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Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Secretary highlights role of integrated financial advisors in driving transparency; Lauds Defence Accounts Department’s tech-driven reforms

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 8:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh lauded the role of Integrated Financial Advisors (IFA) as crucial enablers of transparency, accountability and responsiveness in defence financial system, while addressing a two day Integrated Financial Advisors Conference 2025, organised by Defence Accounts Department (DAD), Ministry of Defence (MoD), from April 03-04, 2025, in Hampi, Karnataka. He highlighted Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s directive for DAD to become a Centre of Excellence in Defence Finance & Economics, calling for research-based policy inputs, cost-benefit analysis in procurement, and AI-driven financial analytics.  

    The Defence Secretary emphasized strengthening outcome-oriented mechanisms, promoting emerging technologies, and foster collaboration across the departments to enhance operational efficiency. He noted that DAD achieved 100% capital budget utilization in 2024–25, which was a first in the last five years. He also highlighted the importance of Project SAMPURNA (System Automation for Procurement, Payment and Uniform Raksha Accounting), which integrates AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science into financial management ushering in a new era of automation and efficiency.

    The conference featured six focused business sessions under which the role of financial advisors was highlighted to enhance capital acquisition outcomes, multifaceted challenges confronting the recently implemented IFA system in Military Engineer Services and the prospective pathways for their resolution, complexities associated with the Army Commander Special Financial Powers & merits and potential challenges of outsourcing in the defence sector.

    Shri S.G. Dastidar, Financial Advisor (Defence Services), in his inaugural address highlighted the expansion of the IFA system amid growing defence capabilities and greater delegation of financial powers to Service Headquarters and lower levels. Emphasizing Aatmanirbharta, he called for standardized procedures, better data systems, and stronger coordination between IFAs and CDAs to enhance financial efficiency. Dr. Mayank Sharma, CGDA, talked about the changing role of financial advisors and highlighted Project SAMPURNA.

    Senior officials from the MoD and DAD, along with Principal Integrated Financial Advisors and Integrated Financial Advisors from across the country, participated in the conference.

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    VK/SR/SS

    (Release ID: 2120203) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh holds meeting with Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy PM & Defence Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh holds meeting with Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy PM & Defence Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in New Delhi

    Eager to work closely in areas such as defence cooperation, co-production & co-development projects, innovation & technology: Shri Rajnath Singh

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

                Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a meeting with the Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Defence of UAE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at South Block, New Delhi on April 08, 2025. The two leaders expressed happiness on the current defence cooperation through institutional mechanisms, military exercises, exchange of training programmes etc.

                Both the Ministers acknowledged that defence cooperation needs to be scaled up to match the progress made in other areas such as trade and business, in line with the vision and determination of the two leaders – Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President of UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. They identified training exchanges as one of the key areas of defence cooperation which would enable understanding of each other’s defence ecosystems and accelerate strengthening of bilateral defence ties.

                The two leaders expressed satisfaction on the active Coast Guard-to-Coast Guard cooperation and committed to further deepen it by formalising the same through an MoU. They were convinced that close collaboration between the defence industries should be an integral part of the bilateral cooperation. They emphasised on increasing defence industry collaboration and discussed opportunities for enhancing partnership in defence manufacturing.

                Both the Ministers acknowledged active participation from the two sides in each other’s exhibitions & defence expos, and welcomed India-UAE Defence Partnership Forum which has the potential to result in strategic Joint Ventures and co-production projects benefiting both countries. They also agreed to focus on complementarities for the two countries in the Make-in-India and Make-in-Emirates initiatives.

                Through a post on X after the meeting, Raksha Mantri stated that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UAE is of immense priority for India. “In the coming years, we are eager to work closely in areas such as defence cooperation, co-production and co-development projects, innovation and technology. Both India and the UAE are committed to work towards peace and prosperity in the region,” he added.

                The Defence Cooperation MoU with the UAE was signed in 2003, and an MoU on Defence Industry Cooperation was signed in 2017. India and the UAE have strong bonds of friendship based on centuries-old cultural and economic ties.

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    VK/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2120093) Visitor Counter : 177

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister receives the Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister receives the Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE

    PM recalls his visit to the UAE last year during which he participated in the World Government Summit in Dubai as Guest of Honour

    PM conveys his warm regards to the UAE Leadership

    PM remarks that his visit signifies generational continuity in the strong and historic ties between India and the UAE

    They discuss ways to further strengthen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, in trade, investments, defence, energy, technology, education, sports and people-to-people ties

    PM thanks the UAE Leadership for ensuring the welfare of 4.3 million Indians living in the UAE

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 4:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE today. 

    Recalling his visit to the UAE last year during which he participated in the World Government Summit in Dubai as Guest of Honour, Prime Minister conveyed his warm regards to His Highness Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE; and His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. 

    Prime Minister remarked that his visit signified generational continuity in the strong and historic ties between India and the UAE, emphasizing the enduring partnership built on mutual trust and a shared vision for the future.

    They discussed ways to further strengthen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, especially in the areas of trade, investments, defence, energy, technology, education, sports and people-to-people ties.  

    PM expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the UAE for ensuring the welfare of around 4.3 million Indians living in the UAE, acknowledging their vital role in the vibrant relations between the two nations.

     

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    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2120067) Visitor Counter : 170

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Leads Bipartisan Letter on Impact Aid and Education Department Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) sent a letter with 40 of her colleagues to the Department of Education expressing deep concern for the disbursement of Impact Aid. The letter addresses the impact on school districts and how the program fills funding gaps.

    “We demand the immediate reversal of any Executive Orders that would halt the disbursement of Impact Aid funds through the Department of Education,” said the lawmakers.

    In the letter, the lawmakers added, ” Students are our nation’s future leaders. It is the federal government’s job to ensure the needs of all students are met so that public education can remain a stable and accessible foundation for everyone to succeed, no matter their background or where they live.”

    House members who signed onto the bipartisan letter are: Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Rep. Julia Brownley (CA-26), Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Rep. Ed Case (HI-01), Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rep. Danny Davis (IL-07), Rep. Donald Davis (NC-01), Rep. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Rep. Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Rep. Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Rep. Dwight Evans (PA-03), Rep. John Garamendi (CA-08), Rep. Robert Garcia (CA-42), Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02), Rep. Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rep. Julie Johnson (TX-32), Rep. Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49), Rep. Sarah McBride (DE At-Large), Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-04), Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50), Rep. Emily Randall (WA-06), Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Rep. Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Rep. Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Rep. Kim Schrier (WA-08), Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09), Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52), and Rep. George Whitesides (CA-27).

    You can read the full letter here or below:

    The Honorable Linda McMahon
    Secretary
    United States Department of Education
    400 Maryland Avenue, SW
    Washington, DC 20202

    April 8, 2025

    Dear Secretary McMahon, 

    We write to you with deep concern about how the President’s recent Executive Order to dismantle the Department of Education will affect the disbursement of Impact Aid. As you know, public schools are funded through state and local property taxes. However, in school districts where there is a significant amount of federal land, schools lose funding because federal lands are exempt from paying state and local property taxes.

    Recognizing the importance of public education as the foundation of our society and to ensure that all students receive a fair education, the Impact Aid program was signed into law by President Harry Truman in 1950. It is the nation’s oldest K-12 federal education program.

    As established by law, funds are appropriated by Congress and administered by the Department of Education. Impact Aid is one of the only major federal education programs that is not forward funded, meaning that funds are used in real time to pay staff and keep schools operating.

    Impact Aid is disbursed to over 1,000 school districts across the country, and it reaches nearly 8 million students. School districts that have military installations, Indian Trust and Treaty lands, federal low-rent housing facilities, Veterans Affairs facilities, national parks, and other U.S. government-owned properties located within their bounds miss out on thousands of taxpayer revenue every year, and Impact Aid helps to fill these gaps. 

    We are seeking clarification on how this program will be affected by the recent mass Reduction in Force (RIF) at the U.S. Department of Education, signed by the President on March 20, 2025. The reality is that the President has no right to eliminate the Department of Education as he is attempting to do without Congressional approval. These major staffing changes and potential disruption in program funding will adversely impact the educational outcomes of all students.

    Impact Aid dollars are especially necessary for our nation’s military families. The U.S. maintains at least one military installation in all 50 states. While supplemental Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Impact Aid is distributed separately, DoDEA relies on data provided by the Federal Impact Aid Program at the Department of Education. For these military-connected school districts, class sizes will rapidly increase, and low-income students and students with disabilities will be stripped of the resources they need to learn if funding is no longer distributed in a timely manner. 

    As stated in the President’s Executive Order, the intention of dismantling the Department of Education is to “return education authority to the States.” Impact Aid is a prime example of a federal program that skips bureaucratic tape as money is sent directly to school districts for their discretion to target funds wherever needs are the greatest. Ending this program or preventing its implementation directly contradicts the President’s intentions to give local communities and states more flexibility and freedom. 

    We are also concerned that the Department’s recent RIF saw a near total elimination of staff at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), which the Impact Aid office relies upon to generate annual Local Contribution Rates (LCR). Without this data, recent progress in paying out final payments in a timely manner could be erased, with final payments possibly delayed by several fiscal years.  

    We demand the immediate reversal of any Executive Orders that would halt the disbursement of Impact Aid funds through the Department of Education. 

    Additionally, we request your answer to the following questions: 

    1. Have Impact Aid staff through the Department of Education been let go? If so, who plans to oversee the Impact Aid program in their absence? 
    2. Once the Department of Education is no longer operational, will Impact Aid be moved to the jurisdiction of another federal department? 
    3. School districts currently have to apply for Impact Aid through the Department of Education. If the Department is closed, where will districts send their applications? 
    4. Where will DoDEA get their data from for the Supplemental Impact Aid Program to eligible Local Education Agencies (LEAs) since they’ve previously relied on the Department of Education for this information? 
    5. When will FY 2025 funds be made available to the Impact Aid Program Office to disburse directly to eligible school districts?  
    6. FY 2026 grant applications were submitted with a deadline of January 31, 2025. How will the International Activities Program (IAP) receive the LCR data that NCES provides to determine how much funding school districts will receive?  

    Students are the future leaders of our nation. It is the federal government’s job to ensure the needs of all students are met so that public education can remain a stable and accessible foundation for everyone to succeed, no matter their background or where they live. We look forward to your prompt response and explanation of how Impact Aid will continue to serve its important mission for students across the country.

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. Navy Invites Former Sailors Who Voluntarily Left to Apply for Reentry under Executive Order 14184

    Source: United States Navy

    The United States Navy is inviting former Sailors who voluntarily left the service or allowed their service to lapse, rather than comply with the COVID-19 vaccination mandate, the opportunity to apply for reinstatement, in accordance with Executive Order 14184, “Reinstating Service Members Discharged Under the Military’s COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Comments on Colby Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today on the nomination of Elbridge Colby to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy:

    “Preparing to deter or defeat an historic alignment of adversaries must be the top priority for the United States and the West. But the more we indulge the fiction that these threats are not linked, and the longer we delay overdue investments in the national defense, the more difficult the task of restoring our credibility, our military capability, and our industrial capacity will become.

    “Elbridge Colby’s long public record suggests a willingness to discount the complexity of the challenges facing America, the critical value of our allies and partners, and the urgent need to invest in hard power to preserve American primacy. The prioritization that Mr. Colby argues is fresh, new, and urgently needed is, in fact, a return to an Obama-era conception of a la carte geostrategy. Abandoning Ukraine and Europe and downplaying the Middle East to prioritize the Indo-Pacific is not a clever geopolitical chess move. It is geostrategic self-harm that emboldens our adversaries and drives wedges between America and our allies for them to exploit.

    “Mr. Colby’s confirmation leaves open the door for the less-polished standard-bearers of restraint and retrenchment at the Pentagon to do irreparable damage to the system of alliances and partnerships which serve as force multipliers to U.S. leadership. It encourages isolationist perversions of peace through strength to continue apace at the highest levels of Administration policymaking.

    “As I have expressed repeatedly, I remain committed to supporting national security nominees whose records and views make them assets, not liabilities, in the restoration of U.S. hard power. As he gets to work, Mr. Colby will need to work swiftly to advance policy that conforms to the President’s recognition of U.S. interests from Europe to the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific. I hope he will come to appreciate the essential role our allies play in advancing our collective interests, the urgent need for enduring investments in our national defense, and the linked and simultaneous challenges we face.

    “Make no mistake: America will not be made great again by those who are content to manage our decline.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden Launch Investigation into Google, Microsoft Partnerships with AI Developers Anthropic, OpenAI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 08, 2025

    “We are concerned that corporate partnerships within the AI sector discourage competition, circumvent our antitrust laws, and result in fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools.” 

    Text of Letter to Google/Anthropic (PDF) | Text of Letter to Microsoft/OpenAI (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) 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. 

    The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned in a January 2025 report that these types of partnerships might pose “risks to competition and consumers, such as ‘. . . locking in the market dominance of large incumbent technology firms.” The FTC and the Department of Justice have also raised concerns about these partnerships, warning that they can act as de facto mergers and allow companies to consolidate talent, information, and resources, while bypassing the traditional scrutiny associated with mergers and acquisitions. 

    These partnerships can involve minority stakes and significant investment from cloud service providers (CSPs), like Google and Microsoft, giving them access to AI developers’ talent, computing capacity, intellectual property, or business information. 

    In some cases, CSPs hire the top AI talent away from the AI developer and obtain exclusive licensing of the developer’s technology, “effectively swallowing the start-up and its main assets — without becoming the owner of the firm.” An agreement may also give the CSP a high level of control over, and stake in, the AI developer’s business decisions. In the most egregious case, individuals have held concurrent board positions with both the CSP and the AI developer, in a blatant violation of U.S. antitrust law. Partnership agreements can also lock AI developers in with particular CSPs because of the high contractual and technical cost of starting an agreement with a new CSP, limiting innovation in cases where there are better partnerships available. 

    “Partnerships between CSPs and AI developers, if left unchecked, may accelerate consolidation of the AI sector, ultimately driving up prices and choking off innovation,” wrote the senators. 

    In order to better understand the potential anticompetitive risks of these agreements, the senators requested the companies provide more information about their partnerships, including on the consolidation of computing resources, talent, and intellectual property, by April 21, 2025.  

    Senator Warren has long fought to crack down on corporate consolidation that threatens consumers and raises prices, including in the technology sector: 

    • In February 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Omeed Assefi, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division, calling on the agency to closely scrutinize Disney’s proposed acquisition of FuboTV (Fubo).
    • In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD)’s procurement of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition. The bill offers meaningful regulation to limit Big Tech monopolies from elbowing out competitors in the AI and cloud computing markets.
    • In November 2024, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent two letters regarding the impact of private equity and large corporations in veterinary care, to JAB Holding Company (JAB) and to Mars Petcare (Mars), a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., respectively.
    • In October 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren led the reintroduction of the Stop Wall Street Looting Act, comprehensive legislation to fundamentally reform the private equity industry and level the playing field by forcing private investment firms to take responsibility for the outcomes of companies they take over, empowering workers and protecting investors. 
    • In August 2024, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), joined by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), wrote to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), calling on the agencies to closely scrutinize the proposed joint venture between FOX, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Disney subsidiary ESPN that would create a new streaming service named Venu Sports (Venu). 
    • In July 2024, Senators Warren, Klobuchar, Murphy, Sanders, Booker, and Blumenthal wrote a letter to the Department of Justice and Federal Communications Commission, urging them to scrutinize T-Mobile’s proposed acquisition of UScellular.
    • In July 2024, Senator Warren and Representatives Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) and John Garamendi (D-Calif.) urged the Department of Defense (DoD), FTC, and DOJ to review TransDigm Group Inc.’s acquisitions of two specialized aerospace contractors to prevent price gouging.
    • In June 2024, Senator Warren wrote to DOJ, FTC, and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), calling out high health care costs due to vertically integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation.
    • In June 2024, Senators Warren and Markey (D-Mass.) introduced the Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act of 2024 to root out corporate greed and private equity abuse in the health care system.
    • In May 2024, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the impact of concentration in the food industry and its impact on prices, product, and consumer choice.
    • In May 2024, Senator Warren and Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Airport Gate Competition Act, which would increase competition in the airline industry and lower prices for consumers by increasing the number of common-use gates in airports.
    • In March 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Penn.) led a group of 14 lawmakers in urging the FTC to revive enforcement of the Robinson Patman Act, a critical tool to promote fair competition in the food industry.
    • In March 2024, Senators Warren and Klobuchar led 26 lawmakers in urging the leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to strike parts of the Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS) appropriations bill that undercut DOJ’s ability to block anticompetitive mergers.
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren urged FTC to closely scrutinize Choice Hotels’ attempted hostile takeover of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which would further consolidate the hotel market and create the largest branded hotel chain in the United States.
    • 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 February 2024, Senator Warren and 12 other lawmakers called on regulators to block the Capital One-Discover Merger.
    • In December 2023, Senator Warren led 6 senators in a letter to Acting Comptroller of the Currency Michael Hsu, calling on OCC to allow states to move forward with their efforts to protect consumers from harmful bank practices. The senators criticized the OCC for overstepping its preemption authority under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which the agency is abusing to block tough, state-level consumer protections.
    • In November 2023, Senators Warren and Blumenthal called out U.S. Anesthesia Partners’ (USAP) monopolistic business model and use of restrictive non-compete agreements that have reduced patients’ quality of care, increased prices, and suppressed workers’ wages.
    • In October 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) urged DOJ and FTC to carefully scrutinize UnitedHealth Group’s pending acquisition of Amedisys; and urged the agencies to scrutinize similar deals, reject behavioral or structural remedies, and oppose any health care acquisition that would threaten competition, increase prices, and reduce quality of care.
    • In September 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Becca Balint (D-Vt.), along with a bicameral group of lawmakers, submitted a public comment to the FTC and DOJ in support of the agencies’ proposed merger guidelines, endorsing the agencies’ reading of antitrust law, praising the guidelines as necessary to prevent harm to workers, consumers, and small businesses.
    • In August 2023, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the need for regulators to implement the strongest version of bank merger review guidelines in order to ensure stability in the financial system. 
    • In July 2023, Senators Warren and Lindsey Graham unveiled comprehensive legislation that 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 overseeing and enforcing the new statutory provisions in the bill and implementing rules to promote competition, protect privacy, protect consumers, and strengthen our national security.
    • In June 2023, Senator Warren sent a letter to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter, Federal Deposit Investment Corporation (FDIC) Chairman Gruenberg, Acting Comptroller of the Currency Hsu, Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr, and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, urging regulators to promote greater competition in the banking sector by toughening their stances on bank mergers and strengthening bank merger review guidelines.
    • In May 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, Senator Warren questioned Acting Comptroller Hsu on his decision to approve JPMorgan Chase’s purchase of First Republic Bank after its collapse. This merger allowed a large, poorly supervised bank to be swallowed by America’s largest bank, making it $200 billion larger than it was before.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, King, Castor Introduce Bicameral Bill to Boost Investment in Grid-Enhancing Technologies, Increase U.S. Power Grid Capacity

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL-14) in introducing the Advancing Grid-Enhancing Technologies Act, bicameral legislation to boost investments in grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), a type of transmission technology that expands the capacity of existing transmission infrastructure. The lawmakers’ billwould increase U.S. grid capacity by requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to establish an incentive that splits savings generated by GETs implementation between the installer and ratepayers. 
    “We’re at a crucial turning point in our work to achieve a clean energy transition, and meeting this moment requires new investments in clean energy technologies that strengthen the capacity of our transmission system,” said Senator Welch. “The Advancing GETs Act will motivate grid operators and developers to bring new projects online that expand transmission capacity by guaranteeing returns for these targeted, cost-saving investments. Our legislation will be crucial to boosting transmission capacity and will help the United States cost-effectively achieve its clean energy goals while lowering electricity bills and for working families.” 
    “As technology improves and grows more efficient, we should incorporate this innovation into our energy grid to better serve American homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure,” said Senator King. “As we work to create a sustainable clean energy future, streamlined transmission is urgently needed. The Advancing GETs Act will create an incentives program to help spur new, smart solutions expanding existing transmission infrastructure. This bill is another step forward in meeting the need for reliable, affordable, and clean electricity.” 
    “Consumers deserve lower electric bills and a more reliable electric grid.  By optimizing the existing grid infrastructure and decreasing the need for costly upgrades, GETs can build a more stable power supply. These technologies pave the way for a more efficient, affordable, and sustainable energy future for everyone,” said Rep. Castor. “In order to quickly bring these projects online and meet growing electricity demand, we must upgrade our old, congested transmission infrastructure. The Advancing GETs Act will help us do that by supercharging the deployment of grid-enhancing technologies that enable transmission operators to maximize the capacity of existing power lines, increase reliability, and lower prices.” 
    The Advancing GETs Act is endorsed by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), Electricity Consumers Resource Council, Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club, Solar Energy Industries Association, and the WATT Coalition. 
    “At a moment where our country faces unprecedented growth in energy demand, expected to surge 35-50% by 2040, evolving the way we deliver power is as critical as ever. Grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) will be needed to quickly and affordably increase transmission capacity. ACP commends Sen. Welch and Rep. Castor for introducing the Advancing GETs Act which creates incentives for these technologies. We look forward to working with them as this bill moves through the legislative process,” said Jason Grumet, CEO of American Clean Power Association (ACP).  
    “Delivering the cheapest power is not part of the business model for utilities who own the grid. This regulatory problem means that grid constraints that could be addressed with low-cost technologies add $3-8 billion to electricity costs every year. The Advancing GETs Act aligns utility and consumer incentives for technologies that can save money and improve grid reliability and security. GETs can be deployed in less than a year to open up the grid for cheaper energy and new industries,” said Julia Selker, Executive Director of the WATT Coalition. 
    Grid-enhancing technologies provide crucial opportunities to upgrade America’s aging infrastructure by enabling grid operators to more dynamically manage the flow of electricity and increase cost-effective capacity of existing infrastructure. However, current financial incentives have proven inadequate in encouraging developers to implement GETs. Currently, utilities see guaranteed returns on investment for building larger, expensive infrastructure such as new transmission lines and power generation plants, but get little or no return for targeted, cost-saving investments like GETs.    
    The Advancing Grid-Enhancing Technologies Act would increase U.S. grid capacity by requiring FERC to establish an incentive that splits savings generated by GETs implementation between the installer and ratepayers. The legislation would motivate developers to invest in GETs by rewarding deployment of GETs projects that result in savings of at least four times their upfront cost and deliver a net benefit to ratepayers. Additionally, the Advancing GETs Act includes an annual reporting requirement that directs transmission owners to report costs associated with congestion to FERC and directs the Commission to analyze and make this data available to the public. The legislation also charges the Department of Energy with creating an application guide for implementing GETs projects, providing technical assistance to stakeholders interested in GETs, and managing a clearinghouse with examples of GETs projects. 
    Last year, Sens. Welch, King and Reps. Castor and Paul Tonko (D-NY-20) sent a letter to FERC leadership urging the Commission to implement shared savings incentive that promote the deployment of GETs to expand transmission capacity and meet rapid growth in electricity demand. 
    Learn more and read a section-by-section summary about the Advancing GETs Act. 
    Read and download the full bill text. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Headlines Fourth Annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit with All-Star Lineup, Trump Admin Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    The best-in-class summit crystalized modern conservative policy, national security, the economy, and energy dominance in the first three months of the Trump Administration
    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) last week headlined the star-studded fourth annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit, hosted by 21st Century Policy Institute. Hagerty gave opening remarks, and moderated numerous discussions with high-ranking Trump Administration officials, his U.S. Senate colleagues, and several special guests.
    Hagerty’s participation attracted the summit’s other experts to attend the marathon discussion, which served as the most relevant such gathering since November’s election.
    “I was deeply honored to headline the fourth annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit and to invite so many of my friends to join me,” said Senator Hagerty. “The discussions opened unparalleled opportunities to bring fruitful, productive, and insightful policy to light in an era that requires clear thought and communication to cut through media narratives. When 21st Century Policy Institute asked me who demonstrates the bold thinking and decisive action needed to implement President Trump’s new vision for liberty, innovation, and prosperity on the world stage, I turned to friends new and old—many now dutifully serving in the Trump Administration.”
    At the summit, Hagerty engaged with the following officials he invited to join him as special guests for the event:
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
    Energy Secretary Chris Wright
    HUD Secretary Scott Turner
    Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors Stephen Miran
    White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller
    Director of the Domestic Policy Council Vince Haley
    “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, this Administration is stocked with some of the brightest experts in our country,” Hagerty continued. “The months since President Trump took office have been nothing short of incredible. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with this Administration as a close ally in the United States Senate, and 21st Century Policy Institute has been a key partner of mine in advancing policies that support American economic and military strength. I was also pleased that so many of my illustrious Senate colleagues, and distinguished special guests outside government, responded to the invitation to contribute at this special event.”
    In addition to the many key Trump Administration speakers, Hagerty appeared alongside important Congressional colleagues, including:
    Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
    Senator Deb Fisher (R-NE)
    Senator Mike Lee (R-UT)
    Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA)
    Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH)
    Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK)
    Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX-11)
    Private sector guests featured at the summit alongside Hagerty included:
    Marc Andreessen
    Jason Cummins
    Kevin O’Leary
    Safra A. Catz
    Alex Karp
    Alex Epstein
    Scott Strazik
    Ruthless podcast hosts John Ashbrook, Michael Duncan, Josh Holmes, and Comfortably Smug
    Hagerty helped formulate and moderate these policy discussions at the summit:
    American Technological Dominance in the 21st Century
    An Outlook on the U.S. Economy and Fiscal Policy
    How to Strengthen the U.S. Economy for the Next Generation
    The Intersection of National Security and Technology
    An All of the Above Approach to U.S. Energy Dominance
    Promises Made, Promises Kept
    A Fresh Look at the Indo-Pacific Region

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd Kicks Off Third 100 County Tour with Visit to Western North Carolina

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) kicked off his 100 County Tour last week with visits to the following counties in Western North Carolina: Ashe, Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, Yancey, Madison, Buncombe, Henderson, Rutherford, and Polk. On the first leg of his statewide tour, Senator Budd surveyed the storm damage and heard from local officials, small business owners, and community members about their needs on the road to recovery.
    “It has been a long six months since Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, leaving a trail of devastation—leveling homes, flooding schools, destroying businesses, and crippling critical infrastructure. As I began planning my third 100 County Tour, I knew there was no question: I had to start out West.
    “Since the storm struck last September, I’ve returned to these communities time and time again to survey the damage and offer support to local officials in their recovery efforts. During my most recent visit to the region, I was deeply moved by the resilience and determination I witnessed from the victims of Helene. In the face of unimaginable hardship, families, small business owners, local officials, law enforcement, and neighbors are going out of their way to lift one another up and reach out a helping hand.
    “I am fully committed to doing everything in my power in the U.S. Senate to secure the resources and relief these communities desperately need. Together, we will rebuild and create a stronger and more prosperous Western North Carolina,” said Senator Budd.
    Follow Senator Budd on Flickr to see photos from the 100 County Tour HERE or click below to view individual albums.
    Background on Senator Budd’s Visits to WNC:
    Ashe County—Senator Budd made the first stop on his third 100 County Tour in the Town of Lansing, where he met with Mayor Mack Powers to survey damage caused by Hurricane Helene and speak with impacted members of the community. 
    Watauga County—Senator Budd toured the flooded Valle Crucis Elementary School to assess the damage caused after the building was submerged in four feet of water during the storm, displacing hundreds of students. Additionally, Senator Budd viewed the wreckage at the Valle Crucis United Methodist Church, which also withstood severe flooding. 
    Avery County—Senator Budd met with local officials at the county’s debris processing site to gain an understanding of the obstacles facing local contractors removing debris caused by the hurricane to expedite the rebuilding process. 
    Mitchell County—Senator Budd visited the Deyton School, where he met with county officials and received a briefing from the Baptists On Mission on operations to rebuild damaged homes for families who suffered property loss.
    Yancey County—Senator Budd spent time with the West Yancey Volunteer Fire Department, personally thanking emergency personnel for their critical role in providing aid during and after the storm to local residents. He also spoke with individuals spearheading Operation Helo, a volunteer organization supporting victims of Helene, and met with displaced North Carolinians who are continuing to work through the FEMA approval process. 
    Madison County—Senator Budd discussed rebuilding assistance with the leadership of the Rebuild Hot Springs Area, including small business owners, local officials, and residents, to reaffirm his commitment to securing disaster relief aid to repair damage to the downtown commercial district, key tourist areas, and surrounding neighborhoods.
    Buncombe County—Senator Budd spoke with the students and faculty of Excel College on the progress of their non-profit—a homebuilding operation to rebuild over three hundred homes in the next two-and-a-half years.
    Henderson County—Senator Budd recognized the efforts of first responders who relocated to the Gerton Volunteer Fire Department to support recovery operations following Helene. Alongside local officials, Senator Budd also surveyed the damage at the community’s Post Office and the road repairs between Bat Cave and Slick Rock along the Rocky Broad River. 
    Rutherford County—Senator Budd met with local officials from Lake Lure and Chimney Rock to discuss the community’s rebuilding process and debris removal status with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
    Polk County—Senator Budd visited with small business owners and vendors from Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, Hendersonville, and Asheville, currently using the Tryon Equestrian Center as their base of operations following the aftermath of the hurricane. The partnership, otherwise known as the “WNC Main Street” program, has been successful in attracting economic support for local businesses from tourism.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: LIVE: SecDef Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani Brief the Media in Tokyo

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani brief the media at the Ministry of Defense building in Tokyo, March 29, 2025.
    —————
    Your military is an all-volunteer force that serves to protect our security and way of life, but Service members are more than a fighting force. They are leaders, humanitarians and your fellow Americans. Get to know more about the men and women who serve, who they are, what they do, and why they do it.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NIZJkL_zDw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas Doctor Admits Accepting Kickbacks to Commit Health Care Fraud

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    ST. LOUIS – A medical doctor from the Kansas City, Kansas area on Friday admitted accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks to order medically unnecessary health care for thousands of patients.

    Dr. Scott Taggart Roethle, 47, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of health care fraud. He admitted that from 2017 until 2020, he conspired with health care companies and others to order medically unnecessary durable medical equipment, pain creams and genetic tests for thousands of patients in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks.

    Dr. Roethle contracted with multiple health care companies as a telemedicine doctor. Using electronic portals to review patient information and documents, Dr. Roethle ordered health care services for patients without evaluating them or their actual medical needs. He did not have a prior doctor-patient relationship with the telemedicine patients and admitted providing no follow-up care after ordering the health care services.

    Dr. Roethle was typically paid about $30 for each of his fraudulent orders. He admitted receiving payments of $674,000 from five companies. He also admitted that Medicare paid out at least $1.5 million while relying on his fraudulent orders. At the time of Dr. Roethle’s sentencing, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will argue that the total loss due to the health care fraud is between $7 million and $9.5 million.

    Dr. Roethle was licensed to practice in 22 states during the time of his crime and worked primarily as an anesthesiologist.

    The trial of Dr. Roethle, of Leawood, was scheduled to begin Monday. His sentencing is set for July 17.

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman and Justin Ladendorf are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. Navy Invites Former Sailors to Apply for Reentry under Executive Order 14184

    Source: United States Navy

    The United States Navy is inviting former Sailors who voluntarily left the service or allowed their service to lapse, rather than comply with the COVID-19 vaccination mandate, the opportunity to apply for reinstatement, in accordance with Executive Order 14184, “Reinstating Service Members Discharged Under the Military’s COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik, Mace Lead Bill to Support Maternal Healthcare Access for Military Moms and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

    Stefanik, Mace Lead Bill to Support Maternal Healthcare Access for Military Moms and Families | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Announces 2025 Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Explosives Exercises

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) National Center for Explosives Training and Research (NCETR) in partnership with the U.S. Army, announce the locations for the 2025 Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Exercises.

    The event trains explosives-expert participants on preparing for and countering the threat of improvised explosive devices. The training occurs at multiple locations throughout the U.S.

    • April 13 – 18, Volunteer Training Site, Tunnel Hill, Georgia
    • May 18 – 23, Camp Gruber, Braggs, Oklahoma
    • June 8 – 13, Fort Carson, Colorado Springs, Colorado
    • July 13 – 18, Camp Dawson, Kingswood, West Virginia

    Raven’s Challenge started in 2004 as an ATF-led training exercise for military explosives ordinance disposal teams and civilian public safety bomb squads in the Pacific Northwest. The exercise grew into the largest explosives disposal public safety training exercise in the world. Last year’s challenge had more than 900 participants and included training staff from the U.S. and 18 countries.

    “This training is vital in strengthening partnerships between multiple organizations allowing us to protect the public from these evolving threats,” said Greg Smith, Law Enforcement Training Specialist and ATF Raven’s Challenge Program Manager. “Our training team continues to lean forward and remains focused on providing realistic scenarios in operational environments.”

    Raven’s Challenge includes participants from all U.S. military branches, local and state bomb squads, and teams from the Department of Justice. International participation has increased to include countries from Europe and north Africa.

    The training emphasizes the U.S. military’s explosives ordnance disposal role in Defense Support of Civil Authorities and their interoperability with public safety bomb squads in support of homeland defense.

    Raven’s Challenge is funded by the U.S. Army and executed by ATF and partner agencies including the U.S. Army, the FBI, and local and state law enforcement agencies throughout the country.

    ATF provides training facilities and the expertise of its training staff in delivering life-saving advanced explosives and arson training for our nation’s explosives handlers, bomb technicians and certified fire investigators.

    NCETR manages ATF’s key explosives, fire, and response operations at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. NCETR consists of the Explosives Enforcement and Training Division, Explosives Research and Development Division, and the Fire Investigation and Arson Enforcement Division. Other components include the National Canine Division located in Front Royal, Virginia. The main NCETR facility and explosives ranges in Huntsville make this center a unique resource in the fight against violent crime.

    For more information and videos, visit Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Exercise.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ministry of Defence highlights impact of management programme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Ministry of Defence highlights impact of management programme

    More than eight out of ten of Ministry of Defence line managers say they apply learning from the cross-Civil Service programme to their work

    Danielle Skeete, Assistant head of learning and development, Ministry of Defence

    More than eight of ten civil servants from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) who completed Government Skills’ Management: Foundation Programme say they apply their new learning in their current jobs.

    The same proportion of participants also said the cross-Civil Service programme was ‘perfectly pitched’ to meet their needs as line managers.

    Best practice 

    The department was an early adopter of the programme and it has helped it deliver on its strategic goal of creating a great culture for staff.

    Head of capability, apprenticeships and learning Dan Okin said: “The programme is about teaching the fundamentals of line management capability.

    “We want to introduce (our line managers)  to management tools and best practice techniques and, most importantly, to make sure they’re confident in using them at the appropriate time.”

    Creating an ideal culture 

    He added: “All this is going to help us create the ideal employee culture within the department.”

    Prior to adopting the Management: Foundation programme, the MoD ran its own 12-week blended Line Managers in Defence programme.

    But Dan added: “Line management is line management, whether you’re at the MoD, the Home Office, Tesco or Google. Therefore, establishing how much organisational specificity you want or need can be a tricky balancing act.” 

    The newly refreshed Management: Foundation programme has now been adopted by multiple departments and government bodies.

    High performance

    MOD’s assistant head of learning and development Danielle Skeete said switching to the Management: Foundation programme was a straightforward process, with the programme’s themes and content representing a good match for the department’s ambitions. 

    “It resonated with how we believe line management capability to be the basis of any high performing employee environment,” she said.

    In Danielle’s view, the peer learning group discussions that follow each of Foundation’s four modules provide the more specific MoD context that some learners want.

    Supportive line managers

    So her goal is to encourage more learners to attend those discussion groups and to stay in touch after formal learning ends.

    “Overall, all our other metrics are really pleasing though.” she said.

    “For example, 84% of participants said how supportive their own line managers had been while they were on the programme, protecting their study time and having one-to-one discussions about how they were getting on.

    Confident in their skills

     “But it’s the fact that 81% have been able to apply what they’ve learned that I find most encouraging. That means that participants feel sufficiently confident in the skills they’ve developed to have a difficult conversation around performance or attendance, for example. 

    “The Foundation programme represents a significant commitment but knowing that people are bringing what they’ve learned back to the department makes it all worthwhile.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wales well-placed to benefit from increased spending on defence

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Wales well-placed to benefit from increased spending on defence

    Latest figures show the Ministry of Defence spends £290 for every person in Wales.

    Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith at Teledyne Qioptiq.

    • Wales a key player in the defence industry providing critical technology and innovation
    • Latest figures show the Ministry of Defence spends £290 for every person in Wales and directly supports over 7,000 jobs
    • Increased spending on defence recently announced by the Prime Minister boosts national security and drives economic growth

    The cutting-edge work being carried out by defence sector firms in Wales has been highlighted on a visit by a UK Government Minister to North Wales.

    Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith visited Teledyne Qioptiq Ltd in St Asaph today (Thursday 3rd April).

    The firm specialises in advanced electro-optic technology which is integral to a wide range of defence programmes including the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft and Challenger 2 tanks. The firm also plays a key supporting role for the infantry through the STAS contract.

     Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith said:

    The defence industry is a cornerstone of our national security and economic prosperity.

    All of the Ministry of Defence’s top five suppliers have a footprint in Wales and so we are well placed to benefit from an increase in defence spending.  

     > “Companies like Qioptic are not only driving innovation but also providing high-quality jobs and contributing significantly to our local and national economy.

    The UK Government’s number one mission is kickstarting economic growth. By investing in the defence sector we safeguard our national security, create new jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.

    Peter White, Managing Director of Qioptiq said:

    It is a privilege to continue to play our part in keeping our troops and society safe.

    Wales plays a key role in the UK’s defence industry with over 160 companies employing more than 20,000 people and is well placed to benefit from increased defence spending.

    Last month, the Prime Minister made a commitment to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027.  

    According to the most recent figures the UK Government’s Ministry of Defence spent £914m in 2023-24 with industry and commerce in Wales, an increase from 2022-23 of £86m and directly supported 7,700 jobs in the country.

    In the Autumn Budget, the Chancellor committed £975 million over the next five years to the aerospace sector, with £49 million already confirmed for projects in Wales.    

    While in North Wales, Dame Nia also visited Wagtail UK in Mostyn.

    Wagtail is an award-winning company which provides detection dogs and dog trainer handling and supplies bodies including UK Border Force, HM Revenue & Customs, Police, Trading Standards and Armed Forces.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Announces Victory Parade and Rally Honoring UConn Women’s Basketball Scheduled for This Saturday in Hartford

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the State of Connecticut, the City of Hartford, and the Hartford Business Improvement District will host a victory parade and rally in downtown Hartford on Saturday, April 12, 2025, to congratulate the UConn women’s basketball team for winning the 2025 NCAA National Championship.

    The team won its twelfth national title after an 82-59 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. UConn women’s basketball has now won the NCAA championship in 1995, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2025.

    The parade will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will step off at the State Capitol building at the intersection of Trinity Street and Elm Street. From there, it will proceed north on Trinity Street, go through the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, turn right (east) onto Jewell Street, turn left (north) onto Trumbull Street, and end at the intersection of Asylum Street and Trumbull Street.

    The rally will begin at approximately 11:30 a.m. and will be held outside of the main entrance of the XL Center on Trumbull Street, where the players, coaches, and other guests will be invited to give speeches.

    “The UConn women’s basketball team has proven that they are the best in the nation, and now it’s time for Connecticut to give them the victory celebration they have earned,” Governor Lamont said. “The student athletes on this team have worked very hard and they deserve to know how much we appreciate everything they’ve accomplished. I urge basketball fans from all over Connecticut to come to Hartford on Saturday morning and let them know just how proud we are of our hometown team.”

    As with other victory celebrations that have been held in previous years, this parade and rally are being funded by private donations through sponsorship opportunities. No state or city funding is being used for this event.

    To sponsor this event, businesses may choose from several sponsorship levels up to $10,000. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Chip McCabe at the Hartford Business Improvement District as soon as possible at 860-770-0788 or cmccabe@hartfordbid.com.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: US, Australian Naval Leaders Ride Submarine, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

    Source: United States Navy

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (Apr. 3, 2025) – Director of the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program Adm. Bill Houston, who completed his Submarine Command Course training on Collins-class submarine HMAS Rankin in 2007, and Chief of the Royal Australian Navy Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, a 2003 graduate of the U.S. Navy Submarine Command Course, embarked USS Montana (SSN 794) for a combined operational familiarization opportunity at sea, April 3, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence medical waiting times cut as new appointments system launches

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Defence medical waiting times cut as new appointments system launches

    New Defence appointment management approach results in a 26% reduction in waiting times for patients accessing doctor appointments in primary healthcare.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    Total Triage, introduced by Strategic Command’s Defence Medical Services, has been adopted by Defence medical centres and is designed to reduce unnecessary face-to-face appointments and enable greater and quicker access to medical care for those in need. One of the first centres to use it has seen a 90% reduction in such doctor appointments, with 70% of all enquiries handled at first point of contact and leading to greater patient and staff satisfaction.

    The new system completed its national rollout at 105 Defence Primary Healthcare medical centres across the UK earlier this year. In addition, Total Triage hubs have now been established at 35 Defence medical centres with a further 13 neighbouring centres permanently using the hubs by local agreement.

    Under the new arrangements patients submit a request through the online form, or phone the medical centre where the request is triaged and allocated to a suitable qualified clinician within the multi-disciplinary team. The patient should receive a call back within 24 working hours by a medical professional to be given medical advice or alternatively referred to either a face-to-face appointment or remote consultation with a specialist. This ensures the patient gets to see the right healthcare worker at the right time.

    Flight Sergeant Chris Workman MBE, Project Lead for Total Triage, said:

    The health and welfare of our patients is our top priority, and the introduction of Total Triage is already seeing positive results in healthcare outcomes. Patients have reported positive feedback regarding the ease of submitting their request alongside the speedy delivery of their clinical outcome with some 4 week waiting lists being reduced to zero days.

    Equally, staff are experiencing a boost as the Total Triage team have enjoyed a wider range of patient consultations, developed a distinct sense of camaraderie and a renewed pride in the delivery of joint healthcare for our patients.

    This is based the innovative system used by NHS GP practices during the COVID19 pandemic, to ensure people could still receive medical advice when in person appointments were not possible. The concept was then adapted by the Defence Medical Services for use at medical centres, reducing unnecessary travel by patients as well as improving resilience across the regions as medical centres work collaboratively to improve patient outcomes. This has resulted in a reduced amount of appointment booking calls in the morning which lowers the pressure on reception staff and enables quicker patient treatment.

    Director Defence Healthcare, Air Vice Marshal Dave McLoughlin, said:

    The implementation of Total Triage has been a game changer for Defence Primary Healthcare. It has resulted in an overall reduction in waiting times for doctor and nurse appointments by nearly a third. This ensures that the right patient sees the right healthcare worker at the right time.

    Providing safe and effective healthcare to the Armed Forces population is a priority for Defence. Witnessing the dedication of the teams delivering this initiative at scale and at pace, alongside the reports of high levels of patient and staff satisfaction is remarkable and inspiring. My sincere thanks to everyone who has worked hard to implement Total Triage.

    This is part of wider programme of primary healthcare improvements set up by the Defence Medical Services to identify and deliver better healthcare to Armed Forces personnel, including the introduction of SMS appointment reminders and combining practices to increase access to medical services and resources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Champions Service Dogs for Veterans, Expanding On Prior Legislative Efforts 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata, who serves as Vice Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee (HVAC), is delighted to be part of the introduction of the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act in the U.S. House of Representatives by a bipartisan group of 24 Members of Congress.

    “I’ve gladly cosponsored other bills in previous Congresses, such as the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, to encourage this wonderful work for our Veterans, in providing trained Service Dogs that are a blessing to many Veterans’ lives, but now this bill expands on these efforts in important new ways to reach many more needs,” said Vice Chairman Amata. 

    Under this legislation, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs would award grants to nonprofit organizations to assist with programs to provide service dogs to eligible veterans, including training for the service dogs, and extending the availability of this program to veteran disabilities, such as blind, deaf, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), military sexual trauma, paralysis, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

    The PAWS for Veterans Act, signed into law in 2021 after four years of congressional efforts, put a focus on Veterans learning to train their own or others’ dogs, and included a successful pilot program. 

    The new Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act is led by sponsor Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) with Morgan McGarvey (D-KY) co-leading the legislation. Original cosponsors are Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (American Samoa), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Eleanor Norton Holmes (D-DC), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Don Davis (D-NC), David Valadao (R-CA), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Wesley Hunt (R-TX), John Rutherford (R-NE), Jason Crow (D-CO), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Michael Rulli (R-OH), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Craig Goldman (R-TX), August Pfluger (R-TX), Nick LaLota (R-NY).

    Upwards of 20 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, and more than 450,000 service members have been diagnosed with at least one traumatic brain injury over the past two decades. As a result, these veterans suffer from high rates of depression, anxiety, joblessness, homelessness, and substance use disorders, and tragically, on average nearly 17 veterans die by suicide each day. 

    Tens of thousands of service dogs help veterans with disabilities across the United States. Service dogs assist with conditions like blindness, mobility impairments, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury. This bipartisan bill establishes a VA grant program to fund nonprofit organizations providing trained service dogs to eligible veterans at no cost. The nonprofits must meet requirements, including training standards and aftercare services, and be accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or a similar organization. The program aims to support veterans with disabilities like PTSD, TBI, military sexual trauma, and more.

    Numerous veterans organizations have endorsed this legislation: American Veterans (AMVETS), Americas Warrior Partnership (AWP), American Kennel Club (AKC), American Humane, Americas VetDogs, Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Chief Warrant Officers Association (CWOA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Dog Tag Buddies, Elizabeth Dole Foundation (EDF), Guardian Angels, HunterSeven Foundation, Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of America (JWV), K9s For Warriors, Lions Club International, National Military Families Association (NMFA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Pet Advocacy Network, Retrieving Freedom, Semper K9 Assistance Dogs, The American Legion (TAL), The Independence Fund (TIF), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), TREA: The Enlisted Association (TREA), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Warrior Canine Connection, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

    “This is about giving our heroes the tools they need to thrive — not just survive —when they come home,” said Congressman Luttrell.

    “As a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and proud grandson of veterans, I know we need to do more to help our veterans address both the visible and invisible wounds of war. These brave men and women put on the uniform to defend our freedom and we have a moral obligation to support them,” said Congressman McGarvey.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Royal Navy aircraft carrier in final preparation to lead multinational deployment to Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Royal Navy aircraft carrier in final preparation to lead multinational deployment to Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific

    Nearly 4,000 British personnel will support the deployment, which will deliver trade events in Singapore, Japan, and India, promoting Britain’s world-leading industry

    HMS Prince of Wales

    Final preparations are underway for a multinational deployment, led by the Royal Navy flagship HMS Prince of Wales, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to the security of the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific, while providing an opportunity to promote British trade and industry.

    Aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales is scheduled to sail from Portsmouth on 22 April, where it will proceed to join a formation of warships, supply ships, and aircraft off the coast of Cornwall, before departing for the Mediterranean where it will conduct exercises to reinforce European security.

    Around 2,500 personnel from the Royal Navy and 592 from the Royal Air Force will be involved in the eight-month deployment, which will see the group sail through the Indian Ocean to conduct exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore, and Malaysia. They will be joined by around 900 personnel from the British Army for exercises during the deployment.

    The deployment, named Operation Highmast, provides an opportunity for the UK’s Armed Forces to conduct a major global deployment and a chance to exercise complex operations alongside partners and allies in the region, with 12 other nations supporting the deployment with ships or personnel.

    The Indo-Pacific is a critical region for UK trade, with imports and exports in the region worth billions of pounds for the UK economy, and the deployment will provide a chance for UK companies to take part in trade events during port visits.

    Trade between the UK and Indo-Pacific accounted for 17% of total trade between the UK and all trading partners in the 12 months to September 2024, with the total amount traded in goods and services between the UK and Indo-Pacific standing at £286 billion in the same period.

    As the biggest class of ship in the Royal Navy, the flight decks of HMS Prince of Wales and her sister ship are roughly the size of three football pitches and defended by advanced weapons. A maritime strike force of this size is composed of multiple types of ship, frigates, destroyers, submarines, and supply ships to support logistics.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:

    I want to thank the thousands of our Armed Forces personnel involved in the delivery of this immensely complex operation, demonstrating the UK’s world-leading capability to deploy a major military force around the world.

    This is a unique opportunity for the UK to operate in close coordination with our partners and allies in a deployment that not only shows our commitment to security and stability, but also provides an opportunity to bolster our own economy and boost British trade and exports.

    As one of only a handful of countries in the world able to lead a deployment of this scale, the Royal Navy is once again demonstrating its formidable capability while protecting British values and sending a powerful message of deterrence to any adversary.

    Of the 12 other nations supporting the deployment, Norway will provide a warship to support the carrier strike group for the entire duration of the deployment. Canada and Spain are among the other nations providing support to the deployment.

    After its compliment of up to 24 Royal Air Force F-35B Lighting fighter jets is embarked on board HMS Prince of Wales, and the departure for the Mediterranean, the group will initially be placed under NATO command as it joins Exercise Neptune Strike – testing the Alliance’s ability to use high-end maritime strike capabilities, including multiple aircraft carrier and amphibious strike groups.

    The group will transit though the Indian Ocean, conducting exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore and Malaysia, before joining 19 partner nations for Exercise Talisman Sabre near Australia, and then training alongside the Japanese Self Defence Forces and conducting a port visit to India.

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, said:

    Through this deployment of our Carrier Strike Group and 4,000 Service Personnel, we will stand firm with our allies against those who challenge the international order. Reminding the world that the security of the Euro Atlantic and Indo-Pacific are fundamentally indivisible.

    This isn’t just about hard power; it’s about building influence and opening new trade opportunities both for defence and other sectors of our economy which will deliver British jobs and growth.

    This deployment follows the Prime Minister’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, demonstrating this Government’s commitment to keep the UK secure at home and strong abroad.

    Following the inaugural deployment in 2021, the Carrier Strike Group 2025 highlights the strength of the UK’s leadership in seeking to uphold stability in the Indo-Pacific. This has been bolstered by the Royal Navy’s persistent presence in the region through HMS Spey and HMS Tamar, as well as the landmark Global Combat Air Programme collaboration. 

    Keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority and is the foundation of its Plan for Change. The strength, capability and global reach of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, demonstrated through Operation Highmast, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, supporting the delivery of the Government’s five missions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: LightSolver Appoints Former HSBC CEO Colin Bell to Advisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LightSolver, inventor of a new laser-based computing paradigm, today announced the appointment of financial and banking expert Colin Bell to its Advisory Board. Bell will assist LightSolver with its go-to-market strategy for the financial industry and global enterprise market.

    Colin Bell is a Non-Executive Director of Serendipity Capital. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bank plc and HSBC Europe and as Executive Director of HSBC Bank plc. Bell has deep experience in the banking and financial industry, having also served as the Group Chief Compliance Officer and Group Head of Financial Crime Risk at HSBC Group and Head of Compliance and Operational Risk Control at UBS. Additionally, Bell has held appointments with the UK Ministry of Defence and NATO.

    LightSolver has developed an all-optical Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) that leverages laser interactions to compute large and complex problems faster and more efficiently than the most advanced classical HPC systems. The LPU processes at the speed of light and is ideally suited for computations that require massive numbers of iterations, such as combinatorial optimization problems encountered in transport scheduling, production and supply chain optimization, or trading and portfolio optimization, as well as physical simulations for computer-aided engineering (CAE) and scientific computations.

    “The potential of LightSolver’s all-optical technology to solve complex, compute-intensive challenges is remarkable and can open up new opportunities in the financial sector,” said Bell. “The outcomes of many challenges across risk management, investment and trading could be enhanced by this advanced computing method. I look forward to working with LightSolver to shape its offering and provide impactful solutions for financial institutes and beyond.”

    LightSolver recently announced a partnership with engineering software simulation provider Ansys focused on accelerating simulations for automotive, aerospace, and other industries. It also received a €12.5M grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer.

    “Colin Bell brings invaluable business insight and a deep network across the financial and enterprise sectors,” said LightSolver CEO and co-founder Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D. “His experience leading major institutions will be a key asset as we scale LightSolver’s commercial efforts and position our laser-based computing platform for real-world adoption. We’re excited to work with him to accelerate our growth and bring transformative computing power to the industries that need it most.”

    About LightSolver
    LightSolver is developing an all-optical supercomputer capable of solving complex and large computational problems at the speed of light. Utilizing the interference patterns of lasers, the Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) can tackle challenges that were previously constrained by the limits of electronics, while fitting into a rack unit and operating at room temperature. Dr. Ruti Ben-Shlomi and Dr. Chene Tradonsky, physicists from the world-renowned Weizmann Institute, founded the company in 2020. More than 2/3 of the team are physics, math and computer science PhDs. LightSolver has secured investment from TAL Ventures, Entree Capital, IBI Tech Fund, Angular Ventures, Maverick, and Artofin. The company has also received a €12.5M grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer. Connect with LightSolver @LightSolverCo on X and on LinkedIn. For more information, visit lightsolver.com or email info@lightsolver.com.

    Media Contact:
    Seth Menacker
    Fusion PR
    lightsolver@fusionpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Putting the smackdown at Fort Huachuca!

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo2Wiu2aNQs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Tariffs Set to Drive Up Electronics Prices—New Survey Shows 53% of Shoppers Are Holding Out for Sales

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As new U.S. tariffs take effect, the cost of laptops, smartphones, and other electronics could increase by up to 11%, according to a Joint Economic Committee analysis. With prices climbing, consumers are adapting—seeking deeper discounts, comparing prices across multiple retailers, and timing purchases around major sales events.

    A new Ecommerce Pulse Report from Salsify and the Digital Shelf Institute (DSI), based on a survey of over 1,000 shoppers in the U.S. and U.K., highlights how economic pressures are reshaping purchasing habits. Fifty-three percent of shoppers plan to buy electronics during major sales events like Amazon Prime Day, Target Circle Week, and Walmart Deals, reinforcing that promotional pricing will be a critical driver of sales​. Meanwhile, 44% of shoppers compare prices across at least three retailers before purchasing, making price competitiveness essential for brands looking to retain sales​.

    Shoppers Are More Strategic—And Brands Must Adapt

    Electronics remain a top purchase category for consumers, but the way shoppers research and buy is evolving faster than ever. According to the Ecommerce Pulse Report:

    • Mobile Shopping is the Default – 59% of consumers shop via smartphone, making seamless mobile-first experiences critical for brands looking to capture digital sales​.
    • Shoppers Are Expanding Beyond Amazon – 54% of consumers regularly shop across multiple marketplaces, emphasizing the need for pricing consistency, optimized content, and a presence beyond a single retailer​.
    • Price Drives Buying Decisions More Than Brand Loyalty – 70% of shoppers say discounts lead to unplanned purchases, highlighting how price sensitivity is becoming a stronger motivator than brand preference.
    • Shoppers Rely on Reviews More Than Price When Deciding What to Buy – 25% of shoppers say customer reviews influence their buying decisions more than price (19%) or product images (22%), reinforcing the importance of trust through high-quality content and social proof​.

    “Tariffs and economic uncertainty are making consumers more price-conscious than ever, influencing shopping behavior across every category,” said Dom Scarlett, Research Director at Salsify. “To stay competitive, brands must optimize their digital presence across all major retailers, refine their pricing strategies, and deliver compelling product content that builds trust and drives conversions—no matter what they’re selling.”

    Tariffs Are Disrupting Ecommerce—Here’s How Brands Can Stay Competitive

    With consumer goods prices expected to rise in 2025, brands must refine their ecommerce strategies to stay competitive. The Ecommerce Pulse Report highlights key areas where brands need to focus to meet evolving consumer expectations:

    1. Mobile Shopping is the Epicenter of Ecommerce – With smartphones leading online sales (59%), brands must optimize product listings, mobile searchability, and checkout experiences to prevent drop-off​.
    2. Urgency-Based Discounts Are Key to Conversion – 62% of shoppers say flash sales and limited-time promotions influence their buying decisions, making urgency-based pricing an essential tactic​.
    3. Beyond Price Cuts—Consumers Expect More from Brands – While discounts drive unplanned purchases, 48% of shoppers prioritize free shipping, and 41% value flexible payment options, showing that brands must offer more than just lower prices to win customers​.
    4. Mobile Shoppers Favor Marketplace and Retailer Apps for Convenience – 69% of shoppers prefer using marketplace apps like Amazon and eBay, while 45% rely on retailer apps like Target and Best Buy, proving that brands must have an app-first strategy to remain relevant​.

    For deeper insights into evolving shopping behaviors and pricing strategies, download the full Ecommerce Pulse Report Q2 2025.

    About the Digital Shelf Institute (DSI)
    The Digital Shelf Institute is the commerce community for manufacturers. In the digital age, manufacturers have more opportunities to control their commerce destiny than ever before. The Digital Shelf Institute brings together an ecosystem of experience to share ideas, outcomes, and strategies in the form of virtual content, podcasts, reports, and articles that will drive revenue in the years ahead. The Digital Shelf Institute also hosts the Digital Shelf Executive Forum, an invitation-only community platform for digital shelf executives of leading brands.

    About Salsify
    Salsify helps thousands of brand manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in over 140 countries collaborate to make every product experience matter. The company’s Product Experience Management (PXM) platform enables organizations to centralize all of their product content, connect to the commerce ecosystem, and automate business processes in order to deliver the best possible product experiences across every selling destination.

    Learn how the world’s largest brands, including Mars, L’Oreal, Coca-Cola, Bosch, and ASICS, as well as retailers and distributors, such as DoorDash, E.Leclerc, Carrefour, Metro, and Intermarché, use Salsify every day to drive efficiency, power growth, and lead the digital shelf. For more information, please visit: www.salsify.com.

    Media contact:
    Carolyn Adams
    carolyn@bluerunpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: U.S. Air Force awards NSPA F-16 Helmet Mounted Display contract for Thales Scorpion HMD

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: U.S. Air Force awards NSPA F-16 Helmet Mounted Display contract for Thales Scorpion HMD

    © Thales
    • Thales subsidiary, Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI) was awarded a contract by NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for Scorpion Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) retrofit kits to support U.S. Air Force (USAF) F-16 HMD modernization.
    • The Scorpion HMD kits provide a modern digital platform allowing for enhanced pilot situational awareness with full color symbology and a single display for both day and night operations. The Scorpion HMD kits will replace the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) and allow the USAF a common Scorpion HMD solution across Air Force, Air National Guard and USAF Reserve F-16s.
    • Thales Visionix, a division of Thales Defense & Security, Inc., a world leader in the development and integration of advanced optics, motion tracking and symbology for fixed and rotary wing HMDs, will manage the contract.

    Thales subsidiary, Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI), was awarded a contract by NSPA in support of the U.S. Air Force (USAF) for Scorpion Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) retrofit kits to enhance F-16 pilot visualization and situational awareness. The award supports modernization of HMDs for active duty and Air National Guard F-16 block 40 and 50 aircraft.

    The Scorpion HMD kits will replace the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) and allow the USAF a standardized Scorpion HMD solution across Air Force, Air National Guard and USAF Reserve
    ​F-16s. Scorpion provides a modern digital platform allowing for enhanced pilot situational awareness with full color symbology and a single display for both day and night operations. Tracking accuracy is also markedly improved, as Scorpion is baselined with TDSI’s precision HObIT (Hybrid Optically based Inertial Tracker) tracker. The HObIT system provides precise tracking through a fusion of inertial-optical technology. ​

    “Modernization efforts around helmet-mounted displays for aircraft are essential to pilots as they provide critical real-time information directly in their line of sight, enhancing situational awareness, decision-making, and operational efficiency while reducing the need to divert attention from the aircraft’s instruments and environment,” said Jim Geraghty, Vice President of Visionix, Thales. “Already supporting F-16 Air National Guard pilots with superior awareness and tracking capability, Scorpion kits will now enhance holistic USAF air dominance.”

    This contact, issued by NSPA supporting USAF F-16 modernization efforts, is the first of several anticipated delivery orders. The contract arrangement also allows a procurement option for any F-16 NATO partner to modernize with Scorpion kit capability with similarly configured aircraft. Initial kits are anticipated to be delivered to the USAF in late 2025. ​ ​

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    About Thales in the USA

    In the United States, Thales has conducted significant research and development, manufacturing, and service capabilities for more than 130 years.

    Today, Thales has 37 locations around the U.S., employing nearly 5,000 people. Working closely with U.S. customers and local partners, Thales is able to meet the most complex requirements for every operating environment.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Soyuz MS-27 Docking

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

    After lifting off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, NASA astronaut Jonny Kim is scheduled to dock with the International Space Station at 5:03 a.m. EST (0903 UTC) on Tuesday, April 8.

    Kim was selected to become a NASA astronaut in 2017; before joining NASA’s astronaut corps, Kim completed more than 100 combat operations as a Navy SEAL. A dual-designated naval aviator and flight surgeon, Kim received his doctorate in medicine from Harvard Medical School.

    Accompanied by cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, Kim will spend approximately eight months on the International Space Station before returning to Earth in December. This is Kim’s first mission to the station.

    Get the latest mission updates: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7Kk4r9DomA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Soyuz MS-27 Hatch Opening

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

    After lifting off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and docking with the International Space Station, the Soyuz MS-27 mission to the station is scheduled to open its hatches at approximately 7:20 a.m. EST (1120 UTC) on Tuesday, April 8.

    NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, accompanied by cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, will spend approximately eight months on the International Space Station before returning to Earth in December.

    Kim was selected to become a NASA astronaut in 2017; before joining NASA’s astronaut corps, Kim completed more than 100 combat operations as a Navy SEAL. A dual-designated naval aviator and flight surgeon, Kim received his doctorate in medicine from Harvard Medical School. This is Kim’s first mission to the station.

    Get the latest mission updates: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83VU509bbKQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese peacekeepers to Lebanon help South Korean counterparts neutralize expired high explosive ammunition 2025-04-08 17:18:05 Recently, the 23rd Chinese peacekeeping multi-role engineering company to the UNIFIL dispatched an EOD team to help the South Korean peacekeeping troops neutralize expired high explosive ammunition.

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

      By Yang Yuan, Zhang Boyu and Zeng Xuetong

      BEIJING, Apr. 8 — Recently, the 23rd Chinese peacekeeping multi-role engineering company to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) dispatched an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team to help the South Korean peacekeeping troops neutralize expired high explosive ammunition, thereby eliminating security risks in the UNIFIL camps.

      The continuing tension in southern Lebanon exacerbates the already acute challenge faced by the UNIFIL troop-contributing countries in the disposal of expired ammunition. Recently, the Chinese EOD team was assigned by the Combat Engineering Division of the UNIFIL Operations Department to destroy 277.2 kilograms of expired COMP-C4 explosives.

      Prior to the operation, the Chinese peacekeepers conducted an overall security assessment of the blasting site under the control of the UNIFIL. During the process, all steps, including the movement, placement and detonation of the explosives, were conducted in strict accordance with the UN standard operating procedures. After the successful destruction of the expired high explosive ammunition, the South Korean peacekeeping troops expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Chinese EOD team.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Future of the common agricultural policy – E-001315/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001315/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mihai Tudose (S&D)

    The discussions at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 24 March reflected Member States’ concerns over the Vision for Agriculture and Food, published by the European Commission on 19 February.

    While I strongly support the idea of bureaucratic simplification promised by the Commission, I believe that this should not mean amalgamating completely different areas, and I am convinced, as Vice-President of the Committee on Security and Defence, that the increased funding needed to strengthen the EU’s defensive capacities must not come at the expense of food security and the sacrificing of EU citizens’ living standards, so would call on the Commission to answer the following questions:

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to maintain, in the period after 2027, an independent budget for the common agricultural policy of an amount at least equal to that of the current multiannual financial framework, based on the two pillars of direct aids and rural development funding?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s position on the requests made by representatives of Romania and other Member States to: a) include purchases of breeding animals among the expenditure eligible for EU funding; b) review the current rules so as to support the modernisation of fishing fleets?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    Last updated: 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –