last 3 years of the previous administration, President Biden sent us a budget, and in a bipartisan way in the Senate we’ve, for the most part, a strong majority of the Committee agreed that it was not enough.” 

    “I am not happy with the way OMB is trying to turn this. President Trump has said he wants peace through strength. In order to have peace through strength, we have to continue to have a defense budget that meets the needs of our military, of our military members, and to meet those growing threats that we see in this world.”

    “There are a number of us that would like to see a much more robust budget.”

    Fischer on DOD Retaining Spectrum Access:

    “It’s extremely important for the Department of Defense to maintain their ownership and access of the lower 3 but also parts of 7 and 8 [GHz].”

    Fischer on House Spectrum Provisions in Reconciliation:

    “I think it needed to go much further, much further. I personally cannot accept it as it came out of the E&C Committee.”

    “I’m also on the Commerce Committee, and that Committee is looking at spectrum as well in having a pipeline established and also a spectrum auction.”

    “In the E&C bill, it put the pipeline in and somewhat defined it for the lower three. But there’s no definition for auction authority for the FCC, so they could go outside of that since they have the authority and be able to auction other bands, whether it’s the lower three or seven – eight [GHz].”

    “I believe in the Senate, we must be able to have complete definitions on what bands DOD needs. And this is again, for a number of radars, a number of sensors, and a number of assets I can’t tell you about, how important that is.”

    “When it comes to the idea that this is going to be the silver bullet for reconciliation, I disagree with that as well.”

    Fischer on Golden Dome Execution:

    “We’ve been working closely with the White House, and they have been very supportive working closely with the Department of Defense. And every time a military commander is asked about Golden Dome and spectrum, the need for spectrum, they will bluntly say …  it [Golden Dome] will not happen if the Department loses access to the spectrum they have.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sherrill Criticizes Lack of Urgency, Demands DOT & FAA Address Transportation Nightmare at Newark Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Representative Mikie Sherrill sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau demanding immediate federal action to resolve the air traffic control staffing and systems crisis affecting Newark Liberty International Airport. In the past two weeks alone, over 5,000 flights have been delayed and dozens of round-trip routes canceled, leaving thousands of New Jerseyans stranded or forced to miss critical life events like their child’s graduation.

    Rep. Sherrill cited repeated radar and communications outages at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility—responsible for managing Newark’s airspace—as well as severe staffing shortages, as unacceptable threats to public safety.

    “I have flown in heavily congested airspaces as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy, so I know how dangerous a 90 second radar and communications outage can be for passengers and crew in the air and on the ground,” wrote Rep. Sherrill. “While I welcomed the Administration and FAA’s comments about increasing air traffic controller staffing and technology upgrades, I am disappointed with the lack of urgency and action. Radar and communications blackouts and unprecedented staffing shortages have continued in the week since, prompting concerns about when federal assistance will actually be available for the Philadelphia TRACON and when my constituents can expect relief from this transportation disaster. On behalf of my New Jersey constituents, I demand answers and action as soon as possible in response to the following questions regarding DOT and FAA’s strategy to return the Philadelphia TRACON and Newark Airport airspace to full operations and safety.”

    Read the full letter here or below:

    Dear Secretary Duffy and Acting Administrator Rocheleau:

    Over the past two weeks, thousands of my constituents in New Jersey have faced a transportation nightmare – including more than 5,000 flight delays and the cancellation of dozens of round-trip routes – in the central hub for air transit in our region. Not only are families unable to reach loved ones in the hospital or attend their child’s graduation, but they are increasingly worried about whether it is safe to fly in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport at all.

    Since the public was made aware of the April 28th radar and communications blackout at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) – which manages Newark’s airspace – the situation at Newark Airport has only worsened. On May 9th, radar screens at the Philadelphia TRACON went dark again for another 90-second period. On May 11th, communications and radar displays went down for a third time in less than 14 days, causing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to order a 45-minute ground stop at Newark Airport. On May 12th, meanwhile, staffing shortages at the Philadelphia TRACON were so severe that several hours during the evening had only three air traffic controllers on duty, dramatically lower than the target of 14 controllers for managing the Newark airspace in evening hours.

    Needless to say, this situation is unacceptable. I have flown in heavily congested airspaces as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy, so I know how dangerous a 90 second radar and communications outage can be for passengers and crew in the air and on the ground. Last week, I called on the Department of Transportation and the FAA to boost staffing and resource capacity immediately for the Philadelphia TRACON that controls Newark’s airspace. Additional personnel are critically needed to make up for the air traffic controllers who were forced to take trauma leave after their experiences on April 28th, and more financial resources and equipment are required to deploy backup communications connections between the Philadelphia TRACON and the Long Island-based equipment still used for Newark air traffic control.

    While I welcomed the Administration and FAA’s comments about increasing air traffic controller staffing and technology upgrades, I am disappointed with the lack of urgency and action. Radar and communications blackouts and unprecedented staffing shortages have continued in the week since, prompting concerns about when federal assistance will actually be available for the Philadelphia TRACON and when my constituents can expect relief from this transportation disaster.

    On behalf of my New Jersey constituents, I demand answers and action as soon as possible in response to the following questions regarding DOT and FAA’s strategy to return the Philadelphia TRACON and Newark Airport airspace to full operations and safety:

    1. What are DOT and FAA’s immediate plans to increase the number of air traffic controllers at the Philadelphia TRACON, particularly given the current 20% reduction in staffing capacity as a result of controllers taking trauma leave based on the events of April 28th? What is your deadline for when additional controllers will be able to start work at the Philadelphia TRACON? Is the FAA planning to shift additional air traffic controllers to Philly, and if so, where will these air traffic controllers be moved from? What Newark airspace-specific training will these air traffic controllers need and what is your timeframe for providing it?
       
    2. What are DOT and FAA’s immediate plans to add three new, high-bandwidth telecommunications connections between Philadelphia TRACON and the Long Island TRACON, as well as to install a temporary backup STARS radar hub at Philadelphia TRACON? When will this new equipment be operational and ready to manage the Newark airspace?
       
    3. Regarding DOT and FAA’s longer-term strategy for Newark’s airspace, when will a permanent STARS hub be operational at Philadelphia TRACON so that it doesn’t need to rely on the Long Island radar feed? Have DOT and FAA evaluated moving Newark airspace control back to the Long Island TRACON?
       
    4. What are DOT and FAA’s long-term plans to expand the air traffic controller workforce, including increased funding for workforce development programs, an expansion of the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy, increased wages and benefits for controllers, and a streamlined hiring process for applicants?
       
    5. As DOT and FAA increase air traffic controller hiring and training, how will you ensure that new controllers are available to work at the Philadelphia TRACON and air traffic control for New Jersey’s airspace? New Jersey currently does not have any participating colleges or universities in the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, which could help develop a New Jersey air traffic controller workforce. Will DOT and FAA commit to expanding the Collegiate Training Initiative to New Jersey?
       
    6. Last year’s bipartisan FAA Reauthorization legislation provided $70 billion for FAA safety programs (including hiring additional air traffic controllers) and $20 billion for technology modernization. It also expanded the Aviation Workforce Development Grant Program to boost the number of training positions for air traffic controllers. How are DOT and FAA using these funds to boost the air traffic controller workforce?

    It is critical that DOT and FAA act urgently to address this unprecedented situation. Without an immediate boost in air traffic controller staffing levels at the Philadelphia TRACON that manages Newark’s airspace, and the creation of multiple redundancies in the Philadelphia TRACON’s radar and communications systems, equipment blackouts will undoubtedly continue – putting lives at risk and degrading trust in America’s air infrastructure. 

    Congress stands ready to act in whatever way is needed, along bipartisan lines. It’s time to put an end to this crisis.

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    MIL OSI USA News –