NewzIntel.com

Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Listen to the Beat – Heart Health Month at NHB

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Take heart.

    There are several heartfelt static displays, informative presentations and knowledge-based exhibitions throughout Naval Hospital Bremerton acknowledging February as Heart Health Month.

    Whether it’s operational readiness or household responsibilities, from the deckplate to the domestic, cardiovascular endurance is a must.

    At any age.

    “Take steps now to adopt a healthier lifestyle to keep your heart healthy and avoid heart disease,” said Patricia Skinner, NHB/NMRTC Bremerton’s Health Promotion and Wellness coordinator. “While heart disease is often viewed as something to worry about when you get older, about six in 10 preventable heart disease and stroke deaths happen to people under age 65.”

    There is a crucial need to remind every age group on having a healthy heart. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S., with one person dying every 33 second from cardiovascular disease, with over 700,000 fatalities in 2022.

    “Heart disease is a topic for adults of any age, including young adults,” Skinner continued. “Take steps now to reduce the risk of developing this disease which can negatively affect someone’s military career and compromise mission readiness,”

    Although cardiologists note that there are a number of factors which can lead to heart disease, there are overlapping lifestyle indicators which are the usual suspects, such as tobacco usage, excessive alcohol intake, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits and carrying extra weight. All puts a stress on the heart and entire cardiovascular system.

    Skinner is helping lead the educational cardiovascular charge tailored for all age groups, advocating that everyone should choose a healthy eating plan, be physically active and learn the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke.

    “Take care of your heart whatever age you are,” stressed Skinner, “Each age group is impacted differently by heart disease and can be prevented by establishing health habits early, like getting in regular physical activity in childhood, maintaining healthy weight, monitoring cholesterol levels and blood pressure in middle age and managing any chronic medical conditions to ensure a healthy lifestyle across all stages of life.”

    Health Promotion and Wellness recommends the following for each age group:

    In the 20s, people should find a doctor and ensure they have regular health [and dental] wellness exams. They also need to avoid nicotine products and steer clear of secondhand smoke.

    “Smoking impacts the cardiovascular system in a number of ways from narrowing and thickening the arteries to raising blood pressure and heart rate to reducing oxygen supply,” Skinner said.

    In the 30s, goals towards improved health should be to manage stress, be aware of family medical history and make heart-healthy living a family affair.

    “There are a number of simply and effective ways to manage stress which include getting eight hours of sleep [preferably uninterrupted], daily exercise and focusing on nutritious eating habits,” stated Skinner.

    In the 40s, people need to [continue to] watch their weight, find a workout routine they enjoy, and have their blood sugar level checked.

    In the 50s, people need to get smart on warning signs. Heart attack symptoms in women can be different than a man. People also need to follow their treatment plan regarding lifestyle and diet change(s) and medication needs.

    “Women can feel dizziness, upper back pressure, check discomfort, shortness of breath, feeling of indigestion, occasional neck, teeth or jaw discomfort, and fainting or extreme fatigue,” explained Skinner. “Men can feel a cold sweat, chest pressure or pain, shortness of breath or dizziness and pain in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw and abdomen.”

    In the 60s, people need to watch their blood pressure, cholesterol and other related numbers closely. They also need to continue to exercise on a regular basis, consume smaller portions of nutrient-rich foods to maintain a healthy weight.

    Health Promotion and Wellness is based upon the three foundational principles of nutrition, wellness and fitness. Food consumption plays a sizable role in heart health. In accentuating the nutritional aspect, Machinist’s Mate, Nuclear Power 2nd Class Grace McCracken created a display showcasing a variety of multicolored foods, each offering a wide range of nutrients.

    Red colored foods, such as strawberry and apples are considered good for the heart.
    Orange colored foods like carrots and tangerines help eyesight.
    Yellow foods like a yellow pepper can help a body heal cuts.
    Brown fruits and vegetables give the body energy.
    Blue foods – like blueberries – have nutrients and antioxidants to help reduce high blood pressure.
    Green foods from kiwis to peas to broccoli help to combat germs.

    Skinner noted that even though February is designated as heart health month and some New Year resolutions for getting back into shape include developing healthy heart habits, that enthusiasm can fade.

    “It’s a concern all year,” exclaimed Skinner.

    Skinner gave heart in summing up their campaign theme, “Bringing awareness about heart disease to those who are concerned about their health is gratifying, especially when those same individuals share their progress in losing weight, reducing their cholesterols levels, or getting their blood pressure under control. It’s a step in the right direction for those who take their heart health seriously and maintain consistent healthy habits throughout the year.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Karin Keller-Sutter and DDPS head Viola Amherd to take part in the Munich Security Conference

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    President Karin Keller-Sutter, Head of the Federal Department of Finance (FDF), and Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), will be attending the 61st Munich Security Conference, which is taking place at the end of the week. The conference, which will be opened on Friday, 14 February by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, will focus on global security challenges such as democratic resilience.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Google has dropped its promise not to use AI for weapons. It’s part of a troubling trend

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zena Assaad, Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University

    Ziv Lavi/Shutterstock

    Last week, Google quietly abandoned a long-standing commitment to not use artificial intelligence (AI) technology in weapons or surveillance. In an update to its AI principles, which were first published in 2018, the tech giant removed statements promising not to pursue:

    • technologies that cause or are likely to cause overall harm
    • weapons or other technologies whose principal purpose or implementation is to cause or directly facilitate injury to people
    • technologies that gather or use information for surveillance violating internationally accepted norms
    • technologies whose purpose contravenes widely accepted principles of international law and human rights.

    The update came after United States President Donald Trump revoked former President Joe Biden’s executive order aimed at promoting safe, secure and trustworthy development and use of AI.

    The Google decision follows a recent trend of big tech entering the national security arena and accommodating more military applications of AI. So why is this happening now? And what will be the impact of more military use of AI?

    The growing trend of militarised AI

    In September, senior officials from the Biden government met with bosses of leading AI companies, such as OpenAI, to discuss AI development. The government then announced a taskforce to coordinate the development of data centres, while weighing economic, national security and environmental goals.

    The following month, the Biden government published a memo that in part dealt with “harnessing AI to fulfil national security objectives”.

    Big tech companies quickly heeded the message.

    In November 2024, tech giant Meta announced it would make its “Llama” AI models available to government agencies and private companies involved in defence and national security.

    This was despite Meta’s own policy which prohibits the use of Llama for “[m]ilitary, warfare, nuclear industries or applications”.

    Around the same time, AI company Anthropic also announced it was teaming up with data analytics firm Palantir and Amazon Web Services to provide US intelligence and defence agencies access to its AI models.

    The following month, OpenAI announced it had partnered with defence startup Anduril Industries to develop AI for the US Department of Defence.

    The companies claim they will combine OpenAI’s GPT-4o and o1 models with Anduril’s systems and software to improve US military’s defences against drone attacks.

    Defending national security

    The three companies defended the changes to their policies on the basis of US national security interests.

    Take Google. In a blog post published earlier this month, the company cited global AI competition, complex geopolitical landscapes and national security interests as reasons for changing its AI principles.

    In October 2022, the US issued export controls restricting China’s access to particular kinds of high-end computer chips used for AI research. In response, China issued their own export control measures on high-tech metals, which are crucial for the AI chip industry.

    The tensions from this trade war escalated in recent weeks thanks to the release of highly efficient AI models by Chinese tech company DeepSeek. DeepSeek purchased 10,000 Nvidia A100 chips prior to the US export control measures and allegedly used these to develop their AI models.

    It has not been made clear how the militarisation of commercial AI would protect US national interests. But there are clear indications tensions with the US’s biggest geopolitical rival, China, are influencing the decisions being made.

    A large toll on human life

    What is already clear is that the use of AI in military contexts has a demonstrated toll on human life.

    For example, in the war in Gaza, the Israeli military has been relying heavily on advanced AI tools. These tools require huge volumes of data and greater computing and storage services, which is being provided by Microsoft and Google. These AI tools are used to identify potential targets but are often inaccurate.

    Israeli soldiers have said these inaccuracies have accelerated the death toll in the war, which is now more than 61,000, according to authorities in Gaza.

    Google removing the “harm” clause from their AI principles contravenes the international law on human rights. This identifies “security of person” as a key measure.

    It is concerning to consider why a commercial tech company would need to remove a clause around harm.

    Avoiding the risks of AI-enabled warfare

    In its updated principles, Google does say its products will still align with “widely accepted principles of international law and human rights”.

    Despite this, Human Rights Watch has criticised the removal of the more explicit statements regarding weapons development in the original principles.

    The organisation also points out that Google has not explained exactly how its products will align with human rights.

    This is something Joe Biden’s revoked executive order about AI was also concerned with.

    Biden’s initiative wasn’t perfect, but it was a step towards establishing guardrails for responsible development and use of AI technologies.

    Such guardrails are needed now more than ever as big tech becomes more enmeshed with military organisations – and the risk that come with AI-enabled warfare and the breach of human rights increases.

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

    – ref. Google has dropped its promise not to use AI for weapons. It’s part of a troubling trend – https://theconversation.com/google-has-dropped-its-promise-not-to-use-ai-for-weapons-its-part-of-a-troubling-trend-249169

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Lake Tahoe Man Sentenced to Over Two Years in Prison for Impersonating Federal Officers

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Anton Andreyevich Iagounov, 38, of South Lake Tahoe, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to two years and three months in prison for four counts of impersonating a federal officer, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, and evidence presented at a three-day trial in July 2024, Iagounov pretended to be a federal law enforcement agent by creating and sending counterfeit investigative documents, which he signed in the name of a fictional federal agent, seeking highly protected information from the Department of Defense.

    “The defendant impersonated federal officers and tried multiple times to obtain protected information using fake court documents,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “Many federal agencies including NASA have devoted law enforcement officers, and we will not tolerate federal officers being illegally impersonated.”

    “Mr. Iagounov’s attempt to undermine public trust in order to obtain sensitive government information posed a significant risk, potentially endangering national security and the integrity of NASA and government operations,” said Michael Graham, Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations. “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of NASA OIG, the USAO, and our law enforcement partners to safeguarding Federal assets and holding accountable those who undermine justice.”

    “The defendant impersonated a federal law enforcement officer and took advantage of the trust that exists between federal agencies,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz of the FBI Las Vegas Division. “All officers carry badges and credentials that are used to verify their identity. If you believe someone is impersonating an officer, you may ask their agency to confirm their official business. This sentencing demonstrates the excellent work achievable through partnerships.”

    On July 5, 2022, Iagounov sent a search warrant he had created to the U.S. Capitol Police, falsely claiming it was signed by a Special Agent of NASA Office of Inspector General (NASA‑OIG) and appearing to be authorized by a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Columbia. The Capitol Police investigated the document, determined it was fake, and referred it to NASA-OIG for further investigation.

    On July 11, 2022, Iagounov again pretended to be the same fictional NASA-OIG agent and sent the warrant to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. This time, he sent it without a judge’s signature, indicating it was for an “emergency filing” and required a judge’s signature. He sent it from an email address designed to look like it was from a United States government agency, but which Iagounov owned and had named to look like a government agency’s internet domain.

    On July 18, 2022, Iagounov again sent the fake search warrant, purporting to be signed by the same fictitious NASA-OIG agent. He sent it to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Georgia, again indicating that it was for an emergency filing and needed a judge’s signature immediately.

    Finally, on July 24, 2022, Iagounov faxed a letter, under the name of a real NASA-OIG supervising agent, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. In that letter, he claimed to be following up on the warrant, stating that an “exigent circumstance” required a judge’s signature immediately. The faxed letter included an anonymous email address for the agent that actually belonged to Iagounov. Several days earlier, on July 15, Iagounov had sent his warrant to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida but had received no response.

    In each case, given the apparently sensitive nature of the materials Iagounov’s warrant sought, the receiving personnel for the Courts referred the matter to NASA-OIG for review and investigation.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and NASA Office of Inspector General, with assistance by the South Lake Tahoe Police Department and the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Conolly and Audrey Hemesath prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Navy, 35+ Partners Commence International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2025

    Source: United States Naval Central Command

    MANAMA, Bahrain —

    The Middle East region’s largest maritime exercise, International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2025, kicked off in two locations, Bahrain and Jordan, Feb. 10.

    The week began with academic discussions covering a series of topics including the naval planning process, maritime operations center procedures, and disaster response coordination.

    IMX25 is a 12-day naval training event hosted by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT). This year’s iteration of IMX is linked with exercise Cutlass Express. Cutlass Express, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, is an annually scheduled exercise designed to enhance regional maritime awareness and the combined capabilities of partner nations to respond to maritime threats. The exercises are link through information sharing between maritime operations center to strengthen theater-to-theater coordination, reducing regional seams and strengthening U.S. and partner nation capabilities and interoperability.

    More than 5,000 personnel from more than 35 nations and international organizations will take part in both exercises.

    IMX is designed to demonstrate global resolve in preserving the rules-based international order, offering a unique opportunity for participants to collaborate and showcase regional maritime security cooperation.

    “Exercises like IMX show that we are at our best when we work together and that our resolve is unwavering,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Jeff Jurgemeyer, NAVCENT vice commander, during his remarks at the opening ceremony. “The Middle East region is a critical crossroads for worldwide commerce and trade. IMX is our combined assurance that the potential for economic success is greatest when international waterways are safe and open for all.”

    The operational phase will include partner exchanges on mine and countermeasures; visit, board, search and seizure; unmanned systems and artificial intelligence integration; explosive ordnance disposal; vessel defense; search and rescue; and mass casualty response, among other focus areas.

    This is the ninth iteration of IMX since its establishment in 2012.

    The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.

    More information about IMX is available at: https://www.cusnc.navy.mil/IMX/.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyber scaleup Goldilock expands Wolverhampton hub to support rapid growth

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Goldilock is a UK based cyber security scaleup which has developed a unique network isolation and segmentation device that ringfences networks away from the internet to make them inaccessible to hackers. Over the past year, FireBreak has won Goldilock a place on multiple accelerators including the prestigious NATO DIANA programme and the MoD’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA). FireBreak’s applications for critical networks and sensitive data mean the product is being used by organisations responsible for critical national infrastructure (CNI) globally including the Ukrainian Cyber Command, as well as in sectors such as financial services, healthcare and manufacturing. Goldilock fuelled its growth in 2024 through expanding its channel partner programme, and now collaborates with over 50 partners across 18 countries in Europe, while the company’s headcount in the West Midlands hub has doubled over the course of the year to support a rapidly expanding customer base.

    The West Midlands region, with its burgeoning community of forward thinking businesses and access to a talented pool of cybersecurity professionals, provides an ideal foundation for Goldilock’s continued success. FireBreak’s applications for defence and deployment by large UK CNI companies means Goldilock’s facilities in the West Midlands have been officially vetted by both NATO and UK security regulators. Now, as Goldilock scales up and moves from R&D and prototyping to large scale manufacturing to meet the global demand for FireBreak, it has chosen to re-invest in the West Midlands by expanding its facilities and continuing to conduct all manufacturing in its new dedicated space in the University of Wolverhampton Science Park.

    Anticipating continued growth over the next few years, Goldilock expects to increase the team to 32 employees by the end of 2025 and forecasts that it will be able to create 44 new jobs in the area between now and the end of 2027, the majority of which will be engineers to help service customer orders for FireBreak as they continue to grow in size and number.

    Stephen Kines, co-founder and COO of Goldilock, said: “We are thrilled to expand our capability to meet the large scale orders we have coming in and in doing so further strengthen our ties with the tech community in the West Midlands.

    “With sophisticated ransomware and AI powered attacks on a continuous rise, paired with the increasing interconnectedness of systems, Goldilock’s technology provides a critical, foundational layer of defence. The West Midlands offers us an invaluable hub for innovation, providing access to a diverse pool of talented tech professionals and a supportive business environment from which we can continue to grow the business and get our critical product to where it’s needed most, as quickly as possible.”

    Sharon Thompson, Deputy Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “We warmly welcome Goldilock’s commitment to growing its pioneering cyber security business in the West Midlands.

    Goldilock is helping to strengthen our manufacturing supply chain and create new jobs for local people.”

    City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Stephen Simkins, said: “Goldilock’s expansion is a testament to the City of Wolverhampton’s growing appeal as a destination of choice for ambitious tech firms, with an extensive R&D network, deep pool of specialist talent and proximity to the region’s end to end manufacturing supply chain.

    “We’re very proud that Goldilock chose to call the University of Wolverhampton Science Park home and look forward to supporting their continued growth, while encouraging many more tech firms to make the most of the valuable opportunity presented by our Green Innovation Corridor.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Simon Case takes leading role in plan to transform Barrow

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Former Cabinet Secretary appointed independent Chair of Barrow Delivery Board Barrow Transformation Fund backed by £200m government investment

    Former Cabinet Secretary Dr Simon Case has been appointed independent Chair of the Barrow Delivery Board, the government announced today (Monday, Feb 10). 

    Dr Case brings a wealth of leadership experience to the role after a long career in the Civil Service. 

    The Delivery Board will deliver the Barrow Transformation Fund, a £200m government package to deepen and develop Barrow’s crucial role at the heart of UK national security and nuclear submarine-building, overseen by the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.

    It forms part of the Plan for Barrow, which aims to strengthen the local economy, support sustainable growth and boost opportunities for residents.  

    Minister for Local Growth and Building Safety Alex Norris said: 

    Barrow lies at the heart of our defence industry, and the nuclear submarines produced there play a crucial role in keeping Britain safe. We are committed to building on Barrow’s incredible strengths and making sure local people benefit from the town’s development.

    Simon Case is ideally placed to chair the Delivery Board and oversee the delivery of £200m of funding to tackle local priorities, taking Barrow towards an exciting future. He will ensure Barrow’s place in our national Plan for Change – because what’s best for Barrow is best for the country.

    Dr Case said:

    I’m delighted to be appointed Chair and take on this important role. Barrow is critical to our national security; there’s nowhere else in the country with the unique set of skills and supporting infrastructure required to deliver complex nuclear submarines, so it’s vital we invest now to sustain this capability. 

    Barrow is a fantastic town and the Government’s long-term commitment to the UK’s submarine programme means it has an exciting future, but it’s not without its challenges. Our task is to address these, turn ambition into reality and help transform Barrow into a place where people choose to live, work and thrive.

    The government is committed to growing the economy, strengthening national security and supporting our communities as part of the Plan for Change.

    Barrow’s contribution to maintaining and renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent has been built up over many years – often by multiple generations of the same families as part of a truly national endeavour. The government’s tailored Transformation Fund will build on these historic strengths and ensure the town’s full potential is realised. 

    Dr Case’s appointment was confirmed by Minister Norris in a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament today. The Delivery Board will meet in March to make its first spending decisions. This funding will bring transformational and long-lasting change to Barrow across areas including transport, education, employment, skills, health, equity and wellbeing. 

    Dr Case previously acted as Chair of the Board on an interim basis, as part of his role as Cabinet Secretary.  

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Warns Defense Secretary Hegseth Against Politicization Of U.S. Military After Numerous Concerning Actions By Trump Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    February 10, 2025
    “I am deeply alarmed that these actions may not only erode trust in our military as an institution, but also dangerously distract from where our focus ought to be on foreign adversaries and their capabilities,” Durbin wrote in his letter to Secretary Hegseth
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense (SACD), yesterday sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to warn him against the politicization of the Department of Defense (DoD).  Durbin’s letter comes after several thinly-veiled political orders by the Trump Administration related to the nation’s military, including removing protection from former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, using the military for immigration enforcement, and impounding congressional approved DoD funding.
    “I write to express my concern that President Trump’s personal agenda is counter to defending against our country’s serious national security threats.  Since the President’s inauguration less than one month ago, the Trump Administration has pursued several dubious executive actions that threaten our military’s long-standing ethos to remain nonpartisan and promote merit, both of which you spoke to the importance of during your hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) prior to your confirmation,” Durbin began his letter.
    “I am deeply alarmed that these actions may not only erode trust in our military as an institution, but also dangerously distract from where our focus ought to be on foreign adversaries and their capabilities,” Durbin wrote.  “With China rapidly building its nuclear and naval forces, Russia fighting a war of aggression on the border of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and North Korea and Iran pursuing nuclear weapons and destabilizing actions, these erratic pursuits distract from the real threats to our nation.”
    Durbin then laid out the troublesome and political actions that the Trump Administration has taken since January 20. 
    Durbin referenced the “targeting [of] military officers such as… former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley… as part of an effort to go after individuals unceremoniously deemed unfit or considered political adversaries.” 
    In January, Secretary Hegseth removed General Milley’s security detail despite ongoing threats related to the 2020 drone strike that killed Iranian General Qusem Soleimani.  DoD also announced that there will be an investigation into General Milley for “undermining the chain of command,” but there has been no clear indication of what conduct would be investigated.  Rather, the investigation and threat of demotingGeneral Milley’s four-star rank appears to be a political reaction to General Milley’s public comments about being photographed at Lafayette Square after President Trump cleared the area of protestors using National Guard troops.  Similarly, Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan, the first woman to lead a  military service, was removed from her post on President Trump’s second day in office without warning and ahead of her scheduled departure.  
    Durbin also emphasized that the Trump Administration is “diverting DoD resources and critical warfighting personnel for contentious immigration enforcement, compromising our military assets and distracting from national security threats.” 
    Immediately upon being sworn in, President Trump signed an executive order stating that DoD would deploy troops to the southern border despite federal law prohibiting the use of military for law enforcement.  At the end of January, DoD announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would use facilities at Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora, Colorado, as a detention center forundocumented immigrants.  Further, military planes typically used for missions such as providing security assistance to Ukraine and Israel or hunting Russian and Chinese submarines have been used to deport immigrants and provide surveillance on our southern border.  In addition, in an unprecedented move, the Trump administration began flying migrants on military aircraft from the U.S. for detention at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay.  
    In addition, Durbin decried the administration’s efforts to freeze congressionally-appropriated funding for programs such as defense medical research, which supports lifesaving treatment and prevention of illnesses for service members, veterans, and the civilian population.  Since Fiscal Year 2015, Durbin has boosted defense medical research funding by more than $1.4 billion or 82 percent through SACD.  
    Durbin also noted that administration efforts to overturn policies that “remove barriers and enhance opportunities for qualified recruits” ultimately “[undermines] force strength and readiness—in the midst of unprecedented recruitment and retention challenges.”  On January 27, President Trump issued an Executive Order effectively banning transgender troops from the military.  And on January 31, the Pentagon eliminated a Biden-era policy that would provide reimbursements for service members who travel out of state to get reproductive health care after the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade. 
    “America’s national security depends on the Department of Defense functioning as a stable institution that supports its personnel rather than being thrown into disarray.  Further, increasing politicization of our military risks diminishing the role of the United States on the international stage, sending a dangerous signal to our allies and adversaries alike,” Durbin said.
    “In the spirit of your promise before SASC to be a faithful partner to Congress, I urge you to defend the principles of the Department of Defense,” Durbin concluded his letter.
    Prior to Secretary Hegseth’s confirmation, Durbin made his concerns about his nomination clear.  In January, Durbin delivered a speech on the Senate floor explaining his objections to Hegseth’s nomination, including his inability to articulate a defense strategy in addressing threats to the U.S., his disparaging comments about women serving in the military, and troubling reports of financial mismanagement, alcohol abuse, and personal misconduct.
    The full text of the letter can be found here and below:
    February 9, 2025
    Dear Secretary Hegseth,
    I write to express my concern that President Trump’s personal agenda is counter to defending against our country’s serious national security threats.  Since the President’s inauguration less than one month ago, the Trump Administration has pursued several dubious executive actions that threaten our military’s long-standing ethos to remain nonpartisan and promote merit, both of which you spoke to the importance of during your hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) prior to your confirmation.  I am deeply alarmed that these actions may not only erode trust in our military as an institution, but also dangerously distract from where our focus ought to be on foreign adversaries and their capabilities.  With China rapidly building its nuclear and naval forces, Russia fighting a war of aggression on the border of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and North Korea and Iran pursuing nuclear weapons and destabilizing actions, these erratic pursuits distract from the real threats to our nation.
    The Trump Administration’s troubling actions have included, but are not limited to:
    Targeting military officers such as Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Linda Fagan and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, as well as civilian federal government employees within the Department of Defense (DoD), such as the Senate-confirmed Inspector General, as part of an effort to go after individuals unceremoniously deemed unfit or considered political adversaries;
    Diverting DoD resources and critical warfighting personnel for contentious immigration enforcement, compromising our military assets and distracting from national security threats;
    Unconstitutionally impounding congressionally approved DoD funding from a myriad of programs that protect and support our service members, including projects that boost defense medical research, reduce civilian casualties, provide infrastructure grants to municipalities near military installations, and promote investments in critical technologies, sowing mass confusion and chaos; and
    Undermining force strength and readiness—in the midst of unprecedented recruitment and retention challenges—by arbitrarily weaponizing programs and policies designed to remove barriers and enhance benefits and opportunities for qualified recruits.
    As you know, DoD is the largest federal government agency in the United States.  Your responsibilities include overseeing a nearly $900 billion budget, more than 3.5 million service members and civilian employees, and 750 military installations around the world.  America’s national security depends on the Department of Defense functioning as a stable institution that supports its personnel rather than being thrown into disarray.  Further, increasing politicization of our military risks diminishing the role of the United States on the international stage, sending a dangerous signal to our allies and adversaries alike.
    In the spirit of your promise before SASC to be a faithful partner to Congress, I urge you to defend the principles of the Department of Defense. 
    Sincerely,
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Simulating the threat, Naval Base Ventura County enhances security through annual exercise

    Source: United States Navy

    “CS-SC25 is an annual, nationwide force protection exercise,” said Mr. Rob Huether, installation training and readiness officer, NBVC. “It tests the ability of security departments and installations to respond to simulated security incidents throughout the two-week exercise.”

    On Tuesday, a scenario presented to the security and installation personnel at NBVC involved an actor notionally opening fire in a work environment. Personnel were required to neutralize the threat, treat the wounded, coordinate with first responders, provide forward communication to the emergency operations center, and manage multiple scenario injects.

    “Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain reinforces our commitment to protecting our people and preserving operational readiness by testing our ability to adapt to evolving force protection, security, and mission assurance challenges,” said Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. “This exercise builds resilience and fosters coordination between fleet and shore forces, installation commands, and partner agencies, ensuring we stay prepared to counter modern-day threats with precision and unity of effort.”

    According to a Navy Installations Command press release, Citadel Shield, held during the first week, is a field training exercise (FTX) led by CNIC, while Solid Curtain follows in the second week as a command post exercise (CPX) led by USFFC. This two-part training is designed to boost the readiness of U.S. Navy security forces and ensure seamless interoperability among commands, other services, and agency partners to protect life, equipment, and facilities. Both weeks will simulate realistic threat scenarios, including active shooters, unauthorized base access, and improvised explosive devices.

    “Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain exercises are vital to ensuring the preparedness and effectiveness of our Navy security forces,” said Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy Installations Command. “These comprehensive training scenarios simulate real-world threats to enhance our readiness and interoperability with other services and agency partners. Our commitment is to safeguard life, equipment, and facilities, and these exercises are an essential part of fulfilling that mission.”

    CS-SC25 is a regularly scheduled exercise and is not being held in response to any specific threat.

    Measures have been taken to minimize disruptions within local communities and to normal base operations, but there may be times when the exercise causes increased traffic around bases or delays in base access. Area residents may also see or hear security activities associated with the exercise. Advanced coordination has taken place with local law enforcement and first responders.

    NBVC is major shore warfighting platform; providing sustained ready forces to deploy, fight, and win. Composed of three operating facilities: Point Mugu, Port Hueneme and San Nicolas Island and home of the Pacific Seabees, West Coast E-2D Hawkeyes, 3 warfare centers and 110 tenant commands.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Governor, Joint Region Marianas, Joint Task Force-Micronesia Convene Civil-Military Coordination Council

    Source: United States Navy

    Military officials from the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Guam Army National Guard attended. Additionally, participating on behalf of various government of Guam agencies were representatives from the Guam Department of Agriculture, the Guam Department of Civil Defense and Homeland Security, the Guam Power Authority and the Guam International Airport Authority.

    “The CMCC is an opportunity to get together to synchronize and synthesize our efforts on all of the major priorities for our island,” Huffman said. “Our meeting not only signifies the culmination of hard work and planning by our collective teams, but it is a demonstration of the strong partnership and close collaboration that are the hallmarks of our discussions.”

    Military and civilian members offered informational briefs and updates on significant topics that require a One-Guam holistic approach including critical civilian infrastructure for the defense of Guam, utilities resiliency specifically for the island’s electrical grid, and the proposed Guam Defense System by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA).

    “The Civil-Military Coordination Council continues to be an essential platform for ensuring that Guam’s needs and interests remain at the forefront of the ongoing military buildup. At our latest meeting, we placed a strong emphasis on resiliency—particularly in strengthening our island’s power infrastructure through the Guam Power Authority and the One Guam Power Infrastructure Resiliency & Reliability Projects,” said Leon Guerrero. “The military buildup is an ongoing conversation that requires careful planning, preparation, and the right subject matter experts at the table. It is critical that we have the latest and most relevant information to support our justifications and ensure that progress aligns with the best interests of all who call Guam home. As we continue these discussions, I remain committed to advocating for our people and working with our federal partners to reinforce the importance of Guam in national security and regional stability.”

    The CMCC was established in 2010 to foster collaboration among the DoD, local government, and federal agencies to share information, discuss, and provide recommendations for construction activities for the U.S. Marine Corps relocation to Guam. These meetings have expanded to include all DoD items of interest and military construction on Guam. The next CMCC meeting is scheduled in June.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS O’Kane returns home after seven-month deployment to 5th and 7th Fleet

    Source: United States Navy

    O’Kane departed San Diego with the ABECSG, July 17, 2024, and remained in U.S. 5th Fleet following the departure of ABECSG who returned to their homeport in December 2024.

    “I am incredibly proud of the exemplary work this team has invested in themselves and their equipment over the past few months,” said Cmdr. Rich Ray, commanding officer, O’Kane. “We are proud of the work we accomplished this deployment, and we are looking forward to continuing that success into the next challenge.”

    Following the departure of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-class missile destroyers USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG 121), USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and USS Spruance (DDG 111) from U.S. 5th Fleet, O’Kane and the USS Stockdale (DDG 106) remained in the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility to support global maritime security operations.

    O’Kane and Stockdale successfully escorted U.S. flagged and crewed merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. During the escort, the destroyers worked alongside other U.S. Central Command forces in successfully repelling multiple Iranian-backed Houthi attacks during transits of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. During the transit, the destroyers were attacked by one-way attack un-crewed Aerial systems, anti-ship ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles which were successfully engaged and defeated. The vessels were not damaged, and no personnel were hurt. The ships were well prepared, supported, and the well-trained Sailors successfully defended the ship.

    Throughout deployment, O’Kane successfully completed 75 flight quarters, including 84 rotary-wing landings, 26 rotary-wing refueling evolutions, and nine vertical replenishments. In addition, O’Kane conducted 24 replenishments-at-sea, and 22 mooring evolutions.

    Additionally, O’Kane visited Karachi, Pakistan to promote the diplomatic relationship between the United States and Pakistan. Following the port visit, O’Kane conducted a maritime exercise to build interoperability with the Pakistan Navy.

    ABECSG initially deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment, highlighted by the first-ever U.S.-Italy multi-large deck event with the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group held in the Indo-Pacific on Aug. 9, 2024.

    The strike group was ordered to the USCENTCOM area of responsibility to bolster U.S. military force posture in the Middle East, deter regional escalation, degrade Houthi capabilities, defend U.S. forces, and again sailed alongside our Italian allies and other partners to promote security, stability and prosperity. Assigned destroyers of the ABECSG, to include O’Kane, were essential to providing a layer of defense to U.S. forces and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels and partner nations transiting in international waterways like the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden.

    As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training to ensure the readiness necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: PNSY Successfully Undocks Cheyenne

    Source: United States Navy

    “I couldn’t be more proud of the Cheyenne crew and the men and women of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for all the work to achieve this significant milestone,” said Cheyenne Commanding Officer Cmdr. Kyle Calton. “Undocking is one of the most meaningful events in our overhaul period, returning Cheyenne to the water where she belongs and putting a huge gust of wind in our sails as we prepare to return to sea.”

    Cheyenne has undergone major repairs, structural inspections, and replacements of mechanical and electrical systems. This extensive work, led by the project team, has enhanced the submarine’s capabilities, ensuring advanced systems are delivered to warfighters at the tip of the spear. These efforts contribute to the fleet’s operational readiness and support national defense priorities.

    As Cheyenne’s undocking is a significant achievement, it’s especially noteworthy considering the ongoing construction work of the multi-mission dry dock project as part of the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program. It also underscores the innovative approach of the nation’s public shipyards to meet the chief of naval operations’ goals of restoring critical infrastructure and increasing the number of combat-ready platforms available to the fleet.

    “Reaching the undocking milestone is a big win during any maintenance availability. The efforts on Cheyenne are even more impressive as the team executed their highly complex work amid an active construction zone for our multi-mission dry dock,” said shipyard commander Capt. Michael Oberdorf. “It’s like cooking Thanksgiving dinner while renovating your kitchen – it requires thoughtful planning, coordination, and superb execution. Cheyenne’s undocking underscores our shipyard’s commitment to not only meet our current mission but ensures we can meet the future needs of America’s warfighting Navy to support and defend our nation.”

    “I am incredibly proud of the men and women of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the crew of Cheyenne for all their hard work to complete the work necessary to undock on-time,” said Cheyenne project superintendent Jerry Legere. “They met every challenge head-on with tenacity and selflessness – they are all heroes. Through this incredible effort we have postured Cheyenne to be delivered as a fully mission capable submarine operated by a highly skilled crew ready to answer the nation’s call.”

    Attack submarines are multi-mission platforms that enable five of the six core capabilities of the Navy’s maritime strategy: sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security, and deterrence. They are designed for excellence in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, and mine warfare. Attack submarines also project power ashore through special operations forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles, playing a critical role in preventing or preparing for regional crises.

    As the Navy’s leader in attack submarine maintenance and modernization, PNSY enhances critical warfighting capabilities by safely delivering first-time quality work, ensuring our undersea warf-ighters are battle-ready when called upon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: FRCSW Wins People’s Choice Award at 2024 Maintenance Innovation Challenge

    Source: United States Navy

    The competition, held during the Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium in Salt Lake City, showcased five finalists presenting innovative solutions aimed at improving military sustainment and readiness. Attendees selected FRCSW’s cold spray technology as the standout innovation.

    Presented by FRCSW materials engineer Matthew Chu, cold spray technology addresses critical challenges posed by corrosion and mechanical wear on aircraft components. The repair process uses a high-velocity gas stream to accelerate metallic powder particles, forming durable coatings that restore damaged surfaces. The technology has already saved millions of dollars by extending the life of components that would otherwise require costly replacements.

    “Cold Spray is revolutionizing how we maintain and sustain fleet readiness,” Chu said during his presentation. “It’s a practical, cost-saving solution that addresses immediate repair needs and enhances long-term operational efficiency.”

    FRCSW competed against four other finalists:

    • Enhancing Field Repair Capabilities through Mixed Reality by Stephanie Bryan, Marine Depot Maintenance Command

    • Expeditionary Cold Spray by Jeff Campbell, NAVSEA 05T

    • On-Aircraft Cold Spray to Optimize Maintenance and Reduce Logistics by Matthew Chu, FRCSW

    • Repair Technology Exercise by Mathew VanRavenhorst, NAVSEA 05T

    • XtruJog by Vis Madhavan, Fairmount Technologies, LLC

    Cold Spray has proven to be a game changer for the Navy, restoring components previously deemed irreparable while improving fleet readiness and reducing reliance on limited supply chains. Hundreds of parts have already been repaired using this technology, with optimized procedures ensuring consistent quality.

    As a winner of the People’s Choice Award, FRCSW received $50,000 in in-kind support from the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) to further demonstrate and advance this innovative technology.

    FRCSW’s victory highlights its role as a leader in maintenance innovation, delivering solutions that reduce costs, enhance readiness and set a new standard for sustaining the modern fleet.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces 104 Appointments to Boards, Authorities, and Commissions

    Source: US State of Georgia

    Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced 104 appointments and reappointments to various state boards, authorities, and commissions.

    Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia

    Patrick Jones was reappointed. 

    Thomas Chris Cannon is a business owner, business leader, and an active member of the Albany community and the State of Georgia. Early in his career, Cannon was the President and Chief Operating Officer of an entity that had varied business interests throughout Georgia, including a multi-divisional Caterpillar Tractor Distributorship, corporate farming operations and real estate development. In 1992, Cannon founded and developed a business group whose mission was to provide a variety of environmental services to businesses and city and county governments in Georgia, Florida, and Alabama. The business group consisted of a multi-location residential and commercial waste service company, a petroleum equipment company, a solid waste landfill developer and operator, and an environmental consulting and remediation firm. In 1998, Cannon completed a merger transaction of his waste service company with a publicly traded company – Waste Industries – based in Raleigh, North Carolina. For several years, Cannon served on the board of directors of the publicly traded company, until 1992 when he sold his shares in Waste Industries to pursue other business interests. Also in 1992, he founded Flint Holdings, Inc. Today, Cannon continues to own and operate Flint Equipment Company consisting of Flint Ag and Turf, Flint Power Systems, and Barber Petroleum Equipment Company. Over the years, Cannon has served as the president of many civic organizations, including the Albany Technical College Foundation Board, the Albany YMCA Board, and the Boys and Girls Club Board. He also served on the boards of the Darton College Foundation, the State of Georgia Department of Industry and Trade, NoVab Inc., Waste Industries Inc., Deerfield Windsor School, the Governors Council on Economic Development, the Georgia Mining Association, the Albany Museum of Art, Nations Bank, and regional Sun Trust Bank. Cannon is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a B.S.A. degree in Business. He has two children that are active in the businesses and continues to reside in Albany.

    Haynes (Maier) Studstill is a partner in the Valdosta law firm Studstill Firm, LLP, where her practice is focused on representing individuals and families in disputes with insurance companies. Studstill is originally from Rome, where she attended Darlington School before graduating the Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana. She earned her B.S. degree from Vanderbilt University in human & organizational development. After graduating from Vanderbilt, Haynes worked in the journalism industry for several years. She worked at WRC-TV/NBC4 in Washington, D.C. and NBC-affiliate WSMV in Nashville, Tennessee. She also served as the life editor of The Brunswick News before joining her uncle, William S. Morris, III, of Augusta, at his equine publications, Quarter Horse News and Barrel Horse News, in Fort Worth, Texas. Morris is a former regent, as is his father and Haynes’s grandfather, William S. Morris, Jr., thus making Haynes the 3rd generation in her family to serve the University System of Georgia on the Board of Regents. Studstill attended Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law, where she met her husband, Justin D. Studstill. She and Justin both graduated from Mercer. She is a former barrister in the William Augustus Bootle Inn of Court. Studstill clerked for the Hon. C. Ashley Royal in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia and worked as an associate for King & Spalding, LLP in Atlanta, before joining her father-in-law, Danny Studstill, and her husband in practice in South Georgia at the Studstill Firm, LLP.  She currently serves as a board member on the State Botanical Garden of Georgia Board of Advisors in Athens and on the Judicial Nominating Commission, having been appointed by Gov. Kemp in 2021. She also serves as a Special Master, appointed by the Georgia Supreme Court, on attorney discipline cases. She is the immediate past president of the Valdosta Bar Association, and former president of both the Alapaha Judicial Circuit Bar Association and the Valdosta Chapter of the Georgia Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL). She is a former board member of: Vanderbilt University Peabody College Young Alumni Board; the Museum of Arts & Sciences in Macon; SafeKids Lowndes County; and The Verdict magazine of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association (GTLA). She has been admitted to practice in all State Appellate Courts in Georgia, all U.S. District Courts in Georgia, and the Supreme Court of the United States. She and her husband have four children and live in Lakeland, Georgia.

    State Board of Pardons and Paroles

    Robert Markley is a dedicated and experienced law enforcement professional with a proven track record of leadership and service to the community. Markley served as the elected Sheriff of Morgan County from 2001 to 2024, overseeing all aspects of law enforcement operations. Prior to his role as Sheriff, Markley held various positions within the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, including jailer, patrolman, investigator, and administrative officer. Committed to maintaining public safety, upholding the law, and fostering positive community relationships. During his tenure as Sheriff, he served as member of the Board of Trustees for the Sheriffs’ Retirement Fund of Georgia.

    Georgia Composite Medical Board 

    Judy Lynn Gardner and Barby J. Simmons were reappointed.

    Board of Natural Resources

    Nancy Addison was reappointed. 

    Mike Peavy is a native of Hawkinsville, Georgia, and is a graduate of the University of Georgia. After teaching for several years, he transitioned into concrete and masonry supply sales, ultimately joining Cherokee Brick. At Cherokee, Peavy became vice president of sales and later assumed the role of president in 2008. In 2021, Peavy was named president of CBEL, the parent company overseeing Cherokee Brick, Cherokee Block, Cherokee Masonry, Stratton Stone and other complimentary businesses. With a history of leadership in the industry, Peavy served many years on the Brick Industry Association (BIA) Board, BIA Region 9 and as past president of Brick Southeast. He currently serves on the Georgia Mining Association (GMA) board and the Southeast Concrete Masonry Association (SCMA). Peavy resides in Macon with his wife, Kate. They have two children and are awaiting the arrival of twin granddaughters on the way.

    Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council

    Andy Hester and Ray Paulk were reappointed.

    State Board of Education

    Leonte Benton and Rich Valladares were reappointed. 

    Courtney Dove attended the University of Georgia where she earned a B.A. in political science and master’s in teaching. She went on to teach United States history, world history, government and Georgia studies at Winder-Barrow High School and Dodgen Middle School. She has served as department chair and a county representative of her department. Dove has also worked at Riverstone Church as the preschool and kindergarten lead and regularly volunteers at her children’s schools in various capacities. Additionally, she advocates for congenital heart defect awareness and serves as a heart swap chair for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.  Courtney lives in Marietta with her husband David and their three children.

    Kristi Garrett has been with RA-LIN & Associates, Inc. since 2008, where she is the chief marketing officer. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in business administration-marketing, Garrett initially worked in the healthcare industry before taking time to focus on her family. In 2018, she became a managing partner of Southern Home & Garden/ACE Hardware until its sale in 2021. At RA-LIN, she focuses on building relationships, fostering growth, and inspiring success. Beyond her professional career, Garrett is a dedicated community leader, serving on the Carroll County Chamber Board, the Tanner Foundation Board of Trustees, and participating in local organizations. A Carrollton, Georgia native, Garrett is married to Ben Garrett, and together they have four children. 

    Melanie Stockwell has had a longstanding passion for Georgia public education, beginning with her role as general counsel for the Department of Education from 1996 to 2003. She then served in various capacities in the Georgia State Senate, including as chief of staff to President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson, where she provided legal counsel and policy expertise, particularly in education. After her time in the Senate, Stockwell worked on policy initiatives for political candidates and later held a position at the Georgia Department of Labor before leaving full-time work in 2013 to focus on family. She became deeply involved in school volunteering, serving on PTSA boards and local school councils. After her youngest child graduated, she worked as a front desk receptionist at Lakeside High School for five years, supporting teachers and administrators. She holds a B.A. in political science from Carson-Newman College and a law degree from the University of Virginia. Melanie and her husband, Mitch, reside in DeKalb County with their two young adult children.

    Lake Lanier Islands Development Authority

    Alan Gravel and Stephen Syfan were reappointed.

    Walter “Bill” Frobos is CEO and one of the owners of Lanier Treatment Center. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.S.A. Frobos worked for Leon Farmer & Co. for 20 years in management and marketing. He is also a licensed real estate agent with Southern Heritage Land Co. In 2005, he saw a need to help those that had inadvertently became addicted to opiates. Frobos founded Lanier Treatment Center with a local physician and another business partner to offer medication assisted treatment. His goal and philosophy have always been to focus on providing the best outpatient treatment by using quality and well-trained counselors to help the clients to live a healthy, sober life.

    Georgia Council on Aging

    Kenneth Brooks, Maureen Kelly, Ruth Lee, Patricia Lyons, Adrienne Mims, and Ashton Windham were reappointed. 

    Pamela Cushenan is an experienced dental hygienist and educator based in Marietta, Georgia. She holds an associate of science in dental hygiene from Tennessee State University and MeHarry Medical College, a bachelor’s and master’s in health arts and training & development from the University of St. Francis, and a graduate certificate in Gerontology from Georgia State University. With over 30 years of experience in dental hygiene, Cushenan has served in various clinical roles, from private practice to teaching at Georgia State University, where she has been a faculty member since 2005. She is involved in numerous professional organizations, including the Georgia Dental Hygienists’ Association (GDHA) and the Special Care Dentistry Association (SCDA), where she has held leadership positions. Her research contributions include serving as principal investigator on studies related to oral health and aging, and she has received several accolades for her work, including the Georgia Dental Award of Merit and the 2020 Carl V. Patton President’s Award for Community Service & Social Justice. Cushenan is passionate about advancing dental hygiene through education, advocacy, and specialized care for seniors and individuals with special needs.

    Elizabeth Schulze is the long-term care ombudsman program coordinator and CEO of North Georgia Programs and Services. In her role, she advocates for long-term care residents through routine facility monitoring, facility consultation, providing information and assistance to the public and other agency officials, training for facility staff, and community education. Schulze has a bachelor’s in biology and is working towards her Master of Public Administration at the University of Georgia. While earning her undergrad degree, Schulze worked as a caregiver for people with developmental disabilities and older adults. Her interest in the aging population deepened during her time as a caregiver in Assisted Living and Nursing Homes, which led her to earn an A.S. in Gerontology. She has previously held positions as program coordinator at Athens Community Council on Aging and as a Medicaid case manager for an Oregon Area Agency on Aging.

    Board of Juvenile Justice

    Danny Lee Blackmon and Sandra Heath Taylor were reappointed.

    Gary McGiboney is executive director of the government and education program with Sharecare. Prior to his role at Sharecare, McGiboney worked for over 30 years in the advancement of education and educational services as the Deputy Superintendent at the Georgia Department of Education and as the Deputy Superintendent of Support Services for Dekalb County Schools. McGiboney has a Ph.D. in psychology from Georgia State University. Throughout his career, he has been the recipient of many awards and accolades. McGiboney currently serves on the Council of Alcohol and Drugs.

    Western Circuit Public Defender Supervisory Panel 

    William “Billy” Rennie graduated from the University of Georgia in 2005 with a degree in speech communications and the University of Georgia School of Law in 2011. Billy began his legal career representing indigent defendants in Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties. In 2014, Rennie opened the Law Office of William R. Rennie, LLC and joined the Law Office of Russell W. Wall, LLC as of counsel, working primarily as the firm’s lead litigator. Rennie has won jury trials in Athens-Clarke, Oconee, Greene, Morgan, Putnam, Oglethorpe, and other surrounding Counties. He is a graduate of and a former facilitator for the Oconee Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Oconee program, and previously served on the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors, the Oconee County Arts Foundation’s Board of Directors, and the University of North Georgia Advisory Board. Billy’s hobbies include golf, soccer, and reading. He lives in Watkinsville with his wife and daughters.

    Coweta Circuit Public Defender Supervisory Panel

    Brian Lewis is a partner with the Kam, Ebersbach and Lewis, P.C Law Office and has been practicing there for over 20 years. He specializes in plaintiff personal injury and criminal defense. Before going into private practice, he served as an assistant district attorney for the Cowette Judicial Circuit. Lewis has a bachelor’s in finance and real estate, and a Juris Doctorate from the Emory School of Law. He is an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Newnan, where he served two terms as senior warden and currently serves as the chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. Brian is a member of the Board of Trustees for The Heritage School and is the chair of the Governance Committee, is a former chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Carolyn Barron Montessori School in Newnan, and supports local organizations and charities, such as The Coweta Samaritan Clinic, One Roof, Coweta Food Pantry, and the Lindsey Riggs Memorial Foundation.

    Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies

    Pamela Griggs, Tripp Mitchell, and Joel Peacock were reappointed. 

    David Sawyer is a forensic accountant and financial crimes investigator with extensive experience in both civil litigation and criminal prosecution. Sawyer currently works for Sawyer & Company as a private investigator. With over 300 investigations involving fraud, corruption, financial damages, and various legal disputes, he has provided expert witness testimony in more than 20 cases. He has also contributed to the development of software designed to detect fraud, waste, and white-collar crime, and has advised on global initiatives to combat issues such as economic espionage, terrorist financing, and money laundering. Sawyer attended the University of Auburn and received a bachelor of science in accounting. He has had roles as a partner at a top 50 regional CPA/advisory firm and a managing consultant with two big four accounting firms. He also has experience as an internal auditor for Fortune 500 companies. Additionally, Sawyer is a licensed private investigator. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Georgia Chapter of Certified Fraud Examiners, the Georgia Society of CPA’s Fraud and Forensic Services Advisory Council, and the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS). He also serves as co-chairman of the Atlanta Chapter of ACAMS and is on the Executive Committee of Business Executives for National Security (BENS). A graduate of Auburn University, Sawyer has also served as an adjunct professor and guest lecturer on fraud examination and forensic accounting.

    Stone Mountain Memorial Association

    Joan Thomas was reappointed. 

    Georgia Board of Landscape Architects 

    Betsey Norton and Jon Williams were reappointed.

    State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors

    Devell Frady is the owner of Devell Frady Homes. He is a custom home builder based out of Ellijay. Frady has been in the construction business for over 20 years. He is the former president of the Georgia High Country Builders Association and has extensive knowledge of the licensing and permit process.

    North Georgia Mountains Authority

    Charles DePriest serves as the executive vice president of Summit Materials’ East Segment. He brings more than 25 years of extensive experience in finance, operations, and executive leadership to his role. In 2016, he co-founded Georgia Stone Products, a construction materials producer in Georgia. Georgia Stone Products was acquired by Summit Materials in 2017 and has emerged as a cornerstone component in Summit’s greenfield growth strategy. His previous roles at Summit include East Region CFO, Leader of Enterprise Standardization, and Central Region President. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Charles holds a bachelor of professional accountancy from Mississippi State University, an MBA from Mercer University, and is an active CPA and Chartered Global Management Accountant. DePriest is an at-large representative on the Board of Natural Resources.

    Mark Hennessey works for Hennessy Automobile Cos. in Atlanta, Georgia. Hennessy has served on the Board of Trustees for the Marist School in Atlanta and is a member of the Buckhead Coalition. He served on the first BRAC Commission for Fort McPherson. He was a member of the North Fulton CID for over eight years. He had the pleasure to serve on the Board of the Technical College System of Georgia from April 2020 until spring of 2023, when he was appointed to serve on the Board of Natural Resources.  

    Lesley Reynolds is the chair of the Board of Natural Resources. She is a native of Baldwin County, Georgia, and a graduate of Georgia Military College and Georgia College and State University. Reynolds taught elementary school at Midway Elementary in Milledgeville. She has and is engaged with several organizations that focus on education, Judeo-Christian values, and women’s safety and security.

    Harley Yancey is the president of State Mutual Insurance Company in Rome, Georgia, where he also serves on the company’s Board of Directors. He joined State Mutual in 2018 after practicing law at Brinson, Askew, Berry, Seigler, Richardson & Davis, LLP. Prior to becoming president, he served as the company’s general counsel and now manages its day-to-day operations. Yancey holds a bachelor of business administration from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, a Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law, a master of laws from the University of Alabama School of Law, and a master of business administration from the University of North Carolina. Outside of his role at State Mutual, Yancey is the chairman of the Georgia Life & Health Insurance Guaranty Association, a director for the Oklahoma Life & Health Insurance Guaranty Association, and serves on the Board of Directors for United Community Bank of Rome. He is also involved with the YMCA Board of Trustees, the Darlington School Alumni Council, and the Georgia School of Law Alumni Council. He is the 14th Congressional District representative on the Board of Natural Resources.

    Georgia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

    Chelsea Tehan was reappointed.

    Stormey Cone is currently the director of the deaf and hard of hearing family engagement and education program at the Georgia Department of Education. Cone is particularly passionate about ensuring access to services in rural Georgia and has a wealth of experience in the education of deaf and hard of hearing students, especially those enrolled in rural school districts. Cone is a former educator that worked with deaf and hard-of-hearing students in public schools for many years. Recently, she has specialized in improving Georgia’s early identification and intervention for young deaf and hard-of-hearing infants. Cone was the inaugural parent navigator for the Georgia Mobile Audiology, traveling around the state to develop a better understanding of parents’ experiences with diagnosing infants with hearing loss. 

    Russell Fleming has held many leadership positions in agencies that serve deaf and deafblind communities. Among other positions, he was state coordinator for Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind consumers and dean of students and interim superintendent at the Georgia School for the Deaf.  In his retirement, he serves as vice president of the Georgia Association of the Deaf and works part time as a deafblind Specialist. 

    Byron Smith is the father of a deaf child who uses ASL. He and his wife are hearing and had no contact with the deaf community before adopting their daughter. They are learning ASL as adults to provide the best language and learning environment for their daughter. He has been a fire fighter since 1993, working for U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Airforce, and the National Park Service.

    DeAnna Swope has held several positions of leadership in the deaf community. She currently works in the field of domestic violence where she educates hearing agencies on how to offer more culturally and linguistically accessible services for deaf and hard of hearing survivors of domestic violence survivors. Swope has received accolades, such as the prestigious Gender Justice Award from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence as well as Collaborate awards from the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence. In 2020, she was honored with a distinguished deaf community leader position at Hamilton Relay. She is a past president of the Georgia Association of the Deaf.

    State Forestry Commission 

    Ken Sheppard was reappointed.

    State Board of Occupational Therapy

    Deborah Hinerfeld is the owner and director of Tic Tok Occupational Therapy Services in Roswell, GA. Hinerfeld holds a Ph.D. in Health Science with a concentration in health care administration and public policy from Trident International University. She also earned a master’s in health care policy and administration from Mercer University and a bachelor’s in occupational therapy from Utica College. Hinerfeld has extensive experience in occupational therapy, having worked in various roles including private practice owner, adjunct professor, and staff therapist at several institutions. She holds certifications in sensory integration, behavioral intervention for tics, hippotherapy, and youth mental health. Additionally, she has contributed to research, presented at numerous conferences, and held leadership positions within professional organizations such as the American Occupational Therapy Association. 

    Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority

    Trevor Addison is the clerk of Putnam County’s Superior and Juvenile Courts and has since taken on additional roles as clerk of State Court, Juvenile Court, appeal administrator to the Board of Equalization, and jury manager. Previously, Addison served as a commissioner for Putnam County. During his tenure he served on multiple boards, including the Sinclair Water Authority and the Central Georgia Joint Development Authority, and was appointed vice chairman of the Board of Commissioners. He also serves as treasurer of the Putnam County Law Library Board of Trustees and is active on the Putnam General Hospital Foundation Board, the Legislative Committee of the Georgia Superior Court Clerk Cooperative Authority, and the Executive Board of the Putnam County Republicans. Trevor remains dedicated to serving his community at both the local and state levels.

    Board of Directors of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority

    Dick Anderson, Frank Auman, Jace Brooks, William Tate, Jr. and BobVoyles were reappointed.

    Himanshu Karnwal is the founder and CEO of ISHTECH INC, an IT Solutions architecture and design company that has been successfully operating for over 12 years. With 25 years of experience in the information technology industry, he has worked alongside Fortune 100 companies, including Sony Pictures, NBC Universal, eBay, and Nike, helping to design and manage global IT infrastructures. In addition to his business achievements, Karnwal is an active community leader. He serves as a planning commissioner for Johns Creek and is a member of the board of directors for the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce. He is also involved with several other organizations, including Rotary Johns Creek North Fulton and the advisory boards of Quantiphi and Waypoint 2 Space. Karnwal is a strong advocate for the Indian and Asian communities in North Fulton, Johns Creek, and South Forsyth. He is the founder and chairman of a National Indian Association in the greater Atlanta area and serves on the board of the Georgia chapter of U.S. Impact, an organization that represents the Indian American community.

    Jai Bum Park immigrated to the United States from Korea in the late 1980s and quickly transitioned into the telecommunications industry. He made the decision to leave college and focus on growing his business, starting in Chicago and later expanding his operations. In the early 2000s, Park relocated to Georgia, where he became a Master Coin Operated Amusement Machine (COAM) license holder and played a key role in generating millions of dollars for the Georgia Lottery Corporation, supporting the Georgia HOPE Scholarship. In 2009, Park served as chairman of the Korean Association of Augusta, working to integrate Korean-Americans into American society. In addition to his business endeavors, he has invested in real estate across Georgia. A strong believer in the concept of the “whole person,” Park is committed to personal growth and fostering meaningful connections. 

    State Board of Pharmacy 

    Michael Azzolin was reappointed.

    Board of Directors of the Georgia Lottery Corporation 

    Missy Burgess was reappointed. 

    Board of Economic Development

    Sandra Bland is the president of Vidalia Brands, Inc. and director of marketing for Bland Farms, where she has been instrumental in popularizing the Vidalia Sweet Onion. Her innovations include incorporating Vidalia onions into processed foods and expanding their reach across the U.S. Bland’s early entrepreneurial efforts included running a mail-order business that helped Vidalia onions gain widespread recognition. Under her leadership, Vidalia Brands champions sustainability by minimizing food waste. Before her role at Bland Farms, she attended College of Coastal Georgia where she received a degree in nursing. Bland built a career in healthcare, holding significant nursing positions. She is actively involved in Southern Roots Women in Produce and supports various philanthropic causes, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Bland, a devoted community member and family matriarch, resides in St. Simons Island with her husband, Delbert, and their three children and ten grandchildren.

    Board of Corrections

    Bruce Carlisle, Donnie Pope, W.D. Strickland and Rose Williams were reappointed.

    Chris Clark will now serve as the Seventh Congressional District Representative. 

    Luis Solis will now serve as the Ninth Congressional District Representative. 

    Ester Fleming will now serve as the Thirteenth Congressional District Representative. 

    Barry Babb will now serve as an At-Large Representative. 

    Stacy Jarrard will now serve as an At-Large Representative.

    Kellie Brownlow is the VP of development and community relations at First Step Staffing. First Step Staffing is a 501C3 that uses an alternative staffing model to provide individuals who are homeless, citizens returning from prison, and veterans with immediate employment. Brownlow is responsible for community partnerships and resource development in all five states in which the company has offices, including the headquarter office in Atlanta. Previously, she served as the executive director of the Georgia Alliance of the Boys & Girls Clubs. Before joining Boys & Girls Clubs, Brownlow was the deputy chief to the Cobb County Commission Chairman and director of economic development for Partnership Gwinnett. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and political science from Rhode Island College and a master’s degree in public administration for the University of Georgia. Brownlow serves on the State Workforce Development Board. She lives in DeKalb County with her husband and two daughters.

    Rodney Bryant is a retired law enforcement executive with over 34 years of law enforcement experience. Bryant has held numerous key roles, culminating in his position as Chief of Police for the Atlanta Police Department. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated expertise in a wide range of areas including community engagement, crime reduction, crisis management, and public safety leadership. Known for his strong communication, negotiation, and strategic planning skills, he has successfully led teams, improved community relations, and managed multi-million-dollar budgets. Bryant’s achievements include serving as the President of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, overseeing the security operations for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and managing large-scale events such as the College Football Playoff Championship and Super Bowl LIII. Bryant holds a master of science in administration from Central Michigan University and a bachelor of science in criminal justice from Georgia State University. He is also a graduate of various prestigious law enforcement leadership programs, including the Police Executive Leadership Institute and the FBI LEEDA.

    Georgia Rural Development Council

    Betts Berry, Gabe Evans, Jim Matney, and Stuart Rayfield were reappointed.

    Bárbara Rivera Holmes is president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. Holmes is likewise CEO of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation. In 2018, Holmes was appointed by then Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal to serve on the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, for which she chaired the Committee on Economic Development. In 2020, Holmes was appointed by then Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan to co-chair the Rural Initiatives Subcommittee of the Georgia Innovates Task Force to help design the state’s innovation blueprint. Holmes is a former journalist whose work has earned four awards for excellence in journalism from the Georgia Associated Press. Prior to her role at the Albany Area Chamber, Holmes was vice president of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, where she developed the organization’s business retention and expansion program to facilitate existing industry job creation and capital investment in Albany-Dougherty County, and its marketing programs. Holmes is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Georgia, and served on the organization’s Board of Trustees; a 2022 participant of the U.S. Chamber Foundation Business Leads Fellowship Program; and a 2023 graduate of the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management. She serves on the boards of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy. She graduated from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, with degrees in journalism and in Spanish. She continued her studies at Estudio Sampere Internacional in Madrid and Alicante, Spain. She lives in Albany with her husband, David, and their daughter.

    Sheriff’s Retirement Fund

    Dan Kilgore is the elected Sheriff of Upson County, a position he has held since January 2013. With over 40 years of experience in law enforcement, Kilgore’s career has spanned a variety of roles, including serving as a sheriff’s deputy, city police officer, county police officer, and district attorney’s investigator. Prior to his election as Sheriff, he dedicated more than 21 years of service as the chief deputy sheriff of Upson County. Kilgore is deeply involved in the law enforcement community and holds several leadership positions. He serves as vice chairman on the Board of the Peace Officer’s Annuity and Benefit Fund and is an advisory member of the Georgia POST Council. Additionally, he is the Georgia Sheriff’s Association Area 4 regional vice president. In 2023, he earned his certification as a retirement plan fiduciary, awarded by the Georgia Association of Public Pension Trustees. Outside of his professional endeavors, Kilgore is a devoted family man, married to his wife, Renae, and the proud father of three adult children and one grandson. The Kilgore family are active members of the First Methodist Church of Thomaston.

    Horace “Billy” Hancock started his career in public safety in 1976, and he is currently serving his 3rd term as Sheriff of Crisp County. He has also served as the emergency management director of Crisp County since 2014. Hancock began his career as an emergency medical technician with Crisp County EMS. He has spent over 40 years in law enforcement, first sworn in in 1979 as a part-time deputy with the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office. He later went to work for the Georgia State Patrol. He returned to the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office in 1990. He held the position of chief deputy for 19 years and served as the deputy director of the Crisp County Emergency Management Agency for 14 years. He is a graduate of the 57th Georgia State Patrol Academy. He has an associate degree in criminal justice, a master’s certificate in emergency management, and a bachelor’s from Columbia Southern University in homeland security. Hancock was appointed and has served as a board member of the Georgia Peace Officer’s Standards and Training Council (the ABAC Region). He is past vice president of the Georgia Peace Officers Association and is an active member of both the Georgia and National Sheriff’s Association. He continues to teach on the state and federal levels. Hancock began serving as a lion with the Cordele Lions Club in 2001 and has received numerous awards from the organization. In 2018, Governor Nathan Deal appointed Hancock to the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority (GECA) Board. Hancock was also reappointed to the GECA Board by Governor Brian Kemp. Hancock is a member of the Cordele Church of Christ.

    Frank Reynolds was sworn into office on January 1, 2017, as the 39th Sheriff of Cherokee County, Georgia. Reynolds has been a resident of Cherokee County since 1981. He began his law enforcement career in 1994 with the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office. Reynolds is committed to serving Cherokee County with honesty, transparency, and integrity. As a Georgia Constitutional Officer, Reynolds is mandated to oversee warrant service and civil process, maintain the adult detention center, courthouse security and provide general law enforcement within Cherokee County. He is a graduate of Riverside Military Academy, earned a bachelor’s degree from Reinhardt University and holds a master of public administration from Columbus State University. Reynolds is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia class 244, and the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College. He is married to Dr. Jennifer DeBord Reynolds and is the proud father of three.

    Georgia Technology Authority

    Marie Mouchet is an accomplished technology and cybersecurity executive currently serving as a member of the Board of Advisors for Mimic and HData and managing director of Mouchet Ventures LLC. Her extensive experience and leadership on various boards demonstrates her exceptional talent and commitment to driving innovation and education across industries and also exemplifies her dedication to leveraging her knowledge and insights to make a positive impact in the community. Previous roles include senior vice president and CIO at Colonial Pipeline Company, where Mouchet led technology strategy and operations across both IT and OT domains, vice president and CIO at Southern Company Operations & Southern Nuclear, and director of financial and contract services at Southern Company’s Southern Wholesale Energy. She has served in various board positions, including board advisor and chairman of Georgia CIO and board secretary of the Women In Technology (WIT) Foundation. Marie holds advanced degrees from Georgia State University and completed executive education at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business. Her remarkable contributions to the industry and community led to her being honored with the highly regarded and prestigious Ed Steineke CIO Award by TechBridge in 2020.

    Board of Commissioners of the Judges of the Probate Courts Retirement Fund of Georgia

    Annie Doris Holder has served as the Probate and Chief Magistrate Judge of Calhoun County for the past 24 years, dedicating her career to providing fair and courteous service to the citizens of her community. A committed public servant, she strives to ensure that all individuals receive just and equitable treatment under the law. Holder is a proud graduate of Calhoun County High School and holds an associate degree from Darton College, a bachelor’s degree from Albany State University, and a master’s degree from LaGrange College. Beyond her judicial responsibilities, she is actively engaged in community service. She currently serves as the president of the missionary department of the Southwest Georgia Missionary Baptist Association, the district associate matron of Cuthbert District #13 OES, and a board member of Albany Technical College. Holder is married to Rev. Julian Holder and they share three daughters, as well as nine beloved grandchildren. 

    State Board of Veterinary Medicine 

    Matthew Bradley and Wendy Cuevas-Espelid were reappointed.

    Seth Stowers grew up on a small family farm in Dawsonville, Georgia. In 2005, he began his own small beef cattle operation that he continues to grow today. Stowers graduated from the University of Georgia in 2014 where he received a bachelor of science in poultry science. While at UGA he was active in UGA Cattleman’s Association, Block and Bridle, UGA Poultry Science Club, and competed on UGA’s Poultry Judging Team. Dr. Stowers attended the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine where his studies were emphasized in food animal medicine and production. He graduated with his doctor of veterinary medicine in 2018. Throughout the curriculum at UGA CVM, he lived and worked at Rose Creek Farm, UGA’s Veterinary School farm. To gain a better knowledge and develop his skills in cattle medicine he completed externships at Krebs Ranch in Nebraska and bovine veterinary practices in Texas, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. Stowers began Hillside Veterinary Services in May of 2018. His professional interests encompass anything involving beef cows, especially herd health and preventative medicine. Stowers is excited to have an opportunity to give back to FFA and 4-H, two programs that provided him with numerous opportunities, through working with local youth. In 2023, he was elected to serve as the district 1 Commissioner on the Dawson County Board of Commissioners.

    John Tarabula is a seasoned veterinary professional with over 30 years of experience in small animal and exotic medicine. He earned his D.V.M. and B.S. degrees from the University of Georgia and has served as the medical director at the Animal Medical & Surgical Center in Canton, Georgia, since 1988. Additionally, he is the owner of Creekside Animal Hospital in Cumming, Georgia, where he has been practicing since 2015. Tarabula’s extensive career also includes roles as an associate veterinarian at Beach St. John Animal Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, and as an emergency clinician at Jacksonville Veterinary Emergency Clinic. Beyond clinical practice, Tarabula is actively involved in professional service, having served on the Board of Directors for Cobb and Cherokee Emergency Veterinary Clinics, as well as holding leadership positions within the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association. He also has a history of public service, having been a city councilman and Mayor Pro-Tem in Holly Springs, Georgia. Tarabula has participated in medical missions with the Flying Doctors of America, providing veterinary care in Ecuador, Peru, and Bhutan. 

    OneGeorgia Authority Overview Committee 

    Senator Larry Walker, III and Representative Butch Parrish were reappointed. 

    Georgia Board of Behavior Analyst Licensing Board 

    Christina “Nina” Holland is an experienced office administrator with nearly 20 years of expertise in managing operations both in-office and remotely. She has spent eight years with ICB Construction Group, overseeing contracts, financial management, and accounts, and has worked with Southern Structures Fencing for the past decade. In addition to her professional success, Holland is a passionate advocate for children with autism. After recognizing early on that her son had unique needs, she became dedicated to navigating complex medical and governmental systems to ensure her son received the therapies and care required for his development. Holland’s personal journey through autism advocacy has fueled her desire to help other families, offering support in early intervention, Medicaid, and ABA therapy, while striving to improve access to essential services for children in need.

    Board of Public Safety 

    Neal Jump is currently serving his fourth term as the Sheriff of Glynn County. Jump has been in law enforcement since he was 17 years old. Prior to being elected sheriff, Jump worked with the Georgia State Patrol for more than 30 years, beginning his career as a radio operator in 1975.  Jump studied criminal justice at South Georgia College.

    Georgia Board of Nursing 

    Lydia Watkins is the Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at College of Coastal Georgia, as well as a professor of nursing. She has worked as a registered nurse since 1997, first in pediatric hematology/oncology at the Children’s Hospital of Alabama, and then as a pediatric hematology/oncology nurse practitioner at Sparrow Health System in Lansing, Michigan. She was an adjunct instructor with the Department of Pediatrics and Human Development at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine prior to joining the faculty at College of Coastal Georgia. Since joining the college, Watkins has served in other roles such as the BSN program coordinator, interim program director of radiologic sciences, and chair of nursing and health sciences, prior to becoming the dean. Watkins holds a doctor of nursing practice from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a master of science in nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a bachelor of science in nursing and an associate of science in nursing from Samford University. She is also a certified nurse educator (CNE) through the National League for Nursing.

    Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Overview Committee 

    Senator Tonya Anderson, Senator Steve Gooch, Representative Demetrius Douglas, Representative Scott Hilton, and Representative Martin Momtahan were reappointed. 

    Senator Sonya Halpern represents Senate District 39 and is the Minority Caucus Vice Chair. Halpern was elected to the General Assembly in 2020. She is the vice chair for the Committee on Urban Affairs and a member of Senate Appropriations, the Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions, the Committee on Education and Youth, the Committee on Health and Human Services, and the Committee on Public Safety.

    Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

    Jim Waters is a local farmer from Blackshear, Georgia. He is the elected Pierce County Supervisor for Satilla River Conservation District. He also serves as the chairman. He is a full-time farmer, planting crops that consist of cotton and peanuts. He is passionate about educating the community on conservation efforts and farmers on good conservation practices to protect our croplands.

    Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission 

    P.K. Martin, Doug Roper, Jim Squire, and Pranay Udutha were reappointed. 

    Michael Foor is the president of state operations for Georgia for Kinetic. Foor previously served as vice president of state government affairs in Georgia, building relationships with legislators, electric cooperatives, and communities to support the deployment of rural broadband. Prior to joining Kinetic, Foor was the president of Georgia Communications Cooperative and part of Habersham Electric Membership’s efforts to build fiber-to-the-premise broadband service to communities in North Georgia. In addition to his responsibilities at Kinetic, Foor currently serves as chair for White County Development Authority and is a past president of Habersham Rotary Club, where he remains an active member. Foor holds an M.B.A. from Brenau University. He lives in Cleveland with his wife. They have three daughters and twin grandsons

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Animoca Brands leads Hivello funding round ahead of Token Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blockmate Ventures Inc (TSX.V: MATE) (OTCQB: MATEF) (FSE: 8MH1) (“Blockmate” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that:

    • Animoca Brands is leading the investment round of Blockmate’s subsidiary, Hivello Holdings Ltd (“Hivello”), and
    • Hivello’s associated token, HVLO, is scheduled for listing on leading exchanges, Gate.io and MEXC on February 11, 2025

    Animoca Brands leads the funding round alongside Taisu Ventures, NGC, Blockchange and Contango.

    Blockmate will not be directly issuing any tokens or receive any proceeds from the token listing. The token will be issued by the Swiss-based HVLO Association, under licence from Hivello Holdings Ltd.

    Below is the press release from Hivello:

    Hivello Secures Strategic Investment Led by Animoca Brands Ahead of Token Listing

    Highlights:

    • Animoca Brands leads investment into Hivello alongside Taisu Ventures, NGC, Blockchange and Contango.
    • Hivello will list its token (HVLO) on Gate.io and MEXC exchanges.
    • Animoca & Hivello are hosting a live X Space on 11th February

    London & Amsterdam, 10 February 2025 – Hivello, a DePIN aggregator that enables users to earn by monetising idle computer resources across multiple decentralised networks, has announced that Animoca Brands, the company driving digital property rights to help build the open metaverse, is leading its current funding round.

    Hivello will use the funds to further innovate and achieve its objectives of simplifying DePIN nodes and making them more user-friendly. Hivello is a DePIN aggregator focused on making DePINs more accessible. By allowing users to contribute their computing resources, Hivello enables them to earn through various Web3 protocols. Its mission is to eliminate the complexities often associated with decentralized networks, empowering users to engage in Web3 projects without needing specialized technical knowledge.

    In addition, Hivello’s Token Generation Event (TGE) is taking place on Gate.io and MEXC, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth and ecosystem development. The $HVLO token will play a crucial role in powering Hivello’s decentralized economy, facilitating staking, rewards, and broader participation in DePIN networks.

    As part of this journey, Hivello and Animoca Brands will be hosting a live discussion to dive deeper into the company’s growth, investment landscape, and future roadmap.

    Event details:

    • Date & Time: February 11 at 5 PM HKT | 9 AM UTC | 4 AM EST | 10 AM CET
    • Streaming on X

    Animoca Brands is a global leader in gamification and blockchain with a large portfolio of over 540 investments in Web3. Its mission is to advance digital property rights and decentralized projects to help build the open metaverse. The investment announced today connects Hivello with Animoca Brands’ extensive experience and innovation, furthering Hivello’s mission to simplify access to DePIN and enable users to earn rewards by contributing their computer resources.

    Hivello is dedicated to making DePIN nodes accessible and user-friendly for everyone, breaking down complex barriers often associated with decentralized networks. Animoca Brands’ mission to deliver digital property rights to gamers and internet users worldwide aligns with Hivello’s goal of empowering users by enabling them to contribute to DePIN networks. Both companies focus on providing users with true ownership and control over their digital assets.

    Yat Siu, the co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, said: “Animoca Brands is dedicated to building a more equitable digital framework that enables all users to benefit from the many advantages conferred by digital property rights. We are thrilled to support Hivello’s efforts to make DePIN nodes more accessible and user-friendly, helping to advance and simplify true digital ownership, network effects, and the open metaverse.’’

    Domenic Carosa, co-founder and chairman of Hivello, said: “We welcome Animoca Brands as a strategic partner and lead investor in our latest funding round. Its expertise and innovation in the digital and blockchain space will be instrumental as we continue to simplify access to decentralized physical infrastructure networks.”

    About Animoca Brands
    Animoca Brands, a Deloitte Tech Fast winner and ranked in the Financial Times list of High Growth Companies Asia-Pacific 2021, is a leader in digital entertainment, blockchain and gamification. It develops and publishes a broad portfolio of products, including the REVV token and SAND token; original games such as The Sandbox, Crazy Kings, and Crazy Defense Heroes; and products using popular intellectual properties including Disney, WWE, Snoop Dogg, The Walking Dead, Power Rangers, MotoGP and Formula E. The company has multiple subsidiaries, including The Sandbox, Blowfish Studios, Quidd, GAMEE, nWay, Pixowl, Bondly, Lympo, and Grease Monkey Games.

    About Hivello
    Hivello is an aggregator of DePIN projects that allows any user to participate in a variety of DePIN networks with just a few clicks. This eliminates the technical hurdles that many users face when trying to join these networks, and allows users to generate an extra source of income by mobilizing their idle computers. We aim to create a simple app that allows users to contribute their computer resources with no technical knowledge required. It’s as easy as downloading, installing, and running nodes, making complex technologies accessible and beneficial to all.
    For more information about Hivello and to stay updated on its developments, visit www.hivello.com

    About Blockmate Ventures Inc.

    Blockmate Ventures is a venture creator focussing on building fast-growing technology businesses relating to cutting-edge sectors such as blockchain, AI and renewable energy. Working with prospective founders, projects in incubation can benefit from the Blockmate ecosystem that offers tech, services, integrations and advice to accelerate the incubation of projects towards monetization. Recent projects include Hivello (download the free passive income app at www.hivello.com) and Sunified, digitising solar energy.

    The leadership team at Blockmate Ventures have successfully founded successful tech companies from the Dotcom era through to the social media era. Learn more about being a Blockmate at: www.blockmate.com.

    Blockmate welcomes investors to join the Company’s mailing list for the latest updates and industry research by subscribing at https://www.blockmate.com/subscribe.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Justin Rosenberg, CEO
    Blockmate Ventures Inc
    justin@blockmate.com
    (+1-580-262-6130)

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

    Forward-Looking Information
    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on the assumptions, expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Raindrop disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: If FEMA didn’t exist, could states handle the disaster response alone?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ming Xie, Assistant Professor of Emergency Management and Public Health, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

    Hurricane Ian caused widespread damage in Florida in 2022, estimated at over $112 billion. This scene was once a shopping center. Giorgio Veira/AFP via Getty Images

    Imagine a world in which a hurricane devastates the Gulf Coast, and the U.S. has no federal agency prepared to quickly send supplies, financial aid and temporary housing assistance.

    Could the states manage this catastrophic event on their own?

    Normally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, known as FEMA, is prepared to marshal supplies within hours of a disaster and begin distributing financial aid to residents who need help.

    However, with President Donald Trump questioning FEMA’s future and suggesting states take over recovery instead, and climate change causing more frequent and severe disasters, it’s worth asking how prepared states are to face these growing challenges without help.

    What FEMA does

    FEMA was created in 1979 with the job of coordinating national responses to disasters, but the federal government has played important roles in disaster relief since the 1800s.

    During a disaster, FEMA’s assistance can begin only after a state requests an emergency declaration and the U.S. president approves it. The request has to show that the disaster is so severe that the state can’t handle the response on its own.

    FEMA’s role is to support state and local governments by coordinating federal agencies and providing financial aid and recovery assistance that states would otherwise struggle to supply on their own. FEMA doesn’t “take over,” as a misinformation campaign launched during Hurricane Helene claimed. Instead, it pools federal resources to allow states to recover faster from expensive disasters.

    During a disaster, FEMA:

    • Coordinates federal resources. For example, during Hurricane Ian in 2022, FEMA coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and search-and-rescue teams to conduct rescue operations, organized utility crews to begin restoring power and also delivered water and millions of meals.

    • Provides financial assistance. FEMA distributes billions of dollars in disaster relief funds to help individuals, businesses and local governments recover. As of Feb. 3, 2025, FEMA aid from 2024 storms included US$1.04 billion related to Hurricane Milton, $416.1 million for Hurricane Helene and $112.6 million for Hurricane Debby.

    • Provides logistical support. FEMA coordinates with state and local governments, nonprofits such as the American Red Cross and federal agencies to supply cots, blankets and hygiene supplies for emergency shelters. It also works with state and local partners to distribute critical supplies such as food, water and medical aid.

    The agency also manages the National Flood Insurance Program, offers disaster preparedness training and helps states develop response plans to improve their overall responses systems.

    What FEMA aid looks like in a disaster

    When wildfires swept through Maui, Hawaii, in August 2023, FEMA provided emergency grants to cover immediate needs such as food, clothing and essential supplies for survivors.

    The agency arranged hotel rooms, rental assistance and financial aid for residents who lost homes or belongings. Its Direct Housing Program has spent $295 million to lease homes for more than 1,200 households. This comprehensive support helped thousands of people begin rebuilding their lives after losing almost everything.

    FEMA also helped fund construction of a temporary school to ensure that students whose schools burned could continue their classes. Hawaii, with its relatively small population and limited emergency funds, would have struggled to mount a comparable response on its own.

    Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, center, and then-FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speak to reporters in Lahaina, Hawaii, on Aug. 12, 2023, while assessing the wildfire damage there.
    AP Photo/Rick Bowmer

    Larger states often need help, too. When a 2021 winter storm overwhelmed Texas’ power grid and water infrastructure, FEMA coordinated the delivery of essential supplies, including water, fuel, generators and blankets, following the disaster declaration on Feb. 19, 2021. Within days, it awarded more than $2.8 million in grants to help people with temporary housing and home repairs.

    Which states would suffer most without FEMA?

    Without FEMA or other federal support, states would have to manage the disaster response and recovery on their own.

    States prone to frequent disasters, such as Louisiana and Florida, would face expensive recurring challenges that would likely exacerbate recovery delays and reduce their overall resilience.

    Smaller, more rural and less wealthy states that lack the financial resources and logistical capabilities to respond effectively would be disproportionately affected.

    “States don’t have that capability built to handle a disaster every single year,” Lynn Budd, director of the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security, told Stateline in an interview. Access to FEMA avoids the need for expensive disaster response infrastructure in each state.

    States might be able to arrange regional cooperation. But state-led responses and regional models have limitations. The National Guard could assist with supply distribution, but it isn’t designed to provide fast financial aid, housing or long-term recovery options, and the supplies and the recovery effort still come at a cost.

    Members of the National Guard and a FEMA search-and-rescue team work together in the disaster response after Hurricane Florence pounded Wilmington, N.C., in September 2018.
    Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    Wealthier states might be better equipped to manage on their own, but poorer states would likely struggle. States with less funding and infrastructure would be left relying on nonprofits and community-based efforts. But these organizations are not capable of providing the scope of services FEMA can.

    Any federal funding would also be slow if Congress had to approve aid after each disaster, rather than having FEMA already prepared to respond. States would be at the mercy of congressional infighting.

    In the absence of a federal response and coordinating role, recovery would be uneven, with wealthier areas recovering faster and poorer areas likely seeing more prolonged hardships.

    What does this mean?

    Coordinating disaster response is complex, the paperwork for federal assistance can be frustrating, and the agency does draw criticism. However, it also fills an important role.

    As the frequency of natural disasters continues to rise due to climate change, ask yourself: How prepared is your state for a disaster, and could it get by without federal aid?

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

    – ref. If FEMA didn’t exist, could states handle the disaster response alone? – https://theconversation.com/if-fema-didnt-exist-could-states-handle-the-disaster-response-alone-248758

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: USAR 2024: At HOME and ABROAD

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    : Have a look at the efforts of the U.S. Army Reserve’s work at home and abroad.

    About the U.S. Army:
    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 #USAR

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My-vbM_ikOE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – A Catholic church hit by bombing in Chin State

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    diocese of Mindat

    Mindat (Agenzia Fides) – The Myanmar army has carried out air strikes that have seriously damaged the Catholic church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Mindat, in the state of Chin, in the northwest of the country. This church had recently been chosen as the cathedral of the diocese of Mindat, erected on January 25 by Pope Francis, separating the territory from the diocese of Hakha.According to local sources of Fides, in recent months Mindat has been the scene of clashes between the Chinland Defence Force (CDF) and the Myanmar army. The CDF, which emerged in opposition to the military junta, managed to take control of the territory and, in January, officially declared the area as “liberated”. In several border regions, these militias have allied themselves with ethnic armed groups that have been fighting for greater autonomy for decades.The bombing of the cathedral took place on February 6, but news of it has only just come to light. Several bombs hit the building, damaging the roof and stained glass windows, rendering it unusable. No injuries were reported, as priests and faithful had left the area due to insecurity and fighting. In recent days, local priests had carried out inspections of the church to plan for upcoming liturgical celebrations, including the consecration of the newly appointed bishop, Father Augustine Thang Zawm Hung, until now parish vicar of the Sacred Heart in Mindat. The attack has caused consternation among the faithful, although the community has expressed its determination to repair the church. “We are very sad that our church has been hit by the bombs. It is a wound in our heart. But we will not let ourselves be defeated. We will rebuild it,” said the local priest, Fr. Paulinus. “We are certain that the Lord will ‘bombard’ us with his grace and blessing: this will bring peace and prosperity to our people.” The diocese of Mindat, located in the south of Chin State, has a population of about 360,000 inhabitants, of whom about 15,000 are Catholics, in a region that is predominantly Christian of other denominations. The diocese has 23 parishes, 48 diocesan priests, three religious men, 21 nuns, as well as 40 minor seminarians and seven major seminarians. As the faithful of Chin face these difficult times, in the archdiocese of Yangon a special jubilee pilgrimage was held on February 9 to the Marian shrine of Nyaungbelin, in the Bago region, on the occasion of the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. More than 3,000 people took part in the pilgrimage, praying for peace and entrusting themselves to the Virgin Mary.“Bishops, priests, religious and Catholic faithful, together with Buddhists, Muslims and Hindus, have prayed to Our Lady of Lourdes for peace in Myanmar and in the world,” said a statement from the diocese. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 10/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/HOLY LAND – Israeli Jesuit David Neuhaus: the plan to remove Palestinians from Gaza feels like a kick in the stomach

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    youtube

    Jerusalem (Agenzia Fides) – “We are in no hurry”. This is how US President Donald Trump yesterday offered an important detail regarding the plan for the reconstruction and development of the Gaza Strip under the direct control of the United States that he presented last week during the visit to Washington of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One that was taking him to New Orleans to watch the Superbowl, the US President said that Gaza must be thought of as “a large real estate site, and the United States will take possession of it, and develop it slowly, very slowly”, to bring “stability to the Middle East”.From Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, when asked about the ‘Trump plan’ on Gaza, also took his time, reporting that “For now we do not know the details, so we must be patient”.On the other hand, Father David Neuhaus, interviewed by Fides, has no hesitation. For him, the conjectures circulating in recent days on the future of the Gaza Strip felt like “a kick in the stomach”.Israeli Jesuit and professor of Sacred Scripture, David Neuhaus was born in South Africa to German-Jewish parents who fled Germany in the 1930s, he was also in the past Patriarchal Vicar for the Hebrew-speaking Catholics and for the Pastoral Among Migrants.Father Neuhaus, what considerations can be made in view of the recent proposals that have emerged on the future of Gaza?DAVID NEUHAUS: Trump, the president of the United States has a vision for Gaza, which he shared with the world on February 4, 2025. Mr. Netanyahu, prime minister of Israel, was visiting him. It felt like a kick in the stomach. And I am not even a Palestinian. I am an Israeli.What in particular are you referring to?NEUHAUS: Trump’s boldly proclaimed plan is to transform the Gaza Strip from the heaps of rubble left by Israel’s military campaign, into a luxurious riviera. In that vision, there is no place for the people who call Gaza home. That population must be moved out (to where is far from clear). This is yet another stage in the removal of Palestinians from Palestine…Do you see what is happening as part of a process?NEUHAUS: Yes. It is a process that began long time ago. E che ha causato anche la concentrazione di popolazione palestinese nella Striscia di Gaza. It was back in 1947/1948 that the population of Gaza more than tripled with the influx of those expelled by the Israelis from their homes inside Israel, making Gaza one of the most densely populated areas in the world. Mr. Trump spoke only about Gaza but Mr. Netanyahu’s administration has already begun to work on the West Bank, sowing Gaza-like destruction in the cities of Jenin and Tulkarm. Thousands of Palestinians have already been expelled from their homes.Are the new ideas about the future of Gaza the only way to imagine the present and future of the Jewish state in the context of the current Middle East?NEUHAUS: Trump and Netanyahu’s vision is quite different from that of Peter Beinhart, a Jewish American journalist. I strongly recommend his latest book, “Being Jewish after the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning” as an antidote to the discourse coming from US and Israeli leadership. Beinhart reconstructs Jewish identity in the light of what has been happening in the past months, adamantly insisting that Israel’s only way forward is to ensure equality for all its citizens. Beinhart, whose parents were Jewish South Africans, has fully assimilated the message of the struggle against apartheid. Another prophetic voice, that of Israeli activist Orly Noy, the chair of the Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories B’tselem, proclaimed unequivocally: “The war will end only when Israeli society realizes that it is not only immoral but also impossible to secure our existence through the oppression and subjugation of another people — and that the people we imprison, bomb, starve, and rob of their freedom and land are entitled to the exact same rights as we are, down to the last note”. (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 10/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: LOCK AND LOAD! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army:

    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 #Rangers

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZbbzIe7Hx0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Airbus awarded Oberon satellites contract by UK MOD

    Source: Airbus

    Headline: Airbus awarded Oberon satellites contract by UK MOD

    London, UK, 10 February 2025 – Airbus has been awarded the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) Oberon contract to design and build two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites with day-and-night, all-weather, space-based ‘Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance’ (ISR) capability.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India defence agreements boost ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ ambition

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The UK-India strategic partnership has taken another major step forward with the formal launch of Defence Partnership – India (DP-I) and the signing of several defence agreements at Aero India 2025.

    Announcing DP-I, UK Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker opened the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion, establishing a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence that will serve as a one-stop shop for strengthening bilateral defence collaboration between the two countries.

    The UK and India have today agreed to expand their collaboration on next-generation weapons with Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). Thales and BDL have signed a contract that will deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), with an initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers to be delivered this year. This contract represents an important next step for UK-Indian defence co-operation in the critical area of air defence.

    Lord Vernon Coaker, UK Defence Minister, said:

    It was a pleasure to visit India and continue to grow our already strong defence relationship. Our Defence Partnership and the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion will help strengthen our cooperation further, supporting economic growth in both our countries and India’s Atmanirbhar ambition.

    This event showcases our collaboration in next generation capability, and the massive potential the UK and India can unlock by working together.

    Following the signing of this initial LBRM contract, both Thales and BDL will further collaborate to produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). This develops and expands the partnership between Indian and British industry, laying the foundation for BDL and Indian industry to form an integral part of Thales’ global supply chain. It will address mutual security concerns, create jobs in both countries and enable interoperability by both armies.

    Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said:

    India is taking significant steps in its journey to become Atmanirbhar in its defence capabilities. The UK is really looking forward to working with India as a partner of choice in supporting this ambition: collaborating on defence technologies lies at the heart of this. These are landmark agreements that support our economic growth and joint security.

    In a separate development, MBDA UK and BDL have been working together on the installation of a first of its kind Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad, arming current fleet of India’s fighter jets as well as exporting to the world.

    On the maritime front, the UK and India have signed a Statement of Intent to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. As next steps, GE Vernova and BHEL are working to develop India’s first maritime Land Based Testing Facility to deliver LPD in the water by 2030.

    The strengthening of UK-India partnership will directly support India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ ambition and deliver the UK Government’s growth agenda and Plan for Change.

    Further information

    • Free-to-use high resolution images of the UK delegation at Aero India will be uploaded online: www.flickr.com/photos/ukinindia.

    • The British companies at Aero India 2025 are Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, MBDA UK, Thales UK, GE Vernova, Leonardo, Strongfield Technologies, ASL, SEKO Logistics, Jaguar Engineering Centre of Excellence, Aviation Defence Supplies Ltd and Ricardo.

    • Following the signing of the LBRM contract both Thales UK and BDL will further collaborate to co-produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles with BDL forming an integral part of the Thales supply chain, increasing manufacturing capacity for global export.

    • UK Defence invested £69 million to secure Thales UK supply chain for key components used in the manufacture of missiles in 2024.

    • The landmark maritime electric propulsion capability transfer will ensure self-reliance in the power and propulsion of the Indian Navy’s next generation fleets.

    Media

    David Russell, Communications Counsellor and Spokesperson,
    British High Commission, Chanakyapuri,
    New Delhi 110021. Tel: 24192100

    Media queries: BHCMediaDelhi@fcdo.gov.uk

    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Youtube and LinkedIn

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: World first: Thales delivers first autonomous drone system for mine countermeasures to the French Navy

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: World first: Thales delivers first autonomous drone system for mine countermeasures to the French Navy

    • Thales has delivered the first drone system for mine countermeasures to the French Navy, as part of the MMCM (Maritime Mine Counter Measures) programme.
    • World first: this is the first autonomous surface drone system in service with a navy.
    • Thales achieves a technological breakthrough with autonomous, cyber-secure drone systems that include Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Group is involved in redefining the operational concept for mine warfare.
    Thales ©Eloi Stichelbaut|Polaryse

    Thales delivered the first serial production system of mine countermeasure drones to the French Navy in December 2024. This is a world first, as part of the Franco-British MMCM program, led by the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) and under the aegis of OCCAR1. A real technological breakthrough in the conduct of mine countermeasure missions, this system helps reduce sailors’ exposure to danger and contributes to the security of the maritime domain, which is the backbone of the global economy.

    The first system delivered to the French Navy includes a surface drone (USV – Unmanned Surface Vehicle) equipped with the towed sonar TSAM for the detection and classification of naval mines. Its operations can be controlled from land, from a mother ship, or from an opportunistic vessel, thereby enabling mine countermeasure missions to be carried out while reducing crew exposure to danger. Thales, the systems provider and integrator for the MMCM program, is at the forefront of drone systems for naval mine countermeasures, with innovative solutions such as the SAMDIS multi-view ​ sonar, the portable e-POC operations centre, the M-Cube mission management system, and the Mi-Map data analysis application, recognized for its exceptional performance and low false alarm rate, particularly due to the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

    The compact 12-metre naval surface drone is designed to be air transportable, allowing for deployment within 48 hours aboard an A400M and can be embarked on the future Mine Warfare Vessel (BGDM).

    Thales and its partners are proud to have met the challenges associated with their role as pioneers. Within the SLAMF1 program, France will receive 6 USV in 2025: 3 system-of-systems, each comprising 2 USVs, will be delivered to the French Navy, in addition to the prototype system already delivered and updated. The British Royal Navy will also receive 4 system-of-systems, each consisting of one USV, during 2025.

    “The United Kingdom and France have set an ambitious goal: to transform their mine countermeasure capabilities by adopting new disruptive operational concepts. Thales is proud to be at the heart of this transformation, which positions both nations as pioneers in autonomous naval systems. Our Group, a world leader in mine countermeasures, reaffirms its position as an innovative and reliable partner that navies can count on to develop their strategic capabilities.” said Philippe Duhamel, Executive Vice-President, Defence Mission Systems, Thales.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialising in three business domains: Defence & Security, Aeronautics & Space and Cyber & Digital.

    It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4 billion.

    1OCCAR : Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation

    2SLAMF – Système de Lutte Anti-mines Marines Futur (future naval mine countermeasures system) is an advanced naval mine countermeasures system being developed primarily by the French Navy. This system aims to enhance the ability to detect, classify, and neutralize underwater mines, which pose a significant threat to naval operations and maritime security.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Off to a Flying Start in India as Customers Queue Up to Take Deliveries

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s biggest electronics company, today said that it received a record response for its flagship Galaxy S25 series in India, resulting in over 430,000 pre-orders. The pre-orders for Galaxy S25 series are 20% higher as compared to Galaxy S24 series in India.
     
    “Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 smartphones set a new standard as true AI companions with Samsung’s most natural and context-aware mobile experiences ever created. We have seen strong demand for the Galaxy S25 series among young tech-savvy consumers, who are at the forefront of Galaxy AI usage. This year, we widened our flagship distribution network to 17,000 outlets, which has helped us tap demand in smaller cities,” said Raju Pullan, Senior Vice President, MX Division, Samsung India.
     
    Samsung is manufacturing Galaxy S25 series at its Noida factory for consumers in India. The success of Galaxy S25 series reinforces Samsung’s belief that consumers will increasingly adopt seamless and intuitive AI solutions that impact their daily lives. For Galaxy S25 consumers in India, Google’s Gemini Live will be available in Hindi since the start, underscoring the importance of India for Samsung.
     
    On the Galaxy S25 series, AI agents with multimodal capabilities are integrated within the One UI 7 platform to perform complex tasks seamlessly across apps and enable natural user interactions through speech, text, videos and images. Now Brief provides tailored suggestions to guide through the day and Now Bar offers a new hub for ongoing activities. From enhanced productivity with Writing Assist to limitless creativity unleashed by Drawing Assist, the expanded capabilities of Galaxy AI continue to empower users in every aspect of their daily lives.
     
    Interactions with the Galaxy S25 series are also more intuitive. With just a single command, Gemini can effortlessly find a user’s favorite sports team’s schedule and add it to Samsung Calendar. Additionally, Google’s enhanced Circle to Search now gives users more helpful information with AI Overviews and one-tap actions.
     
    The Galaxy S25 series further refines and enhances the core capabilities that define the Galaxy experience. Powering the Galaxy S25 series globally, the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy fuels on-device processing for more responsive AI experiences. With unique customizations for Galaxy, including ProScaler9 and Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe), the Galaxy S25 series boasts enhanced AI image processing and display power efficiency. The newly introduced 50MP ultrawide camera sensor for the Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers epic shots from every range in exceptional clarity, while professional grade controls like Virtual Aperture and Samsung Log turn any photo or video into the ultimate visual experience.
     
    Starting February 7, the Galaxy S25 series will be available across retail stores and on Samsung.com as well as other online platforms. Galaxy S25 Ultra is available in Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Black, Titanium Whitesilver and Titanium Gray. Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ come in Navy, Silver Shadow, Icyblue and Mint.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales at the AI Action Summit: Trusted AI can change society

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales at the AI Action Summit: Trusted AI can change society

    At a time when much is expected of AI and its contribution to the security and sovereignty of nations, Thales offers a hybrid, explainable, cybersafe and frugal AI, which is already incorporated into more than 100 of its products. This technology is already delivering significant advances in the protection of infrastructure, optimisation of energy consumption and defence systems.

    “Thales is a key player in the field of trusted AI: our experts have developed a hybrid AI, which offers transparency, cybersecurity, energy efficiency and an ethical approach — unlike many AI systems that rely exclusively on large amounts of data and are particularly energy-intensive. Thales offers an augmented intelligence, which is capable of changing society,” said Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales.

    Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales, will take part in the dialogue between heads of state and government and business leaders at two roundtable sessions on AI and national security and on Europe’s AI champions.

    • On Tuesday 11th February, experts from cortAIx, Thales’s AI accelerator, will conduct exclusive demonstrations of the practical impacts of AI in 15 critical fields for official French and international delegations at the Thales Digital Factory. These AI-enabled solutions are designed to boost the performance of the most advanced systems and help humans make better decisions in crisis situations and high-stakes environments where data security and sovereignty are critical.

    These solutions are already available and show how AI can reduce the environmental footprint of air traffic, protect airports and major events, protect maritime traffic and infrastructure, and, in the defence sector, increase the effectiveness of operational assets/resources and accelerate the OODA loop (observe, orient, decide, act).

    Other events

    • On Tuesday 11th February, Thales’s Friendly Hackers team will take part in the Cyber Crisis Management Exercise organised by ANSSI, France’s national agency for information system security, at the Cyber Campus in Paris.
    • On Tuesday11th February, Thales will take part in two events:
      • Empowering AI Ecosystems through Strategic Autonomy: Lessons from Finland and France at Finnish Embassy in Paris.
      • Building Trust: Anticipating and Managing AI Risks, organised by the HEC Hub Digital and Axys in Paris.
    • On Monday 10th February, Thales will take part in Military Talks, organised by the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and the Ministerial Agency for Defence AI (AMIAD), dedicated to AI for defence applications.
    • As part of the Confiance.ai consortium, Thales is contributing to actions to expand the programme’s role internationally.
    • On Sunday 8th February, Thales took part in the AI Luminate conference: Evolving AI Safety for Economic Growth in Uncertain Times, ML Commons, AI Verify, LNE and Prism, in Paris.
    • On Thursday 6th February, Thales took part in the Presentation of AI Deliverables for Major French Groups, organised by French Tech Grand Paris and Wavestone in Paris.
    • On Friday 24th January, Thales took part in the French-German AI Industry Executives Dialogue, organised by the French Embassy in Berlin. This event resulted in a Call for Action, which will be presented at the AI Action Summit.
    • On Tuesday 21st January, ahead of the AI Action Summit, Thales organised a visit to its cortAIx research laboratory in Palaiseau with a presentation of its latest innovations for institutional stakeholders.

    Thales and AI

    Thales is a major player in trusted, cybersafe, transparent, explainable and ethical AI for armed forces, aircraft manufacturers and critical infrastructure providers. The Group files more patents than any other company in Europe in the field of AI for critical systems. It employs more than 600 engineers and 100 doctoral candidates specialising in AI. It is rganised within cortAIx, the Group’s accelerator for AI R&D and the integration of AI into sensors (sonars, radars, optronics, etc.) and complex systems. Over 100 of Thales’s products and services already incorporate AI components for defence, aerospace, cybersecurity and digital identity. Trusted, secure, sovereign AI from Thales is designed to ensure more efficient data analysis and decision support and speeds up the detection, identification and classification of objects and scenes of interest while taking account of the specific constraints of critical environments such as cybersecurity, embeddability and frugality.

    Thales is an active member of the AI ecosystem. It has strategic partnerships with academic research institutes and with other industry players, in particular as part of the Confiance.ai programme, and has put in place an ambitious charter on the ethical development and use of AI technologies.

    • In 2023, Thales’s Friendly Hackers Unit demonstrated its credentials at the CAID challenge (Conference on Artificial Intelligence for Defence) organised by the French defence procurement agency (DGA), which involved finding AI training data even when it had been deleted from the system to preserve confidentiality.
    • For the French defence procurement agency’s 2024 challenge, the Group’s Friendly Hackers Unit invented a new model to detect AI-generated deepfake images.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialising in three business domains: Defence & Security, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital.

    It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.Thales has 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4 billion.

    LEARN MORE

    Ahead of France’s AI Action Summit, Thales unveils its latest innovations in trusted AI for critical systems | Thales Group

    Without proper cybersecurity protections, AI is a gamble we cannot afford (The Engineer)

    Developing AI systems we can all trust | Thales Group

    Thales speeds up its development of AI for defence | Thales Group

    Thales Group

    Consult related resources and documents in the Media Library

    Thales ​

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurates India, iDEX & Karnataka Pavilions at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 4:18PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the India, iDEX and Karnataka Pavilions at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. The India Pavilion is showcasing the design, development, innovation and manufacturing capabilities of the domestic defence industries through state-of-the-art products and technologies. It signifies the ‘Flight of Self-Reliance’ which encapsulates synergy among the three Services and the space sector and India’s journey towards becoming a global aerospace and defence powerhouse. After the inauguration, Raksha Mantri visited  various stalls set-up in the pavilion and interacted with the representatives of the companies, inspecting their products.

    At the India Pavilion, more than 275 exhibits are being displayed through various mediums, represented by complete defence ecosystem of the country including Defence PSUs, design houses and private companies including MSMEs and start-ups. The exhibits at the Central Area include a striking display of marquee platforms including Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Combat Air Teaming System and Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter. 

    At the iDEX Pavilion, leading innovators are displaying indigenously-developed products spanning a wide range of advanced domains including Aerospace, DefSpace, Aero Structures, Anti-drone systems, Autonomous Systems, Robotics, Communication, Cybersecurity, Surveillance & Tracking, Unmanned Ground Vehicles etc. The Pavilion will also feature a dedicated section highlighting the winners of the ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) scheme, showcasing their ground-breaking works in critical and niche technologies.

    Raksha Mantri unveiled three publications – iDEX Report 2024, iDEX Coffee Table Book and iDEX Finance Manual on the occasion. The iDEX Report and Coffee Table Book highlight the key milestones of the defence innovation ecosystem, celebrating the contributions of innovators & stakeholders. The iDEX Finance Manual simplifies the existing finance procedures to enhance the pace of projects, and facilitate ease of doing innovation for the iDEX winners.

    The Karnataka Pavilion is showcasing cutting-edge technologies from the defence and aerospace industries from the state. These innovations highlight Karnataka’s robust ecosystem in defence and aerospace, supported by over 2,000 SMEs. Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri DK Shiva Kumar was present on the occasion.

    ****

    VK/SPS/MJS/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2101326) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aero India 2025 takes flight; Raksha Mantri inaugurates 15th edition of Asia’s biggest aerospace & defence exhibition in Bengaluru

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Aero India 2025 takes flight; Raksha Mantri inaugurates 15th edition of Asia’s biggest aerospace & defence exhibition in Bengaluru

    Aero India 2025 will further strengthen relations among like-minded countries to deal with today’s uncertainties: Shri Rajnath Singh

    “There is no Indian security or Indian peace in isolation; Security, stability & peace are shared constructs that transcend national borders”

    Today, the defence sector is powering the growth engine of Indian economy, says RM

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 11:57AM by PIB Delhi

    “Aero India 2025, a confluence of critical & frontier technologies, will provide a platform to further strengthen relations among like-minded countries based on mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual benefit to deal with today’s uncertainties,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while inaugurating the 15th edition of Aero India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. He exuded confidence that Aero India 2025 will showcase the country’s industrial capability and technological advancements to the world, while further strengthening symbiotic relations with friendly countries. Lasting peace can only be achieved if nations become stronger together and work for a Better World Order, he said. 

    Raksha Mantri stated that the five-day event will witness the participation of Government Representatives, Industry Leaders, Air Force Officers, Scientists, Defence Sector Experts, Start-ups, Academia & other stakeholders from all across the globe, and this confluence would bring India’s partners closer to the benefit of all. 

    “We often interact as buyers and sellers, where our relations are at a transactional level. However, at another level, we forge our partnership beyond the buyer-seller relationship to the level of Industrial Collaboration. We have many successful examples of co-production and co-development with like-minded countries. For us, there is no Indian security or Indian peace in isolation. Security, stability and peace are shared constructs that transcend national borders. The presence of our foreign friends is a testimony to the fact that our partners share our vision of One earth, One family, One future,” added Shri Rajnath Singh. 

    Raksha Mantri pointed out that in the present environment of global uncertainty, India is one such big country which is witnessing peace and prosperity. “India has never attacked any country nor has it been involved in any great power rivalry. We have always been an advocate of peace and stability. It is part of our fundamental ideals,” he said. Shri Rajnath Singh told the Defence Ministers, senior officials and representatives of foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers present on the occasion that their cooperation with India is crucial for global peace, prosperity and stability.  

    Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that India is going through a transformational phase, rapidly moving from a developing to a developed nation. He added that a vibrant and thriving defence industry ecosystem has been created in the country due to a concerted, sustained and well thought out roadmap by the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He stressed that the defence industrial sector, which was earlier not viewed as a component of national economy, has today been fully integrated with the overall economy. The sector is now a motor, powering the growth engine of the Indian economy, he said. 

    Raksha Mantri stated that the record allocation of Rs 6.81 lakh crore to Ministry of Defence in Union Budget 2025-26, including Rs 1.80 lakh crore for capital acquisition, is a proof that the Government considers defence as a top-priority sector. He added that like the previous budget, 75% of modernisation budget has been reserved for procurement through domestic sources with an aim to widen and deepen the capabilities of India’s Defence Industrial Complex.  

    Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the Government’s commitment towards enhancing the participation of private players in this overall growth story. “The private sector is going to play a big role in the economic mainstreaming. Due to its drive, resilience and entrepreneurship, the sector is capable of bringing a new wave of prosperity in the country. In many advanced countries, private industry has led defence production. The time has come that, here as well, the sector becomes an equal partner in the defence industry,” he said. 

    Raksha Mantri added that the defence manufacturers are working with a collaborative approach to strengthen the defence sector, terming the joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus for the production of C-295 transport aircraft in Gujarat as a shining example of this cooperation. He added that today India has become a Globally Preferred Destination for Aerospace Components & Complex System Assembly and the public sector & private industries are playing an important role in this transformation. 

    Shedding light on the accomplishments achieved from the last Aero India, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that a number of high-tech products such as Astra Missile, New Generation Akash Missile, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, Unmanned Surface Vessel, Pinaka Guided Rocket are being manufactured within the country. He voiced the Government’s unwavering resolve to surpass the Rs 1.27 lakh crore defence production and Rs 21,000 crore defence exports figures in the coming times, and ensure that the defence sector moves ahead at an unprecedented pace. It may be recalled that during the curtain raiser press conference of Aero India 2025 last evening, Raksha Mantri had expressed confidence that defence production will exceed Rs 1.60 lakh crore by the end of 2025-26 and defence exports will surpass Rs 30,000 crore. 

    On 2025 being declared as the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, Raksha Mantri termed it as not just a government slogan, but the Government’s commitment towards reforms. He said the decisions for reforms are not being taken only at the Ministry level, but Armed Forces and DPSUs are also participating in this endeavour. “To take this drive of reforms forward more rapidly, there should be participation of all stakeholders in the defence sector. Suggestions from all stakeholders associated with the Ministry are welcome,” he said. 

    Earlier, Shri Rajnath Singh welcomed the distinguished guests from across the world by enlightening them about the Indian tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava, which means ‘A Guest is Equivalent to God’ which, he said, can be witnessed clearly at the Maha Kumbh underway in the holy city of Prayagraj. “While Maha Kumbh is the Kumbh of introspection, Aero India is the Kumbh of research. While Maha Kumbh is focusing on internal strength, Aero India will centre on external strength. While Maha Kumbh showcases the culture of India, Aero India will display the power of India,” he added. 

     The 15th edition of Asia’s biggest aerospace and defence exhibition, inaugurated by Raksha Mantri, will showcase, over the next five days, India’s aerial prowess and indigenous cutting-edge innovations alongside state-of-the-art products of global aerospace companies. In line with ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision, the event will also provide a stage to forge international collaborations to fast-track the indigenisation process, thereby providing a thrust to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s resolve of making the country Viksit Bharat by 2047. 

    February 10th to 12th have been reserved as business days, with 13th & 14th set as public days for people to witness the show. The event comprises Defence Ministers’ Conclave; CEOs Roundtable; inauguration of India & iDEX Pavilions; Manthan iDEX event; Samarthya Indigenisation event; Valedictory function; seminars; breath-taking airshows and an exhibition of aerospace companies. 

    Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief Minister of Nagaland Shri Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri DK Shiva Kumar, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar and Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal SP Dharkhar were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

                ****

    VK/SPS/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2101221) Visitor Counter : 113

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri holds bilateral meetings with his Fijian & South Sudanese counterparts in Bengaluru ahead of Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 9:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Ahead of Aero India 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Republic of Fiji Mr Pio Tikoduadua and Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, South Sudan Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 09, 2025.

    Raksha Mantri welcomed Fijian Defence Minister on his maiden visit to India. Both sides expressed satisfaction on the ongoing defence cooperation and agreed to further deepen and diversify the existing collaboration. Both sides also agreed to institutionalise India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation as envisaged in the MoU on Defence Cooperation signed in 2017. They decided to augment Maritime Domain Awareness for ensuring maritime safety & security, Exclusive Economic Zone protection, Naval capacity building and training cooperation for UN peacekeepers and defence civilians. This visit is a step towards India’s growing engagement with Fiji, a key member of Pacific Island Countries.

    In his meeting with the South Sudanese Defence Minister, Raksha Mantri thanked him for participating in Aero India 2025. Both sides agreed to initiate and expedite efforts towards a Memorandum of Understanding to effectively steer the defence cooperation between both countries. The South Sudanese side acknowledged India’s efforts in United Nations Mission in South Sudan. Both sides agreed to partner for enhanced training exchanges, and agreed to expand relations through industry partnerships.

    ******

    VK/SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2101205) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New satellite deal to boost military operations, jobs and growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Armed forces personnel will have access to the latest space-based imagery for military operations, following a deal signed for a new satellite system, named Oberon.

    • New satellite system to enhance military operations, named ‘Oberon’, will be designed and built in the UK.
    • The £127 million contract with Airbus will support around 200 skilled jobs in Stevenage and Portsmouth, boosting the UK’s space sector and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change. 
    • Oberon will strengthen the UK’s intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. 

    Armed forces personnel will have access to the latest space-based imagery for military operations, following a deal signed for a new satellite system, named Oberon. 

    The £127 million deal with Airbus will support around 200 skilled jobs in Stevenage and Portsmouth, boosting the UK’s space capabilities and delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change. 

    The Oberon satellite system, made up of two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, will be able to capture day and night-time images of the Earth’s surface, strengthening the UK’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Expected to launch in 2027, Oberon will have advanced imagery sensors, building on the capabilities of Tyche, UK Space Command’s first satellite which successfully launched in August last year.  

    The deal comes as UK Space Command has published the first images captured by Tyche. The images of Heathrow Airport, Sydney, Washington DC, and the California wildfires, demonstrate Tyche’s ability to capture imagery from anywhere on earth when Defence needs it.  

    Both satellites form part of the Ministry of Defence’s space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance programme, known as ISTARI, which will deliver a constellation of satellites and supporting ground systems by 2031.  

    These satellites will support military operations, for example by monitoring adversary activities, and contribute to other government tasks, including natural disaster monitoring, the development of mapping information, and tracking the impact of climate change around the world.   

    UK Space Commander, Major General Paul Tedman said:   

    Through UK Space Command, defence is partnering with industry and continuing to invest in advanced and innovative space technologies.

    Oberon, alongside Tyche and other satellites in our ISTARI constellation, will allow us to observe what’s happening on Earth from space at any time and through any weather. This will enable and enhance UK and allied military operations around the world.

    The contract for Oberon was awarded via competitive procurement to Airbus, which worked with Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises across the UK to leverage innovative new technologies for the 400kg satellites. The antennas for the spacecraft will be supplied by Oxford Space Systems, which has developed carbon fibre structures that stow away in very small volumes for launch but spring into shape once in orbit.  

    Oberon will play a key part in securing critical UK skills in the growing global space sector. The aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year, a growth of 50% in the last 10 years, and employs tens of thousands of people. The project will also help inform the procurement strategy for future space capability requirements. 

    Space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance offers unparalleled earth observation, operating over any part of the globe. Constellations of ISR satellites can use different sensors and cameras, allowing focus to move quickly from one area of the world to another. In contrast to conventional cameras, Oberon will use Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to capture imagery in all-weather conditions. 

    Ben Bridge, Airbus Defence and Space UK Chairman, said: 

    Oberon’s satellites will give the UK a much-needed sovereign capability and greatly enhance its space surveillance autonomy.  

    Airbus in the UK has more than 45 years’ experience in the design and build of high-resolution radar satellites and, once in orbit, these spacecraft will play a vital role in keeping our Armed Forces safe around the world.

    Paul Russell, Space team leader at DE&S said:  

    This has been a superb team effort by members of DE&S, Space Command, DSTL and industry.  

    With the award of the Oberon contract, we will deliver the next in a series game changing capabilities to UK Space Command providing the UK military with leading Space Based Synthetic Aperture Radar whilst helping to keep our nation safe and prosperous.  

    We are looking forwards to working with Airbus as our Mission Partner to deliver this important capability together.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair returns to first direct arena Leeds

    Source: City of Leeds

    The Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair takes place this week, showcasing a range of paid employment and educational opportunities from across Leeds and the wider region.

    Everyone is welcome at the free-to-attend event, organised by Leeds City Council, which is being held at the first direct arena Leeds, between 1-7pm on Wednesday, 12th February 2025.

    On the day, over 100 exhibitors will be providing information, advice, and live apprenticeship vacancies. 

    Visitors can find out about the different types of apprenticeships on offer, what they involve, and how they work, including higher and degree apprenticeships.   

    A wide range of sectors will be represented at the fair, including accounting, business and administration, catering and hospitality, construction, creative design, care services, digital, education, engineering, finance, hair and beauty, health, law, protective services and many more.

    Deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “Apprenticeships offer something for everyone, from hands-on learning to degree-level qualifications, providing a fantastic route into a wide range of careers. 

    “Over the years, this fair has aided the journey of thousands of people into highly skilled and rewarding jobs. As the fastest-growing city in England, we continue to attract more quality employers each year, which is reflected in the range of apprenticeship opportunities to be showcased at this year’s fair. 

    “I would recommend anyone considering an apprenticeship to attend and find out more about opportunities in Leeds.”

    Exhibitors who will be there on the day to showcase their apprenticeship opportunities include Springfield Training, Leeds Manufacturing Festival, Jet2, Appris, Bank of England, CML, Royal Navy, KPMG, The Coders Guild, JCT 600, plus many more.  

    The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome. Tickets are available to book online in advance at: https://bit.ly/larf25

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –