NewzIntel.com

Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cell & Gene Therapy Innovation Hub Coming to Long Island

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled plans for New York BioGenesis Park, a groundbreaking $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub in Nassau County, Long Island. To be developed by The Albanese Organization, Inc., this state-of-the-art facility would catalyze CGT research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across New York State. With a historic $150 million state investment—the largest nationwide for a cell and gene therapy hub—NYBGP would accelerate the delivery of new therapies from lab to patient in New York’s diverse communities. This transformative hub aims to establish New York as the leading global destination for CGT innovation, driving economic growth, attracting top talent, and revolutionizing patient care statewide and beyond.

    “With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

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    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The selection of a developer with proven expertise ensures the Long Island CGT Center would be a beacon of excellence from inception to operation. ESD’s landmark investment not only underscores New York’s commitment to leadership in life sciences but also catalyzes a transformative shift in our biotechnology landscape. By creating high-quality jobs, attracting world-class talent, and fostering groundbreaking innovation, New York BioGenesis Park would cement New York’s position at the forefront of cell and gene therapy globally, driving economic growth and scientific advancement in equal measure.”

    New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This groundbreaking and transformative investment puts New York State at the forefront of emerging gene and cell therapy sciences, creating a centralized hub of innovation and advancement in patient care. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to investing in the future of medical research and therapeutic technologies that will give hope to patients fighting cancer and other devastating diseases.”

    The Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub is a critical component of the statewide Cell and Gene Therapy initiative announced in Governor Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address. With the $430 million New York BioGenesis Park on Long Island and the $98 million expansion at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, these projects represent a combined total investment of over half a billion dollars in Cell and Gene Therapy innovation across New York.

    The Albanese Organization, Inc., a Long Island-based developer with more than 70 years of experience in managing successful public-private partnerships, was selected following a Request for Proposals issued in December 2023. Albanese is conditionally selected to lead the comprehensive process to design, finance, build, market, tenant, and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center. This selection ensures that the project will be executed from conception to operation with an experienced development team, leveraging Albanese’s extensive expertise in developing large life science innovation campuses.

    Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese, said, “The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island. This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

    With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation.”

    Governor Hochul

    Cell and gene therapies are revolutionary treatments that modify a patient’s cells or genes to combat diseases at their source. Offering hope for previously incurable conditions—including cancers, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases—these approaches target illnesses at the cellular and genetic levels. They have the potential to provide more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects than traditional methods. Advancements in these therapies could revolutionize healthcare, paving the way for personalized medicine and new possibilities for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

    New York BioGenesis Park is envisioned as a cutting-edge, full-service campus dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapies and accelerating their commercialization. At full build-out, the 700,000-square-foot park would create an end-to-end Cell and Gene Therapy innovation and supply center, featuring interconnected areas for public engagement, research, manufacturing, and collaboration. The project would be developed in multiple phases, with Phase One comprising a 331,000-square-foot facility on Northwell Health’s campus in Lake Success, including the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) Tower. Phase One is already poised to advance, with conditional commitments from two anchor tenants; one would operate the CDMO, the other would operate the incubator.

    A cornerstone of New York BioGenesis Park is its incubator, supported by a $50 million investment from ESD’s Long Island Investment Fund. This facility will empower early-stage therapeutic developers by offering state-of-the-art wet lab space, shared equipment, office space, and other essential resources. This nurturing environment would provide Cell and Gene Therapy companies with access to specialized equipment, mentoring, and stage-appropriate financial guidance. As a critical component of New York BioGenesis Park, the incubator is poised to catalyze the growth of promising Cell and Gene Therapy companies by providing them with resources and support, unlocking their potential for innovation and success.

    This initial phase is expected to create approximately 830 full time union construction jobs and a combined estimate of 700 jobs related to Cell and Gene Therapy development and provision of services and technologies required by Cell and Gene Therapy developers, such as Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, vector developers, and advanced diagnostic providers, as well as staff required for operation of the Center. Phase Two would further expand lab and office space, enhancing the park’s capabilities for Cell and Gene Therapy companies and service providers.

    Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements. This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and solidifies our region’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. This visionary project not only promises to create high-quality jobs and drive economic growth, but it also establishes Long Island as a global hub for cell and gene therapy research and development. By leveraging our region’s world-class academic institutions, skilled workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit, New York BioGenesis Park will catalyze breakthroughs that will save lives and shape the future of healthcare.”

    Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti said, “New York State’s $150 million investment in a gene therapy research hub at Lake Success is a transformative step in developing Long Island’s biotechnology sector. I thank Governor Hochul for championing this initiative, which will create hundreds of jobs and further solidify Long Island’s place as a national leader in cutting-edge medical research and treatments.”

    Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center President and CEO Candace S. Johnson, PhD said, “New York is already a leader in the science of making ‘living cures’ from our own cells. With these historic investments in the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility and New York BioGenesis Park, Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development are making sure our teams are supported by an innovation infrastructure powerful enough to transform their curiosity into cures”

    New York Blood Center Enterprises President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD said, “The creation of the Long Island Center for Cell and Gene Therapy represents a critical investment in the future of medicine. New York Blood Center Enterprises and Comprehensive Cell Solutions are extremely proud to be part of the team that will position New York as a global leader in life sciences, particularly in cell and gene therapy, offering new hope to patients facing diseases once thought untreatable.”

    Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said, “We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island. The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

    Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and CEO Bruce Stillman, PhD said, “The New York State cell and gene therapy initiative on Long Island will be a most welcome addition to the region’s biomedical research enterprise, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory looks forward to partnering with the CGT initiative. We thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for pioneering this exciting research expansion.”

    New York BioGenesis Park would foster strong ties with academic and medical institutions throughout New York, creating a robust ecosystem for Cell and Gene Therapy innovation. Collaborating with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. New York BioGenesis Park would enhance research synergies and accelerate medical breakthroughs. This ecosystem would bring together experts in advanced Cell and Gene Therapy therapies, offering specialized facilities, services, and resources to both tenants and collaborating institutions. By facilitating cutting-edge science, innovative technology development and novel approaches to clinical trials, New York BioGenesis Park would ensure New York’s institutions remain globally competitive in groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy research and commercialization.

    The New York BioGenesis Park and the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing expansion at Roswell Park would create a powerful, interconnected network that leverages complementary resources and capabilities at both ends of the state. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from basic research to clinical application and commercialization, New York is positioning itself as the nation’s leading destination for Cell and Gene Therapy research, development, and manufacturing.

    The Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub stands to serve as a cornerstone of New York’s $620 million Life Science Initiative. Aimed at establishing the state as a national leader in the broader life sciences industry—including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology—the initiative allocates $320 million for strategic programs to attract new technologies, promote investment in emerging fields, and stimulate life science business growth and employment statewide. This multifaceted approach seeks to spur the development of a world-class research cluster, enhance the state’s ability to commercialize groundbreaking research, and drive economic growth. By solidifying New York’s position in life sciences innovation, the initiative advances Cell and Gene Therapy development and strengthens the state’s global competitiveness. Read New York State’s Life Science Initiative Strategic Plan here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Homeland Security Recognizes 325 Employees at Secretary’s Award Ceremony in Washington D.C.

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – On October 22, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) held an awards ceremony hosted at DHS headquarters located at St. Elizabeths campus in Southeast Washington, D.C. where 325 employees received a Secretary’s Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Department’s mission. 

    “Every single day, with great determination, integrity, and skill, the 268,000 men and women of the Department of Homeland Security ensure the safety and security of the American people,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Thanks to these extraordinary public servants, our shores, harbors, skies, cyberspace, and borders are protected; fentanyl and other deadly drugs are prevented from entering our country; communities are able to recover and rebuild after a natural disaster; the scourges of human trafficking, forced labor, and online exploitation are mitigated; and so much more. The individuals we recognize today with our Department’s highest honor, the Secretary’s Award, reflect the very best of DHS – and in their selfless dedication to mission, the very best of public service.”

    The DHS Secretary’s Awards are an annual program that recognizes the extraordinary individual and collective achievements of the workforce. The 325 awardees recognized in today’s ceremony represent the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the DHS Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans, the DHS Privacy Office, and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). 

    “In recognizing these outstanding DHS personnel with a Secretary’s Award, we recognize all our talented personnel; the achievements of one are not possible without the contributions of others,” added Secretary Mayorkas. “We also express our appreciation to their families and loved ones; when one serves, the family serves too.”

    This year’s award recipients developed and issued policy and procedures associated with a whole-scale transition to a new pay system for TSA; launched a series of coordinated and collaborative initiatives, operations and investigations targeting Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and national security threats operating and transiting through the Darien Gap region; arrested over 8,000 human smugglers, produced over 5,000 intelligence reports, and seized over $38M USD in real property; ensured over 2,300 vital alerts and warnings were provided to owners and operators of critical infrastructure to protect against cyberattacks; among many other achievements. 

    This year, DHS is holding nine Secretary’s Awards ceremonies across the country, honoring over 1,700 employees, the most annual awardees ever. 

    Last year, Secretary Mayorkas unveiled 12 priorities for the Department, including a commitment to champion the workforce and transform the employee experience. DHS has the third largest workforce of any federal department, behind the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. The Department is home to more than 92,000 sworn law enforcement officers, the greatest number of law enforcement officers of any department in the federal government. DHS has committed to increasing the representation of women in law enforcement or related occupations at DHS to 30% by 2030. Over 54,000 veterans, or nearly 21% of the workforce, continue serving their country by working at DHS. 

    DHS operational components interact more frequently on a daily basis with the American public than any other federal department, from travelers moving through air, land, and sea ports of entry, to businesses importing goods into the country, to immigrants applying for services. To learn more about the impact DHS makes every day, visit: DHS.gov/TodayDHSWill.

    Last year, DHS improved the efficiency of processing noncitizens at the Southwest Border, deployed across the country to respond to natural disasters, investigated cybercrimes, created a new streamlined process for adjudicating asylum applications, safely and securely resettled nearly 90,000 evacuated Afghans in the United States, provided resources for organizations to enhance their cybersecurity resilience, established a process for Ukrainian nationals seeking refuge, secured the 2022 midterm elections, and demonstrated heroism by acting quickly and courageously to save lives in harrowing circumstances. 

    For the full list of awardees, visit  2024 Secretary’s Awards | Homeland Security (dhs.gov). 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cell & Gene Therapy Innovation Hub Coming to Long Island

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled plans for New York BioGenesis Park, a groundbreaking $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub in Nassau County, Long Island. To be developed by The Albanese Organization, Inc., this state-of-the-art facility would catalyze CGT research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across New York State. With a historic $150 million state investment—the largest nationwide for a cell and gene therapy hub—NYBGP would accelerate the delivery of new therapies from lab to patient in New York’s diverse communities. This transformative hub aims to establish New York as the leading global destination for CGT innovation, driving economic growth, attracting top talent, and revolutionizing patient care statewide and beyond.

    “With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

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    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The selection of a developer with proven expertise ensures the Long Island CGT Center would be a beacon of excellence from inception to operation. ESD’s landmark investment not only underscores New York’s commitment to leadership in life sciences but also catalyzes a transformative shift in our biotechnology landscape. By creating high-quality jobs, attracting world-class talent, and fostering groundbreaking innovation, New York BioGenesis Park would cement New York’s position at the forefront of cell and gene therapy globally, driving economic growth and scientific advancement in equal measure.”

    New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This groundbreaking and transformative investment puts New York State at the forefront of emerging gene and cell therapy sciences, creating a centralized hub of innovation and advancement in patient care. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to investing in the future of medical research and therapeutic technologies that will give hope to patients fighting cancer and other devastating diseases.”

    The Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub is a critical component of the statewide Cell and Gene Therapy initiative announced in Governor Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address. With the $430 million New York BioGenesis Park on Long Island and the $98 million expansion at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, these projects represent a combined total investment of over half a billion dollars in Cell and Gene Therapy innovation across New York.

    The Albanese Organization, Inc., a Long Island-based developer with more than 70 years of experience in managing successful public-private partnerships, was selected following a Request for Proposals issued in December 2023. Albanese is conditionally selected to lead the comprehensive process to design, finance, build, market, tenant, and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center. This selection ensures that the project will be executed from conception to operation with an experienced development team, leveraging Albanese’s extensive expertise in developing large life science innovation campuses.

    Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese, said, “The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island. This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

    With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation.”

    Governor Hochul

    Cell and gene therapies are revolutionary treatments that modify a patient’s cells or genes to combat diseases at their source. Offering hope for previously incurable conditions—including cancers, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases—these approaches target illnesses at the cellular and genetic levels. They have the potential to provide more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects than traditional methods. Advancements in these therapies could revolutionize healthcare, paving the way for personalized medicine and new possibilities for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

    New York BioGenesis Park is envisioned as a cutting-edge, full-service campus dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapies and accelerating their commercialization. At full build-out, the 700,000-square-foot park would create an end-to-end Cell and Gene Therapy innovation and supply center, featuring interconnected areas for public engagement, research, manufacturing, and collaboration. The project would be developed in multiple phases, with Phase One comprising a 331,000-square-foot facility on Northwell Health’s campus in Lake Success, including the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) Tower. Phase One is already poised to advance, with conditional commitments from two anchor tenants; one would operate the CDMO, the other would operate the incubator.

    A cornerstone of New York BioGenesis Park is its incubator, supported by a $50 million investment from ESD’s Long Island Investment Fund. This facility will empower early-stage therapeutic developers by offering state-of-the-art wet lab space, shared equipment, office space, and other essential resources. This nurturing environment would provide Cell and Gene Therapy companies with access to specialized equipment, mentoring, and stage-appropriate financial guidance. As a critical component of New York BioGenesis Park, the incubator is poised to catalyze the growth of promising Cell and Gene Therapy companies by providing them with resources and support, unlocking their potential for innovation and success.

    This initial phase is expected to create approximately 830 full time union construction jobs and a combined estimate of 700 jobs related to Cell and Gene Therapy development and provision of services and technologies required by Cell and Gene Therapy developers, such as Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, vector developers, and advanced diagnostic providers, as well as staff required for operation of the Center. Phase Two would further expand lab and office space, enhancing the park’s capabilities for Cell and Gene Therapy companies and service providers.

    Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements. This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and solidifies our region’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. This visionary project not only promises to create high-quality jobs and drive economic growth, but it also establishes Long Island as a global hub for cell and gene therapy research and development. By leveraging our region’s world-class academic institutions, skilled workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit, New York BioGenesis Park will catalyze breakthroughs that will save lives and shape the future of healthcare.”

    Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti said, “New York State’s $150 million investment in a gene therapy research hub at Lake Success is a transformative step in developing Long Island’s biotechnology sector. I thank Governor Hochul for championing this initiative, which will create hundreds of jobs and further solidify Long Island’s place as a national leader in cutting-edge medical research and treatments.”

    Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center President and CEO Candace S. Johnson, PhD said, “New York is already a leader in the science of making ‘living cures’ from our own cells. With these historic investments in the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility and New York BioGenesis Park, Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development are making sure our teams are supported by an innovation infrastructure powerful enough to transform their curiosity into cures”

    New York Blood Center Enterprises President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD said, “The creation of the Long Island Center for Cell and Gene Therapy represents a critical investment in the future of medicine. New York Blood Center Enterprises and Comprehensive Cell Solutions are extremely proud to be part of the team that will position New York as a global leader in life sciences, particularly in cell and gene therapy, offering new hope to patients facing diseases once thought untreatable.”

    Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said, “We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island. The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

    Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and CEO Bruce Stillman, PhD said, “The New York State cell and gene therapy initiative on Long Island will be a most welcome addition to the region’s biomedical research enterprise, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory looks forward to partnering with the CGT initiative. We thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for pioneering this exciting research expansion.”

    New York BioGenesis Park would foster strong ties with academic and medical institutions throughout New York, creating a robust ecosystem for Cell and Gene Therapy innovation. Collaborating with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. New York BioGenesis Park would enhance research synergies and accelerate medical breakthroughs. This ecosystem would bring together experts in advanced Cell and Gene Therapy therapies, offering specialized facilities, services, and resources to both tenants and collaborating institutions. By facilitating cutting-edge science, innovative technology development and novel approaches to clinical trials, New York BioGenesis Park would ensure New York’s institutions remain globally competitive in groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy research and commercialization.

    The New York BioGenesis Park and the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing expansion at Roswell Park would create a powerful, interconnected network that leverages complementary resources and capabilities at both ends of the state. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from basic research to clinical application and commercialization, New York is positioning itself as the nation’s leading destination for Cell and Gene Therapy research, development, and manufacturing.

    The Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub stands to serve as a cornerstone of New York’s $620 million Life Science Initiative. Aimed at establishing the state as a national leader in the broader life sciences industry—including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology—the initiative allocates $320 million for strategic programs to attract new technologies, promote investment in emerging fields, and stimulate life science business growth and employment statewide. This multifaceted approach seeks to spur the development of a world-class research cluster, enhance the state’s ability to commercialize groundbreaking research, and drive economic growth. By solidifying New York’s position in life sciences innovation, the initiative advances Cell and Gene Therapy development and strengthens the state’s global competitiveness. Read New York State’s Life Science Initiative Strategic Plan here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Wallops to Support October Sounding Rocket Launch

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia is scheduled to support the launch of a suborbital sounding rocket for the U.S. Department of Defense during a launch window that runs 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. EDT each day from Wednesday, Oct. 23 to Friday, Oct. 25.

    No real-time launch status updates will be available. The launch will not be livestreamed nor will launch status updates be provided during the countdown. The Wallops Visitor Center will be closed to the public.

    The rocket launch is expected to be visible from the Chesapeake Bay region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Meets With Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKYY: Thank you very much, dear Secretary Austin. Your colleagues, thank you very much. General Cavoli, thank you very much for coming. And first of all, thank you, American people, President Biden and bipartisan support. We are very thankful for all the support from the United States that’s been done for Ukraine from the very beginning of this war.

    Thank you so much, and thank you for the last hour meeting in Brussels on the platform of the Ukraine NATO Council. Thank you so much. That was an opportunity to make a direct dialog with the ministers of defense of our allies. And after that, I know that it was a very good meeting on the level of ministers, defense ministers of G7+. Thank you so much.

    According to our last dialog, I think very positive dialog with President Biden by phone, we discussed a lot of things. And by the way, thanks for the last package supporting our soldiers. And we discussed a lot of important things about victory plan, about preparing for winter with our air defense capabilities, how to strengthen all this. And we discussed also some details which will be, I think, sorry, out of — came about next packages which are crucial for us, especially now this challenging winter period.

    So — and we discuss all this with the president. I want to continue. Maybe we will have some results — no, I’m sure that we will have some important results. You’re very welcome. Again, thank you.

    SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD AUSTIN: Mr. President, it’s great to see you again. Thanks for hosting us here in Kyiv. I’m honored to be back in Ukraine for my fourth visit as secretary of defense. And under your leadership, Ukraine has fought valiantly to defend its democracy, its sovereignty and its citizens.

    The United States understands the stakes here, Mr. President. The outcome of Putin’s war of choice matters to us and to the entire world, and that’s why I continue to convene the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. You saw the contact group first hand last month at Ramstein Air Base. We’ve moved heaven and earth to help Ukraine, and that inspiring coalition of more than 50 allies and partners continues to stand united to provide your country with the security assistance that Ukraine needs to prevail.

    Under President Biden’s leadership, the United States remains committed to keeping up this support. And so, I’m pleased to announce today the commitment of a $400 million presidential drawdown package to provide your forces with additional munitions, armored vehicles and anti-tank weapons.

    While the focus on Ukraine’s immediate needs goes on, we’re also committed to sustaining your support as pledged in the bilateral security agreement that you and President Biden signed in July.

    So, I look forward to a good discussion today, Mr. President, and to hearing your thoughts on how to further strengthen our strategic partnership. Thank you again, Mr. President, and it’s great to be here with you.

    PRESIDENT ZELENSKYY: Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Opening of $1.2B Mixed-Use Development on Long Island

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the grand opening of Station Yards, a state-of-the-art, mixed-use development in Ronkonkoma, Suffolk County on Long Island. Station Yards, also known as the Ronkonkoma Hub, is a transformative transit-oriented development spanning 53 acres around the Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road station. The $1.2 billion project, led by TRITEC Real Estate Company, is revitalizing the area by integrating housing, office and retail spaces, creating a dynamic urban center that caters to modern living and working needs. This development showcases New York State’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth, enhancing community vibrancy and setting new standards for smart, transit-oriented urban planning across Long Island and beyond.

    “Station Yards represents a new chapter in Long Island’s growth story and exemplifies our vision for vibrant, sustainable communities across New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “This project is not just about building apartments and offices – it’s about creating a dynamic ecosystem where people can live, work and thrive. By investing in mixed-use developments like Station Yards, we’re addressing housing needs, creating jobs, and laying the foundation for long-term economic prosperity in our communities.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Station Yards is a game-changer for Long Island’s economy, embodying our vision for innovative, transit-oriented developments that catalyze growth. With substantial support from ESD, this project is set to create thousands of jobs and establish a new standard for sustainable, community-focused development. Station Yards exemplifies how strategic investments can transform communities and drive economic progress, serving as a blueprint for future developments across New York State.”

    TRITEC Principal Jim Coughlan said, “Public investment has been instrumental in bringing Station Yards to life, and we are grateful for the strong backing from Governor Hochul and Empire State Development. Without this critical support, our commitment of over $400 million in private capital to Ronkonkoma would not have been possible. This investment is creating much-needed housing and transforming the area into a new destination at Long Island’s only true multi-modal site, fostering a vibrant, connected community.”

    Station Yards is taking shape in phases around one of Long Island’s key transportation hubs. Upon completion, it will encompass 1,450 residential units, 360,000 square feet of office space, and 195,000 square feet of retail space. The first phase, Alston Station Yards, delivered 489 residential units in 2020. The second phase, The Core, will introduce an additional 388 homes, expand retail and office spaces by 67,000 and 16,500 square feet respectively, and feature a public plaza alongside more than 1,200 parking spaces.

    Situated at a crucial intersection of transportation networks, the development benefits from its proximity to Exit 60 of the Long Island Expressway and Long Island MacArthur Airport. It also leverages its proximity to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station — Suffolk County’s busiest and Long Island’s second-busiest — which serves 17,000 daily commuters with express routes to both Penn Station and Grand Central Station. This strategic location enhances the project’s vision of a vibrant, walkable community where residential, commercial and public spaces seamlessly integrate.

    In 2017 Empire State Development provided support for the project with a $55 million capital grant, underscoring the State’s commitment to innovative, community-focused development. This investment is part of a broader strategy to revitalize communities across New York State through targeted, transformative projects. Station Yards is projected to generate over 10,000 construction jobs and 2,500 permanent jobs, providing a significant boost to local employment opportunities. By offering a mix of housing options near a major transit hub, the development addresses critical housing needs while advancing New York State’s goals for sustainable urban development.

    Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said, “Station Yards is a shining example of the smart, transit-oriented development that is needed in Suffolk County and we thank the Governor for her efforts.”

    Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico said, “Station Yards is a prime example of community supported redevelopment, robust economic vitality and appropriately placed redevelopment. The Ronkonkoma train station area, once a somewhat despondent and bleak assemblage of vacant storefronts, dirt lots and unwelcoming industrial properties, have been transformed through the efforts of the community, the project team and a town with the foresight, courage and mettle to undertake such a project and see it through. I am proud to lead Brookhaven and I remain confident that we can continue to redevelop appropriately while also preserving open spaces and farmland, understanding that both are equally important and beneficial to our future.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “Station Yards embodies the transformative vision at the heart of Long Island’s economic development strategy. By creating a walkable, mixed-use community centered around a major transportation hub, this project addresses multiple priorities — from expanding housing options and creating jobs to promoting sustainable growth and enhancing our region’s competitiveness. Station Yards is a testament to what we can achieve when public and private sectors collaborate to build stronger, more vibrant communities.”

    As New York continues to address the housing crisis, projects like Station Yards increase the supply of housing and help build stronger, more resilient communities. These developments showcase how public-private partnerships can transform underutilized areas into vibrant community hubs. By creating walkable, mixed-use communities near major transportation links, Station Yards and similar projects are instrumental in attracting and retaining talent, promoting sustainable growth, and fostering a more connected, prosperous future for regions like Long Island and beyond.

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda

    Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives for Upstate communities, new incentives and relief from certain State-imposed restrictions to create more housing in New York City, a $500 million capital fund to build up to 15,000 new homes on state-owned property, an additional $600 million in funding to support a variety of housing developments statewide and new protections for renters and homeowners. In addition, as part of the FY23 Enacted Budget, the Governor announced a five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 45,000 homes have been created or preserved to date. The FY25 Enacted Budget also strengthened the Pro-Housing Community Program, which the Governor launched in 2023. Pro-Housing Certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in discretionary funding. To date, more than 200 communities have been certified, including the town of Brookhaven.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – European Parliament approves more efficient and greener EU airspace

    Source: European Parliament

    On Tuesday, MEPs paved the way for improved management of European airspace, enabling more direct flights and fewer delays, and supporting climate neutrality.

    The reform of Single European Sky rules, already agreed upon in negotiations with the Council last March, strengthens national performance plans for air navigation services and will help to improve EU airspace management. These plans will have binding targets and incentives to make flights more efficient and environmentally friendly. An independent advisory Performance Review Board would be set up to help the Commission and EU member states in taking decisions on implementing these plans.

    In addition, the Commission will adopt EU performance targets on capacity, cost efficiency, climate and environmental factors for air navigation services, to be reviewed at least every three years.

    Greener air navigation charges

    MEPs secured a provision that tasks the Commission with assessing how charges levied on airspace users (airlines or private planes operators) for providing air navigation services could encourage them to become more environmentally friendly, for example by using the most fuel-efficient available routing or alternative clean propulsion technologies.

    More competition

    Another key demand of MEPs during the negotiations was to encourage competition in the air navigation services market. The new bill includes the possibility for air-traffic service providers to procure other air navigation services, such as communication, meteorological or aeronautical information services, under market conditions.

    Quotes

    “The reform is a step forward in removing bottlenecks, creating more efficient air traffic control and management, and reducing costs and emissions through shorter and safer flights, from which all European airlines, and especially European citizens, will benefit. The creation of a truly single European airspace, however, has been blocked by member states, unwilling to give up national powers for the greater good. I now call on member states to constructively implement this reform”, said EP co-rapporteur Jens Gieseke (EPP, DE).

    “Today, Europe’s airspace is like a big jigsaw puzzle where each country has its own piece, but unfortunately not all the pieces fit together. This leads to detours, waiting times and unnecessary costs. In 2023, almost three out of ten flights were delayed by more than 15 minutes. The new rules will make aviation safer, more punctual and more climate-friendly”, added EP co-rapporteur Johan Danielsson (S&D, SE) and also thanked former rapporteurs Marian-Jean Marinescu (EPP, Romania) and Bogusław Liberadzki (S&D, PL) for their work.

    Next steps

    Both co-legislators have now approved the new rules– the Council did so on 26 September. They will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU. While most of the provisions will apply from that date, other provisions (e.g. penalties for infringing the new rules; national supervisory authority’s independence) will only take effect two years later.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan – B10-0134/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Markéta Gregorová, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Hannah Neumann, Diana Riba i Giner, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Erik Marquardt
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    B10‑0134/2024

    European Parliament resolution on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

    (2024/2891(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its recommendation of 21 October 2021 to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on EU-Taiwan political relations and cooperation[1],

    – having regard to its resolution of 7 June 2022 on the EU and the security challenges in the Indo-Pacific[2],

    – having regard to its resolution of 15 September 2022 on the situation in the Strait of Taiwan[3],

    – having regard to its resolution of 13 December 2023 on EU-Taiwan trade and investment relations[4],

    – having regard to its recommendation of 13 December 2023 to the Council and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy concerning EU-China relations[5],

    – having regard to the joint communication of the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 16 September 2021 on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific (JOIN(2021)0024),

    – having regard to the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence – For a European Union that protects its citizens, values and interests and contributes to international peace and security, approved by the Council on 21 March 2022 and endorsed by the European Council on 24 March 2022,

    – having regard to NATO’s 2022 Strategic Concept,

    – having regard to the statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service of 14 October 2024 on China’s latest military drills,

    – having regard to the G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement of 3 August 2022 on preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,

    – having regard to United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) of 25 October 1971 on the restoration of the lawful rights of the People’s Republic of China in the United Nations,

    – having regard to Article 7 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) of 9 May 1992,

    – having regard to Rule 5 of the Standing Rules of Procedure of the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),

    – having regard to Article 4 of the Constitution of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol),

    – having regard to Article 8 and Article 18, paragraph (h), of the Constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO),

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the statutes of most international organisations tasked with addressing global issues including climate change, the preservation of human health and the suppression of transnational crime, such as the WHO, the UNFCCC, Interpol and the ICAO, provide opportunities for non-state entities to participate without infringing on the rights of member states;

    B. whereas the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has made instrumental use of UN Resolution 2758 as a legal basis for its position that Taiwan is part of the PRC and a foundational element of its One China principle; whereas UN Resolution 2758 does not include the words ‘Republic of China’ or ‘Taiwan’, but only states that the PRC will represent ‘China’ at the UN, and does not make any determination regarding the status of Taiwan; whereas, however, the PRC continues to misinterpret UN Resolution 2758 to block Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations;

    C. whereas the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners that share the common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law; whereas the EU remains decisively committed to its One China policy;

    D. whereas following the Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s annual speech on 10 October 2024, the PRC, on 14 October 2024, conducted a comprehensive military exercise across the Taiwan Strait, amounting to the fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years;

    E. whereas the median line, which was set up in a decades-old tacit agreement between both sides of the Taiwan Strait, was designed to reduce the risk of conflict by keeping the military aircraft from both sides of the Strait at a safe distance and thus prevent fatal miscalculations; whereas the PRC’s People’s Liberation Army violated the median line only four times between 1954 and 2020, but now routine incursions reflect Beijing’s intent to irreversibly reset long-standing benchmarks;

    F. whereas on 14 October 2024, China also deployed 17 vessels from its coast guard, which was a larger deployment than in a previous exercise held in May this year, when coast guard vessels had been deployed for the first time; whereas four formations of Chinese coast guard ships patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters; whereas the very frequent deployment of coast guard ships by the PRC in the Taiwan Strait, in what they consider ‘law enforcement’ missions, sends a clear message of sovereignty from the PCR, keeps constant pressure on Taiwanese authorities and causes a dangerous increase in the risk of collisions, in what is one of the most concrete indications of China’s intention to erode the status quo;

    G. whereas full-scale military exercises by the PRC have also been coupled with cyberattacks against Taiwanese authorities and other grey-zone activities such as cognitive and legal warfare and disinformation, aimed at discouraging the Taiwanese population, eroding Taiwanese legitimate sovereign rights and, ultimately, instilling the belief that reunification is inevitable;

    H. whereas on 16 October 2024, the authorities of the PRC stated ‘We are willing to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with the utmost sincerity and endeavour, but we will never commit ourselves to renouncing the use of force,’ reiterating Xi Jinping’s landmark speech at the opening of the Chinese Communist Party’s 20th Party Congress in October 2022; whereas Xi Jinping also referred to permanent military pressure in the Taiwan Strait as ‘new normality’; whereas Chinese diplomats even threatened ‘re-education’ of Taiwanese people after reunification;

    I. whereas the PRC has been behaving aggressively across a vast area of the Indo-Pacific and exerting varying degrees of military or economic coercion, which has led to disputes with neighbours such as Japan, India, the Philippines and Australia;

    1. Strongly reiterates its commitment to the EU’s One China policy and to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, in the whole Indo-Pacific region and beyond;

    2. Expresses the view that UN Resolution 2758 does not establish the PRC’s sovereignty over Taiwan; underlines how Taiwan has proven to be a very reliable partner in dealing with the many challenges of our time and supports Taiwan’s participation in meetings, mechanisms and activities of relevant international organisations, particularly the WHO, the UNFCCC, Interpol and the ICAO; calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote Taiwan’s inclusion in such international forums in accordance with their statutory rules;

    3. Strongly condemns the PRC’s practice of regularly resorting to comprehensive military exercises in the Taiwan Strait; is very concerned by the increasing, unwarranted mobilisation of the PRC coast guard, which confirms that the PRC considers the waters around Taiwan as its own and increases the risks of accidents; considers this to be yet another worrying confirmation that China is deliberately jeopardising the status quo in the Taiwan Strait;

    4. Is very concerned at the adoption of guidelines for punishing ‘diehard “Taiwan independence” separatists for conducting or inciting secession’ jointly announced by the Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, the ministries for public security and state security and the justice ministry in June 2024, which could lead to harsh punishments for the crime of secession, up to and including the death penalty; strongly condemns the sentencing of one Taiwanese activist to nine years in prison in September this year, after his arrest while in the PRC in 2022, as well as the constant harassment of Taiwanese people working and living in the PRC;

    5. Expresses concern at the expectation that China will become more aggressive militarily in the Taiwan Strait, as well as in the Indo-Pacific region more broadly;

    6. Urges the PRC authorities to restore full respect for the Taiwan’s Strait median line and to put a stop to all other grey-zone actions against Taiwan;

    7. Remains resolutely opposed to any unilateral change in the Taiwan Strait and against the will of Taiwanese citizens; remains equally strongly opposed to the threat or use of force, and stresses that any attempt by Beijing to subjugate Taiwan would come at an extraordinarily high price for the PRC;

    8. Commends Taiwan for the remarkable democratic journey it has undertaken over the last 30 years, solidly anchored upon freedoms, the rule of law, democratic institutions and free and fair elections; highlights the recognition of same-sex marriage by Taiwan in 2019, the first such recognition in Asia; strongly encourages Taiwan to keep working towards the abolition of the death penalty;

    9. Welcomes the very responsible reactions by the Taiwanese political elite to provocations by the PRC and expresses its great respect for the whole of Taiwanese society for its extraordinary resilience and strength;

    10. Welcomes the latest annual speech by President Lai Ching-te, who also appealed to China to work with him for peace; considers this to be an encouraging sign of movement towards stronger unity within the Taiwanese political spectrum; highlights that Taiwanese sovereignty is supported across the whole political spectrum and finds its best expression in the conducting of free and fair elections and in the maturity of Taiwanese democracy;

    11. Stresses that the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners and share common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, thereby making Taiwan a strategically important partner for the EU in the Indo-Pacific region;

    12. Acknowledges that the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle does not provide any credible prospect for the preservation of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; stresses the need to further develop EU-Taiwan relations with the preservation of peace and democracy at their core;

    13. Highlights the importance of coupling dialogue with deterrence; stresses the need, hence, to identify a fully-fledged and multidimensional strategy that would ensure that any unilateral change in the status quo in the Taiwan Strait would come at a prohibitively high cost to the PRC;

    14. Welcomes the posting of a liaison officer at the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan to coordinate joint efforts to tackle disinformation and interference as a first important step towards deeper EU-Taiwan cooperation, and calls for the EU to further deepen cooperation with Taiwan in this key area;

    15. Stresses the need to strengthen the focus on the PRC’s grey-zone activities against Taiwan and to renew EU support for the resilience of Taiwanese society and democracy as a whole; encourages, with this in mind, increased scientific, cultural and political interaction at the highest level possible, as well as the deepening of parliamentary diplomacy and visits; prioritises the creation of a common civic space with Taiwan by fostering exchanges and common activities with Taiwanese civil society and media organisations; underlines the importance of the people-to-people dimension of this cooperation;

    16. Stresses the crucial role of Taiwan in the global supply chain of key high-tech sectors, notably semiconductors; welcomes the recent investment projects by Taiwanese companies in some Member States and underlines the importance for Taiwan’s security of continuing to deepen its investments in the EU; calls on the Commission and the Member States to start working on a resilient supply chain agreement with Taiwan or other bilateral agreements to deepen the economic relationship; highlights the potential for cooperation on foreign direct investment screening policy and on tackling economic coercion and retaliation;

    17. Reiterates the importance of respecting international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea with its provisions on the obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means, and on maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight;

    18. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the member states of the United Nations, and the Government and Legislative Yuan of Taiwan.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 14th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 14th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, all dimensions of service and security for building a developed India can be achieved with the support of Home Guards and Civil Defence

    Civil Defence and Home Guards play a crucial role in empowering and securing the nation through service and protection

    Modi government will make the Home Guards and Civil Defence charter more relevant and useful by incorporating several new aspects and timely changes

    Modi government will also engage youth from all segments in Home Guards and Civil Defence, similar to the NCC and NSS

    Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers made invaluable contributions during the 1965 and 1971 wars as well

    Home Guards and Civil Defence must be integrated with awareness programs such as a drug-free India, clean India, tree planting, water conservation campaigns, women’s safety, TB-free India, the fight against malnutrition, and nutrition campaigns

    A roadmap should be developed to assist in law and order, facilitating coordination between local law enforcement and Home Guards and Civil Defence

    There is a need for institutional arrangements for training and traffic management to enhance the contribution of these organizations to emergency services

    Posted On: 22 OCT 2024 9:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addressed the 14th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today. On this occasion, several dignitaries were present, including Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel and Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan.

    In his address, Shri Amit Shah mentioned that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set a resolved to make India a fully developed nation by 2047. He said that in this vision, we must become a fully developed nation while preserving our values, traditions, culture, and languages alongside development in every sector. Shri Shah emphasized that service and security are two very important points in realizing this commitment. He mentioned that security encompasses every individual, property, future, rights, along with our core values of service. He noted that civil defence and home guards are institutions linked with security and service, working to connect a segment of society with the protection and service of the community. He added that the commitment to building a developed India, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, can be achieved through the dimensions of service and security provided by Home Guards and Civil Defence.

    Union Home Minister noted that during this two-day conference, there will be extensive discussions on various points regarding the strengthening of Home Guards and Civil Defence, capacity building, and their roles in disaster management across five sessions. He mentioned that this conference will also serve as a medium for dialogue between states, facilitating the exchange of good practices and boosting their capabilities in resolve emerging challenges.

    Shri Amit Shah said that former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri played a significant role in giving importance to Home Guards and Civil Defence since 1962. He noted that the Civil Defence Directorate was established in 1962, and the Civil Defence Act was passed in 1968. Shri Shah mentioned the invaluable contribution of Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers during the wars of 1965 and 1971. He highlighted that during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Home Guards and Civil Defence organizations played a crucial role in protecting essential infrastructure, providing general training to citizens, and assisting in relocating them to safer places, in collaboration with the armed forces and local administration.

    Union Home Minister stated that the efforts will be made by Modi government to make the Home Guards and Civil Defence charter relevant and useful by adding several new aspects and timely changes over the next four months. He mentioned that this step aims to bring a new awareness and vitality to both organizations. Shri Shah explained that the current charter includes preparing people for war emergencies, protecting citizens, training them to avoid the effects of war, fostering a mindset of non-violent civil resistance, organizing communities, assisting in the repair of infrastructure damaged in war, and boosting morale. He noted that if an organization’s charter does not undergo changes for 50 years, both the organization and the charter become obsolete. He emphasized that there have been radical changes in the country over the past 50 years, and technological advancements have altered needs, leading the country to progress significantly.

    Shri Amit Shah stated that the role played by Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with their dedication to serving people, is commendable. He mentioned that during the pandemic, 27 personnel from Home Guards and Civil Defence lost their lives while serving the public.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that training for contribution in emergency services for Home Guards and Civil Defence should be systematic and should have a place in their charter. He said that there is a need to make institutional arrangements for Home Guards and Civil Defence in traffic management as well. He said that similarly they should join other awareness programmes, such as Drug Free India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Tree Plantation Campaigns, Water Conservation, Awareness against social evils, Women Safety, Community Health Care, TB Free India, War against Malnutrition, Poshan Abhiyaan etc. Shri Shah said that there should be a constructive role in spreading awareness for cyber security and against digital fraud, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Plastic Free India and Tree Plantation Campaign for environmental protection. He said that a roadmap should be made for assistance in law and order so that there is coordination between the local law and order handling officials and Home Guards and Civil Defence. He added that their roles in education, such as reducing drop out ratio, 100 percent enrollment and improvement in the quality of education, should also be given a place in the new charter. He said that there is a need to include Home Guards and Civil Defence in the charter to link them with many government programmes for employment and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

    Shri Amit Shah said that keeping in mind the needs of the country today, there is a need to think afresh about the role of these two organisations to make them more relevant. He said that in the next 4 months, there is a need to infuse new life into both these organisations. Shri Shah said that there is also a need to focus on training and bringing forward new and young faces. The Home Minister said that till now only those people are associated with Home Guards and Civil Defence who want to come forward for the society. He said that the government will try that just like all sections of the society are represented in NCC, NSS, in the same way, youth from every section of the society should also be associated with these organisations. He said that towards achieving the goal of building a developed India in 2047, we need to strengthen every aspect related to it.

    ***

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2067195) Visitor Counter : 66

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan – B10-0138/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    to wind up the debate on the statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

    Adam Bielan, Charlie Weimers, Bert‑Jan Ruissen, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Michał Dworczyk, Carlo Fidanza, Alexandr Vondra, Alberico Gambino, Rihards Kols, Reinis Pozņaks, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    B10‑0138/2024

    European Parliament resolution on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

    (2024/2891(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous reports, recommendations and resolutions on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Taiwan,

    – having regard to the urgency motion on Taiwan, passed by the Australian Senate on 21 August 2024,

    – having regard to the motion of 12 September 2024 passed in the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament on UN resolution 2758,

    – having regard to the statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service of 14 October on China’s latest military drills around Taiwan,

    – having regard to the UN Charter,

    – having regard to UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) of 25 October 1971,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas, in the 1970s, in the hope of enhancing prosperity, stability and peace, the PRC was offered a place in the UN; whereas Beijing seized this opportunity, benefiting from close ties with the West, joining the World Trade Organization, enjoying freedom of navigation and experiencing stabilisation in the seas and straits of South-East Asia, all of which opened the door to the country’s unprecedented economic and technological development;

    B. whereas, in recent years, through its actions – such as supporting Russia’s barbaric aggression and assertively expanding in the region, particularly with the threat of invading Taiwan – Beijing is failing to uphold the commitments expected of UN Security Council members and the commitments enshrined in the UN Charter; whereas UN resolution 2758 does not establish the PRC’s sovereignty over Taiwan and does not determine the future status of Taiwan in the United Nations, nor of Taiwanese participation in UN agencies or international organisations;

    C. whereas the PRC has falsely leveraged some interpretations of UN Resolution 2758 to advance its ‘One China’ narrative globally and put pressure on Taiwan, limiting its voice on the international stage and influencing its diplomatic relationships;

    D. whereas the Australian and Dutch Parliaments have already decided not to go along with the PRC’s interpretation of UN Resolution 2758;

    E. whereas the PRC is perpetuating its overly aggressive actions, and trying to erode the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; whereas since 2019 the PRC has violated the Taiwanese air defence identification zone (ADIZ) with increasing regularity; whereas the PRC has been behaving aggressively across vast areas of the Indo-Pacific and exerting varying degrees of military or economic coercion, which has led to disputes with neighbours such as Japan, India, the Philippines and Australia;

    F. whereas on 14 October 2024 the PRC launched, without prior warning, a large-scale military drill named Joint Sword 2024-B that simulated a blockade of Taiwan; whereas the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) deployed 153 aircraft and 36 naval and coastguard ships around Taiwan, setting single-day records;

    G. whereas the PLA’s air manoeuvres have increased from under 20 incursions into Taiwan’s ADIZ in 2019 to 2 459 so far in 2024; whereas the threat is exacerbated by Beijing’s announcement that it was practising for a blockade of Taiwan’s key ports and military bases; whereas the PLA’s primary locus for ADIZ operations has shifted over time from the South China Sea to the Taiwan Strait; whereas the PLA’s flight activity to the east of Taiwan has increased, demonstrating a shift from training and navigation operations to testing likely combat concepts in the event of a blockade or military invasion of Taiwan;

    H. whereas, besides military pressure, the PRC has for years pursued a sophisticated strategy of targeting Taiwan with foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), including hybrid and cyberattacks, with the goal of undermining Taiwan’s democratic society;

    I. whereas the PRC under the leadership of Xi Jinping has said that it will not renounce the use of force to seek unification with Taiwan;

    J. whereas on 25 September 2024 the PRC fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean for the first time since 1980;

    K. whereas the PRC’s increasingly aggressive posture, in particular in its own neighbourhood, such as the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, poses a risk to regional and global security;

    L. whereas Beijing’s active support of the Russian Federation’s aggressive actions against Ukraine contradicts the PRC’s claim to be a ‘stabilising power’; whereas the Russian war of aggression is being closely watched by the PRC as a test bed for the possible future invasion of Taiwan and to gauge the likely reaction of the international community;

    M. whereas the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners that share the common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law;

    N. whereas the PRC is a one-party state controlled and ruled entirely by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP); whereas the CCP has used its growing influence in international organisations to reshape the open, rules-based international order to protect and advance its own interests;

    O. whereas Taiwan is located in a strategic position in terms of trade; whereas the Taiwan Strait is the primary route for ships travelling from the PRC, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan towards Europe; whereas the EU remains the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Taiwan; whereas there is considerable potential for increasing Taiwan’s FDI in the EU; whereas Taiwan dominates semiconductor manufacturing markets, as its producers manufacture around 50 % of the world’s semiconductor output; whereas the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy argues for increasing trade and investment cooperation with Taiwan and advocates stabilising tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait;

    1. Reiterates that Taiwan is an important EU partner and a like-minded democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific region;

    2. Condemns the sustained efforts made by representatives of the PRC to distort the meaning of UN resolution 2758, historical documents and international rules;

    3. Remains deeply committed to the EU’s ‘One China’ policy, which does not equate with the PRC’s ‘One China’ principle’;

    4. Stresses that nothing in resolution 2758 prevents Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and that it has no bearing on the sovereign choices of other countries with respect to their relationship with Taiwan;

    5. Regrets the PRC’s efforts to block Taiwan’s participation in multilateral organisations; calls for the EU and its Member States to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation, in line with the key UN principles of universal representation, in relevant international organisations such as the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in order to better protect global interests and address the serious challenges facing humanity, such as pandemics, climate change and human rights;

    6. Strongly condemns the PRC’s provocative, irresponsible, disproportionate and destabilising military exercises, including the recent exercises of 14 October, as well as its continued military provocations against Taiwan and its aggressive posture in the wider region; expresses its concern about the PRC’s recent launch of an ICBM into the Pacific Ocean, which has contributed to further tensions across the Indo-Pacific region;

    7. Reaffirms its strong commitment to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; calls for the EU and its Member States to ensure that any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, particularly by means of force or coercion, will not be accepted and will be met with a decisive and firm reaction;

    8. Highlights that the PRC’s increasingly aggressive posture poses a threat to the freedom of navigation and jeopardises the stability which is vital for global trade; emphasises that this situation is being watched with concern by a growing number of like-minded partners committed to peace and stability in the region, including across the Taiwan Strait; underlines the need to shore up deterrence against destabilising behaviour, including through regular operations to assert freedom of navigation over the PRC’s attempts to impose control over international waters and airspace;

    9. Reiterates its strong condemnation of statements by President Xi Jinping that the PRC will never renounce the right to use force with respect to Taiwan;

    10. Urges the PRC to immediately cease all actions and intrusions into the Taiwanese ADIZ and the airspace violations above Taiwan’s outer islands, and to restore the full respect of the Taiwan Strait’s median line, all of which also poses a risk to international aviation, and stop all other grey-zone military actions, including cyber and disinformation campaigns;

    11. Recalls that maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific is a core interest for the free world, including the EU and its Member States; stresses that a military conflict in the Taiwan Strait would not only cause significant economic disruption affecting European interests and prosperity, but would also seriously undermine the rules-based order in the region, as well as democratic governance with human rights, democracy and the rule of law at its core;

    12. Recalls Taiwan’s help and assistance during both the COVID-19 pandemic and the humanitarian crises caused by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as its continuous involvement and support for the Ukrainian government and countries hosting Ukrainian refugees;

    13. Reiterates the importance of respecting international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and its provisions on the obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means and on maintaining the freedom of navigation and overflight;

    14. Reiterates its call for the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs to change the name of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan to ‘European Union Office in Taiwan’ to reflect the broad scope of our ties;

    15. Reiterates its previous call for the Commission to launch, without delay, an impact assessment, public consultation and scoping exercise on a bilateral investment agreement with the Taiwanese authorities in preparation for negotiations on deepening bilateral economic ties;

    16. Recommends further deepening cooperation between the EU and Taiwan to enhance structural cooperation on countering disinformation and foreign interference; recommends posting a liaison officer at the European Economic and Trade Office to coordinate joint efforts on tackling disinformation and interference; condemns any form of pressure and threats of reprisals, including economic coercion, with regard to the independent right of the EU and its Member States to develop relations with Taiwan in line with their interests and shared values of democracy and human rights, without foreign interference;

    17. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Governments of the PRC and Taiwan.

     

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOD, German Ministry of Defence Enter Into Security of Supply Arrangement

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The Department of Defense (DoD) entered into a bilateral, non-binding Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) with the Federal Ministry of Defence for the Federal Republic of Germany (DEU MOD). The arrangement will enable both the U.S. and Germany to acquire the industrial resources they need to quickly meet defense requirements, resolve unanticipated disruptions that challenge defense capabilities, and promote supply chain resiliency.

    The SOSA was signed on October 22, 2024 by Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Dr. William LaPlante, on behalf of the United States and the Head of the Directorate-General for Equipment within the Federal Ministry of Defence, Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki, on behalf of Germany in Brussels, Belgium.

    “This SOSA is an important step forward and further strengthens the robust defense partnership between Germany and the United States,” said Dr. LaPlante.

    Through this arrangement, the U.S. and Germany commit intent to support one another’s priority delivery requests for procurement of critical national defense resources. The U.S. will provide Germany some assurances under the U.S. Defense Priorities and Allocations System, with program determinations by the DoD and rating authorizations by the Department of Commerce. Germany will in turn establish a government-industry Code of Conduct with its industrial base, in which German firms will voluntarily agree to make every reasonable effort to provide the U.S. with priority support. Participation in this Code of Conduct is made voluntarily.

    SOSAs are an important mechanism for DoD to strengthen interoperability and are a proven supply chain tool for enabling a resilient, global defense ecosystem for the U.S. and key partners and allies. The arrangements institute working groups, establish communication mechanisms, streamline DoD processes, and proactively act to allay anticipated supply chain issues in peacetime, emergency, and armed conflict.

    Germany is the nineteenth SOSA partner of the United States. Other SOSA signatories include Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. For more information on SOSAs, visit: https://www.businessdefense.gov/security-of-supply.html

    About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (OASD (IBP):

    The OASD IBP works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the warfighter, now and in the future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK says it discovered remains of a South Korean drone

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) said it had discovered remains of a drone identical to a military unmanned aerial vehicle that South Korea showed during the Armed Forces Day parade, calling it decisive material evidence to prove South Korea committed a hostile provocation in violation of the country’s sovereignty, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Saturday.

    A spokesman for the DPRK Ministry of National Defense said on Friday that the Pyongyang Municipal Security Bureau of the DPRK Ministry of Public Security on October 13 discovered the remains of a crashed drone during a search operation in Pyongyang, the KCNA said.

    The DPRK assessed through technical examination and analysis the drone it discovered as a light-weight drone for long-range reconnaissance owned by the South Korean military and one of “the same type as the vehicle-carried one opened to public at an event marking the ROK Armed Forces Day”, according to the KCNA report. ROK is the acronym of the official name of South Korea, the Republic of Korea.

    Based on the drone shape, its presumptive flight period and the leaflet-scattering box fixed to the underpart of the drone’s fuselage, among other factors, “it is quite likely that the drone is the one which scattered leaflets over the center of Pyongyang,” the KCNA said, adding though “the conclusion has not yet been drawn.”

    Subsequently, the DPRK asked its military units in the capital city and the southern border area to reinforce anti-air observation posts, and “decided to keep the combined artillery units and the units with important fire duties near the border in full combat readiness,” according to the KCNA.

    The DPRK warned that “if a violation of the DPRK’s territorial ground, air and waters by ROK’s military means is discovered and confirmed again, it will be regarded as a grave military provocation against the DPRK sovereignty and a declaration of war and an immediate retaliatory attack will be launched,” the KCNA said.

    The DPRK Foreign Ministry on October 11th accused South Korea of sending drones over Pyongyang. South Korea’s military denied the accusation on the same day, saying “it did not send drones into North Korea.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CSAF, CMSAF visit Korea to engage allies and Airmen

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    OSAN AIR BASE, GYEONGGIDO [KYONGGI-DO], South Korea  –  

    U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin met with Republic of Korea Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Lee, Youngsu at the ROKAF Headquarters in Gyeryongdae, Oct. 17, as part of a weeklong visit to the region.

    The Air Chiefs discussed the current strategic environment and ways their two services can integrate even more effectively to deter aggression.

    “Challengers to a free and open Indo-Pacific are real, from the Korean peninsula to the South China Sea,” Allvin said. “That is why our ironclad alliance with the ROK has never been more important. Together, we continue to strengthen our interoperability and sharpen the combined readiness of our forces.”

    One of the initiatives being tested within Seventh Air Force is the Super Squadron at Osan, which has temporarily shifted F-16 Falcons on the Korean peninsula to optimize combat capability and increase readiness.

    “The ongoing F-16 Super Squadron test is centered on two things — readiness and combat effectiveness,” Allvin said. “This initiative demonstrates our nonstop commitment to the defense of the ROK against any threat or adversary. Our Airmen stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our ROK counterparts and are trained and ready to respond to any provocation or crisis.”

    The meeting with Lee was part of Allvin’s trip to Korea where he, along with his wife, Gina Allvin, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi visited Osan Air Base to speak with Airmen and discuss Air Force operations in the Korean theater.
    During the visit Allvin and Flosi held office calls with Air Force leaders from Osan and Kunsan, spoke with Airmen during an all call, and toured facilities on base.

    At the all call, Allvin discussed the evolution of the Air Force in response to changing geopolitical dynamics, emphasizing the importance of readiness. He highlighted the need for reoptimization to adapt to Great Power Competition, focusing on improving current force readiness and developing future capabilities. He also stressed the importance of large-scale exercises, agile combat employment, and human-machine teaming.

    Flosi joined Allvin for the question-and-answer portion of the all call, addressing issues from eliminating barriers to service, to enhancing mission readiness through better training and risk management. The discussion also addressed policy discrepancies and efforts to improve medical care standards and prevention.

    The leadership team closed the all call by discussing the importance of enforcing standards.

    “Take a hard look at the culture of standards in your organization,” said Flosi. “Our ability to execute our mission, do our nation’s bidding, hinges on an organization of Airmen who believe in and enforce standards.”
    Following the all-call, Flosi met with senior NCOs for lunch and had a more in-depth discussion about policies and issues that affect Airmen.

    He also toured the hospital, 51st Security Forces Squadron, and 36th Fighter Generation Squadron to learn about different aspects of the mission at Osan.

    Meanwhile, Mrs. Allvin met with Key Support Liaisons and received briefs about noncombatant evacuation operations and the command sponsorship program. She also toured the Military and Family Readiness Center, base schools, the child development center, and the hospital.

    Allvin concluded the visit by expressing his appreciation for Team Osan.

    “I am leaving here feeling refreshed and energized,” he said. “The Airmen here are leaning forward and doing their very best for our nation in one of the toughest and most consequential parts of the world.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USS George Washington transits to Japan

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SAN DIEGO  –  

     The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed the San Diego area for routine operations Oct. 8, beginning its transit to Yokosuka, Japan.

    George Washington assumed the role of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed carrier, replacing USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), which operated out of Yokosuka for nearly nine years before departing Japan in May.

    “USS George Washington departed San Diego to begin the final phase of its redeployment to Japan, where it will once again serve as the Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier,” said Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk, commander of Carrier Strike Group 5. “It will take up station alongside the always-ready forces postured in the area of responsibility. George Washington, with all its capabilities, represents America’s commitment to stability in the region where it will sail and fly with our partner navies as we strive to move from interoperability to true interchangeability.”

    George Washington completed its midlife refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipbuilding in May 2023, conducted pre-deployment certifications and inspections over the course of 10 months, and departed Norfolk, Virginia, in April for its Southern Seas deployment around South America, arriving in San Diego in July.

    The forward-deployed Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, which recently completed training at Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada, will embark George Washington to transit the Pacific Ocean and return to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan.

    “I am incredibly proud of this team and everything they have accomplished this year,” said Capt. Timothy Waits, commanding officer of George Washington. “This crew, alongside Carrier Air Wing 5, is trained, tested, and ready to return to 7th Fleet as the Navy’s premier forward-deployed aircraft carrier.”

    This marks the second time that George Washington has served as the Forward-Deployed Naval Forces-Japan aircraft carrier. In 2008, it became the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to be forward-deployed to Japan before being relieved by Ronald Reagan in 2015.

    After operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet and 7th Fleet areas of operations, George Washington will arrive in Yokosuka in late fall.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Legacy of partnership: 25th FS hosts Buddy Squadron 25-1

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

    The 25th Fighter Squadron hosted two units from the Republic of Korea Air Force 8th Fighter Wing for Buddy Squadron 25-1 at Osan Air Base, ROK, Oct. 15-17, 2024.

    Unique to the ROK, Buddy Squadron is a tradition between the ROKAF and U.S. Air Force that started in the late 1990s and has grown over time. It is an opportunity to allow ROKAF and U.S. Air Force fighter pilots to share and practice flying concepts and tactics while also building and developing relationships between the Airmen.

    Today, all four U.S. Air Force fighter squadrons on the Korean peninsula participate in this training event on a semi-annual basis with their designated Buddy Squadron.

    “Being a fighter pilot in Korea can be very demanding both physically and emotionally,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Chase McCathern, 51st Operational Support Squadron current operations flight commander and project officer for Buddy Squadron 25-1. “These Buddy Squadron events help make those long days worth it.”

    Since its development in the ‘90s, the program continued to grow and thrive with eager participation from both the ROKAF and U.S. Air Force members. While the COVID-19 pandemic brought the training event to a halt for a few years; since its rebirth in 2022, the program has once again started to flourish.

    “This program has returned stronger than ever,” expressed McCathern. “I think that’s a testament to the relationships amongst the squadrons and to how much of a priority this is for us all.”

    As the most forward-deployed, permanently based fighter wing, Osan AB trains their Airmen to be ready to “Fight Tonight” and defend the peninsula at a moment’s notice. In order to accomplish this goal, integration and collaboration with our ROK military partners is paramount.

    “This level of interdependence while flying requires a deep level of trust, teamwork, communication, and skill,” explained McCathern. “ These things aren’t developed overnight and Buddy Squadron is an intentional method to build the relationships which are the foundation for all of them.”

    On top of the great training opportunity and tactical value Buddy Squadron provides, pilots assigned to the 25th FS also look forward to reconnecting with their counterparts, meeting new aviators, and taking the opportunity to repay the kindness of their ROKAF partners.

    “Our Buddy Squadron partners are notorious for the exceptional hospitality they always show us, and it’s a blessing for us to get the opportunity to have them here at Osan and to try and return the favor,” said McCathern.

    This iteration of Buddy Squadron included academics, knowledge exchange, social events and combined flying missions including the A-10 Thunderbolt II, FA-50 Golden Eagle and the KA-1 Woongbi. Many of the 25th FS “Draggins” look forward to Buddy Squadron for months as a refreshing, tangible reminder to why they fly in the first place – to defend the peninsula and the people who call it home.

    “Buddy Squadron is one of the things we are most excited about every year here,” said McCathern. “We always have a blast when we get together for these events, and the time I spend with our buddies always reminds me of my favorite Frank Sinatra quote: ‘If you don’t know the guy on the other side of the world, love him anyway because he’s just like you. He has the same dreams, same hopes and fears. It’s one world, pal. We’re all neighbors.’”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas confirms death of its leader Yahya Sinwar

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This file photo taken on May 1, 2017, shows Yahya Sinwar (front) in Gaza City. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Hamas confirmed on Friday the death of its leader Yahya Sinwar, without giving details about how Sinwar died or who would be his successor.

    In a statement, Hamas said the hostages in the Gaza Strip “will not return unless the aggression on Gaza stops, the withdrawal (of Israeli forces) from it, and our heroic prisoners are released from the occupation prisons.”

    Meanwhile, Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, said in a statement that the resistance “will continue and escalate until the legitimate goals of our people are achieved.”

    Also on Friday, Khalil Al-Hayya, deputy chief of Hamas in Gaza, mourned Sinwar’s death in a televised speech.

    Calling his death inspiration for a new generation who will confront the Israeli “occupation” and liberate the Palestinian territories, Al-Hayya said his movement is holding its requirements to release the Israeli hostages in Gaza.

    “For those who are crying over the fate of the Israeli hostages, we will never release them without ending the war, reaching a prisoner swap and ending the Israeli blockade in Gaza,” he said.

    On Thursday evening, the Israel Defense Forces and the Israel Security Agency confirmed in a joint statement that Sinwar was killed in an Israeli attack on southern Gaza on Wednesday.

    Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which 1,200 people were killed and about 250 others taken hostage.

    The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 42,500, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Friday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese drone maker sues US government

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese drone maker DJI filed a lawsuit to challenge the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) on Saturday, seeking to be removed from the blacklist of alleged Chinese military companies.

    In an announcement released to Xinhua, the company said the designation is erroneous and decided to seek relief in U.S. federal court after more than 16 months of efforts to engage with DoD.

    The company added that it has been dedicated to promoting the application of civilian drone products and opposes the use of its products for military purposes.

    “DoD itself acknowledges that DJI makes consumer and commercial drones, not military drones,” said the company.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New air defence laser engages multiple missiles at once  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    RAF pilots are one step closer to being equipped with a cutting-edge air-protection laser self-protection system, following 100% successful live-fire trials.

    • Air protection laser defeats 100% of targets in live firing trial.

    • Equipment being fitted to UK military aircraft to defeat missile threats. 

    • Collaboration between Dstl scientists and UK industry partners help support 1950 jobs across Scotland. 

    RAF pilots are one step closer to being equipped with a cutting-edge laser self-protection system, following 100% successful live-fire trials.  

    The laser is being designed to be fitted to a range of RAF aircraft including the intelligence gathering Shadow R2 and A400M transporter, ready to rapidly detect and defeat threats such as missiles.  

    During the trial at the Vidsel Test Range in Sweden, the operational system defeated a range of infrared heat-seeking missiles being fired simultaneously. 

    100% of threats were quickly defeated using a laser with pinpoint accuracy, which has been designed and developed by the Team Pellonia partnership between Leonardo UK, Thales UK, and the MOD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:  

    Identifying, tracking and defeating threats from the air in seconds is crucial to having the edge over those who try to do us harm.  

    We’re equipping our Armed Forces with the very latest technology to keep them safe and give them the advantage on operations. 

    This high-tech laser is another excellent example of joint working between our Dstl experts and the UK’s defence industry.

    The system works by Thales’s Elix-IR threat warning system quickly detecting and identifying the launch of missiles, using a series of algorithms to filter out background clutter so that only valid threats are tracked, classified and declared.  

    Once the threat(s) has been classified, an alert is sent to the Leonardo’s Miysis directed infrared countermeasure which moves to track the incoming missile and directs a jamming laser onto the missile with ultimate precision. 

    Threats are defeated faster than the time it takes to read this sentence. This UK engineered capability gives the MOD the latest generation best-in-class protection, whilst enjoying full operational independence, and offering the same freedoms to export customers. 

    The live tests were witnessed by senior military officers from a number of NATO nations.  

    Dstl’s Chief for Air Survivability, Mark Elson, said: 

    The UK defensive aids system is the culmination of MOD’s detailed understanding of changing threats alongside years of sustained defence investment in science and technology nurtured within Dstl. This has been aligned with the development capabilities of our commercial partners through Team Pellonia.  

    The design of the system has the agility to protect platforms now and into the future, providing long-term operational advantage to the UK and our allies. This is enabled through Spiral Development which provides capabilities such as the Dstl developed jamming waveform that defeats the guidance of the missile threat.

    Dstl’s research programme and partnerships like Team Pellonia help boost UK economic growth, sustaining 700 jobs at Thales in Glasgow and 1,250 specialist roles at Leonardo in Edinburgh, supporting both the local as well as national economies. 

    Leonardo’s Senior Vice-President of Radar and Advanced Targeting, Mark Stead, said: 

    The results of these latest trials speak for themselves, and are a testament to the skills and experience within Leonardo as a global leader in directed infrared countermeasures. Miysis DIRCM has again proven itself as a reliable, effective protection system and is flying operationally on many platforms today.  

    My thanks go to the Miysis team who demonstrated superb leadership and technical prowess during the trials at Vidsel, working alongside our partners in Defence and Industry to prove our capabilities which help to protect our Armed Forces.

    Thales’s Managing Director of Optronics & Missile Electronics UK, Stephen McCann, said: 

    Once again, as previously witnessed during SALT 3 in 2018, Elix-IR has proved its world leading capabilities as the latest generation multi-function infrared threat warning system during what was a comprehensive and complicated multi-faceted trial.  

    I am extremely proud of our entire team that supported both the UK, under Team Pellonia, and other NATO member teams in the preparation and execution of this event. UK MOD has adopted Elix-IR as its core reference capability threat warner of choice, based on its maturity and proven capability.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Case Announces $40 Million Federal Grant To Improve Resiliency Of O‘ahu Power Grid Serving Both Military And Civilian Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (D-HI-01) today announced that a $40 million grant funded by the landmark 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) will develop a back-up power source for O‘ahu’s electric grid, providing resiliency to both military and civilian communities in the event of disruptions from various sources. 

    The federal grant award will fund the Pu‘uloa Microgrid and Backbone Project, a partnership between the U.S. Navy, Hawaiian Electric and Ameresco, Inc.

    “I strongly advocated for this project with the U.S. Department of Energy when the partnership applied for funding under the Department’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program,” said Case.  

    “Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) plays a critical role in promoting national security throughout the Pacific theater. Especially given its importance, the Department of the Navy has identified energy resilience gaps that could significantly impact JBPHH’s ability to respond to and recover from grid outages. Further, new state and federal policy directives have required the Department of the Navy to improve resilience and reduce carbon emissions from the installation. 

    “As the U.S. Congressman in whose district JBPHH is located and a member of the House Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Defense, I have focused on the installation’s grid challenges and the potential for disruption of service to our civilian communities as well, and on assuring available funding to address these issues. This GRIP funding is critical to enabling this project to succeed.”

    “We are thrilled to be chosen for the Department of Energy’s GRIP program,” said Nicole Bulgarino, Executive Vice President at Ameresco. “Partnering with the U.S. Navy and Hawaiian Electric Company on the groundbreaking Pu`uloa Microgrid project will not only enhance energy resilience and reliability for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, but also provide significant benefits to the broader O‘ahu community. This project exemplifies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.”

    According to the project description, the Pu`uloa Microgrid will detect the loss of power during grid outages, disconnect from the broader grid and direct power from Pu`uloa Energy to support JBPHH’s national security needs while maintaining civilian community service. During a full island outage, the system will provide black start capabilities. The project will also improve power quality to JBPHH and the local grid through ancillary services such as frequency response and voltage support. 

    Pu`uloa Microgrid is designed to strengthen the grid and improve resilience by increasing or establishing interconnections between Hawaiian Electric substations at JBPHH with new 46 kV transmission infrastructure that will be integrated into the microgrid control system and utilize state of the art smart grid technologies.

    “Since 2021 I have been working hard to ensure that my government and community partners throughout Hawai‘i are aware of project and funding availability from both the $1.2 trillion BIL, as well as from the $500 billion Inflation Reduction Act (which Congress passed in August 2022). Together these two landmark measures are addressing our country’s most pressing infrastructure needs including those arising from climate change,” said Case.

    ·      Details of the project can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi stresses promoting high-standard opening-up for reform, development

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

    TIANJIN, Oct. 20 — Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged the country’s state-level economic and technological development zones to continuously stimulate innovation vitality and endogenous momentum and promote high-standard opening up for in-depth reform and high-quality development.

    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a recent instruction on the work of such development zones.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. 7th Fleet Destroyer and The Royal Canadian Navy Conduct Bilateral Transit in the Taiwan Strait

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    TAIWAN STRAIT  –  

    The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) and Royal Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigate HMCS Vancouver (FFH 331) conducted a routine Taiwan Strait transit on Oct. 20 (local time) through waters where high-seas freedom of navigation and overflight apply in accordance with international law. The ship transited through a high seas corridor in the Strait that is beyond the territorial sea of any coastal state. Higgins and Vancouver’s transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrated the United States’ and Canada’s commitment to upholding freedom of navigation for all nations as a principle. The international community’s navigational rights and freedoms in the Taiwan Strait should not be limited. The United States rejects any assertion of sovereignty or jurisdiction that is inconsistent with freedoms of navigations, overflight, and other lawful uses of the sea and air.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green growth and security to underpin UK relationships with Indonesia and South Korea

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits Indonesia and South Korea.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy meets with President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto on his visit to Indonesia. Picture by Ben Dance / FCDO

    • UK will put green growth and security at the centre of our relationships across the region. 
    • Government will step up efforts towards a new, deeper Strategic Partnership with crucial G20 partner Indonesia to support green innovation and accelerate the clean energy transition.
    • Driving forward further security collaboration, the Foreign Secretary will visit South Korea to galvanise work on defence, clean energy and growth.

    A new chapter in the relationship between the UK and Indonesia, a vital Indo-pacific and G20 partner, begins with the Foreign Secretary arriving in Jakarta today (20th October).

    The Foreign Secretary will attend the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto, as the UK and Indonesia celebrate seventy five years of diplomatic relations this year. With new governments in the UK and Indonesia, both countries will work together to build a deeper Strategic Partnership that delivers growth and security while ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. 

    Reinforcing the UK and South Korea’s shared global values, David Lammy will travel onwards to Seoul where he will visit the Demilitarized Zone and underline our geopolitical collaboration on security, climate and growth with another G20 power in the Indo-Pacific. 

    In South Korea the Foreign Secretary will witness first-hand the geopolitical reality and immediacy of the divided Korean peninsula and the ongoing threat posed by North Korea. 

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said: 

    Our South Korean partners have stood side-by-side with us in defence of Ukraine whilst also working to preserve regional stability here on the Korean peninsula.

    It is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of conflict, with North Korea supporting Russia and prolonging conflict on Europe’s borders whilst their illegal weapons of mass destruction programme threatens regional security. That is why it is so important for the UK to engage globally over conflict on our continent and security beyond it.

    Indonesia is a key player in our fight to tackle the climate crisis – and our new governments are working together to build a strategic partnership that delivers green growth, deepens our cooperation on security and ensures a sustainable future for our planet. 

    Right across this region, we are working to further unlock growth, trade and green innovation.

    Underlining the UK and South Korea’s joint commitment to upholding peace both on the Korean Peninsula and across the globe, the Foreign Secretary will announce the first UK and South Korea Foreign and Defence Ministerial 2 + 2 Dialogue. This set-piece consultation will provide a formalised space to further enhance cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges to peace and security. 

    The Ministerial 2 + 2 will sit alongside an Inaugural UK-Korea Hybrid Threats Dialogue, which will enable discussion on issues of shared national interest and identification of new opportunities to tackle shared threats together – jointly improving our resilience. 

    The Foreign Secretary’s visit to both Indonesia and South Korea will also be underpinned by the UK’s international leadership on the climate crisis, through clean power and green solutions.  

    In Indonesia, the Foreign Secretary will meet Indonesian companies supported by the UK to spearhead green innovations. He will also see first-hand the UK expertise being deployed to support sustainable infrastructure development in Indonesia. 

    In the Republic of Korea, Mr Lammy will visit Ewha Women’s University to share expertise and experience on the UK’s and South Korea’s clean energy transition. Focusing on how both countries can deliver female leadership in climate and growth, the Foreign Secretary will meet with the university’s President, Kim Eun Mee, and leaders within the climate sphere.

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    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Proposes Rule to Expand Coverage of Affordable Contraception Under the Affordable Care  Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Biden-Harris Administration Announces Proposal for Most Significant Expansion of Contraception Coverage Under the Affordable Care Act in More Than a Decade
    President Biden and Vice President Harris have protected and built on the Affordable Care Act. Nearly 50 million people over the past decade have had coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplaces, and the law has protected more than 100 million people with preexisting medical conditions. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, Affordable Care Act coverage is more affordable than ever with millions of families saving an average of $800 per year on Marketplace coverage.
    The Affordable Care Act has also helped millions of women save billions of dollars on contraception—an essential component of reproductive health care that has only become more important since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. As part of President Biden and Vice President Harris’ steadfast commitment to reproductive rights, the Biden-Harris Administration has further strengthened contraception access and affordability under the Affordable Care Act, through Medicare and Medicaid, through the Title X Family Planning Program, through federally qualified health centers, and for federal employees, Service members, veterans, and college students.
    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is proposing a rule that would significantly increase coverage of contraception without cost sharing for 52 million women of reproductive age with private health insurance. Building on the Affordable Care Act’s requirement that most private health plans must cover contraception without cost sharing, today’s proposed rule from the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and the Treasury would:
    Expand coverage of over-the-counter contraception without cost sharing. Under the proposed rule, for the first time, women would be able to obtain over-the-counter (OTC) contraception without a prescription at no additional cost. As a result, more women would be able to access and afford critical OTC medications such as emergency contraception and the first-ever daily oral contraceptive approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use without a prescription that is now widely available across the country.
    Make it easier to learn about coverage for OTC contraception. To help ensure that women understand this new benefit, most private health plans would be required to disclose that OTC contraception is covered without cost sharing and without a prescription—and take steps to help women learn more about their contraception coverage.
    Strengthen coverage of prescribed contraception without cost sharing. The proposed rule would make it easier for most women with private health insurance to obtain contraception without cost sharing that is prescribed by their health care provider. Health plans would be required to cover every FDA-approved contraceptive drug or drug-led combination product without cost sharing unless the plan also covers a therapeutic equivalent without cost sharing, eliminating barriers that some women continue to face in accessing contraception prescribed by their provider.
    This proposed rule, if finalized, would be the most significant expansion of contraception coverage under the Affordable Care Act since 2012, when contraception was first required to be covered. Also today, the Biden-Harris Administration is issuing new guidance to help ensure that patients can access other preventive services, such as cancer screenings, that must be covered without cost sharing under the Affordable Care Act.
    The Biden-Harris Administration is issuing this proposed rule at a time when reproductive rights are under attack, and Republican elected officials remain committed to repealing the Affordable Care Act. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, dangerous and extreme abortion bans are putting women’s health and lives at risk and disrupting access to critical health care services, including contraception, as health care providers are forced to close in states across the country. At the same time, Republican elected officials in some states have made clear they want to ban or restrict birth control in addition to abortion, and Republicans in Congress have attacked contraception access nationwide by proposing to defund the Title X Family Planning Program. In contrast, President Biden and Vice President Harris believe that women in every state must have the freedom to make deeply personal health care decisions, including the right to decide if and when to start or grow their family.
    Today’s announcements build on actions that the Biden-Harris Administration has already taken to expand access to affordable contraception, including to implement the President’s Executive Order on Strengthening Access to Affordable, High-Quality Contraception and Family Planning Services from June 2023. The Administration has taken action to:
    Expand contraception coverage and affordability under the Affordable Care Act. The Departments of HHS, Labor, and the Treasury proposed a rule to provide a new pathway under the Affordable Care Act for women to access coverage of contraceptives when their private health coverage is exempt from covering this benefit due to a religious objection. These agencies also issued new guidance to support expanded coverage of a broader range of FDA-approved, cleared, or granted contraceptives at no additional cost under the Affordable Care Act, building on guidance issued after Roe v. Wade was overturned to clarify protections for contraceptive coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Further, HHS strengthened the standard for inclusion of family planning providers in Marketplace plan provider networks and provided nearly $9 million in grant funding to support state efforts to enhance and expand coverage of, and access to, reproductive and maternal health services, including contraception. And the Internal Revenue Service issued new guidance affirming that high-deductible health plans can cover OTC contraception as preventive care.
    Bolster family planning services through Title X clinics. HHS continues to rebuild and grow the Title X Family Planning Program, which has played a critical role in ensuring access to a broad range of high-quality family planning and preventive health services for more than 50 years. During the prior administration, more than 1,000 service sites left the Title X Family Planning Program, leading to a significant decline in people served. The Biden-Harris Administration reversed the policy changes that led to those departures, strengthening the Title X Family Planning Program and helping ensure that the Program remains a critical part of the nation’s health safety net. In 2023, HHS provided about $287 million to nearly 4,000 Title X clinics across the country to provide free or low-cost voluntary, client-centered family planning and related preventive services for 2.8 million women and families—an 80 percent increase since 2020.
    Support family planning coverage through the Medicaid and Medicare programs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued new guidance to state Medicaid programs and Children’s Health Insurance Programs (CHIP) to help ensure that enrollees can access family planning services. The new guidance outlined existing state obligations under federal law, highlighted strategies to enhance access to contraception, affirmed confidentiality requirements for those seeking family planning services, and shared recommendations on ways to measure quality in delivering family planning services. To help ensure that women with Medicare coverage have access to more covered types of contraception without unnecessary barriers, CMS updated its Medicare Part D formulary clinical review process for plan year 2024 and 2025 to include additional contraceptive types, such as long-acting contraceptives, and is increasing public awareness of contraceptive coverage options under Medicare Part B. The Secretary of HHS also issued a letter to state Medicaid and CHIP programs as well as private health insurers and Medicare plans about their existing obligations to cover contraception for those they serve.
    Increase contraception access through federal health centers. Federal health centers continue to be an important source of family planning services: in 2023, health centers provided nearly 3 million contraceptive services visits to patients, a 14 percent increase since 2020. To support health centers in providing high-quality family planning services, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provided updated guidance on existing federal requirements for family planning and related services, which is a required primary health care service under federal law, as well as evidence-based recommendations and resources. HRSA also adopted new data measures for health centers that will help assess whether patients have been screened for contraception needs. Screening and data measures will help enhance the overall delivery of voluntary family planning and related services.
    Support contraception access for federal employees and their families. The Office of Personnel Management strengthened access to contraception for federal workers, retirees, and family members by issuing guidance to insurers participating in the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program to clarify standards and support expanded coverage of a broader range of FDA-approved, cleared, or granted contraceptives at no additional cost. The Office of Personnel Management also required insurers that participate in the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program to take additional steps to educate enrollees about their contraception benefits and launched a public education campaign to highlight contraception benefits available to federal employees and their families.
    Promote contraception access and affordability for Service members and their families and certain dependents of veterans. To improve access to contraception at military hospitals and clinics, the Department of Defense expanded walk-in contraceptive care services for active-duty Service members and other Military Health System beneficiaries and eliminated TRICARE copays for certain contraceptive services. And the Department of Veterans Affairs eliminated out-of-pocket costs for certain types of contraception through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
    Support access to affordable contraception for college students. To help increase access to contraception for college students, President Biden directed the Secretary of Education to convene institutions of higher education to share best practices and ways to help students understand their options for accessing contraception. In 2023, Vice President Harris joined a Department of Education convening of representatives from 68 colleges and universities across 32 states to discuss promising strategies for protecting and expanding access to contraception for their students. This convening followed Vice President Harris’s multiple conversations about reproductive health access with students on college campuses across the country.
    Enhance contraception access through technical assistance and public-private partnership. In June 2023, HHS announced a new five-year public-private partnership to expand access to contraception with Upstream, a national nonprofit organization that provides health centers with free patient-centered, evidence-based training and technical assistance to eliminate provider-level barriers to offering the full range of contraceptive options. To date, HHS has connected Upstream to more than 130 health care clinics, resulting in partnerships that will help Upstream accelerate their national expansion to reach 5 million women of reproductive age every year.
    Promote research and data analysis on contraception access. To document the gaps and disparities in contraception access as well as the benefits of comprehensive coverage, HHS convened leading experts to discuss the state of research, data collection, and data analysis on contraception access and family planning services. These convenings helped identify research gaps, opportunities for collaboration, and ways to bolster research efforts for both Federal agencies and external partners.
    In addition to strengthening access to affordable contraception, the Biden-Harris Administration continues to implement President Biden’s threeExecutiveOrders and a Presidential Memorandum directing federal agencies to protect access to reproductive health care issued since the Court overturned Roe v. Wade. To date, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken action to protect access to abortion, including FDA-approved medication abortion; defend access to emergency medical care; support the ability to travel for reproductive health care; safeguard the privacy of patients and health care providers; and ensure access to accurate information and legal resources.
    The Vice President has led the White House’s efforts to partner with leaders on the frontlines of protecting access to abortion, highlighting the harm of abortion bans to women’s health at more than 100 events in more than 20 states since Roe v. Wade was overturned, and meeting with hundreds of  state legislators, health care providers, and advocates. On what would have been the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Vice President launched a nationwide Fight for Reproductive Freedoms tour to continue fighting back against extreme attacks throughout America.
    President Biden and Vice President Harris will continue to call on Congress to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade in federal law to ensure that women in every state are able to make their own decisions about reproductive health care.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: State of the Russian economy examined

    Source: Government of Sweden

    State of the Russian economy examined – Government.se

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    Article from Ministry of Finance

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    Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine continues with unabated intensity and far-reaching consequences for civilians. At the same time, Russia is spreading propaganda to try and portray the Russian economy as more well-functioning than it actually is. As part of efforts to combat this propaganda, the Swedish Government commissioned the National Institute of Economic Research to analyse economic developments in Russia. Last Wednesday, Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson hosted a seminar in connection with the report’s conclusions.

    • Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson.

      Photographer: Magnus Liljegren/Swedish Government Offices.

    • Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson.

      Photographer: Magnus Liljegren/Swedish Government Offices.

    • Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson, Torbjörn Becker, Director of the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) at the Stockholm School of Economics, Vladimir Milov, Russian opposition politician and economist, and Emil Wannheden, analyst at the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI).

      Photographer: Magnus Liljegren/Swedish Government Offices.

    • Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson.

      Photographer: Magnus Liljegren/Swedish Government Offices.

    “Russia is spreading propaganda in an attempt to portray its economy as strong and resilient in order to give the impression that sanctions are ineffective and thereby undermine continuance of support to Ukraine. That’s why it’s important to nuance the view of the Russian economy and look beyond the official figures,” said Ms Svantesson. 

    The seminar was attended by Director of the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) Torbjörn Becker at the Stockholm School of Economics, who presented SITE’s report, done in response to the Government’s assignment to the National Institute of Economic Research. The report calls attention to one of the main challenges in analysing the Russian economy: the lack of reliable data because Russia’s economic reporting has become intertwined with its war propaganda. The Russian government has stopped publishing large parts of previously available data, and the figures that are available are being used to portray a more positive situation.

    The report also highlights that the Russian government’s financial reserves, which have been used to finance war spending, are rapidly running out and may be exhausted within a year. Once these reserves are exhausted, the Russian Central Bank will then be under pressure to lower its policy rate or even to start printing more money, which could lead to high inflation and a weakened rouble.

    “It is clear that the Russian economy is not working as well as Putin would have it appear. Resources are being drained to the war industry and the economy is overheated. There are obviously big question marks surrounding the official figures. We must continue to actively combat Putin’s propaganda. Wednesday’s discussion is an important part of these efforts,” said Ms Svantesson.

    Russian opposition politician and economist Vladimir Milov and analyst and economist Emil Wannheden at the Swedish Defence Research Institute also attended the seminar.

    Introduction by Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson

    Presentation by Torbjörn Becker

    Comments by Vladimir Milov

    Comments by Emil Wannheden

    Questions

    Closing statement by Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Amherd to chair open debate of UN Security Council on women’s participation in peace processes

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    President Viola Amherd will chair the annual open debate on women, peace and security (WPS) in New York on Thursday, 24 October, as part of Switzerland’s presidency of the UN Security Council. The debate will be accompanied by events highlighting the role of women in peace processes and protection against sexual violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan – B10-0140/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Miriam Lexmann, Sebastião Bugalho, Rasa Juknevičienė, Danuše Nerudová
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    B10‑0140/2024

    European Parliament resolution on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

    (2024/2891(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Taiwan,

    – having regard to the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, approved by the Council on 21 March 2022,

    – having regard to the joint communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 16 September 2021 entitled ‘The EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific’ (JOIN(2021)0024),

    – having regard to the EU’s ‘One China’ policy,

    – having regard to the statement of 23 September 2024 by the Chair of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting,

    – having regard to the joint declaration by the G7 Defence Ministers of 19 October 2024,

    – having regard to the urgency motion on Taiwan passed by the Australian Senate on 21 August 2024,

    – having regard to the motion on UN Resolution 2758 passed by the Dutch House of Representatives on 12 September 2024,

    – having regard to UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) of 25 October  1971,

    –  having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas UN Resolution 2758 was passed by the UN General Assembly on 25 October 1971 and shifted official recognition from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the People’s Republic of China (PRC);

    B. whereas since then, most countries have shifted recognition from Taiwan to the PRC; whereas today, Taiwan, while not being a member of the UN, maintains diplomatic relations with 11 of the 193 UN member states, and with the Holy See;

    C. whereas following the adoption of UN Resolution 2758, Taiwan lost its right to participate in multilateral forums, such as the World Health Organization;

    D. whereas through their statement of 23 September 2024, the G7 members, among other things, underlined their support for ‘Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite and as an observer or guest where it is’;

    E. whereas in recent years, the PRC has deliberately distorted UN Resolution 2758, persistently claiming that the PRC’s ‘One China’ principle allegedly has international endorsement through this resolution, which would entail that Taiwan is part of the PRC;

    F. whereas the EU continues to maintain its own ‘One China’ policy position, which is different from the PRC’s ‘One China’ principle; whereas the EU’s long-standing position has been to support the status quo and a peaceful resolution of differences across the Taiwan Strait, while encouraging dialogue and constructive engagement;

    G. whereas Taiwan has never been part of the PRC; whereas the Republic of China was established in 1912 and the PRC was established in 1949;

    H. whereas over the past decade, the PRC has persistently tried to increase its influence over international institutions, using this to sideline Taiwan and prevent Taiwanese passport holders, including journalists, non-governmental organisation workers and political activists, from accessing international institutions; whereas the PRC exercises transnational repression by misusing extradition treaties to target Taiwanese people abroad and therefore put them at risk of arbitrary persecution and human rights abuses;

    I. whereas the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners that share common values, such as freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law;

    J. whereas Taiwan is a vibrant democracy, with a flourishing civil society; whereas Taiwan held peaceful and well-organised elections on 13 January 2024;

    K. whereas the PRC is a one-party state that is entirely controlled and ruled by the Chinese Communist Party; whereas the Chinese People’s Liberation Army is the military of the Chinese Communist Party and not an army of the PRC’s Government;

    L. whereas on 14 October 2024, the PRC launched a large-scale military drill, named Joint Sword-2024B, that simulated a blockade of Taiwan; whereas during this exercise, a record number of 153 PRC aircraft,18 warships and 17 PRC coastguard ships were detected around Taiwan;

    M. whereas on 23 May 2024, the PRC launched a military drill called Joint Sword-2024A, coming just days after the inauguration of Lai Ching-te as the new President of Taiwan;

    N. whereas over the past years, the PRC has held similar military drills around Taiwan; whereas these military drills have increased in intensity and have been moved closer and closer to Taiwan’s mainland; whereas during a previous drill in August 2022, the PRC also fired missiles into the exclusive economic zone of Japan;

    O. whereas on top of military pressure, the PRC has long been pursuing a sophisticated strategy of targeting Taiwan with foreign information manipulation and interference, including hybrid and cyber attacks with the goal of undermining Taiwan’s democratic society;

    P. whereas the PRC, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, has said that it will not renounce the use of force to seek unification with Taiwan; whereas the PRC is engaging in a historically unprecedented military build-up that is continuously shifting the power balance in the Indo-Pacific; whereas this is negatively affecting cross-Strait stability;

    Q. whereas the PRC is supporting Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, in particular through the exportation of dual-use goods to Russia, and the ongoing involvement of PRC-based companies in sanctions evasion and circumvention;

    R. whereas in a speech on 10 October 2024, Taiwan’s national day, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te stated that the PRC has ‘no right to represent Taiwan’ and reiterated that the two sides are ‘not subordinate’ to each other; whereas the PRC has justified its recent military exercise by claiming that President Lai Ching-te is pursuing a separatist strategy;

    S. whereas the PRC’s increasingly aggressive behaviour, in particular in its own neighbourhood, such as the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, poses a risk to regional and global security; whereas the PRC has for many years promoted an alternative narrative, challenging democratic values, open markets and the rules-based international order; whereas the PRC’s growing influence in international organisations has impeded positive progress and further excluded Taiwan from rightful and meaningful participation in international institutions;

    T. whereas through its 2021 strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, the EU and its Member States increased their presence in the region, including a higher military presence and the continued passage of military ships through the Taiwan Strait;

    U. whereas the EU is Taiwan’s fourth largest trading partner after the PRC, the United States and Japan; whereas in 2022, Taiwan was the EU’s 12th biggest trading partner; whereas the EU is the largest source of foreign direct investment in Taiwan; whereas Taiwanese investments in the EU remain below their potential;

    V. whereas members of the Australian Senate and of the Dutch House of Representatives have recently adopted motions concerning the distortion of UN Resolution 2758 by the PRC, and called for support for Taiwan’s greater participation in multilateral organisations;

    1. Reiterates that Taiwan is a key EU partner and a like-minded democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific region; commends Taiwan and the Taiwanese people for their strong democracy and vibrant civil society, demonstrated once more by the peaceful and well-organised elections of 13 January 2024;

    2. Strongly condemns the PRC’s military exercises of 14 October 2024, its continued military provocations against Taiwan and its continued military build-up that is changing the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, and reiterates its firm rejection of any unilateral change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; reiterates its call for the EU and its Member States to ensure, through clear and consistent signalling, that any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, particularly by means of force or coercion, will not be accepted;

    3. Opposes the PRC’s constant distortion of UN Resolution 2758 and its efforts to block Taiwan’s participation in multilateral organisations; calls for the EU and its Member States to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in relevant international organisations, such as the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change;

    4. Underlines that UN Resolution 2758 takes no position on Taiwan; strongly rejects and refutes the PRC’s attempts to distort history and international rules;

    5. Strongly underlines that the EU’s ‘One China’ policy corresponds to UN Resolution 2758, while the PRC’s ‘One China’ principle is not endorsed by it;

    6. Reiterates its strong condemnation of statements by Chinese President Xi Jinping that the PRC will never renounce the right to use force with respect to Taiwan; underlines that the PRC’s use of force or threats or other highly coercive measures to achieve unification contradicts international law; recalls that neither Taiwan nor the PRC is subordinate to the other; expresses grave concern over the PRC’s use of hostile disinformation to undermine trust in Taiwan’s democracy and governance; reiterates its previous calls for the EU and its Member States to cooperate with international partners in helping to sustain democracy in Taiwan, keeping it free from foreign interference and threats; underlines that only Taiwan’s democratically elected government can represent the Taiwanese people on the international stage;

    7. Condemns the PRC’s systematic grey-zone military actions, including cyber and disinformation campaigns against Taiwan, and urges the PRC to halt these activities immediately; calls, in this regard, for cooperation between the EU and Taiwan to be deepened further in order to enhance structural cooperation on countering disinformation and foreign interference;

    8. Reiterates its call on the Member States to increase the frequency of freedom of navigation operations in the Taiwan Strait and to deepen security dialogues with Taiwan to deter Chinese aggression against the democratic island;

    9. Reiterates its call on the Member States to engage in meaningful and structural technical cooperation with Taiwan’s National Fire Agency and National Police Agency and with local administrations in the field of civil protection and disaster management;

    10. Reiterates its call on the Member States to engage in meaningful and structural technical cooperation with Taiwan in the field of whole-of-society defence;

    11. Recognises the importance of Taiwan in securing global supply chains, especially in the high-tech sector where Taiwan is the leading producer of semiconductors, and calls for the EU and its Member States to engage in closer cooperation with Taiwan;

    12. Calls on the Commission to launch, without delay, preparatory measures for negotiations on a bilateral investment agreement with Taiwan;

    13. Condemns all forms of pressure and threats of reprisals, including economic coercion, regarding the independent right of the EU and its Member States to develop relations with Taiwan, in line with their interests and shared values of democracy and human rights, without foreign interference;

    14. Welcomes visits by former and current Taiwanese politicians to Europe, including the recent visit of former President Tsai Ing-wen to the European Parliament on 17 October 2024; welcomes, furthermore, continued exchanges between its Members and Taiwan and encourages further visits by official European Parliament delegations to Taiwan; also encourages further exchanges between the EU and Taiwan at all levels, including political meetings and people-to-people encounters; encourages, in this light, increased economic, scientific and cultural interactions and exchanges, focusing, among other areas, on youth, academia, civil society, sports, culture and education, as well as city-to-city and region-to-region partnerships;

    15. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the governments of the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE – Clashes after the murder of two opposition figures

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Maputo (Agenzia Fides) – “We call on all those involved to exercise restraint while the competent authorities carry out their investigations,” said Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania and Chair of the Political, Defense and Security Cooperation Committee of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), following the violent clashes that took place yesterday, October 21, in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.Following the murder of two representatives of the Podemos party, Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe, clashes broke out between demonstrators and the police. The two politicians were shot dead in an ambush in the center of Maputo by several men in their car. Elvino Dias was a lawyer hired by Podemos leader Venancio Mondlane to file a complaint with the Constitutional Court for alleged electoral fraud in the presidential election held on October 9 (see Fides, 9/10/2024). The final election results are due to be announced this week, but projections of the election have already been published, according to which the FRELIMO party, in power since independence in 1975, is in the lead with 65% of the vote (and 162 deputies) and its candidate Daniel Chapo has won the presidential race. The big surprise was the second place of Podemos, which obtained 43 deputies in the unicameral parliament, relegating the historic opposition party Renamo to third place, which obtained only 23 deputies (in the previous legislature it had 69).SADC, meanwhile, notes in the statement by Samia Suluhu Hassan that “the elections were peaceful”. She calls on the Tanzanian authorities to “take all necessary measures to investigate the killing of the two Podemos members”. In addition to Maputo, where shops remained closed yesterday, incidents also occurred in several other cities, in particular in Beira and Pemba, where shops also remained closed. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 22/10/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Remembering Two Trailblazing Aviators: Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman

    Source: United States Navy

    In the world of U.S. Naval Aviation, very few names will be forever imprinted with their squadrons, their communities, and their shipmates. Among them are Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman, two highly skilled, combat-decorated aviators who tragically lost their lives during a routine training flight near Mount Rainier on Oct. 15, 2024. More than just names and ranks, they were role models, trailblazers, and women whose influence touched countless people on the flight deck and well beyond.

    They had recently returned from a deployment with their squadron, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, “Zappers,” with whom they spent nine months at sea as a part of Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE). Operating mostly from the Red Sea, they supported Operations INHERENT RESOLVE, PROSPERITY GUARDIAN, and POSEIDON ARCHER, where they were involved in the most dynamic combat action in defense of the strike group and freedom of navigation since World War II.

    During their deployment, both Evans and Wileman distinguished themselves in combat operations. Their efforts directly contributed to the Navy’s mission defending U.S. and Coalition forces while keeping the seas open and free with precision and purpose. These role models cemented legacies by making history that will inspire future generations of Naval officers and aviators.

    Born to Lead: Lyndsay “Miley” Evans

    Following her time at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Evans was commissioned through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and earned her “Wings of Gold” as a Naval Flight Officer out of Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. While familiar with the spotlight, Evans always carried herself as a humble yet strong leader – the quiet professional. As an EA-18G Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO) and veteran of two sea tours, she earned the respect of the entire Growler community for her tactical expertise, mentorship to those of all ranks and communities, and ability to bring out the best in everyone around her.

    In 2023, Evans was part of the all-female Super Bowl flyover, a historic moment marking 50 years of women flying in the Navy. This event also symbolized the progress of women in aviation across all military branches. But for those who knew her best, this was only one highlight in a notable career defined by high performance and distinction. After completing the challenging 12-week HAVOC graduate-level course at NAS Fallon (the TOPGUN of the Growler community), Evans earned the honor and responsibility of becoming a Growler Tactics Instructor (GTI). Living up to this responsibility daily, her approachable and knowledgeable demeanor enabled the training and development of countless junior EA-18G Pilots and EWOs. Therefore, it was no surprise to her mentors and peers when she was recognized as the FY2024 Growler Tactics Instructor of the Year, a prestigious honor earned through her tactical acumen and sustained leadership.

    During her 2023-24 deployment with CVW-3 and the IKE Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) in the Red Sea, Evans coordinated and executed multiple combat strikes into Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen, making her one of the few women to fly combat missions over land. In her critical role as VAQ-130’s Training Officer, she helped develop and execute new warfare tactics that required knowledge, innovation, and a comprehensive understanding of aerial warfare and electronic attack in a nascent theater against a constantly evolving threat. The tactics, techniques, and procedures for the EA-18G she pioneered defending against Houthi aggressions directly contributed to the successful defense of the entire CSG and will be used as a template for adaptability at the unrelenting pace of combat in future fights.

    Evans was awarded two Single Action Air Medals for her exceptional performance during strikes on January 12 and 22, 2024. She also earned three Strike Flight Air Medals for her contributions to missions flown between December 21, 2023, and March 29, 2024.

    The Heart and Soul: Serena “Dug” Wileman

    A native of California and commissioned through Officer Candidate School, Wileman was at the beginning of a promising and illustrious career. As a senior first-tour Naval Aviator, she established herself as an energetic, vocal, and positive influence in VAQ-130. Known for her heart of gold, passion, and unrelenting smile, Wileman was always committed to improve and grow, not only for herself but every Sailor and officer around her.

    During her 2023-24 deployment, Wileman planned and subsequently flew multiple strikes into Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen, one of the few women to fly combat missions over land. Wileman’s exceptional leadership was highlighted during VAQ-130’s “Dirt Det,” where she was designated the Officer in Charge. Overcoming the challenges of operating from an austere location, she successfully oversaw all detachment operations enabling the support of multiple flights in the defense of U.S. and Coalition forces in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and PROSPERITY GUARDIAN.

    Always a team player, Wileman was also a respected qualified Landing Signal Officer (LSO), a vital role in the squadron to ensure her fellow Naval Aviators safely recovered aboard the ship. Despite operating in a weapons engagement zone, her calm and collected demeanor under pressure showed during combat operations. Even when recovering alerts while IKE was being targeted and the CSG was under attack by Houthi terrorists, she executed flawlessly, bringing all CVW-3 aircraft aboard expeditiously and safely. From the LSO platform, Wileman always showcased her extraordinary composure and consistent ability to perform under pressure.

    Due to her unrelenting efforts, Wileman accrued three Strike Flight Air Medals for her role in combat operations between December 17, 2023, and April 5, 2024.

    Outside the cockpit, Wileman made everyone smile. She would brighten up any room and was known for her genuine care and compassion for those around her. She always brought a sense of calm, in the good times and bad, whether it was through a joke, a game of cribbage, or a giant bear hug for a Sailor in need of one.

    The Bonds That Endure

    Evans’ and Wileman’s strong connection to their families were second to none. Evans was close with her parents, who were immensely proud of her many accomplishments and were overjoyed when welcoming her back to NAS Whidbey Island on July 13th.

    Wileman met her husband, Brandon, during flight school. Also a Naval Aviator, Brandon shared in her passion for flight, and together they supported each other through the challenges and successes of their careers. Wileman’s goal for follow-on orders after the Zappers was to remain co-located with Brandon.

    Both Evans and Wileman shared lasting loyalty and commitment to their mentors, peers, and Sailors. They always lifted others up, even during the most challenging moments of deployment, knowing exactly how to take a quick break from the “stress” of the job and deployment and getting everyone’s heads back in the game.

    They also bonded over their love of dogs: Evans, a proud “dog mom” to Nyx (an Australian Shepherd), and Wileman to Riley (a Dachshund/Chihuahua mix – “Chiweenie”). The two often flew together, sharing a deep understanding of the intricacies of Naval Aviation, and complemented each other well. They shared many moments together, from leading critical missions in combat zones during deployment to helping their Sailors and each other weather the mental strain of long deployments.

    These women’s bond with each other reached well beyond the cockpit. They were both known for their humor and light-hearted spirit. A memorable moment came at a beachside pool, where, during a liberty port in Souda Bay, Crete, Evans and Wileman shared a laugh as two male squadron mates struggled to move a heavy umbrella. “Centuries of oppression have finally paid off,” they joked, representing the camaraderie and light heartedness that defined both of them.

    A Legacy That Lives On

    The legacy that Evans and Wileman leave behind is characterized by strength, courage, and inspiration. They embodied the very best of Naval Aviation and were examples that hard work, determination, and devotion to their passions could lead to exceptional achievements. They will remain role models for both women and men, embodying the true Navy warrior spirit.

    Capt. Marvin Scott, Commander of CVW-3, said Evans and Wileman will be remembered for their tenacity, their outstanding contributions to the defense of others, and the positive energy they brought to Naval Aviation.

    “I have personally flown with both of these Great Americans in both training and dynamic combat operations, and they always performed professionally and precisely. As true leaders in the Growler community, VAQ-130, and across my Air Wing, their contributions cannot be overstated; I could not be more proud to have served with each of them,” said Scott. “Every member of the CVW-3 Battle Axe Team is heartbroken at the loss of these exceptional warriors; Dug and Miley truly represent the best that Naval Aviation has to offer, and they will absolutely be missed.”

    As the Navy mourns the loss of these two exceptional aviators, their stories will continue to inspire generations of service members. They represent the best of the Navy and Naval Aviation: warriors who were steadfast in the face of danger, always prepared to lead, and compassionate to their fellow Sailors. Their memories will endure with the men and women of the Zappers, CVW-3, and the entire IKE CSG. Their legacies will live on, immortalized in the hearts of their families, friends, and all who had the privilege to serve alongside them.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Bring on the Challenge! | 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.

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  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre Gaggle Aboard Air Force One En Route to Manchester, NH

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Air Force One

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0EAzVK7Rqw

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